Rise of the Warrior, The

In the second book of The Hakima’s Tale trilogy, Dedra L. Stevenson offers a mystical fantasy straight from Middle Eastern mythology and folk tales like no other. This best-selling trilogy steams onward to the training years of Phoenix Kassim, as she studies under a wise woman in the desert and learns the ways of a supernatural warrior. Her mentor, Sophia, teaches her how to harness her power and her magical creatures of the desert, the oceans and the forests assist her in gathering the tools of the Hakima. Her adventures take her on many journeys around the world, to many cultures and traditions, including the Native American culture where she is granted the eternal assistance of the wolf. While trying to prevent the release of the Dark Master of the Jinn, Phoenix prepares in every way, in case he is unleashed upon the world. She gathers many tools, including the magic carpet and the amber of the enchanted whale. Phoenix and Sofia continue to build her army and form alliances with friendly types of Jinn, but will it be enough? The Marid army, the Blue Jinni’s elite force, grow as well, anticipating the release of their Master. The storm that was prophesied long ago begins, but how will the young hero fare? Will her companions manage to stop the creature from being released? This tale of fantasy fiction for teens will keep readers on the edge as they join Phoenix on her magical journey.