Blood and Stars is the 5th book in the Legend of
Rhyme series and is suitable for middle grade children.
Our heroes find themselves scattered:
Teagan is with Queen Starla in the Chamber of Memories
hoping to find clues about her parents. When Starla is called away Teagan is
lured by someone who promises more information about her parents. Can this
someone be trusted since Krystal has a trap waiting? A trap and a diabolical
plan between Krystal and her sisters to rid the sea of mer Queen Starla.
Ariana and Asher are separated with Asher and Elora trapped
in the dark and an evil voice goading Asher into being a bad version of
himself.
Ariana is in Coraira with Calla and is shocked to find she
has received a crown to rule. Calla then falls under a protection spell, one
which seems set to stay.
With Elora’s background no wonder no one can trust her,
especially Larque, but as time is running out our heroes may have no choice.
Is there a solution for everyone or will our heroes find
themselves in impossible situations? And as for Grindlerod – will he ever find
the outcome he so desperately seeks?
This is another great chapter in the series and answers
quite a few questions. The author promises no cliff hanger which she delivers,
but the book ends well and still sets up for another story. I loved the way the
book started with a poem that reminded you of what had happened in previous books
and that poems were scattered throughout the book to summarise where you were
or jog your memory as to what had been happening with the other characters. I
like that the author doesn’t try to create too many tangents to the story at
the same time so that concentration is not lost, especially considering the
target age group for the series. It was interesting that the issue of mental
illness was raised for this age group, but it’s never too early to start
learning, understanding and empathising.
Not too much to negatively critique in this book, just a bit
of a confusing moment when Larque was spelt Large and I had to reread the
sentence a few times. I also felt that the battle with the ice dragons, even
though it was necessary for the particular ending, felt a little random.
I enjoyed the story and recommend it for a good, quick and
light read. Be prepared for a mix of happiness and sadness! Thanks to Netgalley
and Blue Moon Publishers for the opportunity to review this.
