Burning Glass

Gr 9 Up—Sonya has a rare talent: she can feel, both physically and emotionally, those around her. With this talent brings the responsibility of becoming the Sovereign Auraseer for the Imperial Majesty, Valko. Sonya travels to Torchev with Anton, the heir to the throne and younger brother to Valko. Sonya is thrown into learning her new role, balancing court life and rules for the first time, all the while trying to discern if someone is really attempting to assassinate Valko. While observing, Sonya finds herself conflicted as she is drawn to Anton, and whether he has the best interests in mind for his country over his brother. Does she betray Anton? Does she side with the Uprising? Or does she honor her duty as Sovereign Auraseer, despite her nature telling her it is not the best interest of the people of Torchev? Filled with mystery and intrigue, betrayal and passion, Purdie's political debut will sweep readers away to a world that is not that different from their own. Characters are richly developed, leaving teens with a sense of who they are and where they stand in this well-paced story. The ending comes to a satisfying resolution, with a hint of a further installment.