With The Lost Gate, the debut novel of The Mither Mages Series, Orson Scott Card (Ender’s Game) proves that he might be one of the most prolific and imaginative sci-fi/fantasy writers still publishing today. Combining a heady mix of vivid world-building, multicultural mythology, urban fantasy, and science fiction, Card starts out the wholly unique saga of Danny North—exiled heir to a family of once great “gods” cut off from their power source. Fans of Tolkien will appreciate the unique premise of Card’s universe and his lush descriptions, while younger readers will find it easy to identify with the teen protagonist—whose identity and voice are remarkably well-crafted in a sea of sci-fi/fantasy novels featuring unsatisfying character development. Readers will also appreciate Card’s genre-savvy humor, especially when he turns his wit to satirizing the usual plot devices of urban fantasy. All in all, this is novel that really shouldn't be missed; the brutal sequel-baiting ending left me with more questions than answers, and eagerly awaiting the sequel. - Jennie