Storm Glass (Glass #1) by Maria V. Snyder

Title: Storm Glass

Author: Maria Snyder

Series: 1st in Glass series

Pages: 488

Published: May 2009 by Mira

ISBN: 9780778325642

Source: Library

Description: As a glassmaker and a magician-in-training, Opal Cowen understands trial by fire. Now it's time to test her mettle. Someone has sabotaged the Stormdancer clan's glass orbs, killing their most powerful magicians. The Stormdancers—particularly the mysterious and mercurial Kade—require Opal's unique talents to prevent it happening again. But when the mission goes awry, Opal must tap in to a new kind of magic as stunningly potent as it is frightening. And the further she delves into the intrigue behind the glass and magic, the more distorted things appear. With lives hanging in the balance—including her own—Opal must control powers she hadn't known she possessed…powers that might lead to disaster beyond anything she's ever known.

I Give This ...

 

I LOVED the Study series by Maria Snyder.  So, when I discovered that this series was to be set in the same world (with a character mentioned in the series) I was both really excited and apprehensive.  I was worried about a few things.  Turns out there was no reason to be worried.

Opal was able to carry her own story remarkably.  I actually wish we could have gotten more of the story since the end of Magic Study.  But, since those 4 years are spent at the Keep, I assume not much happens.  I like how for most of the book Opal doubts herself and her magic abilities.  I like it when character appear human.  I liked Kade as well.  Although, I found him a whole lot easier to read than Opal.  His character seems very textbook so far and I'm hoping he surprised me a little in the future. 

I found the subject of the stormdancers and their ability to trap energy into orbs completely fascinating.  Especially because the process of creating these special orbs is just as important and the stormdancers themselves.  I also really loved how Opal has powers far beyond what she initially thinks.  And once again, the magicians don't like it!

My only drawback was it was a little slow at times.  But then it would pick back up.  I also wish Yelena would have been left out of the story (at least for this first one).  Everytime she appeared I wanted the narrative to switch to her fiery character and that's not fair to the characters in this novel.  Thankfully she's just a small part of the story.  I can't wait to read the rest of the series!