Bound To Stay Bound

School Library Journal - 07/01/2016 Gr 5–7—Serafina's tale picks up just three weeks after the defeat of "the man in the black cloak." Serafina would like to settle into a comfortable existence at Biltmore House as Chief Rat Catcher, especially now that the Vanderbilts have accepted her role in their household. She wants to please her father and spend time with her best friend, Braeden. Her plans are thwarted when Lady Rowena Fox-Pemberton visits the estate. Serafina cannot stand Rowena's snooty ways but is pleasantly surprised when the Lady bravely helps out when mysterious events recur at Biltmore. Many new characters are introduced, such as Mr. Grathan, a guest of Mr. Vanderbilt claiming to be a detective, and Essie, a helpful maid. Serafina's backstory is fleshed out, and readers will relish learning more about her strange origins, including the identity of her father. As in the first novel, the narrative gracefully blends the majestic history of Biltmore House with the ethereal beauty of the Blue Ridge Mountains along with the deep-rooted superstition of mountain lore. Serafina's relationship with her catamount mother plays a stronger role this time. The characterization is solid, and the powerful imagery that made the first installment such a success is more consistent here. Readers who enjoyed the first novel will not be disappointed in this continuation and will anxiously await the next exciting adventure. VERDICT Eerie gothic imagery, a ferociously scrappy heroine, and an elegant setting combine seamlessly to create a captivating mystery that will be well received by fans.—Julie Shatterly, W.A. Bess Elementary School, Gastonia, NC - Copyright 2016 Publishers Weekly, Library Journal and/or School Library Journal used with permission.

Booklist - 08/01/2016 Serafina, protector and guardian of the famous Biltmore Estate, in North Carolina, has only just defeated the terrifying Man in the Black Cloak (in Serafina and the Black Cloak, 2015). In doing so, she uncovered a handful of family secrets, not the least of which is that she and her mother are catamounts, shape-shifting mountain cats who protect the forest. Her newfound wildness, though, is not without cost, and when dangerous men with vicious hunting wolfhounds come to the Biltmore, Serafina is more determined than ever to protect her home and her family. Complicating matters is the discovery of a mysterious, primitive young boy who appears to be living in the forest, and Serafina’s mother’s decision to leave Serafina as she struggles with her shape-shifting powers. Serafina, brave and fierce, is a wild heroine who will continue to appeal to many middle-grade readers. Fans of the Warriors series will enjoy this fantasy-adventure series, as will readers in search of a slightly steampunk mystery. - Copyright 2016 Booklist.