The Library of Fates, Margot Harrison (Review by Skylar Wetzel)
Rating: 4.7/5 Stars
The Library of Fates by Margot Harrison is exponentially more thought-provoking and captivatingly woven than it initially appears. This book will take you on a mysterious journey through its storytelling while also pushing the boundaries of the fourth wall. It made me wonder how much power books hold over your life, and whether reading certain books can sway the pathway you take in life? This philosophy is magically played out when college student Eleanor discovers she can select a book in the Library of Fates that will direct and affect the trajectory of a person’s life. Eleanor and a group of students join a seminar led by the head librarian, Odile, and learn about the power of The Book of Night and discover its influence on the magic in the library. Confess a truth to the book, and it will give you a glimpse at your future, but nothing comes for free.
Eleanor quickly catches the eye of Daniel in their seminar, but their budding romance hits a few hiccups. First, Daniel’s mother happens to be the head librarian of the class who has used the library’s magic on him growing up to gauge his moods and needs. This clashes with Eleanor’s shiny new excitement of finally feeling a purpose and place to belong in the library with her powers. The book flashes between the past of Eleanor and Daniel being college lovers to the future where they are near strangers. They are brought back together in the future with the mysterious death of Odile. The two must work together to solve the questions surrounding the librarian’s death and how the Book of Nights may have affected it. Everything will be slowly revealed with a second chance at love.
This book is quick and fast-paced. Just when you think you have it all figured out, a new character or plot twist will pop up out of nowhere. If you enjoy a gripping magical mystery with a splash of romance, then this is the book for you.