February 15, 2025
This sequel returns readers to the jet-setting world ofThe Dark Fable (2024). Evie Wilder and the criminal crew of the renowned La Fable Sombre, including core members Dev, Queenie, and Mad, navigate rainy streets, engage in rooftop conversations, and gather in a graffiti-covered castle, all in pursuit of the talismans that will bring the answers they seek. With Ciaran released from the Wild Dark's icy-cold grip and the arrival of a unicorn who travels via pentacle, the light-fingered crew go after Pandora's jar and the Tiger's Heart gem. They steal, trade, and lose and steal back items, hoping to later barter them to the Basilisk, a dangerous murderer. Evie keeps a protective eye on her teenage siblings, Ezra and Juliet, and reunites with Jason, who's returned from the Wild Dark a changed person. French phrases, colorfully dyed hair, frequent espressos, and a torrid kiss or two cue the cosmopolitan nature of LFS. The gang members outwit and outfight rivals, following the high-adrenaline lifestyle Evie has come to crave. Unfortunately, events often come together surprisingly neatly, magical talents conveniently match the characters' needs, and priceless objects seem too easily stolen. The story allows ample space for atmospheric descriptions of clothing, settings, and furnishings. Most main characters read white; Liverpudlian Dev has dark brown skin. The cast is diverse in gender identity and sexuality. Dark and lovely on its shimmering surface but with a thinnish plot reliant on luck and coincidence.(Fantasy thriller. 14-18)
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March 7, 2025
Gr 9 Up-This YA romantasy sequel to The Dark Fable finds Evie Wilder, her siblings Ezra and Juliet, and her found-family of thieves, Dev, Queenie, and Mad, recovering from the devastating losses they took during their last heist. Now the leader of La Fable Sombre, Evie must juggle repairing the prestigious magical crew's reputation, planning their latest heist, and keeping them alive as they each recover their strength and learn to fully harness their unique demon's magic. However, when a new, dangerous criminal named the Basilisk appears with plans to destroy La Fable Sombre, their best chance at survival is to align with Ciaran Argent, a nemesis, and Jason Ra, a friend feared lost to the wasteland of the Wild Dark. Together, they travel the globe searching for a way to defeat their enemies and discover the vault key that will unlock all La Fable Sombre's secrets. Harbour's novel is overflowing with lush description, suspense, and romantic tensions. VERDICT, Recommended for readers who enjoy the romantasy genre, a good heist, and similar titles by Leigh Bardugo, Libba Bray, or Stephanie Garber.-Linsey Milillo
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