Why We Play With Fire by Giselle Vriesen

Welcome Back, Booklovers! Why We Play With Fire caught my attention after seeing it on Bookstagram and it promised a different kind of gods and goddess story from the ones that are currently dominating the lists.  You can check out the book here and keep reading for my thoughts. 

Thea's world is turned upside after her mother pushes her in a well and she winds up in an enchanted house known as Malachite. Malachite is a safe haven for the children of gods and goddesses. She then has to embark on a journey to find the missing keys and awaken the magic within herself while also battling shadowy enemies hunting her down.

A character finding out they are descended from gods and goddesses is not a new concept. However this book offers a very unique take on the gods and goddesses mythology. I like how it pulled from all different cultures rather than just focusing on one religion and mythos. It was very realistic for the diverse cast of characters. While these children usually come from more than one god or goddess they must choose only one. After hearing the spirit of her Nana she knows that despite being new to this world she must go on the journey to find the missing keys to discover her true self. 

Right away readers are immersed in this new world as they discover Malachite a long with Thea. Then we're taken to different lands as Thea and her new friends search for the keys. There are illustrations sprinkled throughout which was a fun added touch and the book ends with a satisfying conclusion but just enough for the story to continue.