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"Black and female and a siren is just layers upon layers of trauma." ~ [b:A Song Below Water|39085465|A Song Below Water|Bethany C. Morrow|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1573233301l/39085465._SY75_.jpg|60654169]
Okay, first of all, this is one of the most gorgeous book covers I have ever seen!!!! This is one of the most anticipated debuts of 2020 and I couldn't believe that I was on the library waitlist for 5 months and only received this book after 4 weeks! Everyone has been reading this novel and RAVING ABOUT IT...and I have to say it lives up to the hype. Not only is the diversity in the novel excellent, but the relationship development, mythology, and real-world revelations are incredible.
Let me start with a few things I enjoyed about the novel. First, the sister / best friend bond between Tavia and Effie is so effortlessly beautiful. I love how these characters communicate with each other (not just with sign language) but by avoiding the overused "miscommunication trope." Instead of wasting plot time by trying to "protect" each other, the girls tell each other everything. This kept the plot focused and direct, which I greatly appreciated. Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed was the twist at the end - omg I did not see that coming with Effie! Very pleased with how her character development and self-discovery storyline unfolded. Also, can I just say how impressive it is that [a:Bethany C. Morrow|14685233|Bethany C. Morrow|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1511337313p2/14685233.jpg] managed to create a fictional gargoyle character that was engaging and interesting?! What I loved most about this story was the commentary on the Black Lives Matter movement, specifically the commentary on what it means to be a woman in the world today. As someone who loves reading about intersectional feminism, I felt that this novel could be used as a tool to study modern interpretations of feminism in literature.
As for my critiques, I don't have critiques so much as some confusion. Since I've never read about this kind of mythology before, I had trouble understanding it. Specifically, the siren storyline was straightforward but I felt that the elokos were never explained. I've never heard this term before. I'd love to see Morrow dive into the mythology of elokos more because they sound fascinating! I didn't comprehend why sirens were persecuted more often than elokos; was it because of race? There was so much mythology being poured into this novel that I struggled to keep up. I'm hoping Morrow speaks more about her use of siren mythology in the future!
Okay, first of all, this is one of the most gorgeous book covers I have ever seen!!!! This is one of the most anticipated debuts of 2020 and I couldn't believe that I was on the library waitlist for 5 months and only received this book after 4 weeks! Everyone has been reading this novel and RAVING ABOUT IT...and I have to say it lives up to the hype. Not only is the diversity in the novel excellent, but the relationship development, mythology, and real-world revelations are incredible.
Let me start with a few things I enjoyed about the novel. First, the sister / best friend bond between Tavia and Effie is so effortlessly beautiful. I love how these characters communicate with each other (not just with sign language) but by avoiding the overused "miscommunication trope." Instead of wasting plot time by trying to "protect" each other, the girls tell each other everything. This kept the plot focused and direct, which I greatly appreciated. Another aspect of the book that I enjoyed was the twist at the end - omg I did not see that coming with Effie! Very pleased with how her character development and self-discovery storyline unfolded. Also, can I just say how impressive it is that [a:Bethany C. Morrow|14685233|Bethany C. Morrow|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1511337313p2/14685233.jpg] managed to create a fictional gargoyle character that was engaging and interesting?! What I loved most about this story was the commentary on the Black Lives Matter movement, specifically the commentary on what it means to be a woman in the world today. As someone who loves reading about intersectional feminism, I felt that this novel could be used as a tool to study modern interpretations of feminism in literature.
As for my critiques, I don't have critiques so much as some confusion. Since I've never read about this kind of mythology before, I had trouble understanding it. Specifically, the siren storyline was straightforward but I felt that the elokos were never explained. I've never heard this term before. I'd love to see Morrow dive into the mythology of elokos more because they sound fascinating! I didn't comprehend why sirens were persecuted more often than elokos; was it because of race? There was so much mythology being poured into this novel that I struggled to keep up. I'm hoping Morrow speaks more about her use of siren mythology in the future!
"...yet I dared not --oh, pity me, miserable wretch that I am! --I dared not --I dared not speak! We have put her living in the tomb!" ~ [b:The Fall of the House of Usher|175516|The Fall of the House of Usher|Edgar Allan Poe|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1387708966l/175516._SY75_.jpg|15570703]
B.J. Harrison did a spectacular job narrating this story! When he did the monologueish bit at the end, I literally got goosebumps! I recommend this as the perfect Halloween audiobook.
What's great about this story is that it balances out the dramatics really well. There's no dramatic intensity until the end, and at that point, it becomes well-earned from all the suspense. The Usher family is so intriguing - I could've never predicted the ending! I noticed too that [a:Edgar Allan Poe|4624490|Edgar Allan Poe|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1454522972p2/4624490.jpg] went a little crazy with his use of imagery in this one. I loved how he described what the Usher mansion looked like and I could picture every little detail. This story was thoughtfully spooky!
B.J. Harrison did a spectacular job narrating this story! When he did the monologueish bit at the end, I literally got goosebumps! I recommend this as the perfect Halloween audiobook.
