Publishers Weekly
02/27/2023
The sole remaining scion of an imperial family visits a monster-filled island in order to secure the throne in this action-packed, East and Southeast Asian folklore–inspired duology starter from Lin (The Twelve). In the empire of Samtei, also known as the Three Realms, crown prince Jin approaches his 13th birthday and subsequent ascension to the Triad Throne. But tradition requires emperors to gain the trust of a monster companion, and no such creatures have been seen in the kingdom for years—save for his powerful empress dowager grandmother’s malicious phoenix. Inspired by an overheard conversation and planning to return with a monstermate, Jin travels to legendary monster sanctuary Whisper Island, joined by his dog, Shishi, and a stowaway servant, Bingyoo. Upon arriving at the island’s ruined village, he encounters creatures he’s only read about and slowly befriends the handful of people living there following an attack. With their help, Jin learns the art of Whispering, a skill used to bond with magical beings, and finds an even greater conflict than his own looming large. Court intrigue, daring escapades, and quick-moving battle sequences characterize this entertaining read. Though supporting personalities are not as developed as Jin’s, Lin’s lush descriptions bring her mythical creatures and the mysteries of Samtei’s past to life. A bestiary concludes. Ages 8–12. Agent: Josh Adams, Adams Literary. (Apr.)
From the Publisher
"Court intrigue, daring escapades, and quick-moving battle sequences characterize this entertaining read... Lin’s lush descriptions bring her mythical creatures and the mysteries of Samtei’s past to life." — Publishers Weekly
"Perfect for fans of monsters, magic, myth, and learning about the stories and heroes of East and Southeast Asian lore." — Booklist
Praise for Cindy Lin: “[A] rip-roaring debut…Ideal for fans of stories with lots of heart, great lore, and plenty of twists along the way.” — ALA Booklist
“Aficionados will delight in the plethora of fast-paced action scenes sprinkled with martial arts wisdom, and there is much potential for sequels…and, of course, for Usagi to continue developing her powers.” — Booklist
"Full of heart and brimming with action, what a read! I couldn’t put it down, but I didn’t want it to end! I know I'll return to this enthralling and inventive world time and time again." — Amie Kaufman, New York Times bestselling author of Elementals: Ice Wolves
Kirkus Reviews
2023-01-25
A prince seeks to fulfill his royal ambitions.
In the kingdom of Samtei, no ruler has ever ascended the throne without having formed a bond with a magical beast, or monstermate, by the age of 13. That is why Jin, the 12-year-old crown prince, decides to sneak into the forbidden Bureau of Divination and find out more about these now scarce mythical creatures. Before he is caught, Jin overhears ministers in conversation with his grandmother, the empress dowager, suggesting that he visit Whisper Island, a sanctuary for creatures of the in between. Despite Grandmother’s harsh punishments, Jin—with the aid of servant girl Bingyoo—gets into scrapes and is banned from going to the island where he hoped to find a monstermate until he can prove to her he is worthy. Nevertheless, Jin hires a ship to take him to Whisper Island, unexpectedly joined by stowaways: Bingyoo and Jin’s dog, Shishi. On the island the trio find wild monsters, the ruins of an attacked city, and some survivors, twins Mau and Masa and their Aunt Ayie. Solid storytelling outlines Jin’s growth as he gradually learns Whispering, a skill used to bond with magical creatures and cultivate true companionship. Unfortunately, other characters in this Asian-inspired fantasy world are not as well fleshed out. Readers will be left with some lingering questions about the political intrigue surrounding Jin’s family; a sequel may bring more clarity.
An intriguing adventure with promise. (author’s note, bestiary) (Fantasy. 8-12)
