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Cover of THE FLOATING LAKE OF DRESSA MOORE
★★★★★
4.17

Based on 6 Goodreads ratings

THE FLOATING LAKE OF DRESSA MOORE

by researchers. He also hopes that bringing along his lover, William Watts Worthwaddle, a linguist, will improve their faltering relationship. But the journey to Lake Connell spawns danger and obstacles at every turn. For one, Jonathan and William sail the Aquirren River on The Knotted Wood, a ship captained by Marta Bartolome, a pirate commanding an undead crew. Further complications abound, threatening to thwart their goal. The pirate ship is desperately pursued by Commodore Thomas Wilkes, who wants to kill Marta, believing she abducted his wife. The True Religionists don’t want Dressa Moore to be explored, fearing they’ll lose their tight control of the area. Fellow magilurgist Samson Sutter, jealous of Jonathan, tries to cut the funding for the expedition. Miller keeps his story hopping rapidly from one viewpoint to another, but his large pool of characters can sometimes be overwhelming. William, Jonathan, and Marta stand out from the crowd—flawed but somehow likable, capable of surprises. Heartless\u002Dseeming Marta reveals her code of ethics about human life: “I never take one without good reason.” Mocked for his useless linguistics studies (there’s only one language), William nevertheless finds a way to earn respect with his skills. A magical land is imaginatively depicted with airborne pigs eating a shower of lettuce and carrots while gliding above “seashell streets.” Roses rapidly bloom, die, and regenerate. Though there are battle scenes, the book’s tone is lighthearted. “It took me three months to find the perfect\u002Dsized vest!” Marta shouts after being shot in the shoulder. Miller’s riveting novel is so stuffed with characters and subplots that a sequel is announced at the end."

Book Details

Publisher:Of
Published:2024-01-01
Format:paperback
Language:English
ISBN:9798992099

Reading Info

Age Range:12-18

About This Book

This middle-grade fantasy adventure transports readers to a world where a mysterious floating lake holds ancient secrets and a young heroine must confront her destiny. When the lake's magical propert...

Our Review

This middle-grade fantasy adventure transports readers to a world where a mysterious floating lake holds ancient secrets and a young heroine must confront her destiny. When the lake's magical properties begin to fade, twelve-year-old protagonist Dessa Moore discovers she alone possesses the power to restore balance to her enchanted homeland. The narrative weaves together elements of ecological fantasy and coming-of-age quests as Dessa navigates treacherous landscapes and encounters magical creatures that test her courage at every turn.

What sets this fantasy novel apart is its rich world-building and the emotional depth of its central character's journey. Young readers who enjoy immersive magical systems and strong female protagonists will find themselves captivated by Dessa's transformation from uncertain girl to confident hero. The environmental themes resonate without feeling heavy-handed, making this both an entertaining escape and a thoughtful exploration of responsibility and connection to one's world. This memorable tale of magic and self-discovery will linger with readers long after they've turned the final page.

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