When reading and reviewing YA novels, I think it’s important to put oneself in the mindset of a young adult. That’s not always easy (obviously), but I also don’t see the point of reviewing a teen novel with adult perspectives.
That being said, this YA novel has an awful lot going for it and that can be split into two parts.
First, in a generation brought up by Harry Potter, the promise of learning more (or different) information about the Philosopher’s Stone should be intriguing. And it is. All of the parts regarding alchemy and the steps to make the stone were well-researched and informative.
The author also has a particular talent for creating vivid scenes. The details and descriptions of locations are realistic but carry a hint of the mystery that surrounds alchemy. It’s a deft touch that is effective in keeping the story interesting.
We learn early on that Thea’s mom has figured out the secret to the final steps of creating the stone and has done so largely because she pays attention to Arabic alchemists as well as western European ones. This is a nice touch that broadens one’s thinking.
Unfortunately, there is a secret that goes along with the stone: anyone who attempts to create it to the full extent will descend into madness. Doesn’t that throw a monkey wrench into things?
We do see the results of that in the very earliest pages of the book. I think, however, that it is questionable as to whether Meg was actually trying to protect Thea (by sending her away) or if she was more glory hungry. An argument could be made either way; that’s a strength of the book, because it doesn’t seem as if there is a right or wrong answer.
Second, there is the romance angle. This is where I think the author got a little bit tripped up. I found that these sections pulled focus from the story; they didn’t fall in seamlessly. They also seemed a bit forced and verging on melodramatic.
But one has to remember that this is a 17- year-old girl we’re talking about and they are nothing if not melodramatic, especially when it comes to love. In that regard, the author was successful in capturing the attitudes of a teenage girl. Apparently, they are the same no matter what the century.
I do wish that the author had stuck more to the alchemy and Philosopher’s Stone and let the romance/personal life play more of a backseat. But I think that teens and other young adults will find the balance to be perfectly acceptable and will enjoy this book immensely.
Samantha’s Instagram: samanthacohoe/
Wednesday Books Twitter: wednesdaybooks
Wednesday Books Instagram: wednesdaybooks/
About the Author:
Samantha Cohoe writes historically-inspired young adult fantasy. She was raised in San Luis Obispo, California, where she enjoyed an idyllic childhood of beach trips, omnivorous reading, and writing stories brimming with adverbs. She currently lives in Denver with her family and divides her time among teaching Latin, mothering, writing, reading, and deleting adverbs. A Golden Fury is her debut novel.
