House of the Beast

Intricately plotted with luxuriant worldbuilding, the dark fantasy debut from illustrator Wong announces her as an exciting new voice. Alma is 11 years old and living in disgrace with her unwed mother when her aristocratic father, Lord Zander Avera, comes to retrieve her. As head of one of the Four High Houses of Kugara, Zander needs an heir to serve as a vessel for their elder god, the Dread Beast. He amputates Alma’s left arm and sacrifices it to the god. Soon thereafter she learns her mother has died, and falls into despair. Then, suddenly, a silver-haired boy appears before her, wearing her left arm as his own. This apparition is the Dread Beast, who has taken the form of her imaginary childhood friend and promises, “You’re not alone, Alma.” Going by Aster, he will oversee her training for the next eight years so she can join her father’s mission to prevent a powerful falling star from bringing darkness to the land. Aster, however, fears that Zander is too selfish for the task and encourages Alma to seek revenge on her father for abandoning her and her mother. Wong masterfully constructs a gothic coming-of-age tale replete with love, politics, and betrayal, helmed by a wonderfully earnest heroine. Elegant illustrations peppered throughout enhance the experience. Fans of manga and heroic fantasy will be thrilled. (Aug.)