The verbal sparring in this book. Lord I could not get enough! You know those books that make you feel so many things that you can’t breathe and your chest hurts? This is one of those. These characters, especially our frustratingly stubborn main two, were fantastic. And who knew peppering in French would be so appealing? Okay by appealing I mean hot. Have google translate ready for phrases you don’t know because you do not want to miss that dialogue. Phew. Plus the fact that a large part of the plot is essentially an early 1900’s version of The Bachelorette makes this historical fiction novel one that had my laughing out loud. But it’s so much deeper than that. And it keeps you guessing until the bitter end. I’d highly recommend it if you want a stay up way too late into the night or on your couch all weekend book!

"it is your divine right to heal as messily & as inconsistently & as loudly as possible"
Another feminist anthem by Amanda Lovelace and a reminder to always fall in love with yourself first. I have loved her since reading the women are some kind of magic series. Lovelace's poetry has a way of peering into your soul, and her newest book of poetry is no different. Plus the illustrations are gorgeous! As a woman in my late twenties, I felt this book speaks to the many challenges, both societally and personally, that we face in a misogynistic world. Especially if you're a woman not following a "normal" trajectory. If you've ever been told you're too much, not enough, too emotional, too broken, too opinionated... this poetry is for you. I love how accessible Amanda Lovelace's style of poetry is - I find myself relating over and over again. I love how this book bounces back and forth between big sister and the narrator. It's like one big pep talk. Amanda Lovelace's poetry is truly therapy for the shattered heart and stokes the fire in my soul.
(ARC review for NetGalley)

It took me a few chapters to get into it, but then I became thoroughly invested in Zora’s journey. In the mystery of the princes. In the games (serious Triwizard Tournament + Hunger Games vibes). I love a heroine who doesn’t need a man. But also might be open to love eventually. Also holy cliffhanger ending. Guess I’ll be continuing this series!

Favorite quote from the book: “There was something beautiful in what two people could build together. A house was so much more than a house when it hosted people’s love for each other. Even love for friends.”

As this is an ARC (that I received voluntarily for an honest review), there were some typos that I hope the editors will catch before publishing. If you’re looking to read a fantasy book, this is a pleasant read! I recommend it.

This book was so good! As in stay up way too late reading it unable to put it down good. I love the mystery. I love a strong female lead. Robin D. Mahle did a great job of building this fantasy world and of developing her characters in a way that didn't give everything away. I enjoyed that the chapters alternated between Addie and Clark - it was easy to know whose point of view you were reading and it added to the dynamic between them!

I received this book from BookSiren in exchange for an honest review.

I read this book about a year ago and tried it both as an ebook and as an audiobook. It was... interesting. I wanted to like it, especially as a huge fan of YA. Maybe it was the age of the kids. Maybe it was the hitting. Maybe it was the differing cultural experiences from my own. It was just a weird book. The writing was fine. And if your goal is to read books from authors outside of the US/UK/Aus then take a chance on this book!