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One of my most anticipated books of the year. My favorite, fiery redhead is back! And WOW that cover! Beautiful!

"Brave" is my favorite Disney/Pixar movie. Merida is a feisty free-spirit, determined not to fit in the mold expected of her, wanting to forge her own path. In the film, meeting "prince charming" and getting married is the last thing she wants...which causes her to make a bad choice; regretting the outcome, she has to find a way to undo it with even more determination and courage.

This YA novel takes place several years after the movie. Merida loves her family deeply but is bored with her life. Once again magic finds her, and she is making a challenging bargain with two Celtic gods with her family's fate hanging in the balance. She needs to help her family make changes to encourage personal growth, but also for herself. All the characters are amazing...even the nasty villains! I especially love Merida (of course), Feradach, Leezie, and Harris one of the triplets. I enjoyed all the Celtic lore and mythology mixed in with the magic too. Only one thing disturbed me: the stereotypical description of wolves. Wolves do NOT attack humans unless provoked, and especially not in the warmer seasons. This was a lack of research on the author's part.

The ending was bittersweet and I cried. I know this book will be one I come back to throughout the years, just as I love to rewatch the film. Merida and her family forever have a place in my heart.