Fragile Destiny
By Suzanne Lazear
Published on August 8th 2014
Published by Flux
Source: Publisher
Published by Flux
Source: Publisher
Have you read this series? If you haven't- you really should. The Aether Chronicles has some of the best creativity and imagination that I have found in a series. It is literally a book that I would call "rollicking fun" (and I don't even speak like that!). Fragile Destiny is the third (and perhaps last?) book in The Aether Chronicles series. It is the perfect blend of steampunk and faeries. It seems like an odd combination, but somehow- it absolutely works.Noli and her true love V fear the worst if the Staff of Eris—a potent Otherworld relic—falls into the wrong hands. Broken into pieces and hidden in the mortal realm long ago, the staff bestows vast powers on whoever possesses it. Ciarán, the dark king, is trying to rebuild the staff, intending to use it to install a new queen.
In a desperate effort to keep the Otherworld from falling into darkness, Noli and V plot the daring theft of a jewel Ciarán needs to complete the staff. But Ciarán is not so easily defeated. Through his devious machinations, he has set a plan in motion for a final showdown that will decide who rules the Otherworld once and for all.
I love Noli. I love that she isn't completely sure of herself and doesn't always make the best decisions. I love that she has an honest and good heart and that she really cares for the people around her. I love that she picked the "good guy" instead of the "bad boy" and that she is completely devoted to him. Noli and V have a sweet romance (when he wasn't being a butthead in this book). I find it to be absolutely believable and fun to read.
This book would be suitable for younger ya readers, but enjoyed by kids and adults alike. There is a bit of whimsy in this book- it doesn't try too hard to take itself seriously, but isn't a parody. It captures the magic of fantasy while remaining grounded with a solid storyline. The steampunk parks of the story enhance the plot without overpowering it (like many of the steampunk books I have read).
This is not a read that will make you ponder the meaning of life, it won't make you question your beliefs and values, but it will give you a reason to escape into a wonderful adventure with lively characters and a gripping plot. Fans of fae books should read this series- they won't be disappointed.
