Thirteen Orphans — Jane M. Lindskold

THE THIRTEEN ORPHANS represent the twelve animals of the Chinese zodiac -- plus the noble Cat . . . and they are under siege. The surviving Orphans are led by Pearl Bright, a gracious and vivacious older Asian-American who is the avatar of the Tiger. Pearl has the hidden claws and steely determination of her namesake, though she has no idea of the number or strength of her enemies and her forces are few and mostly inexperienced.

One of Pearl's warriors is college sophomore Brenda Morris, daughter of the Rat. Until a few days ago, Brenda had no idea that her father could do magic or that there were other worlds. Now, with her father's abilities stolen, Brenda and the Orphans are stunned to discover that Brenda has some of the Rat's powers . . . though she has no idea what to do with them.

She will have to learn fast.