Ashlords by Scott Reintgen
Published by Crown Books for Young Readers on January 21, 2020
ISBN: 0593119177
Pages: 368
Genres: Animals, Fantasy
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
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Exotic horses that are as strong as they are handsome, who burst into flames at sunset and are born as new at sunrise make for a compelling story.  Reintgen has provided readers with an alternate world of fantasy where a competitive race is the center of human existence and magic is cultivated.   Eleven young riders enter yet only three are followed from preparations to the conclusion of the race.   Although the storyline is mostly concerned with the actual race a glimpse of background is provided about the riders.  Characters are seen only by their abilities and talents that relate to the competition.  Readers do not learn much about the overall society other than the waring classes and a constant need for violence.

Readers of “Hunger Games” will be attracted to the competition and the violence it encompasses. Young adults may be somewhat disappointed by the lack of connection between riders and the shallow view of society.  These readers will be looking for more background concerning the gods and social motivations in the sequel.  Place in public libraries where YA fantasy is collected and gift to grade 7-10 fantasy and adventure readers.

Submitted by Jan Hamilton, retired youth services librarian in Scarborough, ME