An illustrated fantasy novella for ages 10 to adult. It does contain some scary imagery.
Izzy is happily living in Ireland with her father and Nana. Newly arrived from America, it’s a grand adventure already- then she discovers a strange necklace hanging from a tree. Suddenly the dust bunnies in her bedroom start talking to her! Is there wild magic at work or is Ireland just a more magical place than she thought?
Izzy discovers that she was chosen to be the keeper of a very important key to a powerful portal called The Evergate. She must protect the key and the gate from the evil Mira and the Goddess of War, Morrigan. She’s only nine years old! Are these faeries crazy?!
Content Warning: some grim and violent imagery
Excerpt:
The shorter dust bunny lifted its tufted arms and covered what she imagined to be a mouth, although she could not see one. It made a chittering sound again and Izzy pouted, “Are you laughing at me?”
No we are simply excited, the shorter dust bunny whispered with glee. You’ve no idea how excited we are that you have it!
“You mean my necklace? But I found it; it’s mine,” Izzy whispered back.
Oh yes, it is yours now sweet child. Let me introduce us, since my companion is far too…excitable. The taller one, still balancing the cigarette lighter on its end, made a sweeping bow, tucking one hand against his heart. I am Jarah and this is Issah. We are known as Fionnadh Dustáil…it means…um…
Jarah thought hard a moment then translated, It means fur and dust, I suppose. We mostly refer to ourselves as Fionnadh though.
“So you ARE Dust Bunnies!” Izzy smiled brightly. “But why do you want my necklace?”
No, no. We don’t want to take it from you. Don’t you know what that is?! Issah clapped his little furry paws and danced in place. It’s the—
“Belle..? Who are you talking to in there? Did you snitch my cell phone…?” Father’s voice came from outside the door.
Izzy’s wide fearful eyes darted to the door then suddenly the little flickering light went out. Izzy heard a clatter only seconds before the door opened and Father poked his head in. “I was just playing, Daddy…sorry…just playing.”