The Unnaturalists (review)

Sixteen-year-old Vespa Nyx's scholarly plans are abruptly put on hold when she discovers that she has magical powers—an offense that, in New London where the Church of Science and Technology reigns supreme, would earn her execution. Meanwhile, Syrus, a young boy living in the wilds surrounding the city, is charged with the task of procuring a witch for the forest's ruling Elemental (a nature spirit) after a band of city guards invades and slaughters a group of Tinkers, an ancient race that protects the magical creatures of the woods. Events bring the two together as Vespa realizes that her father is planning to use her magic to power a science experiment that may be New London's doom and Syrus discovers that his people are meeting fates far worse than death inside the city walls. A steampunk-themed city meets a bevy of fanciful creatures in this intriguing mashup that unabashedly positions technology against nature. The alternation between Vespa's voice and the third-person narration that focuses on Syrus brings the contrast between their worldviews into sharp relief. Vespa is a charming heroine, at once prickly and vulnerable, competent enough to get out of tricky situations yet still willing to swoon over a handsome rebel. Syrus is slightly less developed, but his compassion for the creatures he is sworn to protect will ring true with animal lovers. Younger fans of The Girl in the Steel Corset (BCCB 9/11) will find plenty to like here.