Ariadnis: Book 1

Earth as we know it has been destroyed by mankind and a great wave. The only inhabitants now live on an island which it seems they cannot leave. Aula and Joomia are two 17-year-old girls who have been chosen by the Wise One and on their 18th birthday will enter Ariadnis to receive the book of Knowledge and prevent a war between the two surviving nations. I found that the wonderful cover and blurb of this book drew me in under false pretences. On the opening pages one of my favourite birds (owls) were culled to celebrate the girls' birthday. Not a good sign for me, especially as they regarded them as sacred! I could not warm to either of the two main characters, one loud and acting like a bit of a spoiled brat, the other weak and whiny. Perhaps a younger audience would be able to identify with them, I'm not so sure. The chapters are long but broken down into alternative passages between the two characters. I found that this made them easier to read, others may find this confusing as quite a lot of characters are introduced as the plot develops. It's clear that the author is a talented writer, and has excellent ability when it comes to world-building. However, it went on a little too long for me and I got bored and confused. There are, however, some excellent and unusual ideas, especially in Joomia's vine world. I really loved how she connects to them and how they crafted the world in which she lives. I have other minor criticisms, the constant swearing, use of slang, reference to casual sex and constant reference to getting drunk, (after all they are just 17 years old). These got to me and I questioned whether it was all needed. Due to this I would only place the book suitable for 14+ confident, well-read children who love fantasy dystopian books. Ariadnis is a slow build story that focuses on both the world and the characters. As you get further in the mystery deepens and you realise there are a lot of things going on that you weren't immediately aware of.

Suggested Reading Age 11+