What worked:
The story is set in a world of prejudice after the Malech
armies invaded and took over Devia. It’s reminiscent of real-world countries,
including the United States, that have invaded countries and native lands to
claim abundant resources. Skin color
has often identified racial groups throughout history and ear color in this
book distinguishes the oppressed Devans from the greedy, ruthless Malechs. Readers
can sympathize with the plight of the Devans as they’re over-taxed, overworked,
and victims of unfair laws. The Malechs hoard the bountiful precious gems found
in Devia and they take whatever they want. Devans have few rights and they’re
treated as lesser people.
Early in the book, Sona learns she is the daughter of a
Malech father and a Devan mother. Her father kept this secret because society
looks down on mixed-race children. Neither the Malechs nor the Devan will
accept them so Sona must never tell anyone else about her parentage. She
travels with a boy named Raag across the lands to find a remedy for her
grandmother. Sona meets a Malech Hunter who’s trying to kill all five of the
sacred Devan beasts and she fears for the safety of a gold-eared cub she’s
nursing back to health. She also starts to hear stories of a sixth sacred beast
that will save them all but no one knows what kind of creature it might be. The
mystery of this sixth sacred beast and the looming danger of the Hunter will
keep readers captivated.
Sona has a special connection to animals that confuses Raag.
She nurses a horse back to health and sings and talks to him as if the horse
understands. She hears music of the animals and can sense when Goldstorms are
approaching. Raag’s never met anyone who survived being caught outside in a Goldstorm
for as long as Sona did. Sona’s love, kindness, and willingness to forgive are
her greatest attributes and she’s rewarded in the end. It’s nice to see such a
positive character receive positive results for her efforts. Sona’s optimistic
outlook is challenged as the plot nears its climax but her character stays true
to what’s important.
What didn’t work as well:
Between each chapter, the author presents letters, articles, and
song lyrics that have relevance to what’s happening in the plot. Some writings
are dated at various times, some recent and some years in the past, and come
from different sources. Readers must consider the source, time, and relevance
of each writing before they continue the story. These inserts aren’t a big
problem but some don’t add to the story and could be omitted.
The final verdict:
Sona’s endearing character and her love for all living creatures
guide this touching story. The Hunter, Malechs, and Goldstorms present constant
obstacles on her quest but her kind heart overcomes them all. I highly
recommend you give this book a shot.
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