Caster by Elsie Chapman – ADVISABLE

Caster by Elsie Chapman, 336 pages. Scholastic, 2019 $18  Language: G (0 swears); Mature Content: G; Violence: PG13(violent magic/injuries).

BUYING ADVISORY: MS, HS - ADVISABLE

AUDIENCE APPEAL: AVERAGE

Aza has real magic, but it comes with the price both physically and environmentally. She has no choice but to use it to help earn money that her family needs. When she accidentally stumbles on an opportunity to make more than enough money, it will test the very limits of both her power and her strength. But she walks a fine line, as real magic wielders are illegal and can even result and having your arms removed or worse.

This book has an interesting concept, especially the part where the magic effects the environment, which poses an interesting question to readers. There's a huge focus on the past which is a bit of a deterrent, even though it's a motivation for the main character, because you feel like you missed reading a previous book in the series, which there isn't one. When the action picks up it's pretty interesting and fun to read. The main ending was neat and I loved it, but then it continued with a ploy for a second book, which was jarring and maddening. 

Reviewer: Stephanie MLS & Author.