Cover illustration by Paola Escobar.
WINNER of THE NORTH SOMERSET TEACHERS’ BOOK AWARD in the QUALITY FICTION category 2020. Book of the Month in The Guardian and The New Statesman. Book of the Week in The South Wales Evening Post. Nominated for the Sakura Medal in Japan and being published in Germany and Russia.
Aribella lives in Venice, the daughter of a lace-maker. But she has a deadly secret: when angered, sparks shoot from her fingertips.
Unable to keep her power hidden, she flees - but when dark spectres rise from the lagoon, the fire in her hands saves her life.
A masked stranger witnesses the attack - and through him, Aribella leaves her old life behind and discovers the world of the Cannovacci, magical warriors sworn to defeat the strange spectres menacing the city.
The North Somerset Teachers’ Book Awards 2020
Available now from all good bookshops, including Waterstones, Foyles, Blackwells, Amazon, and your local independent bookshop.
“Gorgeously written with touches of Philip Pullman and Eva Ibbotson, this is almost as captivating as a trip to La Serenissima itself.” The New Statesman
The Quality Fiction shortlist
“A captivating fantasy for readers aged eight-plus…This enthralling adventure will make readers yearn for their own masks and powers.” The Guardian
“This stunning, atmospheric debut with a strong, female, rebellious heroine will enchant and enthrall children looking for escapism. Perfect for fans of Harry Potter and The Thief Lord.” The South Wales Evening Post
Award winner