The Whisperer’s Wish
by Janilise Lloyd

For sixteen years, Laurelin Moore has been keeping a secret. She is a whisperer, and she knows that to reveal her gift now is a dangerous risk. Past whisperers have been exploited for their power. But Ausland’s queen is dead and acknowledging her magic is her only chance at becoming a Rook in the Pentax—a competition that will decide the kingdom’s next ruler.

Laurelin isn’t in it for the crown, though. She’s after the wish that will be granted to the victor. A wish that would save her dying brother, Pippin. But there are dangerous undercurrents to the competition, and Laurelin finds herself at the center of it. She begins to search for answers and discovers a secret with the potential to shatter the entire kingdom.

5 out of 5 fairies

Lloyd has done an excellent job creating a unique world and relatable MCs. Laurelin is kind, sweet, loyal, and determined. She doesn’t want to win the games to take the throne – she wants to save her brother. (Which in my opinion makes her the most fitting to take power, because she doesn’t want it, and is more likely to wield it carefully). Although there are some things reminiscent of The Hunger Games, there was considerably less violence, and the prize at stake is much different. It was easy to get drawn into this world and story, and you can’t help buy like Laurelin from the moment you meet her. The magic system was well done and unique, something I always appreciate. If you’re looking for a book that’s a little less heavy than The Hunger Games with more than a little magic mixed in, you’ve found your next read! Side note, where can I find some pygsmies of my own???

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Janilise Lloyd is a former junior high school teacher who lives in Northern Utah with her husband and toddler. She balances a love for running with a love for all things dessert. Her family likes to be on the go, so you will often catch them at the zoo, the park, or skipping rocks by the river. Janilise is the coordinator for the ScrivKids writing community for student writers and is a member of the Storymakers Guild. You can find her on Instagram or Facebook @janiliselloyd or on her website, janiliselloyd.com.