Sorcery of Thorns

Elisabeth has always know sorcerors and magic are evil.  She grew up in one of the great libraries as a foundling, and at sixteen is now an apprentice.  The employees of the great libraries have a duty to protect, maintain, and control the grimoires under their care.  These are incredibly powerful magical objects that often seem to have their own agendas.  The grimoires also have the potential to become Malefics, monsters of ink and leather when damaged.

When the most powerful grimoire in Elisabeth's library is transformed into a malefic, she is the only one who can stop the creature before it kills innocent people.  Unfortunately, this also makes her a suspect. 

Now she must face trial in the capital escorted by the sorcerer Nathaniel Thorn and his demon servant Silas.  These two should be her mortal enemies.  She has been raised to believe that all magic is evil and sorcerers will commit unspeakable acts to gain power, but the more time she spends with Nathaniel, the more difficult it is to believe he is evil.  Even his demonic servant Silas surprises her with the way he cares for his master. 

It soon becomes clear the sabotage of one library is not the end of these magical misdeeds, and something far greater and more terrifying looms on the horizon.  Elisabeth may be the only one with the knowledge and ability to save the libraries and the kingdom. 

Margaret Rogerson's new novel is a delight for fantasy fans.  It reminds me a bit of Garth Nix's Sabriel with its magical libraries and librarians trained to fight danger, but Rogerson has created her own world.  Elisabeth is a strong and intelligent heroine who can think for herself and change long-held beliefs when confronted with new evidence.  The romance is predictable but satisfying, and the friendship amongst the three main characters is endearing.  I would like to read more stories set in this world!  Recommended for grades 8 and up for fantasy violence and a romantic scene.