Hush

Activist Farrow illustrates truth’s revolutionary nature in this duology-opening fantasy debut. Due to an inkborne plague dubbed the Indigo Death, or Blot, reading and writing are prohibited in Montane for everyone but Bards—tithe-collecting magicians who manipulate reality using language. When freckle-skinned Shae, 17, develops strange symptoms, she seeks out a trio of traveling Bards and begs one to cure her; her brother succumbed to Blot five years prior, and Shae can’t bear to cause her mother more pain. He refuses, however, and the next day, Shae comes home to find a Bard’s dagger through her mother’s heart. The constable won’t investigate, so Shae heads for High House, the Bards’ castle, seeking answers. Upon arrival, she discovers that she isn’t sick—she’s a fledgling Bard manifesting magical abilities. Despite her suspicions, she agrees to remain at High House and train; where better to ferret out her mother’s killer than from within? Shae’s determination inspires, but her naivete strains credulity, particularly as the story progresses. Nebulous worldbuilding, particularly regarding Bards’ magic, and a shoehorned romance also disappoint, though the epilogue hints at action and intrigue to come. Ages 14–up. Agents: Emma Parry, Janklow & Nesbit, and Stephen Barbara, Inkwell Management, on behalf of Glasstown Entertainment. (Oct.)