Defy the Night
Brigid Kemmerer
Bloomsbury YA, September 2021
Paperback, £7.99
ISBN 9781526632807
In the land of Kandala a deadly fever consumes the citizens one by one, and only the rich can afford the cure. Here, we meet Tessa Cade, an outlaw who, with the masked Weston Lark, steals food and medicine from the rich and gives it to the poor. But when disaster strikes, Tessa believes that the only way to help everyone is to take down King Harrison and Prince Corrick, the rulers of Kandala. Tessa heads into the unknown, discovering things that may change her life forever.
The world that Brigid Kemmerer has set up is very intriguing. There are many interesting characters with different personalities and backgrounds. For instance, Tessa is strong and determined, yet she is also anxious and questions herself. Each character has an array of strengths and weaknesses making them feel more real.
When you first start the book, it takes a while to essentially remember which character is which. This can make the book slightly confusing. As you make your way through the story, you come across vivid explanations of suffering, which might upset some readers. One thing I enjoyed about the book is that it shares the perspectives of two of the main characters. This gives the reader a real insight into how they feel. This book is for those who enjoy really immersing themselves in a good story, filled with unexpected twists and turns. I certainly enjoyed it!
Lily Farrell, 14
