The Ballad of Perilous Graves by Alex Jennings

Rather, I mention it to point out that this is a book that requires full attention. This is in no way a reflection of the author’s writing. On top of that, there were changes in time, with certain storylines being told out of chronological order. That means that a character could exist in both worlds, with slight differences, unless one character crossed over to the other world. I found myself torn between awe and confusion.Īdding to my confusion is that New Orleans appears in the book as well, as the inverse of Nola. I felt like I was on the verge of experiencing something incredible, but I couldn’t quite grasp it all. But the entire idea is so vast that it is almost too complicated for one book. How they tie into Nola makes perfect sense.

There are lyrics in the book that explain the purpose and personality of each song (stick with me, here I know it’s a lot). The idea is ambitious and has levels upon levels of detail. The concept floored me with its creativity. When some of these songs are caught by someone who wishes Nola (the alternate New Orleans) ill, it is up to Perry to somehow save the city. Each song is a walking character whose lyrics contribute something unique to the city. They live in an alternate New Orleans that is powered by songs. While there are several characters, Perry, his sister Brendy, and his best friend/crush Peaches are the main focus. There was a lot to love about this book, but there were also parts that left me more than a little confused. The Ballad of Perilous Graves paints a vibrant picture of a world that just teems with life and creativity. The Ballad of Perilous Graves will be available on June 21st. Thank you to Redhook and Angela Man for providing me with this book in exchange for my honest opinion. Put on your dancing shoes and enjoy this song for New Orleans, the city of music, magic, and dreams (taken from Amazon). But a storm is brewing, and the Haint of All Haints is awake. Unwilling to watch his home be destroyed, Perry will sacrifice everything to save it.

Nine songs of power have escaped from the piano that maintains the city’s beat, and without them, Nola will fail. So, when the city’s Great Magician starts appearing in odd places and essential songs are forgotten, Perry realizes trouble is afoot. In a world of everyday miracles, Perry might not have a talent for magic, but he does know Nola’s rhythm as intimately as his own heartbeat. To those from Away, Nola might seem strange. A place of sky trolleys and dead cabs, where haints dance the night away and Wise Women help keep the order.

The Ballad of Perilous Graves by Alex Jennings