Review – Ivory Apples by Lisa Goldstein (3.5/5 stars)
Reading Level: Young Adult
Genre: Fantasy
Length: 288 pages
Publisher: Tachyon Publications
Release Date: October 15, 2019
ISBN-13: 978-1616962982
Stand Alone or Series: Stand Alone
Source: eGalley from NetGalley.com
Rating: 3.5/5 stars
“Ivy and her sisters have a secret: their reclusive Great-Aunt is actually Adela Martin, inspired author of the fantasy classic, Ivory Apples. Generations of obsessive fans have searched for Adela, poring over her letters, sharing their theories online, and gathering at book conventions. It is just a matter of time before one fan gets too close.
So when the seemingly-perfect Kate Burden appears at the local park, Ivy knows that something isn’t right. Kate has charmed the entire family, but she is suspiciously curious about Ivory Apples. And Ivy must protect what she and her Great-Aunt share: magic that is real, untamable, and―despite anyone’s desire―always prefers choosing its own vessel.”
I got this book from NetGalley to review. A long time ago I read Goldstein’s “Waking the Labyrinth” and remember really enjoying it, so I was eager to read this book. This was a decent story about muses and mysteries. It was an intriguing blend of mystery, fantasy, mythology, and magical realism.
Ivy’s aunt is actually a famous writer of a book called Ivory Apples, the only book her aunt ever wrote. However, Ivy’s aunt’s existence is kept a secret. One day, when Ivy is at her aunt’s house, she finds a strange grove and a fey-like being ends up merging with Ivy. While Ivy struggles to find balance with this cohabitant of her body, a woman named Kate Burden starts joining Ivy and her sisters at the park to play. Kate Burden seems perfect but Ivy is convinced the woman is up to no good.
While I didn’t love this story, it was an interesting read and I was engaged enough in the story to finish it. The writing style seemed older to me, it reminds me of urban fantasies I read from the late 80’s/early 90’s. The story moves slowly, parts are a bit ambiguous, and it is a strange blend of magical realism and mystery. However, that being said it’s very different from other books being released right now which made it somewhat refreshing. The writing style is beautiful and I enjoyed it.
Overall this is a slower read with an interesting blend of elements. It was a bit boring but I also enjoyed how nostalgic it felt and how different it was from the majority of fantasy being released right now. If you have enjoyed other of Goldstein’s novels you will probably enjoy this one. It also reminded me a bit of Charles DeLint’s books in the feel and tone of the story.
