The Spirit Eater (Eli Monpress Book 3)
The third Eli Monpress book delves still deeper into Eli’s and Nico’s backgrounds, integrates unresolved plot elements from the previous entries (The Spirit Thief and The Spirit Rebellion, both 2010), and provides larger roles for previously minor characters, including Alric and the Lord of Storms. All of these elements add complexity as Aaron’s multilayered world comes into clearer focus. Slorn, the wizard who made Nico’s coat, has disappeared, and his daughter has asked Eli to find him. Eli, Nico, and their swordsman partner Josef aren’t the only ones traveling to the far north hunting Slorn: Miranda and Gin are headed there, too, tracking Eli as always but also looking for Slorn. Aaron keeps the series fresh by giving Miranda and Gin smaller roles, while Nico and swordsman Josef both get more space, allowing for additional (and fascinating) character development. Meanwhile, master thief Eli’s usual antics prove as entertaining as always. Through three volumes, the Eli series has established itself as required reading for fantasy fans. --Jessica Moyer