Book Review: Island of Legends (The Unwanteds #4)
Alex feels the weight of responsibility for everyone in Artimé on his shoulders as its mage. As we learned in the previous book, Sky’s mother is alive but enslaved by pirates on the Island of Fire. Alex has committed to rescuing her, but he wants to do it the right way, through careful planning and with the right people. Although several storylines unfold throughout the book, the rescue operation drives the main story. At the same time, Alex’s burden of leadership takes a personal toll, particularly on his relationship with Sky.
By this point in the series, Artimé has several enemies, largely through no fault of its own. The book opens with an attack by a fleet sent by Queen Eagala of Warbler, although the attackers prove no match for Artimé and no one is harmed. Meanwhile, Aaron is once again scheming to take control of Artimé.
I enjoyed the book and became very engaged in the story, especially during the rescue mission. I kept wanting to know what would happen next. At the same time, I found myself cringing at some of the characters’ decisions. By leaving Artimé, Alex and his companions also leave it vulnerable. After rescuing Sky’s mother, they should have returned home as soon as possible, especially considering the recent attack and Aaron’s continuing hostility. Instead, they remain away longer than seems wise, despite the threats surrounding Artimé.
I have also noticed a pattern in the titles of the series. Because each book is named after an island, the characters eventually visit that island during the story. After the rescue, I suspected that they would somehow reach the Island of Legends. Fortunately, unlike some of the other islands they have encountered, this one proves to be friendly.
Aaron’s storyline feels secondary throughout much of the book, but it appears to be setting the stage for something larger in the next book. He continues plotting to take over Artimé, while other subtle developments suggest that more trouble is coming. I’ll continue to the next book to find out what happens.
Island of Legends was a good and engaging read, although I still think Island of Fire is the strongest book in the series so far. This installment was somewhat more predictable, and some of the characters’ decisions frustrated me, but the rescue mission was exciting and the story appears to be preparing the series for what comes next. I recommend it to readers who enjoy middle-grade fantasy and adventure.