I was excited about this book long before it came out. I love history, fantasy, and YA, and Fawkes is the perfect combination.
Nadine did not disappoint me with her story.
I loved watching Thomas Fawkes grow from a self-centered, blind-to-the-truth boy into a confident, wise young man. I loved Emma’s vibrant, strong personality, and her desire to use her gifts to help others. I loved how their interaction deepened until they moved together as a team.
This was such a fun way to learn more about the Gunpowder Plot. While the color powers and Stone Plague were part of the fantasy element, many other facts and tidbits were straight out of the history books. My compliments to Nadine for making history so entertaining.
All the characters were unique and real. The settings…I could smell the stench of the Thames and hear the clamor of markets. Despite London being described in all its filthy, smelly, historical accuracy, it still seemed like a magical place. It was fascinating to get a clear picture of English relations with Scottish, Africans, and each other.
I could say many more things, but I never liked to put spoilers in book reviews. I highly recommend this book. It will charm you and sweep you back in time. You might cry at the end(I did), but the sorrow is deeply poignant.
I won’t forget it soon.