What's great about this story is that it balances out the dramatics really well. There's no dramatic intensity until the end, and at that point, it becomes well-earned from all the suspense. The Usher family is so intriguing - I could've never predicted the ending! I noticed too that [a:Edgar Allan Poe|4624490|Edgar Allan Poe|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1454522972p2/4624490.jpg] went a little crazy with his use of imagery in this one. I loved how he described what the Usher mansion looked like and I could picture every little detail. This story was thoughtfully spooky!
"At sea, the myths they’d shared over cups of gritty, bitter coffee had taken on lives of their own. They’d blended with the stories of the Old World to form richer, darker tales. New Orleans was haunted. Cursed by pirates. Prowled by scalawags. A last refuge for those who believed in magic and mysticism. Why, there was even talk of women possessing as much power and influence as that of any man." ~ [b:The Beautiful|42265183|The Beautiful (The Beautiful, #1)|Renée Ahdieh|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1547578763l/42265183._SY75_.jpg|65881999]
If you enjoy The Originals tv show, this is the book for you! This story bears enough similarities in terms of setting, the supernatural elements, and witty dialogue, but the plot is entirely unique. One of my favorite aspects of this novel is [a:Renée Ahdieh|4600197|Renée Ahdieh|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1487663209p2/4600197.jpg]'s writing style. It's mysterious and poetic and so gorgeously interwoven into the plot! I loved being able to see through Celine's complex POV and I found her to be a flawed and exciting heroine. For some reason, when Sebastien (Bastien) was first mentioned I pictured Ricky Whittle. Now, whenever I read about Sebastien I picture him as Whittle and I am fine with that!
I couldn't have predicted that ending...oh my gosh I can't wait for the next book now! With spellbinding abandon I was transported into this magical alternate reality of New Orleans. The Court of Lions is just fascinating! I'm glad that Ahdieh didn't elaborate on everything in this first book. I'm grateful that there's still mysteries to discover. Specifically, I want to learn more about Odette's powers! What did she see in Celine's future?
All in all there wasn't much about this novel I didn't enjoy. I didn't find Sebastien's uncle to be particularly menacing. I know he was supposed to come off that way, but he was far too polite! Everytime he spoke to Celine their conversations were repetitive and dull. I wish he was a more entertaining and intimidating villain.
This book was such a pleasant surprise! Young adult fantasy novels usually have such predictable plots but "The Beautiful" was suspenseful at every turn. The rich world building was stunning, and the female characters aren't exact copies of one another; they are each uniquely powerful characters. Most of all, Ahdieh managed to write about a wide cast of characters and find time to make each of them engaging and multifaceted.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"Perhaps she labored on some clandestine craft, deep in the hollows of her cell. A painter perhaps. Or a sculptor. What if she was secretly a wordsmith by night? Even better if she wrote entirely in asides or things laced with double meaning, like Malvolio in Twelfth Night."
"No. Celine Rousseau was not a weathervane. She would not be moved by the Ghost’s presence as everyone else was. He was not special, just like all the privileged boys she’d encountered in her past. Another spoiled and entitled..."
"Bastien offered them a scythe-like smile, and it reminded Celine of a character in a book she’d read recently. A cat from Cheshire who enjoyed speaking in verse."
"To be a ghost in the night, commanding those around her without words."
If you enjoy The Originals tv show, this is the book for you! This story bears enough similarities in terms of setting, the supernatural elements, and witty dialogue, but the plot is entirely unique. One of my favorite aspects of this novel is [a:Renée Ahdieh|4600197|Renée Ahdieh|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1487663209p2/4600197.jpg]'s writing style. It's mysterious and poetic and so gorgeously interwoven into the plot! I loved being able to see through Celine's complex POV and I found her to be a flawed and exciting heroine. For some reason, when Sebastien (Bastien) was first mentioned I pictured Ricky Whittle. Now, whenever I read about Sebastien I picture him as Whittle and I am fine with that!
I couldn't have predicted that ending...oh my gosh I can't wait for the next book now! With spellbinding abandon I was transported into this magical alternate reality of New Orleans. The Court of Lions is just fascinating! I'm glad that Ahdieh didn't elaborate on everything in this first book. I'm grateful that there's still mysteries to discover. Specifically, I want to learn more about Odette's powers! What did she see in Celine's future?
All in all there wasn't much about this novel I didn't enjoy. I didn't find Sebastien's uncle to be particularly menacing. I know he was supposed to come off that way, but he was far too polite! Everytime he spoke to Celine their conversations were repetitive and dull. I wish he was a more entertaining and intimidating villain.
This book was such a pleasant surprise! Young adult fantasy novels usually have such predictable plots but "The Beautiful" was suspenseful at every turn. The rich world building was stunning, and the female characters aren't exact copies of one another; they are each uniquely powerful characters. Most of all, Ahdieh managed to write about a wide cast of characters and find time to make each of them engaging and multifaceted.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"Perhaps she labored on some clandestine craft, deep in the hollows of her cell. A painter perhaps. Or a sculptor. What if she was secretly a wordsmith by night? Even better if she wrote entirely in asides or things laced with double meaning, like Malvolio in Twelfth Night."
