Everblaze by Shannon Messenger (4/5)

Keeper of the Lost Cities: Everblaze by Shannon Messenger is a fast-paced, heartwarming book spotlighting the chaotic adventures of Sophie Foster. It is a fantasy with hints of comedy sprinkled into the journey, but the author manages to tie in crucial themes. Her most referenced one is acknowledging that relying on others is not weak. The author has two books that take place right before the events of this novel: Keeper of the Lost Cities and Exile. The series follows Sophie Foster, a young girl with extraordinary abilities who is taken from the human world to discover her elven origins in cities believed to have been lost long ago. She has to leave her home and family to assimilate into the enchanting world where everything isn’t as perfect as it seems. In Everblaze, the third installment in the series, Messenger allows us to accompany Sophie through discovering the many mysteries of her past, her adoptive family, and the dark secrets of Eternalia. The most dangerous secret of all, however, lies amidst the scorching, unstoppable flames known as Everblaze. I love how comforting this story is because it holds the home of many relatable, realistic characters in a world flawed like any other. I agree with Messenger’s opinions of perfection, but I do not agree with her take on the idea “hidden in plain sight.” For instance, she emphasizes that flaws are a real, human part of everyone. However, she often wraps an obvious secret in her writing and makes the characters more oblivious to these mysteries than most people would be to them in real life. Jennifer Lynn Barnes is an author who does well in terms of realistic perceptions, for she allows readers to predict mysteries without the annoyance of the characters taking an eternity to do the same. This author has changed my judgment of books that seem excessively long because although the count of pages and volumes in this series says otherwise, it is quick and fun to read. Apparently, not everything has to be as intimidating as it looks. Nonetheless, readers interested in books with a stern atmosphere and modern setting may not enjoy this book as much as those who like an immersing fairytale-like environment. Those who do should expect the unexpected, as elements of otherworldly action lie amidst the many cliffhangers and plot twists. Messenger manages to develop a world scattered with realms of mythical creatures, layered with unique technology, and buried with intriguing secrets. Her intricate storytelling prowess shines through as each chapter works as her messenger of significant themes for teenagers and young adults today. In her many pages of writing, she spotlights the significance of leaning on the support of others, taking risks when needed, and embracing differences as uniqueness.