Bones of Faerie

Bones of Faerie by Janni Lee Simner (Random House)

PB RRP $18.95

ISBN 978-1-7427-5065-1

Reviewed by Oliver Phommavanh

Bones of Faerie is a haunting novel for older readers with a few twists. Firstly, it’s a fairy tale fantasy in post-apocalyptic world. But the main point of difference is the way magic is used in this book. Magic is the enemy and it kills.

Liza lives in a world that hasn’t recovered from a raging war between humans and the Faerie. The Faerie used their magic to turn nature against the humans. Her father is strictly against anyone who has Faerie-like features and abilities, including Liza’s little sister. But when Liza starts showing signs of doing her own magic, she is forced to run away from her home and find answers. She starts a journey to find her mother who disappeared herself.

Simner has written a tight story that grips you from the very beginning. There’s some dark descriptions that show how deadly magic can be. Liza’s efforts to control her visions of the past and future are a neat way to flash back and forth, telling how the Faerie came to be. Liza’s yearning to be reunited with her mother run parallel to the hope that magic can be used for good. The apocalyptic elements are subtle but effective, especially when things like batteries are precious and words like Disneyland are cast off into the world of ‘Before.’ It’s another layer to this involving story.

Bones of Faerie is a promising start to a thrilling series. It’s recommended for ages 13 and up.