Book Review: The Thirteenth Tower by Sara C. Snider

Rating:

the thirteenth towerA sci-fi/fantasy book, The Thirteenth Tower by Sara C. Snider brings us to a world where magic is a part of life but deemed dangerous, even scary because of the people who wield it.

Emelyn, an ordinary housemaid finds herself embroiled in the business of the Magi, the magic wielding people of her realm. But the more she gets to know them, instead of finding answers, Emelyn has more questions.

A coming of age story, “The Thirteenth Tower” revolves around Emelyn as she comes out of her shell from a shy housemaid to a young woman looking for her family.

A great storyline with very interesting characters; but I find “The Thirteenth Tower” lacking in drama. Though the author built up to the final confrontation, the conclusion was lacking. And though the ending is open ended and hints of a sequel, the characters though fully developed felt weak, their victory seems hollow.

The The Thirteenth Tower is Rated PG due to magic violence. There are no sex scenes in this book.

DESCRIPTION

In adversity lies strength beyond imagining.

Abandoned as a baby, young Emelyn’s life as a housemaid in the quiet village of Fallow is unremarkable—and empty. That is, until a host of magical creatures arrives and inflicts terrible misdeeds on the townsfolk. Inexplicably immune to their enchantments, Emelyn joins a pair of Magi intent on stopping the cause of the trouble—and who claim to know of her parents, promising Emelyn answers to a lifetime of questions.

But the answers Emelyn seeks prove to be more elusive than she hoped, and the world outside Fallow more perilous than she imagined. Magical creatures roam the land over, attacking yet another town before coming after Emelyn. The key to her survival—and finding her family—lies deep within her, if only she can conquer her doubts and believe she is more powerful than she ever dreamed.

In a journey that explores facing one’s fears amidst the uncertainties of an unknown world, The Thirteenth Tower is a magical tale of discovery, growth, and of love’s enduring strength.