Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow by Jessica Townsend

“The point is—as far as the Society is concerned—if you are not honest, and determined, and brave, then it doesn’t matter how talented you are.”

Morrigan Crow is cursed as a result of having been born on Eventide, the unluckiest time for a child to be born. Not only is she blamed for all misfortune that befalls the people of her town, the curse also means that she is to die at midnight on her eleventh birthday. When the time draws near and Morrigan awaits the inevitable, a strange man named Jupiter North appears at her home. He gives her the choice to come with him to the mysterious land called Nevermoor, and with shadowy hunters on their tail, they set off from Morrigan’s home and the only place she has ever known. Soon she learns that Jupiter has selected her to compete for membership to the very prestigious, the Wundrous Society, for which she must successfully complete four dangerous trials. Hundreds of children compete and each have to demonstrate an exceptional talent, which is something that Morrigan does not believe to possess. However, her being able to stay in Nevermoor depends on her acceptance into the elite organization, otherwise she must return to her former home and confront her deadly fate. 

Nevermoor was a complete joy to read. It is rare for me to pick up a middle grade book, but this one peaked my interest and I ended up enjoying it immensely. The characters are all quite interesting, and the magic that weaves throughout the novel is compelling and well done. The story kept me engaged and I ended up reading it all in one day. I would have liked a little more character development for Morrigan, and certain mysteries maybe dragged on a little longer than they should. However, I didn’t mind this at all because I was having so much fun reading it. Charming, fun, with a great sense of humour, Nevermoor: The Trials of Morrigan Crow is a noteworthy debut and the start of what is set to be a wonderful series.