Noelle grew up the daughter of the village glassmaker. All her life she heard retold the Lamplighter’s parables of the four firefly artisans and their great miracles—the Glassmaker, the Alchemist, the Blacksmith, and the Chandler. Now her mother has fallen under a curse and her father is traveling great distances to find a cure, leaving Noelle in search of her own miracle.

Meanwhile, prince Dante Marin bears the burden of becoming the next king. But first he must find the fabled four firefly vestiges to prove he is worthy for the crown. On the way he’ll reconnect with his childhood friendship that just might become a long-distance relationship, with trials that forge them into maturity.

Sara Ella’s new fantasy Glass Across the Sea reflects an enchanting parable of light illuminating darkness, leading to forgiveness and redemption. This first book of the Realm of Allumeria series fashions elegant prose full of poignant moments surrounding two robust lead characters. Our humble heroine Noelle proves courageous and kind while also learning to oppose injustice, while dashing and determined Dante must shoulder the responsibilities of his royal adventure.

Meanwhile, this fantasy realm glimmers with real-world diverse nationalities, such as the French culture represented in Lumiverre and southwest styles in Echlime. Fans of the classic Cinderella will also enjoy nods to the Disney film versions, while other readers might discern subtler influences from The Count of Monte Cristo.

Best for: Teenage and young adult female fans of fairy tales.

Discern: Fairy tale magic and curses, some violence, memories of domestic violence and alcohol abuse.