Book Review: "Dryad-Born" by Jeff Wheeler

The struggle to save the plague-ridden kingdoms continues in this captivating second novel in the Whispers from Mirrowen series.

The orphan Phae has kept her innate ability secret since she was young. Not only does she possess the dangerous fireblood, but she can also steal the memories of anyone who looks into her eyes.

Phae has no idea that her combination of powers is extraordinary. She is the unwitting key to discovering the secret origin of the plagues…and she is also now a target. The ruthless Arch-Rike of Kenatos has sent his most menacing servant—the Quiet Kishion—to destroy her.

As Phae struggles to wield her powers and escape her pursuers, a team of allies has already been dispatched on a quest to end the plagues. Some face the horrors in the Arch-Rike’s secret lair, while others search for the fabled lost Shatalin temple.

The determined allies must square off against the Arch-Rike, who is ever steadfast in his aim to kill Phae…and let the plagues rage on. - from Amazon.com

I received this book for free from the publisher (47 North) in exchange for a review.

This is the second book in Wheeler's 'Whispers of Mirrowen' series. It centers around Phae, who is dryad-born, a not heard of, or very rare, birth, combined with the magic of the Fireblood. There is short background on her growing up, and her limited knowledge of the Fireblood and the dryad ability to steal memories from a person. Phae's life is turned around when she is sought out, and she discovers that she is a key figure in ridding the land of the Plague. In her attempt to flee her pursuers, she discovers her real father, joins with the once-enemy Kishion, and learns of her dryad magic, the use which is needed in the Scourged Lands to be rid of the Plague. The characters introduced in the first book ("FIREBLOOD") are also on their quests Tyrus sent them upon. All reunite near the end, and ready to head to the Scourge Lands.

Wheeler first captivated me with his MUIRWOOD series, and again pulls me in with this second novel of Mirrowen. Though the basics of the plot being a group of young persons on quests to discover not only themselves, but save the kingdom, is a pretty common story plot, Wheeler has done a wonderful job of making the events they go through interesting. Characterization is a bit bland, and in my opinion could use some more filling out, but there is enough difference between each person. The cover art is excellent, too.