The Blazing Star by Imani Josey
Published by: Wise Ink
Pub Date: December 6th 2016
Pages: 286
Format: ebook | Source: purchased
Genres: young adult, historical fiction, fantasy
Rating: 

Sixteen-year-old Portia White is used to being overlooked—after all, her twin sister Alex is a literal genius.

But when Portia holds an Egyptian scarab beetle during history class, she takes center stage in a way she never expected: she faints. Upon waking, she is stronger, faster, and braver than before. And when she accidentally touches the scarab again?

She wakes up in ancient Egypt—her sister and an unwitting freshman in tow.

Great.

Mysterious and beautiful, Egypt is more than they could have ever imagined from their days in the classroom. History comes alive as the three teens realize that getting back to the present will be the most difficult thing they’ve ever done. Stalked by vicious monsters called Scorpions, every step in the right direction means a step closer to danger.

As Portia and the girls discover that they’re linked to the past by more than just chance, they have to decide what it truly means to be yourself, to love your sister, and to find your way home.

The Blazing Star is such an imaginative, well researched book. And the cover is so gorgeous! Luckily this is one cover buy that’s worth the price. I loved Portia’s voice from the beginning and it was interesting to see her struggles with her twin Alex (and with high school as a Chicago teen), feeling second best and second place, all those feelings that come so naturally unfortunately. They had a complicated but loving relationship with each other; I liked the character development and the build up to the time travel.

Once the plot really kicks in, the worldbuilding is astounding! You can tell that Imani Josey spent a good chunk of time researching ancient Egypt and her love of that time period and culture really shines through on the page. I learned so much and I felt like I was there; it was richly imagined and fascinating. I really enjoyed the Temple of Isis setting and learning more about Portia’s powers.

Unfortunately, the book takes a confusing turn in the last quarter and was a bit hard to follow. I was surprised at how readily Portia accepted her life in Egypt and the romance felt rushed even though I like the pairing and thought they had great chemistry. The Blazing Star didn’t wrap up as much as I expected either and I’m unclear whether or not there will be a sequel- I hope so! Overall I’m very glad I purchased and read this book, it was enjoyable and different and perfect for fans of historical fiction and time travel novels.

Have you read The Blazing Star? What did you think of it? Do you enjoy time travel novels?