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Mariconda, Barbara
4 Reviews
(4)
YA
When Drina's Roma mother dies and her baby half-sister is kidnapped, Drina tries to rescue the infant but winds up in the custody of the affluent Spanish father and grandmother she's never known. Drina's deep passion for flamenco dance and the dangers of a violent time--the 1930 Spanish Civil War--are vividly evoked, but ineffectual, indecisive Drina is a frustrating protagonist.
Reviewer: Katie Bircher
(3)
4-6
Having sailed across the globe, Lucy and her assorted crew of outcasts land on the rocky shores of Clare Island off the coast of Ireland in pursuit of a pirate treasure they believe will end the Simmons family curse. Light romance, puzzling clues, pirate lore, and a taste of Irish folktales make this a strong, gratifying conclusion to a magical maritime trilogy.
Reviewer: Shara Hardeson
(4)
4-6
Lucy narrowly escapes the clutches of her greedy uncle as her family's oceanfront estate transforms into a seaworthy ship. Sailing from Maine to Australia with an assorted crew, Lucy searches for an estranged relative who may know something about the curse that plagues her family. Lax characterization (to the point of ethnic stereotyping) and convenient magical solutions lessen this sequel.
Reviewer: Shara Hardeson
(4)
4-6
After her parents drown at sea, Lucy's greedy uncle vies for sole guardianship and power of attorney over her family's estate. On a mission to thwart her uncle's plans, Lucy discovers that she's surrounded by mysterious manifestations of protective magic that help her along the way. While overwritten at times, Mariconda's novel contains moments of touching bravery and captivating intrigue.
Reviewer: Shara Hardeson
4 reviews
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