The Fourth Nephite by Jeffrey S. Savage

The Fourth Nephite
by Jeffrey S. Savage

LDS YA Historical Fantasy
304 pages, paperback
Target Reader: 12+

Deseret Book
978-783027416572
Release Date: August, 2010



From the publisher:

Kaleo Steele is starting to cut seminary and hang out with some new “friends”; in fact, he’s not even sure what he believes anymore. When his seminary teacher finds him at the wrong place at the wrong time, Kaleo is in jeopardy of missing his high school team’s regional football game—a game where college scouts will be coming to see him play. But his seminary teacher realizes that much more than a game is at stake, and sends him on a soul-searching quest.

Guided by Ladan, a mysterious old blind man, Kaleo pushes through a battered wooden door only to find himself in Palmyra, New York, in the fall of 1827. Soon he is caught up in a battle between treasure seekers—led by Allaster Blackburn, a necromancer hired to steal the gold plates—and the young prophet Joseph Smith, who is sworn to keep them safe. In his quest to find a key that will send him back to his own time, Kaleo will have to decide what to believe. Before it’s too late.

Another hit! This fantasy is geared toward LDS boys, but girls will love it as well. The action and suspense was wonderful, the characterization was great. I felt Kaleo, especially, was very believable. When he's caught breaking the rules, he accepts his punishment and although he makes some bad decisions along the way, in the end, he's learned the lessons he needed to learn.

I loved the peek into history and the life of Joseph Smith. The writing was captivating and I was caught up in the story from page one. LDS theology and gospel concepts were blended into the story line in a way that did not overpower the action and forward movement. It was a good mix and done well without being preachy or heavy-handed.

One caution: Some readers will not care for the blending of fantasy with LDS Church history. As a general rule, I do not like that. However, if any book could change my mind about mixing fantasy and religion, it would be this one. I was not at all offended by the way it was handled.

I recommend this book to LDS youth, ages 12+ and to adults who enjoy YA fantasy.

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Content Ratings

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Violence: Some fist fights, kidnappers, and evil villain who uses magic to get what he wants.

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Values/Themes: Making choices and accepting the consequences.

Age Appropriate: .

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*received a free ARC; plan to purchase final publication with my own money.


© 2010 It's a Book Affair

The Forbidden Sea by Sheila A. Nielson

The Forbidden Sea
by Sheila A. Nielson

YA Fantasy
304 pages, hardcover
Target Reader: 12+

Scholastic Press
978-0545097345
Release Date: July 1, 2010



From the publisher:

A mermaid haunts Adrianne's dreams . . . is she coming to warn her, save her, or drag her down into the depths of the briny sea forever?


When Adrianne comes face-to-face with the mermaid of Windwaithe Island, of whom she has heard terrible stories all her life, she is convinced the mermaid means to keep her younger sister. Adrianne, fierce-willed and courageous, is determined to protect her sister from the mermaid, and her family from starvation. However, the mermaid continues to haunt Adrianne in her dreams and with her song.

Isn't that the most amazing cover?! I think it's absolutely breathtaking.

The story inside is wonderful too. When her father dies, Adrianne's mother suffers from what we'd call severe depression. They lose their income, their status and their home. Adrienne is forced to work on the farm and care for her younger sister, while her mother does mending and her Auntie Minna daily blames her for their situation. Adrienne also must contend with her own version of "Nellie Oleson" in the form of Cora Lynn, and other town bullies. Denn, her lifetime friend and now the boy she secretly loves, has a crush on Cora Lynn. On top of all that, there's a mermaid trying to lure her into the sea.

This is a great mermaid story with a twist. The writing is clear and descriptive. You feel like you're there experiencing life right along with Adrianne. Your heart breaks for her, but you can't help but be inspired by her strength and courage.

Although this is listed as a YA book and the main character is a teen with a love interest, I recommend this book to girls, ages 12 and up, and to anyone who enjoys YA fantasy or a good mermaid story.

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Violence: A mermaid scratches Adrianne, but it's not really a violent act.

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© 2010 It's a Book Affair