Common Sense Media Review
By Sage Moreaux
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Magical quest for revenge fueled by blood and intrigue.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 14+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
Parent and Kid Reviews
What's the Story?
In A WHISPER IN THE WALLS, Ren Monroe has secured a place in one of the greatest Houses in Kathor by bonding with Theo Brood. However, her plans to destroy the family responsible for her father's death are stymied when Theo's father interferes, exiling Theo and threatening Ren with a future of powerless suffering. Needing new allies, Ren approaches the last surviving children of House Tin'Vori, who also seek vengeance against House Brood. Working together, they plot an intricate plan of revenge, but as Ren's feelings for Theo grow, she teeters on the edge of defeat.
Is It Any Good?
This twisty thriller of a story is both more complex and intense than the first installment. A Whisper in the Walls expands on the magical world and character motivations laid out in book one and with three point-of-view characters, the reader is swept across the continent of Delvea, introducing new types of rare magic. The magical tattoos are a fun addition to the story, and the gladiator bouts lend action to what is otherwise a tensely paced story of intrigue and carefully laid plans. Ren's devious plot for revenge becomes the primary focus of the story, and while readers may miss some characters from the first book, the Tin'Vori siblings are a welcome addition. The dialogue can be stilted, but Scott Reintgen's magical world and the character's devious plotting make this book quite engaging. Though the story doesn't end with a cliffhanger, fans will be happy to know the epilogue sets up more books to come.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the quest for revenge in A Whisper in the Walls. Is murder ever an acceptable act?
Where's the line between what's best for the individual versus the greater good?
How does magic as the key to class power mirror monetary wealth in the real world?
What about the violence in the book? Is there too much? Why is violence so popular in fantasy novels?
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Fantasy
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings ) , Fantasy ( Magic ) , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Perseverance
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Margaret K. McElderry
- Publication date : April 23, 2024
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 14 - 18
- Number of pages : 416
- Available on : Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 25, 2025
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