The existence of the island nation of Bastion depends entirely on its ability to remain airborne.A monster sank all the other countries, and Bastion was the sole survivor. Seeking an escape, its citizens built a huge wall around the island, using an enormous deposit of lightstone quarried from its depths. The lightstone floated up and away, carrying Bastion to its new home above the clouds, but the digging awakened magical creatures beneath the ground. Unfortunately, even 500 years later, the current inhabitants aren't safe, for the monster is waiting. In the present day, readers meet a large cast of characters, including Shroomling Kurt, Gemstone Faerie Flicker, human child Serena (who has "paper-pale" skin and auburn hair), and half human / half Wood Nymph twins Aliana and Garrett. Paladin Flint, an adviser to Queen Morgana, thwarts them at every step, caring only for personal power. And then there's the invisible Boy, who's the catalyst driving the whole confusing, convoluted mishmash. These and other characters endure hexes, spells, and life-threatening trials as they attempt to save their land from the Wavewrecker monster as well as insidious enemies within. Somehow it all works: Readers will find intense and mind-stretching adventures, plot twists and cliffhangers, amazingly inventive magic, and quite a bit of humor, all fueled by steadfast relationships between the characters. It's a hard slog, but those who stick with it will be fully drawn into the excitement. The epilogue more than hints at a sequel.Magic of epic proportions that rewards tenacious readers. (Fantasy. 9-13)