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Thursday, February 14, 2013

The Sweetest Spell by Suzanne Selfors

Emmeline Thistle shouldn't be alive. Born with a twisted foot, the midwife left her at the edge of the forest to die. But kindly cows kept her warm through the night. Years later, Emmeline is still a survivor. Being a dirt scratcher's daughter with a twisted foot isn't easy. Emmeline escapes death again when the river floods her village. She is swept downriver and found by a dairy man's son. The Oak family nursed Emmeline back to health, but not without danger. Harboring a Flatlander is illegal. It is at the Oaks' dairy farm that Emmeline discovers her gift. She can churn cream into chocolate, a delicacy that is only legend in the kingdom. Such a gift places Emmeline in great peril. First she is kidnapped and then a treacherous queen enslaves her. Will Emmeline ever find her true love Owen Oak again?

What I thought: A magical tale! Suzanne is to be applauded for her world building, the legends and peoples especially. I couldn't put The Sweetest Spell down. Emmeline goes from one catastrophe to another. Owen Oak is a grand true love. I like that Suzanne created an original fairy tale. I love, love Emmeline's voice. I'm glad we also get Owen's point-of-view. It adds depth to the story.  

(Walker and Company, 2012)

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