"DEFY," by Sara B. Larson, Scholastic Press, $17.99, 323 pages (f) (ages 13 and up)
"Defy" by Utah author Sara B. Larson is an exciting tale of romance and adventure for young adult readers.
After her parents are killed, Alexa Hollen is forced to disguise herself as a boy, change her name to Alex and enter the king's army with her brother. She quickly gains notoriety for her fighting skills and earns a place as one of the prince's personal guards.
The king has outlawed magic in the kingdom, and a powerful sorcerer enters the castle and kidnaps Alexa, Prince Damien and a fellow guard named Rylan.
The three are forced to enter the perilous jungle on a long journey. They do not know where they are headed. They only know that if they try to escape, the sorcerer will instantly kill them.
After a few days in the jungle, Alexa's true identify is revealed and Prince Damien and Rylan, who both knew her secret, try to win her heart. Alexa is confused with her new role as she wonders how she can act as a woman and still try to protect her kingdom — and her heart.
Alexa is an interesting main character. Though she is the best fighter in the kingdom, she is also a young woman who is vulnerable and scared. This shows that Alexa is only human and has her weaknesses. It is refreshing to see a strong female character exhibit some down-to-earth qualities.
The love triangle in the book feels forced and, at times, unrealistic. There are multiple moments in the book where Alexa sees Damien or Rylan without a shirt on and swoons at the sight of their chiseled bodies. These instances are sweet but a bit corny at the same time.
A unique aspect of the story is its setting. "Defy" mostly takes place in the jungle, and Larson does an excellent job at painting the scenery for the reader. There is a vivid moment in the book when Alexa is attacked by a jaguar. It is refreshing to see the author use something that is seemingly impossible to beat.
There are multiple references to and a description of the "breeding house" where young orphan girls are sent and raped to provide more soldiers for the king's army.
Alexa's relationships with Damien and Rylan don't go beyond kissing, although there are multiple passionate kisses between her and the prince.
There is fighting, violence and death throughout, though none of it overly descriptive.
All in all, "Defy" is a quick and engaging read for young adults. Though it is heavy on the romance, it is a wonderful adventure story.
If you go ...
What: Sara B. Larson book signing
When: Tuesday, Jan. 7, 7 p.m.
Where: The King's English, 1511 S. 1500 East, Salt Lake City
Web: kingsenglish.com, sarablarson.blogspot.com
Note: Places in the signing line are reserved for those who purchase a copy of the featured book from The King's English.
Shelby Scoffield has a bachelor's degree in English from Brigham Young University and a master's in rhetoric and composition from Stanislaus State University. She is currently working on her teaching credentials so she can teach high school English.