Shadowfell (review)

Fifteen-year-old Neryn is all too aware that her ability to see and talk to the fey folk could get her killed by the tyrannical king's Enforcers, since they already massacred her small town for hiding her grandmother from them. She and her father have been on the roads of Alban for three years, trying to avoid capture, but when he ends up dead and she finds herself in the company of a mysterious (and handsome) stranger, Neryn decides to head north in search of a rumored rebel stronghold. As her powers grow, the Good Folk share their prophecy that she will be the savior of both the kingdom of Alban and of the fey realm, but her journey is fraught with danger, betrayals, and self-doubt. Marillier's fictional world resembles an Arthurian Britain, steeped in old-world folklore; wood nymphs, elves, and brollachans all make an appearance, but their otherworldliness is tempered with a sense of vulnerability and desperation. Neryn's narration strikes a delicate balance, allowing for an intimate look at her personal tragedies without being overwrought, giving an expansive overview of Alban through her memories and dreams without falling into unnecessary exposition. The brooding love interest is both appropriately angsty and compelling, but Neryn joins the growing trend of YA fantasy protagonists in setting aside her romantic relationship as she concentrates on saving the world. With the promise of more magic, heartache, and triumph in future installment, this series opener is ideal for fans of Kristin Cashore and Robin McKinley.