Review Detail

What I loved: Magic, a bit of steampunk, secret societies, history, and a story rooted in good vs. evil in western Europe at the turn of the 20th century. I appreciated the range of backgrounds in the characters found in this upper young adult novel. The characters come from many regions, religions, and sexual identities woven into a "chosen family" that would do anything for each other. The addition of the letters and posters in the story also lends an extra extraordinary level to the story.

What Left Me Wanting More: The combination of time travel with people who have magical abilities to various periods of history. I wanted to stay and visit the library of Alexandria. It always fascinates me when that is a part of the story. The mystery surrounding the tablet of destinies and the background of Ezra's parents made for a fascinating path of clues to follow.

The Final Verdict: This story does not hold back on the punches, and there are some very dark moments in this story, so I would recommend it be for upper young adult readers. I was enthralled the whole time reading it and did feel it echoed harry, potter in some of the scenes. A well-thought-out plot lends itself to a beautiful and inclusive magical story that blends many religions, cultures, and people into an epic tale of hope and courage.