The Kindling Muse

by Chelsey Guy, Chelsey J. León

Sixteen-year-old Addie Flamma has normal goals for a sixteen-year-old: graduate from high school at the top of her class and attend the perfect college, despite growing up under less than ideal conditions. As a minor living in foster care, however, Addie wants more than that; she wants to find out who her parents are and why she has been cursed with serious health problems. Haunted nightly by the same recurring dream of a magical fire that loves her like a mother, Addie just wants answers. Little does she know that she is about to receive them.

During the middle of a presentation in chemistry class, Addie suffers a major seizure. After she lands in the hospital with a concussion, she is given a rare African plant extract in her IV drip known to help adolescents with her type of medical conditions. Miraculously cured by the unique plant only known as ashes of life, Addie returns to school and resumes her job at a shelter for the needy. But when she is drawn to a mysterious boy seeking a hot meal, he changes her future with just four words.

In this young adult tale, mysteries and secret destinies lay hidden underneath Addie's dream life, leaving her to wonder whether she or fate will have ultimate control over her future.

388 pages, Hardcover

First published February 18, 2013

Reviews

[Laurie · Rating 3 out of 5]

Here is an excerpt from my review: "I'm really impressed that Guy, at 18, was able to craft such an interesting story, write it, finish it, and take the initiative to publish it. That said, the book did need some polishing and editing. But Guy is young and this is only her first published novel. The potential is there, and as Guy continues to hone her craft, I'm sure her second novel will be even better than the first."

To read the full review, go here: http://cookscrapcraft.blogspot.com/20...

[Crystal Harkness · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Kindling Muse is a cute young adult novel with plenty of interesting and relatable characters. The story has elements of romance, overcoming trauma, mystery, and fantasy that makes it an enjoyable read, especially for teen girls. It is impressive that the author finished and published this book while being so young herself. Though this book could have benefited from a bit more editing it is obvious that this book was a passion project for Guy and I hope she continues to write in the future.

[Jan · Rating 5 out of 5]

So fun and positive. Can't wait for the next Addie adventure. Congrats to Chelsey. Could not put this down.