Title: Shatterglass
Author: Tamora Pierce
First published March 1, 2003
357 pages, Paperback
ISBN: 9780590396967 (ISBN10: 059039696X)
Rating: 4.2
Overview
Get ready to be enchanted by the newest addition to the Circle Opens quartet, Shatterglass by Tamora Pierce. The story follows Kethlun Warder, a talented glassmaker whose world is turned upside down after a freak accident.
Now, all that remains of his magic is mixed with lightning, and it’s up to Tris to teach him to control it. However, their mission is not without its challenges.
Keth’s temper is as unpredictable as his magic, and there’s a killer on the loose. Using his unique powers, Keth creates glass balls that reveal the immediate past and expose the identity of the murderer.
As they race against time and local authorities, Tris and Keth must work together to stop the killer before it’s too late. With spellbinding new cover art, Shatterglass is a thrilling addition to Tamora Pierce’s collection that will keep you on the edge of your seat until the very end.
Editoral Review
In “Shatterglass,” acclaimed young adult author Tamora Pierce delivers a riveting tale of magic, mystery, and intrigue. First published on March 1, 2003, this book is the fourth installment in the “Circle Opens” series, which follows the adventures of four young mages as they explore their magical abilities and navigate the challenges of life in a fantastic world.
Building on the strengths of the earlier novels in the series, “Shatterglass” features a complex and captivating plot that keeps readers on the edge of their seats from beginning to end. The story centers on Tris, a young weather mage who is sent to the city of Tharios to investigate a series of deadly earthquakes.
As she delves deeper into the mystery, Tris discovers a sinister plot that threatens the very foundations of society, and she must use all of her magical powers and quick thinking to stop the villains before it’s too late. Along the way, Tris is joined by a rich cast of supporting characters, including a talented glassblower, a mischievous street urchin, and a mysterious mage with a dark secret.
Together, they explore the labyrinthine streets of Tharios, uncovering clues and encountering danger at every turn. One of the great strengths of “Shatterglass” is its vivid and immersive setting.
Pierce has a real talent for creating richly imagined worlds, and in this book, she brings the bustling city of Tharios to life with all its sights, sounds, and smells. From the opulent mansions of the wealthy aristocracy to the cramped and filthy back alleys of the slums, readers will feel like they are right there in the heart of the action.
Another standout feature of “Shatterglass” is its impeccable pacing. Pierce knows just how to keep the story moving at a brisk and exciting pace, throwing in just enough twists and turns to keep readers guessing without confusing them.
Each chapter is crafted with care, building on the ones before it and leading seamlessly into the ones after. Perhaps most impressive of all, “Shatterglass” manages to explore important themes and ideas without ever feeling heavy-handed or didactic.
Throughout the book, Pierce tackles issues of social justice, class inequality, and the dangerous allure of power, all while keeping the story gripping and entertaining. That said, there are a few minor flaws to be found in “Shatterglass.” Some readers may find the romantic subplot a bit cliched or predictable, and others may wish for a bit more time spent exploring the internal lives of some of the supporting characters.
Additionally, the book does deal with some dark and heavy subject matter, including murder, torture, and political corruption, which may be too intense for some younger readers. Overall, however, “Shatterglass” is a stunning achievement and a must-read for any fan of young adult fiction.
Tamora Pierce has once again demonstrated her mastery of the genre, crafting a compelling and thought-provoking story that will linger in readers’ minds long after the final page has been turned. Recommended for ages 12 and up, “Shatterglass” earns a solid 4.5 stars out of 5 from this reviewer.
