Genre: YA Fiction, Science-Fiction, Adventure, Fantasy, Japanese Mythology & Folklore
Key Stage: KS3
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Rebel Fire by Ann Sei Lin (2023)
Plot: Rebel Fire is the second book in the Rebel Skies trilogy by Ann Sei Lin. [Note: please do not read this book before the first as they are connected.] Once again, we meet our protagonist Kurara or should I say Aki shortly after escaping from the clutches of the Imperial Princess Tsukimi and her crafters. As Kurara and her friends embark on a journey through the forests and seas across Mikoshima, they learn of the history behind shikigami and crafters which they have never expected to learn of before. Once they reach their final destination, the Grand Stream, they encounter their old airship and enemies who seek the greatest shikigami of all time- Suzaku. But what will become of the shikigami’s fate- will it live or will it die?
Likes and dislikes: There are many readers in the world who will agree with me on this saying but the second book is always better than the first in a series. In some cases, it will differ, but not this one. Rebel Fire was a fantastic novel to read and its journey was thrilling and breath-taking; it was like a rollercoaster, so turbulent, filled with so many twists and turns. Honestly, I think many readers will enjoy Kurara’s story and will find it just as exhilarating as I did. But the only thing that I have to say regarding dislikes was the fate of Suzaku and the outcome of the actions of certain characters.
Who I would recommend this to and what to read next: This book is definitely one of my five all-time favourite reads meaning that I will always recommend this book to others whether you read sci-fi, romance or thriller- just try something new and outside your comfort zone. This book is suitable for all types of readers and I think it will suit particularly students from KS3+ who enjoy YA fiction, fantasy and sci fi with a mix of Japanese folklore and culture (but really in my opinion, even older readers would enjoy this book just as well). If you enjoyed this book, then I would recommend you to read the next and last book in this trilogy once it is released as well as other books based in Japan like The Last Paper Crane.
Reviewer: Yaminah, Year 9