Silvermay by James Moloney
Angus and Robertson, 2011. ISBN 9780732292034.
(Age: 14+) Recommended. Winner of the Gold
Inky 2011, Silvermay is the first in a new fantasy trilogy by
James Moloney. The disturbing prologue demands that the reader
continue with the book as Silvermay says:
'Or should I tell you, instead, that I've held a blanket over a
baby's face to smother it, and to this day I'm not entirely sure I
was wrong to do it?' pg 1.
I was totally hooked and had to read to find out if Silvermay did
smother a baby and why she would do such a horrendous act. Silvermay
is a young woman living quietly in her village when a handsome young
man, Tamlyn, and a young woman Nerigold with a newborn baby Lucien,
arrive at her home seeking aid. Nerigold is ill and Silvermay's
mother insists that she rests and recovers from the birth. However
the wizard Wyrdborn, Coyle Strongbow, is determined to find the
child and use him to gain power. When his men arrive in the village,
searching for Lucien, Silvermay leads the others on a bold quest to
find the secrets that the baby holds. There is much danger,
adventure and death defying moments as Wyrdborn magic is used to
follow them.
This is an enthralling story of good versus evil. The medieval type
setting is perfect for this original quest novel and Moloney has
come up with an original and sweeping story. Silvermay is the main
character in this novel, with the books, Tamlyn and Lucien to follow.
She is a courageous and generous young woman who is prepared to face
danger to look after the small baby, who is at the centre of an
age-old prophecy. Her goodness spills over to Tamlyn, who is
influenced by the way she thinks and acts. He faces the torment of
wondering whether he can overcome his Wyrdborn upbringing and begin
to feel and love like a normal person. This dilemma is a central
theme: Can Tamlyn overcome his genetic traits and be able to allow
his mother's beliefs and Silvermay's influence to help him become an
more empathetic person?
The growing romance between Tamlyn and Silvermay will satisfy those
who enjoy a romance in their fantasy. It is a rocky road for the
pair however as there are many twists and turns in the novel and
Silvermay is never sure whom she can trust.
This is a book that fantasy readers will lap up and teens have voted
it the book that they have most enjoyed in the Inky Awards, 2011. It
is a wonderful change from the vampires and werewolves and deserves
to be promoted in libraries and reading groups.
Pat Pledger
