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“Why We Play With Fire” by Giselle Vriesen is a mesmerizing tale of magic, identity, and the journey to self-discovery that captivates from the very first page. Set against a backdrop of enchantment and danger, the story follows Thea as she embarks on a quest filled with twists, turns, and unexpected revelations.
From the moment Thea is thrust into the world of Malachite, a house for the children of gods, readers are swept up in a whirlwind of adventure and intrigue. With her unique heritage and newfound powers, Thea must navigate rivalries, secrets, and her own inner doubts as she races against time to retrieve lost keys and unlock the secrets they hold.
Vriesen’s writing is vivid and immersive, bringing to life a richly detailed world where magic and mythology intertwine. As Thea journeys through different realms and encounters a diverse cast of characters, including the enigmatic Zero and her loyal friends, readers are drawn deeper into the story, rooting for Thea every step of the way.
One of the novel’s standout elements is its exploration of identity and belonging, as Thea grapples with her mixed-race ancestry and the weight of her divine lineage. Through Thea’s eyes, we witness the importance of accepting one’s heritage and forging connections with ancestors, even as she faces daunting challenges and uncertain futures.
With its compelling characters, intricate plot, and themes that resonate long after the final page, “Why We Play With Fire” is a must-read for fans of fantasy and adventure. Vriesen’s storytelling prowess shines brightly in this captivating debut, leaving readers eagerly anticipating what she has in store next.
Why We Play With Fire
By Giselle Vriesen
In a thrilling journey of self-discovery and magical intrigue, Thea finds herself transported to a house for the children of gods, where she must retrieve lost keys while navigating secrets, rival schools, and her own doubts, all before the shadow creatures catch up to her.
Embark on a spellbinding odyssey of self-discovery, where Thea’s extraordinary journey unfolds within a realm of enchantment and peril. Desperate to escape encroaching darkness, Thea is propelled through a mystical well by her mother and grandmother, left only with a cryptic mission to “retrieve the keys.”
However, her destination defies all expectations as she arrives at an extraordinary haven—a house known as Malachite. Within the hallowed halls of Malachite, Thea unveils a world far beyond her wildest imagination. Amidst an intricate tapestry of training and elusive artifacts, she discovers a mysterious box safeguarded by the students’ within the home.
Article originally Published in the Summer 2024 Issue: Indie Summer Reads.