by Jo Walton
First published 2011
Mori Phelps finds refuge in the pages of fantasy novels, using them as a shield against her chaotic family life. Her world becomes more dangerous when her unstable half-brother starts experimenting with dark magic. The situation forces Mori to face the hidden darkness that runs through her family's history. She discovers herself caught in a treacherous landscape where witchcraft poses real threats. Mori realizes she possesses her own emerging magical abilities. She faces a crucial choice about how to use these powers. She can focus on protecting herself from the dangers around her. Or she can take the greater risk of trying to find redemption for her family's troubles. The decision will determine not just her safety but her future.
Genres: fiction, literary-fiction, fantasy, magical-realism
Vibes: dark, intimate, thought-provoking
Tropes: chosen-one, found-family
Setting: England, Wales
304 pages · Hardcover · Tor Books
Content warnings: mental-illness