Charmed Vengeance (The Aether Chronicles)
The second book in the Aether Chronicles delivers on the promise of Innocent Darkness (2012). Heartbroken after being apparently rejected by fey-next-door V, Noli accompanies her brother, Jeff, aboard the pirate airship he crews. Noli’s internal sprite fights her natural interests in mechanics, and the ensuing schizophrenia is realized with humor and pathos. Women’s rights get a big shout-out with this episode as well, as Jeff’s airship is captained by a woman who has no time for frills. A kidnapping ring targeting children, V’s own struggles to reconnect with Noli, and Noli’s eventual sickness by enchantment all figure into a wonderful steampunk adventure. Grades 7-10. --Francisca Goldsmith