Kingdom of Ash and Briars

Gr 7 Up—In the kingdom of Nissera, Bristal works as a common kitchen maid. Her world completely changes when she is kidnapped, thrown into the "Water," and transformed into an elicromancer. The elicromancers, now almost extinct, are an ancient race of magical beings. Bristal is a shape-shifter. Once she makes the transition from mortal to magical, she is befriended by the only two elicromancers in the kingdom, Brack and Tamarice. Brack encourages Bristal to use her abilities for their intended purpose: to serve those who rule Nissera. Tamarice, however, believes they should use their powers to serve themselves instead. Under the tutelage of Brack, Bristal finds herself in many predicaments that readers will recognize from popular fairy tales. However, under the guidance of Tamarice, Bristal begins to understand the allure of power. It is a balancing act she might not be able to handle. West has created a magical world with robust characters and where the themes of good vs. evil permeate the setting.