The Huntress: Sea
Mouse dreams of being captain of The Huntress one day. Fearless and chafing to take on the role her grandmother has foretold she is destined for since before she was born, her life is completely entwined with the ship, its crew and the wild seas upon which it sails. Yet life aboard a trading galley in the world of Trianukka isn’t easy or simple.
Ever since her mother died shortly after giving birth to her little brother Sparrow, Mouse has looked after him, as she promised her mother she would. Now her beloved father has gone missing and her world is about to be turned upside down by a darkness that will really test her mettle.
The Huntress: Sea is a stunning début by Sarah Driver. She has woven a world with a palpable sense of place that plays a real starring role not just in providing context but also in giving insight into the characters and their interactions. Her use of language is playful yet avoids falling into the trap of many fantasy novels of creating a whole new tongue that interrupts the flow of the story. Thirteen-year-old Mouse is a brave, headstrong and endearing heroine. While she has lots to learn, you just can’t help being on her side. I couldn’t put down this fantastic coming-of-age adventure that will appeal to boys and girls 9–12.
