New Release: Curses and Warfare by Jeri Baird

by MK French

In this sequel to Tokens and Omens (read my review), the twins Alexa and Zander have taken on their respective roles of fortune teller's apprentice and warrior trainer. There is little concern from the Elders about a possible invasion from another tribe that was driven from their homeland. They don't believe in Zander's role, and his attempts to make the villagers believe backfire. It's hard for him to be a leader, especially when he is so unsure of himself. Alexa has the confidence, but not the subtleties in her magical skill.

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September 2017; Jolly Fish Press; 978-1631631269
ebook, print (312 pages); fantasy

It was nice to see the characters from the first novel. There are some signs of growth and change in the year since the events of the first book, but they're also still teenagers. There are mistakes made that are reasonable for their points of view and knowledge. There was far more preparation and politicking than actual warfare in this novel, so the actual fighting feels almost anticlimactic after all of the build up.

That's not necessarily a bad thing because a YA novel wouldn't need to have more grisly battle scenes. There's enough loss and death, enough strained relationships and tears. It's difficult to be a leader and do the right thing, so we see the struggles that the twins go through, and learn from their mistakes. The end of the book concludes with Moira's musing on the future again, hinting at more adventures for Alexa.

Buy Curses and Warfare at Amazon

Born and raised in New York City, M.K. French started writing stories when very young, dreaming of different worlds and places to visit. She always had an interest in folklore, fairy tales, and the macabre, which has definitely influenced her work. She currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, three young children, and golden retriever.

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