![]() These are minor cavils against a skillfully written, involving fantasy. An unfortunate number of loose threads, in both characterization and resolution, provide an unsatisfying ending that leaves readers wondering if the story is really finished or if the author plans a sequel. The climax works-barely-because the deft plotting leaves little time for thought. The world-building, in which ecological, historical, and cultural elements both support and energize the plot, is masterful. The plot is great: short periods in which the characters grow and develop skills sandwiched between the violence of battles. In addition to their reality as people, they portray the beliefs of the time and lend depth to the story. ![]() The characterization proffers enjoyable ironies: Ursula becomes a warrior and a sorcerer Dan becomes a “berserker.” Secondary characters are important. Dan is a popular, smart jock, but he is also protective and empathetic. Ursula may be an outsider, but she has grit and humor. The central characters-one a six-foot-tall, overweight teenage girl, the other a short, always-doing-the-right-thing male classmate, are fully developed and likable. The other side of the fog is an alternate Britain in the time of the Roman conquest. On a field trip, British students Ursula and Dan disappear into a yellow-colored fog. ![]()
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