About This Book
Reach for this book when your teen feels weighed down by adult-sized responsibilities or trapped by their current circumstances. It is a perfect choice for the young person who is the 'caregiver' of the family and needs to see their loyalty and grit reflected in a high-stakes setting. The story follows Jani, a girl working a grueling factory job to support her sister, who joins the staff of a legendary traveling hotel only to discover the magic comes at a terrifying cost. This is a sophisticated fantasy that explores the dark side of ambition and the necessity of personal agency. While it offers the glitter and romance typical of YA fantasy, it also deals with systemic exploitation and the courage required to break cycles of abuse. It is best suited for readers aged 13 and up due to some intense moments of magical cruelty and peril. Parents will appreciate the strong sibling bond and the message that one’s worth is not defined by their utility to others.
