Beneath the Citadel

In a walled city ruled by prophecy, where dreams and memories can be stolen, a group of friends works to expose the ruling council’s involvement in mysterious disappearances that are gripping the city. As the story opens, four teens are sentenced to death for high treason after infiltrating the catacombs under the Citadel: rebel-born Cassa; apothecary Alys; Evander, whose blood bond with silver enables him to manipulate the element; and Newt, able to contort his body to escape tight spots. After a daring escape, they regroup to plan their next move, but they must again venture beneath the Citadel, where an immortal man may hold the key to their futures or their downfall. Told via alternating viewpoints and flashbacks, the generally fast-paced tale is at times bogged down by exposition. However, the diverse characters—including those who are bisexual, asexual, and gay—have rich backgrounds; many scenes, especially those set on and around a creepy underground lake, are harrowing; and the emotional finale is truly shocking. Fans of dark, character-driven fantasy will find much to enjoy in this novel by Soria (Iron Cast), which raises interesting questions about fate, free will, and sacrifice. Ages 14–up. [em](Oct.) [/em]