Review Detail

Seventeen-year-old Nedra Brysstain leaves her small village to study medicinal alchemy at the famous Yugen Academy. She wants to be able to help find a cure for the plague that has been killing so many people. While there she meets "Grey" Astor. They grow close, but when the plague strikes close to home, Nedra is more determined to find a cure. What she ends up deciding is both chilling and haunting.

What worked: This book has everything I love from author Revis's writing: memorable characters, intensity, emotion-packed action, and a plot that keeps readers turning the pages. I was totally hooked and was up early in the morning reading until I finished.

There are some very intense, haunting scenes that involve Nedra's involvement with the poor and their exposure to the plague. Nedra doesn't flinch when asked for her help at the hospital that tries to help the poor plague victims. She's determined,strong, and courageous.

Grey falls for Nedra and tries to be there for her. He stands up to the class bully who tries to intimidate Nedra. There's hints of romance, but when the plague closes down the academy and Nedra goes back home, she faces the horror of the illness first hand. These scenes are very strong and heart wrenching. How Nedra harvests her grief is haunting and powerful. Plus, her final decision and the reveal of who really is behind releasing the plague, is one that I didn't see coming. And that ending hook? Omg, how long do we have to wait for the next book in this series?

Compelling, haunting fantasy where a girl struggles to help find a cure for a deadly plague even if the cost might involve evolving the forbidden practice of necromancy. Powerful scenes that are heart wrenching and sure to stay with readers long after they finish reading. My only complaint is the story ended too soon! I can't wait to read more!