This month’s book recommendation is another double, which isn’t a surprise in the fantasy genre. I loved the Everless duology (Everless and Evermore) by Sara Holland. Here’s the synopsis of Book #1 (Book #2 synopsis contains major spoilers for Book #1 so I’m going to let you find it on your own if that’s how you like to live) and then I’ll tell you why I enjoyed it.
Goodreads Synopsis
In the kingdom of Sempera, time is currency—extracted from blood, bound to iron, and consumed to add time to one’s own lifespan. The rich aristocracy, like the Gerlings, tax the poor to the hilt, extending their own lives by centuries.
No one resents the Gerlings more than Jules Ember. A decade ago, she and her father were servants at Everless, the Gerlings’ palatial estate, until a fateful accident forced them to flee in the dead of night. When Jules discovers that her father is dying, she knows that she must return to Everless to earn more time for him before she loses him forever.
But going back to Everless brings more danger—and temptation—than Jules could have ever imagined. Soon she’s caught in a tangle of violent secrets and finds her heart torn between two people she thought she’d never see again. Her decisions have the power to change her fate—and the fate of time itself.
Recommendation for Everless
I’m a sucker for a bright and shiny world. I completely indulged in Holland’s delicious, sparkly smorgasbord of Everless.
Tying time to money illustrated the stark division of power between the “haves” and the “have-nots,” in a new and interesting way.
I also rooted for Jules, the main character, the whole book. That can sometimes be difficult to do in a YA novel. Often I just want to beat the character over the head. So, great job, Holland!
This book subverted my expectations. Just when I thought I’d figured it out, another twist! I couldn’t wait to read the second one to find out what happened next.
If you enjoy interesting worlds and a twisty-turny mysterious backstory, check out Sara Holland’s Everless duology. If you do, let me know what you think!
Do you have a favorite book that plays with the concept of time? Drop ‘em in the comments, send me an email (author@kierstenlillis.com) or find me on Twitter and Instagram @kierstenlills.
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