Runelight by Joanne Harris

Doubleday, 2012. ISBN: 9780857530820
(Age: 10+) Runelight is a rather convoluted sequel to Runemarks, so it's definitely a good idea to read the first book. Simply put, the story of Runelight follows two magical girls, six hundred miles apart, who both have a runemark on their skin, a symbol of the Old Days when the Worlds were ruled by the gods from their sky citadel, Asgard. However, the famed citadel of Asgard now lies in ruins and the gods' power has been destroyed. Or so everyone thinks . . .
The most complicated things about Runelight are the characters. There are many different characters, all with different personalities and motives, and it's often hard to keep track of what everyone's doing.
The best thing about this novel is the construction of the worlds. The Map Of The Nine Worlds at the beginning is simply incredible to behold and every location in the novel is well thought out, imaginative, and filled with colour.
The inclusion of the Norse gods is excellent and the character of Thor is surprisingly amusing, what with him constantly wanting to fight everyone and getting into trouble more than the son of Odin really should be.
However, the downside of this book is that it never really seems to get going. It stops and starts along for the first hundred pages and then settles down to a pace that probably won't hold the interest of younger readers.
Runelight is sure to please fans of fantasy or those interested in the Norse gods. But be prepared for a long, rather slow read.
Rebecca Adams (Student)