CYBELE’S SECRET
Juliet Marillier
Knopf Books for Young Readers
Historical Fantasy
ISBN: 9780375833656
448 pages
Six years have gone by since Paula and sisters Jena, Julia and Stela visited the Other Kingdom and said goodbye to their eldest sibling Tatiana, who chose to stay behind with her sweetheart Sorrow. Although the family of Piscul Dracului has gone through many changes, each of the sisters still hopes to be reunited with their beloved Tati and experience the wondrous realm once again someday.
When Paula joins her father on a voyage from Transylvania to Istanbul, Turkey, the 17-year-old scholar wants to experience a memorable adventure. However, work must come first, as Paula is her father’s assistant during an important trading expedition.
The father-daughter duo is anxious to find out more about a highly sought-after artifact. Paula’s father, Theodor, would like to buy a mysterious relic for an elderly scholar. Called Cybele’s Gift, it is said to contain the wisdom of an ancient pagan earth goddess. According to legend, the relic will bring good fortune to those worthy of keeping it.
Paula and Theodor have barely arrived in Istanbul when they learn that a trading colleague has been murdered. To make matters more complicated, Paula begins seeing visions of a woman who may be Tati. As her father conducts trade meetings and waits for the secret deal, Paula seeks more information about Cybele’s Gift.
Prior to their arrival, Paula had agreed with her father that since she is a young woman acting as a trader’s assistant, she must have a bodyguard while staying in the Islamic-ruled city. While interviewing candidates, Paula meets Stoyan, who, ironically, was the bodyguard of the murdered trader. Despite his intimidating appearance and their initial misgivings, the father and daughter agree to hire the solemn Bulgarian. Unfortunately for the young assistant, getting the chance to explore the ancient city proves to be more difficult, especially when she catches the eye of a charismatic Portuguese trader named Duarte de Costa Aguiar --- rumored to be involved in piracy.
Meanwhile, Paula meets a beautiful Greek woman named Irene de Volos. A merchant’s wife, Irene’s home includes a library that is a haven for female scholars. As rumors swirl and danger brews, Paula uncovers startling clues that lead her on an unbelievable quest of discovery involving a dark history, love and secrets of the Other Kingdom.
Told through the perspective of Paula (the bookish sister), CYBELE’S SECRET is the highly anticipated companion to WILDWOOD DANCING. Thrilling and emotional, this romantic adventure will leave readers hoping for more stories featuring the family of Piscul Dracului.
--- Reviewed by Sarah Sawtelle
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