Bright Burns the Night

Reviewed by: Sheila Dube - Springvale Public Library, Springvale, Southern Maine Library District

Review Date: October 9, 2018

Review

In this fantasy twist on Swan Lake, Larson brings her duology to a satisfying conclusion. It is ten years since Queen Evelayn of the light's conduit stone was cut out. She has spent those years as a swan except for once a year when she is forced back into her human form by the King Lorcan. It is now time for the many vows and bonds the characters have made in the first book to be fulfilled. Romance, loyalty and betrayal result from the layered consequences that Evelayn and Lorcan have been forced to accept while protecting their kingdoms from forces beyond the immediate evil Mathair Damhan. This sequel did not seem to have the "information dump" that plagues some series. Secondary characters are developed and the suspense of the quest and the action it requires does not overtake the depth of Evelayn's confusion and growth in her role as Queen. It was not necessary to read the first book to understand and enjoy this female powered fantasy.

Overall Book Score: good