In a world where there is nothing
worse than being a witch, Julia has a single power -- she
can vanish, which makes her an excellent thief and spy. Her
latest job, spying on an odd household full of secrets, will
pay her very well indeed, as long as Julia survives it and
can stomach what she must do. But the job isn't the only distraction
in Julia's life as a serial killer stalks the city, making
it dangerous for even a disappearing girl to pass through
the night with her secrets.
Julia Vanishes is the first in a new fantasy trilogy
and full of interesting world building and scary politics.
Julia makes no bones about being a hero, but even a thief
has lines she must not cross, so the novel drives her across
as many of them as possible. It's fascinating to watch Julia
deal with her world, her powers, and the cost of her own moral
decisions.
Beautifully written and fast-paced, this compelling novel
kept me turning pages to the very end. And for me, one more
excellent quality was the feeling of wholeness to this first
novel. Though eager to see what happens to these characters
next, Catherine Egan avoided the "cliff-hanger ending"
to the novel, which I never enjoy. So, from beginning to end,
I found this one an entertaining and provocative pleasure.
|