The Flame in the Mist
Author: Kit Grindstaff
Publisher: Delacorte Press
Publication Date: April 9, 2013
Pages: 464
Source: audiobook for review
Read By: Rosalyn Landor
Audiobook Publisher: Listening Library
Length: 13 hours and 29 minutes
About the Book: Set in an imagined past, this dark fantasy-adventure is for fans of Philip Pullman’s The Golden Compass. Features Jemma, a fiery-headed heroine held captive in Agromond Castle, yet destined to save mist-shrouded Anglavia.
Fiery-headed Jemma Agromond is not who she thinks she is, and when the secrets and lies behind her life at mist-shrouded Agromond Castle begin to unravel, she finds herself in a chilling race for her life. Ghosts and misfits, a stone and crystals, a mysterious book, an ancient prophecy—all these reveal the truth about Jemma’s past and a destiny far greater and more dangerous than she could have imagined in her wildest fantasies. With her telepathic golden rats, Noodle and Pie, and her trusted friend, Digby, Jemma navigates increasingly dark forces, as helpers both seen and unseen, gather. But in the end, it is her own powers that she must bring to light, for only she has the key to defeating the evil ones and fulfilling the prophecy that will bring back the sun and restore peace in Anglavia. (goodreads)
My Thoughts: Fans of middle grade fantasy are in for a treat! This debut has it all… mist, magic, mystery, murder and more! The main character, Jemma, sets off on a dangerous quest in the beginning of the book. As her story progresses she encounters new people (and creatures!) Some are helpful. Others… not so much. I really enjoyed the ways the reader learns more about Jemma and her story as her quest progresses. Without spoiling the story I’ll just say Jemma’s life is not what she thought. We uncover the secrets and mysteries as she does. The layers of deceit and subterfuge are thick and I was captivated by each new fact that was revealed. The Agromond family in particular was spine chillingly creepy!
There were so many things about this book that I enjoyed. The struggle of light versus dark, the relationships Jemma forms along the way, Jemma and Digby’s loyalty to one another, Noodle and Pie, Pepper, Drudge, a country shrouded in mist that isn’t just mist… I could go on and on.
Filled with memorable characters and gruesome twists, The Flame in the Mist is sure to please.
Audiobook Notes: I absolutely loved the narration on this one. Rosalyn Landor’s voice was perfect for this historical fantasy. Her pacing and expression added to the story and carried parts of the book that had the potential to drag. I have already found myself adding expressions from the story to my personal lexicon. I’ll exclaim, “Mother of Majem!” or call my computer “Hazebury dross” when it isn’t performing as I hoped. Also, “rattusses” is the best plural form of “rat” ever! LOVE Noodle and Pie!!
Book Trailer:
Audio Excerpt:
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