Game of Shadows: A Novel

It’s difficult for Ethan Makkai to fit in when his mother won’t let him go anywhere alone, when he’s getting bullied, and when he can see ghosts. When he sneaks out, he’s saved by Captain Bartlett, who claims that Ethan is from Tara, a mystical land. He has no choice but to believe the man when his mother gets taken. Determined to find his mother, Ethan teams up with his cousin, Lily, a girl skilled with a sword who seems to hate him. The journey is dangerous and the chances of survival are slim, but Ethan won’t stop until his mother is safe.

A lot of fantasy elements are derived from legends, but Erika Lewis spins her own magic with the coming-of-age tale of what it means to be a hero. Snark and clumsiness supplies most of the humor, but it’s done well and adds to the charm of Ethan’s “ordinariness.” Game of Shadows succeeds with delightful characters who are a well blend of wit, snark, and bravery. Even the villains have a dash of charisma that makes them compelling and wonderful to despise. It ends with a victory, but it’s clear this is only the beginning of Ethan’s journey.