Sacred Treasures
Circle of Nine, #3
by
Valerie Biel
Wow! A definite page-turner from the start!
When a diary from 1969 is discovered in a secret hiding place during their home's remodeling, Brigit Quinn and her parents, Rowan and Celeste, are alarmed by its contents in more ways than one. Written and concealed in a hidden drawer behind the stones on the back wall of their house by her grandmother Phoebe, it precipitates a renewed search for the missing Adele McGrath, and for her father to seek out his mysterious and elusive father, Malachi, for some solid answers about the identity of Rowan's mother. Furthermore, when Brigit and Celeste scry for answers, the resulting vision warns of a coming attack on the Tuatha, which, left unanswered, leads to the breach of The Otherworld, the theft of the Sacred Treasures safeguarded there, and the destruction of their ancient line. Worst of all, it hints that Adele's missing son will be at the center of it all – but on which side is yet unknown.
Sacred Treasures is the third book in author Valerie Biel's riveting Circle of Nine series and returns to focus on the present-day situation in the Quinn household. So much happened in book one, BELTANY, and this story gives a wrap-up of those events without spoiling the story for those who haven't read it yet. (So, readers new to the series can jump in on the story with this novel and have an entertaining experience. However, for best enjoyment, the books should really be read in order.) Brigit has matured so much since her introduction, and her joy over the changes her small family has experienced and awaits is infectious. However, the happiness is overshadowed by the warnings of the unknown danger to the Tuatha and the gasp-inducing possibility that her newly returned father may be involved. Not only that, but information in the diary hints at ramifications that could affect Brigit's relationship with Tyler McGrath in a very big way.
The story is fast-paced and a definite page-turner. I was delighted with Brigit's growth as a character and how far she's come since her 15th birthday, when she learned about her matriarchal lineage, and how she's embraced her emerging powers and learned the ways of the women in her family from her mother. They were close before, and their shared experiences and heritage have brought them even closer. With the confidence of youth, Brigit is ready and willing to test her abilities. I was shocked by her leyline traveling and by her mother's willingness to even let her attempt it! I loved the rhyming spells, messages, and the details of their ancient ways, and there's so much excitement and drama throughout the story. I read long and late and was reluctant (and annoyed) to put the book down for the evening.
I recommend SACRED TREASURES to readers of contemporary fantasy and magical realism, as well as to fans of the previous books in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed this after receiving an Advance Review Copy from the author through Partners in Crime Virtual Book Tours.