Synopsis: There are stories that, when they unfold, turn out to be quite different from what you thought when you started reading. Not only does this book qualify as one of those stories—it didn’t unfold in quite the way I expected—the journey that the story is about takes twin princesses Ji-Lin and Seika along a very different path than the one they thought they were setting out on.
Raised together for their first eleven years, they have been apart for the past year: Seika in the palace learning how to be the next ruler of the Hidden Islands, and Ji-Lin at the Temple of the Sun, training to be a warrior and her sister’s champion. Soon after the story starts, the two sisters are tasked with undertaking the Emperor’s Journey in order to renew the bargain between the islanders and their dragon guardian. If they don’t, the magical barrier hiding the islands will fail, and they’ll be beset by monsters.
When they set off on their flying lion, Alejan, at first everything seems to be going according to plan. They’re met by celebratory villagers, and they witness the wonders of their kingdom for the first time ever. But, not long afterward, things start to go awry, and the two-hundred-year-old traditions of their people might not be enough to save them…
Observations: The characters in this are charming, funny, and most of all, they kick butt—especially the princesses. (That’s the kind of princess I prefer!) Seika and Ji-Lin each have their own set of distinct strengths—which means they complement one another when they work together, but after a year apart, working together is something they have to work at. I love it that there’s room for both swashbuckling and clever diplomacy in this story; what’s more, I love it that there are flying lions. Alejan is a character in his own right, and adds a lot of humor, bravery, and delight to their adventure. As always, Durst is amazing at creating unique settings populated by creatures that go beyond the usual fantasy suspects, infused with both whimsy and darkness.
Conclusion: This was a fast-paced adventure that I had trouble putting down—I’m consistently impressed at how well Durst writes for a wide range of ages.
I received my copy of this book courtesy of the author (Thanks, Sarah!!). You can find JOURNEY ACROSS THE HIDDEN ISLANDS by Sarah Beth Durst at an online e-tailer, or at a real life, independent bookstore near you!
