A review by roseleebooks
Rebel Skies by Ann Sei Lin

adventurous medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.5

Rebel Skies is the first book in a series by Ann Sei Lin. This book is an action filled first installment that introduces a unique magic system. Kurara, a girl with the ability to magically control paper, goes on a journey of self-discovery as she seeks to save her friend Haru. From the airships, to the paper shikigami, to the levitated sky-cities, the world building is exquisite. We are seeing this world through Kurara's eyes and discovering secrets about her past and that of the other paper crafters. All the characters felt like real people, well realized and dimensional. There are multiple point of views but they serve to further the story and reveal more about the characters and their motivations.

This is appropriately categorized between middle-grade and YA. There are many unanswered questions at the end of the story and I does end on a bit of a cliffhanger. I will be looking forward to the next installment in the series.