I was left breathless by Bound Island. There were twists and turns I genuinely did not see coming. As someone close to her siblings, I was excited to read a book about three sisters – Lenna, Brye, and Tara – discover and grow powers on their hidden, isolated island of Avalon. The author did a fantastic job of showing how magic, and power itself, can be a blessing and a curse, namely when everyone expects so much from someone gifted.

The sisters are different in personality and power but are undeniably close and loyal, although they learn to stand on their own too. All the characters were complex, even the unlikeable ones, and the island itself was complex in both its magic and its founding. The themes are not only applicable to individuals but societies, such as isolation, and whether or not Avalon should reveal itself or remain hidden.

The reader will cheer on the sisters as they protect their family as well as the island.