Ivory and Bone

Eshbaugh debuts with an exciting and unusual adventure with an emphasis on the power of storytelling, set in a prehistoric past. Seventeen-year-old Kol is next in line to become the High Elder of his clan, but without any girls of marrying age, the clan may die out. When Mya’s clan arrives, Kol is immediately drawn to her, but she proves elusive, even aloof, perhaps owing to past friction between their clans. Kol’s father encourages the clans to mingle, but the appearance of a girl named Lo sets off a harrowing chain of events, throwing the clans into upheaval and Kol’s heart into turmoil. Eshbaugh tells the story through Kol’s voice, and it’s immediately revealed that he’s recounting it to a wounded Mya, who asks him to tell her about the “most startling and marvelous day” of his life. Building Kol and Mya’s beautiful, dangerous world takes some time, but once Eshbaugh’s story finds its footing, it provides a fascinating setting for the love triangle between Kol, Lo, and Mya, as simmering tension between the clans builds to a terrifying and poignant climax. Ages 14–up. Agent: Josh Adams, Adams Literary. (June)