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FindingJane
Feb 19, 2016FindingJane rated this title 4 out of 5 stars
Much like Buffy, the Vampire Slayer, Aliera’s new position of Defender comes with a great deal of responsibility. Also, like Buffy, she wants nothing to do with any of it. However, just as the television blonde cheerleader was finally forced to pick up a stake and do her duty, Aliera is dragged into the fray when someone close to her is threatened. The pacing is brisk and the characters that swirl around Aliera are fun to read. The uncertainty of motives or loyalties gives the storyline a brilliant tension and focus. Aliera isn’t quite sure whom to trust and, thus, neither are we. The figure of Baba Yaga is especially well rendered, as Ms. Yolen makes her playful, menacing and slightly crotchety. One moment, she’s just like any old woman—a trifle crabby but pleased to be shown deference from the young. The next moment, she’s the vicious old hag of folklore, threatening to eat you. I would be very pleased to see her in the next installment in this series. “Curses! Foiled Again” is a great sequel to “Foiled” and a wonderful addition to the growing list of books about powerful girl fighters.