Lyra. Lucy. Percy. Once in a generation, a hero emerges whose story enthralls readers worldwide.
Fireborn is an epic quest, perfect for fans of the His Dark Materials and The School for Good and Evil series, that will spin readers into a magical world like no other–and introduce them to an unforgettable new heroine named Twelve.
Ember is full of monsters.
Twelve gave up her name and identity to train in the art of hunting them–so she says. The truth is much more deadly: she trains to take revenge on those who took her family from her.
But when Twelve’s new home is attacked, she’ll find herself on an unexpected journey, where her hidden past is inescapably intertwined with her destiny–and the very fate of her world.
I'm delighted to be hosting the blog tour for Fireborn today. Many thanks to Aisling Fowler, HarperCollins and The Write Reads for inviting me and for my advance copy of the novel.
Fireborn: Twelve and the Frozen Forest might be middle-grade fiction but I have a feeling it will win fans of all ages. It's probably aimed more at the older end of the MG market, crossing over into YA but of course, that's very much dependent on the individual reader.
As the first in a series, there is a certain amount of world-building of course, alongside the introduction of the major characters. It's done well too, there's a really vivid and immersive sense of place about the book - the scenes in the Frozen Forest with the strange, dangerous creatures that reside there are a particular highlight - but it's clear that there is still much to learn as the series progresses. What we do discover here, however, is that Ember is a land in peril and that the Hunters have a vital role in maintaining the fragile balance between clans.
The Hunting Lodge is an austere, purposeful environment where young trainee Hunters are known as Huntlings who have forsaken everything about their pasts, including their given names. Now known by numbers, their reformed identities only become complete after they have completed their training and after a gruelling test of their abilities, earned the right to choose a new name. The opening scenes have a definite familiarity to them as Twelve and her fellow classmates are put through their paces by Weaponsmaster, Victory. As with other fantasy coming-of-age stories, Twelve is an outsider figure and it quickly becomes apparent that she isn't popular, partly due to her obviously exceptional skills but also because of her attitude. She clearly isn't there to make friends despite making the daily pledge stating the Hunters are her family now and forever. Her motivation is revealed as the novel progresses, allowing for some dramatic moments as she is forced to reevaluate what she thinks she knows.
Although the early chapters suggest this will be an academy type fantasy story, the kidnapping of a fellow student means Twelve is soon embarking on a more quest-like adventure. There is a conventionality to Fireborn but that isn't meant as a criticism. Tropes become so because they work and Aisling Fowler has included all the essentials necessary to ensure her debut will enthrall readers.
Her main character, the brave, axe-wielding, enigmatic Twelve is on a journey of discovery with much to learn about her troubled past and about her capabilities. She suffers from disturbing dreams and it's through these flashbacks that readers find out who she was before she became Twelve and the brutal, devastating reason why she came to the Lodge.
Meanwhile, she forms a bond with other characters and it's just as enjoyable getting to know them. She has a particularly strained relationship with Five and her interactions with him often reveal the hot-headed side of her nature. Six, on the other hand, is more patient and reserved - I have to admit, he soon became one of my favourites. Some of his secrets are revealed later in the book but I have a feeling there is still more to come. Dog, the Stone Guardian of the Lodge is a wonderful creation and he reminded me a little of Aslan; he has the same powerful presence with an underlying sense of pathos. On the other hand, Twelve's pet squirrel, Widge allows her to show her softer, nurturing side. He's an adorable little creature who often brings some light relief to the story.
The evolving dynamic between the main characters is excellent throughout; there are tense moments as well as more heartwarming scenes. I was pleased to note some brief mentions of same-sex attraction which feels very natural rather than being included as a box-ticking afterthought. It's good to see inclusive middle grade fiction and I'm sure it's something that will be expanded upon in future books.
There are exciting, tense scenes throughout the story and readers are left in no doubt as to the very real danger that Twelve and her companions are in. This might be a children's book but Aisling Fowler doesn't patronise her young readers, dark, terrible things happen and it's made clear that the Hunters face a powerful, deadly enemy. There's a fine balance struck here between creating an engrossing, rich new world and holding some elements back, with the mystery as to who the malevolent master really is and what their plans are being especially intriguing.
With its pacy, well-crafted storyline and relatable characters who are undoubtedly courageous but allowed to be fearful, antagonistic and foolhardy too, Fireborn is a superb introduction to a new fantasy series. Aisling Fowler's debut is a delight to read from start to finish - this is captivating, imaginative storytelling at its finest. I loved it and can't wait to discover what happens next!
Fireborn: Twelve and the Frozen Forest will be published by HarperCollinsChildren'sBooks on 30th September 2021, pre-order links can be found here but please consider supporting independent bookshops whenever possible.
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