"Vuong's writing is engaging, and his worldbuilding treads a finely
drawn line between recognizable and novel, making this work easily
accessible and broadly appealing. Enriquez's vibrant illustrations keep
a central point of view in their orderly panels, with a decidedly
mangalike feel. . . . A fun, quick read sure to hook fantasy fans."
-Kirkus Reviews
"The story is by turns funny, scary, and suspenseful. -Enriquez's
artwork uses an earth-toned manga style, and there is plenty of action
and humor to keep -readers hooked into the story." -School Library
Journal
Told in dual perspectives, this fantastical debut graphic novel with
the wit of Nimona and the adventure of Amulet is a whirlwind journey
involving mages, mercenaries, escape plans, food fights, and more!
Centuries ago, magic mysteriously appeared in the kingdom of Allia. At
first, the mages who could wield it became servants to the king, using
their newfound powers for the betterment of society. However, an evil
group of mages called Blackbloods went rogue, siphoning magic from their
peers before they were stopped. But after that, the king imprisoned all
mages, Blackblood or not.
Years later, mage siblings Kanna and Kita are in hiding, careful to
avoid being taken by the King's Guard. Despite the looming threat of
imprisonment, Kita dreams of becoming a powerful mage, while Kanna is
content living in the shadows. Kita gets the chance to prove himself
when bandits invade their camp, only to realize that he lacks control
over his magic when they kidnap Kanna. Now Kita, with the help of a
mercenary, Toran, must rescue his sister from the dangerous gang, while
Kanna tries to find her own way to escape.
What do the bandits want with Kanna? And will Kita be able to save his
sister without getting found out as a mage?
