Well, this one took me by surprise. I loved it.

**I received this book from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.**

It is shockingly rare that I actually like a fantasy series. Despite having grown up obsessed with Harry Potter, I have always been really picky when it comes to fantasy novels and series. But I still keep trying them, especially ones that would be appropriate for my fifth graders.

The Crowns of Croswold ended up taking me by surprise. I struggled to get into the story at the beginning. The lore felt a clunky, and I couldn't help but compare it a bit to books like Harry Potter. Then I made an active point to stop comparing it. It's amazing how much more I can enjoy something when I only focus on that thing.

The magic system is unique. The names are silly and fun. I can definitely see several of my students really getting into it. I look forward to starting the sequel and passing along this one to my students.

I picked this book up because of the cover. I took it home because I realized it was by Mark Does Stuff. And now I am sitting on my couch, trying not to sob. This was beautiful and horrible and my favorite book I've picked up this year. No contest. I imagine it'll easily stay in my top three for the entire year.

4.5 stars. I really ended up enjoying this one. It was much more intense than I expected (expected more of a rom com sort of romp), but I thought Queenie was a great character and that the plot was satisfyingly realistic.

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

I really enjoyed this sequel as much as the first one, and I look forward to the third one coming out in May. I hope some of my fifth graders pull these books on my shelf soon!