Starred review from August 7, 2023
Moon phases and tidal alignments dictate the magical abilities with which one is born in debut author Lacelle’s alluring duology opener. The Dovermere Caves are off-limits for students of Aldryn College for Lunar Magics, so when Emory finds a note inviting her roommate and best friend, Romie, to a late-night meeting there, Emory follows out of curiosity and concern. As Romie and seven peers undergo a strange ritual, high tide floods the caverns, drowning four and washing Romie and three others out to sea. Following the event, Emory wakes on the beach with a spiral inked on her wrist and the ability to wield all forms of lunar magic, a mythical talent so heretical it could get her imprisoned. Bereft and terrified, Emory teams with Romie’s brother, Baz, to control her newfound powers and uncover answers about that fateful evening—a quest that reveals her ties to secret societies, grand conspiracies, and ancient gods. By combining elements common to fantastical dark academia novels with innovative worldbuilding, multifaceted plotting, and an intersectionally diverse cast boasting nuanced character arcs, Lacelle crafts a lavishly imagined dual-narrative tale that will capture readers like a rip current. Ages 14–up. Agent: Victoria Marini, Irene Goodman Literary.
