Lament

Maggie Stievfater
Grade: A but grudgingly
YA Fantasy

Deidre Monaghan and James Morgan are best friend with astounding musical talents. Best in their instruments -- Deidre on harp, James on the bagpipes-- it is rare that they meet anyone who can match them in talent. When Deidre meets Luke Dillon during her usual pre-show puking session she is surprised not just by his classy and compassionate handling of a truly awkward situation but by the simple fact of meeting a new talent with whom she is unfamiliar. The two go on to play a duet, one so hauntingly lovely Deidre is for the first time ever truly pleased with what she has accomplished. But the beauty of their talent has attracted the wrong kind of attention for Deidre. It begins with an odd boy with a vicious sense of humor. It escalates with four leaf clovers surrounding her wherever she goes. It ends with a betrayal -- and the murderous attention of the Faerie Queen.

This is a turn the page quick as you can type tale. You can't wait to see what happens between Deidre and Luke as they begin that dizzying dance of first love. And I truly loved how the author portrayed it. I thought she had the awkwardness, eagerness, innocence and breathless hope of the whole experience down pat. There were no heaving bosoms or out of whack sex drives, just the gentle wonder of finding out the person you find utterly fascinating finds you fascinating right back.

I really loved these two characters. Luke is everything every teenage girl dreams of but not in an obnoxious way. Yes, he has a flaw. A huge one. But he is handsome and considerate, artistic and strong, fun but able to be serious when the need arises -- like I said, the kind of hero you sigh over.

Deidre is a good heroine. Strong and caring and smart. Talented and ambitious but not overly so.

James is a great friend. A real teenager in his habits and behaviors but above and beyond in loyalty and compassion. There is a great moment in an ice cream shop that just had my heart gooing all over him.

My only reservation will be listed in the review for Ballad, the sequel.

Tea: Earl Grey with fairy cakes. Here is a recipe link.http://www.ivillage.co.uk/food/experts/coach/articles/0,,177274_673444,00.html