This historical fantasy takes the reader on a magical adventure into the Dutch Golden Age. Mixed-race orphan Mina must use her scientific training to solve a supernatural mystery and save her world from destruction. Characters include historical figures from 17th-century Holland, such as Christiaan Huygens and Frederick Henry, Prince of Orange.
Assessment:
Hall's exciting work forces young Wilhelmina Walraven of 17th century Holland to pit science against witchcraft as warlock Gregor, who murdered her parents, seeks power. The restrained prose adds conviction to the historical setting, and Mina's acquired ability to communicate with animals adds genuinely creepy atmosphere. Independent-minded Mina's determination to challenge orthodox beliefs, and her bewilderment as supernatural incidents challenge her scientific background, will resonate with the intended young-adult audience. This strong blend of history and fantasy gets this series off to a strong start.
Date Submitted: September 20, 2016
[Fox's] portrayal of a Dutch Golden Age intertwined with magical elements of high fantasy feels uncannily believable, and Mina herself is a memorably wonderful character, compassionate and grounded as her personal world is thrown into chaos.
I’m excited to announce that The Warlock and the Wolf was chosen for the 2015 Nautilus Gold Award in the Young Adult Fiction category!
This award program's slogan is ”Better books for a better world."
