Review of Tempest by K. Ibura
Upon hearing about Tempest by K. Ibura, I couldn’t help but be drawn in by the vibrant intersection of elemental magic and the captivating backdrop of New Orleans. As someone who has always had a soft spot for stories that weave in rich cultural settings and layered characters, this book felt like it would be right up my alley. Thanks to Netgalley and HarperCollins Children’s Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
From the very first page, Tempest introduces us to Veronique, a protagonist steeped in sorrow but also in resilience. Raised by her mawmaw in a secluded area following the tragic deaths of her parents during Hurricane Katrina, Veronique is a character who tugs at your heartstrings. Her secret ability to control the wind adds a delightful twist to her already complex upbringing. Moving to New Orleans to live with her aunt and uncle after an incident reveals her powers is just the beginning of her journey navigating a world where magic—and the people who wield it—become increasingly significant.
Ibura’s depiction of New Orleans is truly remarkable; it feels alive, almost as if the city itself is a character in the story. The atmosphere ebbs and flows with Veronique’s emotions, enhancing the tension and wonder of her adventures. I loved the pivotal relationships she forms, especially with her cousin Zaza—a reckless yet deeply caring soul—and the enigmatic Kez. Each character felt distinct and contributed to the overarching tale, though I found the romance with Tyree somewhat jarring. His sudden shift upon discovering Veronique’s abilities felt rushed and undermined the connection they had built earlier in the story, which was a minor letdown for me.
As I delved deeper into the narrative, the emergence of the Vaunted, a clandestine group of elemental magic users, brought an exciting layer of mystery to the plot. However, I must admit that their eventual confrontation felt anticlimactic. The buildup was so gripping that I was left wanting more from the resolution; it seemed like all that potential fizzled out in the final chapters, which raced ahead, tying up threads just a tad too neatly. Important arcs, particularly regarding Kez’s backstory, felt underdeveloped, leaving me yearning for a deeper exploration of these intriguing characters.
That said, Tempest remains an engaging read, with an enchanting magic system that gives hope for potential sequels. The foundational narrative holds considerable promise, especially as we unearth more about Veronique’s powers and her family connections. My hope is that a follow-up can delve deeper into the undercurrents of magic that Ibura hints at throughout.
Overall, I would recommend Tempest to readers who love contemporary YA infused with fantasy elements, especially those who appreciate richly crafted settings and relatable protagonists. While there are areas that could benefit from a little more development, the engaging themes of resilience, family, and the complexities of newfound power resonate throughout. This book has stayed with me, sparking curiosity about the world of elemental magic and the secrets that lie beneath the surface. I can’t wait to see where Veronique’s journey leads next!