This review first appeared in Booklist on January 1, 2025.
Ix Tatterfall can see Nightmares—something that makes her an outcast in her small hometown but a considerable asset for the Candle Corps, who guard the kingdom of Spinar against the fearsome Nightmares that sometimes crawl out of the legendary Labyrinth of Souls. The mysterious maze has grown increasingly unstable due to the schemes of a terrifying scarecrow figure calling himself Jack, and it’s up to Ix and her newfound friends to embrace their budding powers and save not only the Labyrinth but their own Waking World as well. Vedder offers a fantasy full of intrigue, countless imaginative creatures, and instantly endearing characters. While the world building can be a little overwhelming, it’s sure to ignite the imagination of readers and leave them wanting more. Hand The Labyrinth of Souls to fans of magic-school series such as Shannon Messenger’s Keeper of the Lost Cities (2012) and Jessica Townsend’s Nevermoor (2017) and watch them devour this book.
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