Thirteenth Child (Frontier Magic - Volume 1)
Thirteenth Child (Frontier Magic - Volume 1)
Patricia Wrede
Everyone knows the seventh son of a seventh son is a man destine for greatness, and great magic. But what of his twin sister, who happens to be unlucky child number thirteen? Eff's extended family has encouraged her parents to kill her, banish her, and relentlessly mock and shames her. Finally, her parents can't take it any more, and decide to haul the remaining kids at home out West, to the banks of the great Mammoth River...the last gasp of civilization before the untamed Wild West. Here Eff can grow up under the radar, as a normal girl. Or can she? What if she really is cursed, and starts to bring havoc to those around her? Who will protect her family, and the settlements from the plethora of magical beasts, such as the steam dragons, that seem to come out of now where? Is there a place for a13th child in this new land? Or is she bringing her dark troubles with her?
A delightful alternative fantasy revisitation of the frontier life after the Civil War. But alas, deeply flawed by the complete lack of mention of any native peoples in this brave new world...a glaring gap in an otherwise very enjoyable book. Suitable for ages 12 and up.