A Journey into Whimsy: A Review of The Emilie Adventures (Emilie, #1-2)
As a longtime admirer of Martha Wells—known for her captivating narratives and inventive worlds—I was thrilled to dive into The Emilie Adventures. My anticipation was heightened by the knowledge that it would be republished alongside her six-book deal with Tor. I had a hunch about this YA duology being a hidden gem, and it didn’t disappoint. If you enjoy Wells’ other fantasy work (or are a hardcore fan of the delightful Murderbot Diaries), you’re in for a treat. This whimsical journey reminded me of the charm found in the works of T. Kingfisher, Frances Hardinge, and even the fantastical essence of Studio Ghibli’s Castle in the Sky—all thanks to those enchanting airships!
Discovering Emilie’s World
The Emilie Adventures introduces us to Emilie, a determined teenage runaway with dreams of starting anew with her cousin Karthea. However, her plans quickly take a fantastical turn when she stows away on a vessel meant for exploration beneath the ocean. This ship is no ordinary ferry; it ventures into the depths of the Hollow World, guided by a quirky academic named Miss Marlende and a rather intriguing nonhuman character named Kenar. The story intertwines adventure and discovery in a world brimming with carnivorous plants and elusive mysteries.
Emilie herself is a refreshing protagonist. While some reviews critique her as a passive observer at times, I found her relatable and, ultimately, quite compelling. Unlike Wells’ typical archetypes, such as the hyper-competent Murderbot, Emilie is simply trying her best to navigate a treacherous world. Her pragmatism and quick wit made her enjoyable to follow, even when she was out of her depth. The growing dynamic between her and Kenar—a quintessential Wells character who feels ready for a rewarding cup of exasperation—was both humorous and heartwarming.
Pacing and Writing Style
Wells’ signature style is alive and well here, albeit with a slightly faster pace than some of her other fantasies. The narrative flows quickly, making it a perfect entry point for readers who might not be as familiar with her usual work. It features the same hallmark of peculiar worlds and enigmatic civilizations that fans have come to love. The pacing felt light and breezy, which is a delightful change from the more expansive narratives I often savor.
Understanding Wells’ knack for bringing the fantastical into her storytelling made it especially delightful to uncover the familiar threads of invisible, otherworldly creatures—now tasked with pilfering resources from our world. It’s a captivating trope that resonates through her works, and I found myself curious about how these elements intersect with her broader narrative style.
Conclusion: A Recommended Read
In wrapping up my thoughts on The Emilie Adventures, I couldn’t help but feel that this book serves as a fantastic bridge—perfect for readers who float between middle grade and adult fantasy. As someone who revels in this genre much more than the current YA standards, I particularly enjoyed the light-hearted adventure that waits within these pages.
If you are a fan of Wells’ enchanting worlds, or if you appreciate quirky narratives like those found in T. Kingfisher’s works, then this duology is worth your time. The Emilie Adventures is not just a story—it’s an experience—a delightful escape that left me smiling after a long week. So grab your airship ticket and get ready for a whimsical ride through the skies!
Discover more about The Emilie Adventures (Emilie, #1-2) on GoodReads >>