Scarlet Morning

Scarlet Morning follows two orphans, Viola and Wilmur, as they are taken aboard a pirate ship and begin to venture out into the strange world of Dickerson’s Sea, uncovering the mysteries around their parents and the world they inhabit. This book was difficult to give an age range to as it claims to be for middle-grade readers, but it certainly has an appeal to an older audience.

The world-building is unique, somewhat post-apocalyptic, with the sea being swallowed by salt which acts more like ice, and warped versions of the creatures we know from our world, caused by an event that no one seems to know much about. The mysteries unveiled in this book make for an occasionally frightening read, with some truly horrifying creatures, such as a monster known as the ‘angel’ with leathery skin, a gaping grin and the ability to parrot human speech. It presumably causes the death of the scientist researching the distortions caused by the event which began it all, and its unknown origins add to the sense of danger. Viola’s development throughout the book and her pseudo-familial relationship with Chase allow the story slowly to reveal the secrets behind the lies spread by the government of the world, such as the true details of the pirate massacre, the silver circle and the supposed murder of the Queen by the titular Scarlet Morning, though it becomes clear not all is at it seems. ND Stevenson’s prose is witty and the characters feel more human because of it. At over four hundred pages, it is quite a long read, however it never fails to be engaging.

That being said, the plot could perhaps do with sharpening up as it meanders and leaves more questions than answers, presumably to be covered by the sequel, along with the fact that there are almost too many characters to keep up with, especially as many of them flit in and out of the narrative. Wilmur’s storyline feels like it could have benefited from him having something more to do, as his exploits bumbling about on a ship somewhat pale in comparison to Viola’s adventures with the potentially villainous Captain Chase, and it is Viola who does much of the heavy-lifting in uncovering the truth around the Queen and Scarlet Morning.

Overall, while it is certainly not perfect, I have not had this much fun reading a book in a long time, and its themes of family, justice and betrayal will likely resonate with a wide readership. It is clear the author loves his work and his characters, with numerous illustrations of key scenes and care taken with every line, that make it a joy to read.