Cattra's Legacy

"Morning's pale light filtered eerily through the bands of fog that lay like shrouds against Risha's skin. Torfell's warmth had kept them alive through the night, but still she felt clammy and cold, as if the marsh's fetid damp had seeped through every pore. Beside her Muir was shivering, though his skin felt hot."

A grave.

A journey.

A voice that whispers in her head.

Cast from the only home she remembers, Risha embarks on a journey to discover her father’s past. Instead she finds her future.

Her quest leads her the length of the kingdom and reveals both allies and enemies – recognising the difference proves far from easy. Barc the trader, war-weary Cantrel, enigmatic Muir: all prove adept at playing more than one game, at nudging Risha’s steps while keeping a tight hold on their secrets. Caught up in the turbulent politics of a fractured kingdom, Risha forms unlikely allegiances – with river-runner Fenn, mute Clik and the swamp-dwelling nan-Irem. But who – or what – is Nonno, who speaks in riddles in her mind?

In her search for belonging, Risha loses one parent and gains another, risks all for the sake of a girl she’s never met, and learns the hard way how to trust, when to run, when to stand and fight.

What the reviews say:

"Spellbinding adventure that I couldn't put down."
- Linda Hall, Wanganui Chronicle

"Risha is an excellent character, authentic, creditably complex, always developing. She's determined and hesitant, dauntless and vulnerable.... in a novel with much momentum and inventiveness."
- David Hill, NZ Books

Awards:

CLF/Storylines Notable Book
Shortlisted for Lianza Esther Glen Medal