Freewalker

Nikki Tate-Stratton writes children’s picture books and novels for
preteens. Her most recent novels are Raven’s Revenge, Tarragon Island,
and Jo’s Journey. Her latest picture book is Grandparents’ Day.

This second book in the Longlight Legacy continues the story of Roan and
Stowe, the brother and sister introduced in The Dirt Eaters. The
children, the only survivors after their village is annihilated by a
mysterious band of marauders, are separated. Freewalker picks up their
stories a year after the first book ends.

Given the complexity of the story, the brief summary of the first
volume is a welcome addition to Freewalker. Even so, in places it is
difficult to follow the logic of who is controlling the psychic lives of
the characters, who can see what (and how), and who is allied with whom.
The plot twists and turns are delicious as the story alternates between
the points of view of Stowe and Roan.

Stowe, able to voyage in the Dreamfield with the help of the highly
addictive (and increasingly rare) substance known as Dirt, is being
groomed for sinister purposes by the Masters of the City where she is
held captive. Her character is complex: by turns vulnerable,
manipulative, funny, vindictive, and creepy.

Roan, guided by a snow cricket and dreams, as well as by those he meets
in the Dreamfield, in visions, and during his travels continues to
discover the pivotal role he is to play in the ultimate triumph of good
over evil.

By the end of Freewalker, Roan is prepared to lead others into battle
in a war against the City. Stowe, meanwhile, has escaped from the City
and its Masters and lies in a coma-like sleep after brutally
assassinating two of her tormentors.

With parallel realities, explorations of the nature of consciousness,
and a complicated (and still partially unrevealed) history, Foon
continues to create a bizarre, dark, and fascinating world. His
imagination and passion for story are evident on each page, and
characters introduced in the first book continue to develop in this
sequel.

Whether Foon is able to successfully bring to a conclusion the various
plots and subplots introduced in the first two books remains to be seen,
but fantasy fans should enjoy his clever mix of speculative science
fiction, high fantasy, epic battles, and strong storytelling.
Recommended.