Thirteen Orphans: Breaking the Wall

Thirteen Orphans: Breaking the Wall (2008) Jane Lindskold

I really like Jane Lindskold’s writing.

Brenda Morris thinks she is simply taking a vacation with her father, but she quickly learns the trip is much more–that her father took her to California to introduce her to her magical heritage. Unfortunately, this simple trip turns dark when the man they discover the man they have come to visit has been attacked.

In their search for the attacker Brenda meets others who share her heritage–the heritage of the Thirteen Orphans. She also learns to use the powers that seem to be her birthright, even if she hasn’t come into her powers just yet.

In the course of that education the story weaves together ancient Chinese history, Mah-Jong, and a debate upon the treatment of one’s enemies, as well as a search for their attackers and the reason for their attack.

My only disappointment with this book is that it is clearly the first book of a series. The story arc of the book is completed, but as the book ends there is clearly more to come.

I hate waiting.

If you like urban fantasy, then I highly recommend Thirteen Orphans. The magical and and mundane worlds fit together easily, and the magical world she creates is a fascinating one–especially the story of the creation of the magical realm.
Rating: 8/10

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