Series ~ Sequel Coming
Author ~ Micaela Wendell
Release Date ~ January 14, 2011
Age Group ~ Young Adult
Publisher ~ Bell Bridge Books
Source ~ Bell Bridge Books
GOODREADS SUMMARY
Morwen Aleacim, an elfin teen in the village of Aren, has always heard rumors of evil lurking in the great forests of the kingdom, where children vanish. Her own father disappeared into those forests, and Morwen is determined to find him. So she is secretly training to be a warrior-against the strict rules of decorum for girls-with the help of Armando, an aging human swordsman.
When Brynn, Morwen's own baby sister, vanishes, Morwen tracks her to the horrifying lair of Tobias, an inhuman Dark Wizard. There she strikes a deal with him-her service in return for Brynn's freedom.
He accepts. She'll go free along with Brynn for now, but is bound to him as his apprentice. To her horror, Tobias brands her-not with a fiery mark, but with a spell that will slowly transform her human body into a grotesque creature and her spirit into an obedient slave. When the transformation is complete she'll have no choice but to return to him forever.
Aided by Alan, a handsome elfin boy, who will soon have a dark challenge of his own, Morwen sets out to find a wizard who can lift the spell. It's a race against time as she struggles to free her mind, body, spirit and heart from a horrible fate.
REVIEW
If you have never read a book about elves before, The Branding may be a good place to start. These elves are not the teeny tiny people that I expected. Sure they have green hair, pointy ears, and they live three times longer than humans. They also have an elaborate society with strict rules – especially for the girls. Morwen does not want to play by these rules.
Speaking of Morwen, she is tough as nails as she fights to save her soul from Tobias. I liked that Morwen was not a quitter. She fought to free her sister and to find her father. Even when Morwen is branded as an ugly creature, she continues her fight. Major girl power!
The Branding is creepy by anyone’s standards. There is an endless supply of paranormal creatures and even a dead army. I would have liked a little less variety and more focus on just a few creatures. However, if you prefer a heroine who faces tons of challenges, then this will appeal to you.
One last thing, Michaela Wendell started writing The Branding when she was in seventh grade. Love that!
RATING
3 So-So
COVER COMMENTS
I love this cover. It is lush green and the characters (Morwen and Alan) look just like I would picture elves. Her hand even looks like scales. I love her green hair.
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