I’m just going to post the review below, I think it really hits the head of my sequel! Review Link: The Phoenix and the Ant: Ancestral Cries
If you haven’t had a chance to order your copy yet check it out here:
https://a.co/d/7qAvAOm
Young adults who appreciated the blend of magic, quest, and heroism in SMVL Trudeau’s prior book about the world of Ptansia will love the power and allure of this sequel, The Phoenix and the Ant: Ancestral Cries.
Fantasy and mystery combine in a situation where murder leads Ti, Slayer, Fero, and ant companion Haro to investigate, guided by the much more experienced Val SilverHan. What they discover underlying forces of magic, politics, and special interests threatens not just their lives, but the world as a whole.
It’s rare to see fantasy intersect so engrossingly with a murder investigation, much less for teen audiences. Trudeau spins a vivid yarn as the kids follow mercurial clues into dangerous territory that many an adult would find daunting.
Another strength of this story lies in how Trudeau outlines the psyches and individual concerns of each character. As the story begins, Wizard Ti dreams of stopping Admiral Lors from rearming and starting new conflicts, accompanied by Haro. How can ants defy something huge? Through sheer numbers.
But, numbers don’t always translate to power or success, they discover as the saga unfolds. Ti’s education on controlling her magic and working with animals takes a huge leap as her involvements in bigger-picture situations build not just her abilities and ideals, but her education.
Since meeting Aghat, her life had reached unexpected places.
Many of these situations can kill. Others reveal new insights about the Source, the nature of human/beast interactions, and the impact of magic and ancient ties that both constrict and are threatened by new adversity.
At each stage of the investigation, Trudeau unfolds new opportunities for understanding (and, ultimately, transformation) as characters confront their biggest nightmares and greatest dreams.
Issues of trust, safety, and connections among the major players in conflict come to life as drama creates astute social and psychological connections between characters.
Libraries seeking a young adult leisure choice that blends fantasy, intrigue, and relationship-building situations will want to recommend The Phoenix and the Ant: Ancestral Cries—especially to those attracted to tales of magic and discovery.
Filled with action, realizations, and new relationship considerations, The Phoenix and the Ant: Ancestral Cries is a vivid journey that will attract a wide audience, especially young readers who have enjoyed the prior The Phoenix and the Ant story.
– – D. Donovan, Sr. Reviewer, Midwest Book Review
SMVLTRUDEAU 