Spireseeker — E.D.E. Bell

As family and friends are taken from their midst and turned to a life of mindless devotion to their new Master, the creatures of Fayen begin to lose hope. But none of this suffering has reached the peaceful island where Beryl lives with her grandparents. Then when a calm fall afternoon is interrupted by a brutal attack on her family,Beryl is forced to flee the only home she's ever known. As she travels,Beryl discovers who, and what, she really is and how the fate of the world may depend on her own.

Torn between self-doubt and the blind courage that comes from necessity, she marches bravely to confront evil, meeting friends and enemies along the way.

This quirky fantasy offers a unique take on a classic epic journey. Centered on themes of empathy, loyalty, and personal burdens, Spireseeker, Bell's debut, is best known for its genderless elves, magical creatures, and talking animals. It's different!

2014 Midwest Book Awards Finalist