Chantarelle

Reviewed by: Jill O'Connor - North Yarmouth Academy, Yarmouth, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: September 13, 2015

Review

In order to review this book, I read book 1, "The Fog of Forgetting." I am glad that I did as this book does not stand alone; Morgan does recount enough for those who might be forgetful. Book 2 finds our heroes back at home with no memory of the Isle of Ayda. Fortunately for the Aydans, Chase does remember his promise and he brings Captain Nate back through the fog. Knox and Evelyn find a secret tunnel with the help of an ancient being, Chantarelle. He was a useful creature and I understand why the book was named after him, but I think that it could have had a better, more predictive or exciting, title. Book 1 was a little forced and had a lot of fantasy "conventions." Book 2 really hits its stride, with solid storytelling and intriguing action. The connections made between the fighting and sacrificing happening in Ayda and the broader world today were insightful and appreciated. Good fantasy builds a world that allegorically captures and comments on the real world outside the readers' door and Morgan does this well. Her characters grapple with large questions about existence, family, and sacrifice. She is a masterful world-builder and she brings Ayda to life for the reader. I look forward to Book 3 and the conclusion of the trilogy. The cover could be better as it hints as a middle grade book when the book could have a MUCH broader appeal. Recommend to 6th through 12th grade readers of fantasy, or to adults who enjoy a gppd fantasy trilogy.

Overall Book Score: very good