I’ve been on a YA novel binge lately.
Given to the Sea (G.P. Putnam’s Sons, 2017) by Mindy McGinnis is a disturbing story of how people will sacrifice others for their own safety. In that way it reminds me of the Newbery winner The Girl Who Drank the Moon by Kelly Barnhilll. It’s also told in multiple viewpoints.
Khosa will be given to the sea–after she has a child. It’s her destiny and the only way to save the people of the Kingdom of Stille from the rising sea. In Khosa’s words, “One day my body will betray me, dancing into the sea, my mind a passenger only. The water will close over my head and I will drown, my death bringing a reprieve for those who are not me.” But there’s a complication. Khosa can’t bear the touch of another.
Seventeen-year-old Vincent is royal, but doesn’t like being called Prince, since he’s in line for the throne after his aging father, after his grandfather the present king.
Twins Dara and Donil are the last of the Indiri, and friends of Vincent. Both have magic.
Witt is the leader of the Pietra, enemies of Stille who plan to attack.
All of these people’s lives collide in this story. Given to the Sea is the author’s fourth book and will have a follow up book, which I’ll be anxiously awaiting.
Mindy McGinnis is an Edgar Award-winning author and librarian. On her blog, Mindy has a section of books she recommends here plus much much more such as query critiques and author interviews. Check it out.