CALEB MCCALLISTER AND THE PIRATE QUEEN

A teen still honing his supernatural abilities fights to protect two worlds from diabolical forces in Sargent’s fantasy sequel.

It hasn’t been long since 15-year-old Bostonian Caleb learned he’s a descendent of “magic-wielding warriors.” His ancestors long ago retreated to “the Realm,” an alternate universe, but vowed to keep the human world safe with their Sentries. After Caleb, as a Sentry apprentice armed with a powerful sword, defends himself from wolf-like assailants, his Sentry father sends him to Five Towers in the Realm. It’s a training camp primarily for kids much younger than Caleb and definitely not for Sentries. Just as he’s getting settled, Caleb heads to Ireland with Sentry Righán Flores and fellow apprentice Siobhán Fourviére to investigate a robbed tourist boat (as magic was likely involved). Their hunt for pirates leads them to Molly O’Malley, the reputed Pirate Queen. While Righán and others don’t believe “petty thief” Molly takes priority over dark, evil creatures, Caleb is determined to capture her, and he soon uncovers a wicked plan that could spark a catastrophe in the Realm. Sargent’s sophomore series installment offers a nice balance for the returning hero; Caleb’s unexpectedly successful with a few powerful spells, but skilled 10-year-old Five Towers cadets can still humble him. He also has just the right amount of teen angst—his relationship with his seemingly indifferent, largely absent father is understandably strained, and he struggles with ongoing anger issues stemming from a “battle frenzy” affliction that past warriors have endured as well. A general sense of unease underlies this narrative, as most characters aren’t easy to trust. Caleb and company fall into several taut action scenes, battling the likes of monstrous Fomorians, Irish vampires, and goblins. The exhilarating final act begets a memorable climax.

This smashing YA fantasy boasts adventure and a superbly multilayered protagonist.