Review Detail

Selkie’s adventures continue in the sequel, and conclusion (?) to Skylar Dorset’s debut, THE GIRL WHO NEVER WAS. The action picks up right where we left off, and THE BOY WITH THE HIDDEN NAME takes you on a whirlwind journey through previously unexplored parts of the Otherworld with new and tantalizing characters.

We are finally introduced to the goblin king, known as the Erlking, who is the most talented seducer in Thisworld and the Otherworld. The Erlking’s talents, which are not limited to seduction, as well as his goblin army, prove invaluable throughout the story. The most interesting part of his presence was the Erlking’s past connections to Will. Will is initially portrayed as a bumbling old professor-type, but he is obviously still quite the charming wizard – Selkie’s Aunt True and the Erlking both pine, at times, over their past relationships with Will.

The blatant disregard for binary relationship norms is just spectacular. Not a single character is disgusted by anyone’s choice of partner. No one is really surprised by the fact that Will has had relationships with both sexes. Even Selkie’s sometimes-boyfriend, Ben, makes jokes about the Erlking’s seducing powers.

The world-building continues to be absolutely fantastic and magical. Selkie travels to the Unseelie court, the goblin city underneath Boston, and the realm of the Hidden Folk under Iceland. Each location is more mystifying and lovely than the last, and in each Selkie and her friends encounter more danger and trouble. Eventually the danger comes to a head, they can’t evade the Seelie anymore, and it is time for the ultimate battle. Who knew the fate of the world would be decided at Beacon Street in Boston?

The Verdict: Skylar Dorset’s debut series, Otherworld, is an astoundingly well-done urban fantasy in the style of Neverworld and Daughter of Smoke & Bone. If you’re looking to get swept up in a world-spanning fantasy adventure, check out the Otherworld series!