Return to Arethane

by Kelly Riad

The Elves of Arethane Series, Book One

Book Description

16-year old Emily has accepted her fate with each weakening beat of her heart, but after her best friend’s brother and sister arrive in town and turn out to be more than what they appear, Emily’s life is turned upside-down. When their friendship includes confronting wizards who harbor dark secrets and dancing with an elf prince, Emily discovers there are some things still worth living for.

More about Emily Banks, main character

Age: 16

Born: November 18

Place of Birth: Raleigh, NC

Parents: Edward and Amanda Banks

Description: 5’3″, red hair, brown eyes, lip ring

Q. What are your favorite foods?

A. Eggo Waffles – that’s gross, right? So processed. I know, but I totally love them. Especially the ones with blueberries. And there’s this pastry-thing in Arèthane, oh my god! It has this weird raspberry/peach-like fruit mixed with some otherwordly cream in the center. Holy crap, it’s good. Those elves can cook.

Q. Anything else?

A. I have a weakness for Sonic’s Sweet Peach Tea… oh, and ice cream.

Q. What’s your favorite color?

A. Okay, Jarrad’s going to say I stole this from him, because it’s his favorite too, but green was totally my favorite color first!

Q. What are your favorite activities?

A. I really like making my own clothes. My mom hates it because I cut up all the expensive crap she buys me, but I don’t really do it out of spite, I actually really enjoy it.

Q. What else?
A. I’m discovering a lot of new things in Arèthane that I really love to do. Turns out, you can go flying on gryphon any time and not just when you’re trying to escape certain death. Jarrad’s very active so he’s been keeping me busy learning and trying new things.

Q. While we’re on the topic of Jarrad, what’s your favorite thing about him?

A. I have to answer that in one sentence or less? Okay, I guess his kindness. He is unflappably kind and considerate and tolerant; it’s unreal. And he has an amazing smile.

Q. Least favorite?
A. That’s harder and not really a fair question because his faults only make me love him more. But one that’s more frustrating is his composure – I know that sounds like a good thing, but he uses it like a shield sometimes. He has a hard time showing his emotions, especially when they are really strong, so he just goes on emotional lockdown. And he can be a bit cocky.

Q. Hopes for the future?
A. I’ve never really though that far ahead; I’ve sort of lived every day like it’s my last…so I guess I’m just happy to have a future.

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