The three share adventures together, some comical, some uncomfortable, some painful, and most of them dangerous. Throughout their adventures, they – like all teens everywhere – must come to terms with their physical appearances, and change, challenge, and define their identities as they struggle to become adults.

The bullying, violence, and budding sexuality help move the story along and are mild enough not to offend most readers. Young adults might best identify with the teenaged heroes in this novel, although the story is fast-paced, interesting, and fun for readers of all ages. Unlike many simplistic young adult works that feature adults as cruel taskmasters and mindless buffoons, “The Fire and the Light” depicts heroes and victims in all shapes, sizes, sexes, and ages. Off to a wonderful start, Akers is planning five books in her Souls of Aredyrah Series, with the next to arrive in 2007.