I enjoyed this first in the series novel for what is now known as Middle grade, even in the UK. The idea of having an animal companion (spirit or real) is not a new one and it works well in creating a gap between the main characters and those 'ordinary' people surrounding them. The plot feels very much just a beginning and I am thankful that it develops in the second book "A Warning Cry". If the books had been for an older age group I suspect they would have been longer and the plot more fully developed in each volume. ( )

Fantasy novel for younger readers

This short novel is aimed at the younger reader, perhaps young teenagers. It tells of Whisperers, magicians linked to the earth who defend their respective homes against the Narlaw, demons who destroy everything in their path.

The two main characters are young Whisperers whose first trial is to banish newly-emerged Narlaw back to the Darklands.

The plot is relatively simple and quite well-written. Characters are well-developed and there are accompanying animals, familiars, who add to the enjoyment of this read. I read it in one day.
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