Raelia (Medoran Chronicles, #2)

by Lynette Noni

[Kelly]

4.5 Stars
Raelia is a wonderful edition to The Medoran Chronicles, engaging and delightfully surprising. The storyline resumes shortly after Akarnae, after coming close to losing her freedom at the hands of Aven. Now Alex is back with a vengeance, her training has increased in order to protect the institute and the portal that Aven is so desperate to find.

After the revelations of Akarnae, Alex's character growth was immense. She's always been resilient, but has taken her place at Akarnae in her stride and is relishing in her new found role as a protector of the library and the institution itself. Old characters and friends return. While readers are introduced to new characters in the mystical kingdom of Meya, we now see characters such as the dashing Kaiden and roommate in D.C who is now part of the core character group, with much stronger storylines and interactions with Alex, Bear and Jordan.

One of the most appealing aspects of The Medoran Chronicles is the adventure. Comparable to the Harry Potter series, it appeals to young adult and mature middle grade readers as the storyline is morally uncomplicated and doesn't rely on a romance to develop characters or further the storyline which really is a breath of fresh air. I loved the attraction blooming between Kaiden and Alex and hoping the third book explores a potential romance between the two.

Once again Lynette Noni's writing is a mixture of sass and humour. The series is perfect for non fantasy reader such as myself as it offers a lighter take on the genre, making it easy for young teens to engage with and relate to it's well written and depth of characters.

I love a well written villain and I need more Aven. Aven is mysterious, sinister and delicious. He's single minded in his determination to find the doorway back to Meya, where he is now the exiled prince. I needed him to ignite and his cunning surprised and delighted me, even as villainous as he's portrayed. Be warned, Raelia ends with a heart wrenching revelation. The fate of one character rests upon Alex and her strength to fight.

Raelia is an wonderful installment in The Medoran Chronicles. First time author Lynette Noni is a magnificent storyteller, crafting a beautifully written, engaging and enchanting new young adult series with a touch of Australian charm and warmth.

My only gripe is that all the characters seem to mumble. Speak clearly children.