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moving novel casts brilliant light on the ways in which history - whether of a culture or a family - refuses to be buried. Ned Marriner, fifteen years old, has accompanied his photographer father to Provence for a six-week ''shoot'' of images for a glossy coffee-table book. Gradually, Ned discovers a very old story playing itself out in this modern world of iPods, cellphones, and seven-seater vans whipping along roads walked by Celtic tribes and the Roman Legions. On one holy, haunted night of the ancient year, when the borders between the living and the dead are down and fires are lit upon the hills, Ned, his family, and his friends, are shockingly drawn into this tale, as dangerous, mythic figures from conflicts of long ago erupt into the present, claiming and changing lives.
Report
"Evocative writing ... fascinating characters ... will enthrall mainstream as well as fantasy readers."
Publishers Weekly [starred review]
"Ysabel is a pure pleasure to read for fans of history, mythology or pure highspirited adventure. It works on all levels."
Interzone
"An explorer of history and myths, Kay has a special affinity for the people behind the larger-than-life legends that persist through time. His latest fantasy blends time and place in a crossing of worlds and universal truths. Highly recommended."
Library Journal (starred review)
"Outstanding characters, folklore, and action add up to another Kay must-read."
Booklist
"Blending historical fantasy and psychological thriller with a paranormal-powered coming-of-age tale, Ysabel will not only appeal to adult fantasy readers but also to adolescents who have enjoyed authors that feature compelling teen protagonists-such as J. K. Rowling and Christopher Paolini."
Barnesandnoble.com
Kay's Ysabel is a wonderful read for lovers of historical novels, and has all the qualities necessary to turn teenagers on to historical novels, and to history."
Canadian Literature
"Kay's language is poetic and thought-provoking, and his sensitively drawn characters are the perfect complement. This is a mythic tale that will linger in the reader's mind long after the book is finished."
January 2007 Top Pick: Romantic Times
