Creatures of the In Between

PUBLISHERS WEEKLY 27. FEB. 2023

The sole remaining scion of an imperial family visits a monster-filled island in order to secure the throne in this action-packed, East and Southeast Asian folklore–inspired duology starter from Lin (The Twelve). In the empire of Samtei, also known as the Three Realms, crown prince Jin approaches his 13th birthday and subsequent ascension to the Triad Throne. But tradition requires emperors to gain the trust of a monster companion, and no such creatures have been seen in the kingdom for years—save for his powerful empress dowager grandmother's malicious phoenix. Inspired by an overheard conversation and planning to return with a monstermate, Jin travels to legendary monster sanctuary Whisper Island, joined by his dog, Shishi, and a stowaway servant, Bingyoo. Upon arriving at the island's ruined village, he encounters creatures he's only read about and slowly befriends the handful of people living there following an attack. With their help, Jin learns the art of Whispering, a skill used to bond with magical beings, and finds an even greater conflict than his own looming large. Court intrigue, daring escapades, and quick-moving battle sequences characterize this entertaining read. Though supporting personalities are not as developed as Jin's, Lin's lush descriptions bring her mythical creatures and the mysteries of Samtei's past to life. A bestiary concludes. Ages 8–12.