Kelcie Murphy and the Race for the Reaper's Key by Erika Lewis

What worked:

The story follows Kelcie and Lexie in their respective realms of Summer and Winter. The author develops their tales separately across several chapters which prevents the starting and stopping of stories that result from using alternating chapters. The two kingdoms have been at war for generations and the rulers have no interest in seeking peace. Following the events in the second book, Kelcie is honored and respected as a hero in Summer while Lexie is despised as a traitor among her own people. The two girls don’t accept that war between the kingdoms is unavoidable and the story shares their efforts in pursuing peace. Lexie faces greater obstacles since her queen wants to put her in prison although Kelcie’s willingness to work with Winter is treasonous. It’s admirable to see characters willing to defy their rulers to do what’s best for the citizens of their kingdoms.

Kelcie’s life is complicated by her disgraced father even though she holds out hope for him. He’s the biggest villain in Summer. His physical form is now controlled by King Balor and the rulers of the Summer and Winter kingdoms are unaware of Balor’s meddling efforts. Balor is secretly stimulating and perpetuating the Never-Ending War with hopes of eventually releasing an army of evil demons from hell. Kelsie’s father displays some signs of life when he’s able to send visions to Kelcie but she’s not always sure how to interpret them. It’s clear the climax of the story will find Kelcie pitted against King Balor in an epic confrontation. She may have a chance if she can master her elemental powers.

Lexie and Kelcie’s fianas have grown up with different expectations but each group leader faces new challenges. A member of Lexie’s fiana turned against them in the previous book but now wants forgiveness and to be allowed back in. How can Lexie and her friends ever trust him again even though he seems sincere now? Kelcie and Niall, a Summer prince, have been close in the previous books but their feelings go up a notch this time. The new emotions can be a distraction but Niall can mentally send Kelcie encouraging words when she’s anxious. Middle-grade readers can connect with the trust issues Lexie is facing and Kelcie’s blooming boy-girl relationship.

What didn’t work as well:

There is a lot of vocabulary specific to the series that readers will need to learn. There are also many characters to remember from both kingdoms. The author makes references to previous events but I highly recommend readers start the series from the beginning.

The final verdict:

This book resolves the war between Summer and Winter and ends the covert threat of King Balor. The wonderful blend of characters, action, and humor will entertain lovers of elemental abilities and adventure. I recommend you give this book, and series, a shot!