Description: "Oswin Fields, a foundling in the icy settlement of Tundra, must prove his worth as a new magic apprentice while battling monsters and confronting a dark legacy tied to his infamous adopted uncle"--
Brief description: Jacob North was born in South England and grew up with a longing for magical adventures that centered LGBT+ characters. When he's not butchering the Dutch language or holding out for a snowy winter, he's crafting whimsical worlds with characters who happen to be diverse.
Review Quotes: In a world of unforgiving ice and cold, Tundra is the only place of stability in a struggling universe. Oswin Fields--a stray from the outside--has been summoned into this community for an apprenticeship at Corridor, the renowned academy of magic. Just as he begins to make inroads among the school's pupils and lessons, magical monsters begin attacking, taking a toll on the student population. Who's behind this upheaval, and will the young magicians be able to overcome these additional challenges to their survival? This first book of a new trilogy by debut author North has all the makings of a popular academic fantasy, combining mystery, monsters, and magic threaded with machinations. The frenemies relationship between Oswin and Ennastasia injects an interesting dynamic to the unfolding events, as they and the other students emerge as a force to be reckoned with. Additionally, the fast-paced writing gives an inventive nod to Norse influences, which adds depth. A tale of survival that will have middle-grade readers on the edge of their seats awaiting the next installment. --Booklist "02/01/2025"