The Lost Tide Warriors by Catherine Doyle

Bloomsbury, 2019. ISBN: 9781408896907.
Recommended for lovers of fantasy, aged 10+. Fionn is the anointed 'Stormkeeper', but it seems that his magic is not like other Stormkeepers and his island is depending on him to protect them from the return of the awful Morrigan and her supporters, the Soulstalkers. The uncertainty and self-doubt that surrounds Fionn, under the pressure of a deadline, places pressure on the young man . . . but he must carry on, the island of Arronmore needs him. His Grandfather, the previous Stormkeeper, is losing his hold on his own magic and his memory, and Fionn must rely on his close friends and mother and sister to create a plan to turn back the tide of evil that is encroaching. With a long history of magical events and intra-island rivalry there is drama at every turn and the approaching 'storm' of conflict needs the outside help of the merrows - ocean-based fantasy creatures. But how will they get word to these creatures in time?
This is the sequel to The Stormkeeper's Island and although it could be read as a stand-alone book, it is best read in sequence so the understanding of the magic, the time shifts and the candles that store memories would be clear. The book is a delight as the internal self-doubt of the young Fionn drives the tension as the islanders face the threat of annihilation at the hands of the advancing evil 'army'. This series deserves to be recommended to young readers who love fantasy adventure. In no way is it like Harry Potter, but the reticent central hero is akin to Harry in being intensely likeable and supported by loyal friends. The magic is different, but the atmospheric adventure is worth following. Catherine Boyle also manages to capture the atmosphere of the small Irish island with its storms, fogs and swells. It almost takes on a personality of its own.
And there is another book in the series to come!
Themes: Magic; Fantasy; Adventure; Good vs Evil.
Carolyn Hull