This engaging and original fantasy will pull you in right to the gripping conclusion. With world building at its finest, the story is not only good for post-Halloween reading but any time of the year.
Ix Tatterfall is a girl who can see nighttime creatures in the forbidden Labyrinth of Souls. These creatures range from the harmless to the very deadly. It’s also apparent very early that Ix is somewhat of a rule breaker.
When she crosses paths with Jack, a nightmare scarecrow, she is caught by Candle Corps and sent to Candle Corps Academy. Here she meets others her age like Morrigan who has a temper and could be a real monster, and Ollie, a shy boy who loves to read. Ix finally has friends who can see what she see.
But the plot deepens when scarecrow Jack is confronted once more and all signs point to him as being the cause of nightmares escaping. He may also be trying to snatch Ix away for good.
There are so many elements of the fantasy I’m leaving out as readers new to the story should get to enjoy and be surprised by them like I was. The third person narration takes you through 45 chapters and an epilogue. The length and intricate nature of the tale will appeal those ready for a more demanding read. THE LABYRINTH OF SOULS is just what fantasy lovers will adore.
BOOK BIRTHDAY: February 11, 2025 PAGES: 336
FIVE MORE THINGS TO LIKE ABOUT: THE LABYRINTH OF SOULS by Leslie Vedder
- A magical school but one very different from any other. The unique classes, students, and teachers in this boarding academy bring many surprises.
- Smiles is supposedly a cat who appears in the mist and becomes an important link to Ix and her journey into the unknown. Smiles has a personality sure to remind you of a real cat.
- Spooky at times but not too bad. The nightmares are listed in the back page glossary and you might start here to alert you to what lies ahead.
- The girls’ friendship has many ups and down and you begin to wonder if these two will ever become lifelong friends. A great look at how characters change and develop.
- All the elements of a good story come together within this fantasy mystery. There’s also a heartwarming aspect of truly finding yourself.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Leslie Vedder (she/her) is an ABA bestselling author of YA and MG fantasy with girl heroes full of fun and heart. She grew up on fantasy books, anime, fanfiction, and the Lord of the Rings movies, and met her true love in high school choir. She currently lives in Colorado with her wife and two ultra-spoiled house cats. Find her online at leslievedder.com
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
BE SURE TO VISIT ALL THE OTHER BLOGGERS ON TODAY’S MARVELOUS MIDDLE GRADE MONDAY!
Always in the Middle... 
I’m curious about the school because you say it’s unique. This book has been on my radar. I’m glad you enjoyed it.
I loved this one, too. Great tip on checking the nightmares glossary to get a feel for the spookiness level of the story!
Sounds fantastic and added to my TBR! Thanks for the recommendation!
I really enjoy books set in schools. This sounds like an interesting read, and Smiles sounds like a lot of fun! I also like the author’s picture. 🙂
Sounds like a well-written story. I’m curious how the school is different—I’m kind of tired of the trope and wouldn’t mind seeing it newly done!
This sounds interesting!
Thanks for the hint about the nightmares in the glossary…that’s so clever, too. I hadn’t seen this one around, yet, but I’m intrigued.
Sounds like a great book for the fantasy lovers out there. Not my cup of tea, but I appreciate the review.
This does indeed look marvelous and I’m putting it on my reading list.