"No. Celine Rousseau was not a weathervane. She would not be moved by the Ghost’s presence as everyone else was. He was not special, just like all the privileged boys she’d encountered in her past. Another spoiled and entitled..."
"Bastien offered them a scythe-like smile, and it reminded Celine of a character in a book she’d read recently. A cat from Cheshire who enjoyed speaking in verse."
"To be a ghost in the night, commanding those around her without words."
4.5 stars
"Do not underestimate the strength it takes to be kind in a world as cruel as ours." ~ [b:A Song of Wraiths and Ruin|49629448|A Song of Wraiths and Ruin (A Song of Wraiths and Ruin, #1)|Roseanne A. Brown|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1576673547l/49629448._SY75_.jpg|65116439]
I can't thank [a:Roseanne A. Brown|18395190|Roseanne A. Brown|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1536367538p2/18395190.jpg] enough for creating the character of Malik/Adil. I'm practically in tears writing this review. I've never come across a fictional character that more accurately experiences panic attacks and anxiety. Plus, usually characters that experience mental illness in books are white. I happen to be someone who is white and passionate about teaching people about mental illness. It's important to show, through the use of fictional characters, that mental illness affects everyone. Having such anxiety representation in books has been a lifeline for me. Usually, I always relate to the female heroes in stories; it's easy to see myself in them. However, this was the first time I really connected with a male hero. Malik and I are both sensitive, empathetic, loyal to our families, lacking in self-confidence, and anxious all the time. I love how flawed his character is. Like Malik, I never feel that I'm doing anything right. Malik is such an important character because he demonstrates the importance of kindness.
I also loved Karina's role in the story. Her character development is GOALS. Her rise into leadership is so beautifully written that it seems effortless. She's so realistic too; she has confident days and the next day she struggles to get out of bed. Honestly, Karina wanting to sleep through the events of the novel is SO RELATABLE.
As for critiques, the worldbuilding caught me off guard. I loved the complex and intricate storytelling, but there was a lot of it. Near the end of the book, when all the plot lines are being sewn up, I had trouble remembering Karina's family tree, her connection to Idir, etc. I love books with strong mythologies like this one, but I wish it was easier to recall. Maybe it would've helped to have a glossary of the gods' names and lives at the start of the book? Just mentioning the important gods and their abilities more often would've helped me. Specifically, when the challenges were going on, Adil was the only opponent I could keep track of. Tunde was a gem; I love his character so much!!!! I can't say enough good things about him. However, I only remembered his water ability, but none of the other competitors. So far, I don't understand the importance of knowing about the wind, fire, water, etc. competitors.
All in all, I enjoyed this book even more than I expected! It was a perfect quarantine read; I was swept away into a fanciful and compelling land where I was totally engaged in the story being told. I can't wait to read the next book to learn more about the mythology, Karina's future, and Malik's storytelling ability (which I have to say is the coolest power ever!).
Some of my favorite quotes:
- "When he was younger, Malik had just assumed the grim folk were so commonplace that no one spoke of them, the same way no one needed to say that the sky was blue. He had even foolishly considered the creatures his friends, listening to their stories and making up his own to entertain them. But they weren't his friends, because they weren't real."
- "Malik nodded shyly and stared into his bean soup, appalled at how poor his social skills were. At times like these, it felt like every other person in Sonande had been given a guide on how to interact like a normal human being, and his had never arrived."
- "...the village elders had tried to 'fix' him. The same age he'd been when the panic attacks began."
"Do not underestimate the strength it takes to be kind in a world as cruel as ours." ~ [b:A Song of Wraiths and Ruin|49629448|A Song of Wraiths and Ruin (A Song of Wraiths and Ruin, #1)|Roseanne A. Brown|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1576673547l/49629448._SY75_.jpg|65116439]
I can't thank [a:Roseanne A. Brown|18395190|Roseanne A. Brown|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1536367538p2/18395190.jpg] enough for creating the character of Malik/Adil. I'm practically in tears writing this review. I've never come across a fictional character that more accurately experiences panic attacks and anxiety. Plus, usually characters that experience mental illness in books are white. I happen to be someone who is white and passionate about teaching people about mental illness. It's important to show, through the use of fictional characters, that mental illness affects everyone. Having such anxiety representation in books has been a lifeline for me. Usually, I always relate to the female heroes in stories; it's easy to see myself in them. However, this was the first time I really connected with a male hero. Malik and I are both sensitive, empathetic, loyal to our families, lacking in self-confidence, and anxious all the time. I love how flawed his character is. Like Malik, I never feel that I'm doing anything right. Malik is such an important character because he demonstrates the importance of kindness.
I also loved Karina's role in the story. Her character development is GOALS. Her rise into leadership is so beautifully written that it seems effortless. She's so realistic too; she has confident days and the next day she struggles to get out of bed. Honestly, Karina wanting to sleep through the events of the novel is SO RELATABLE.
As for critiques, the worldbuilding caught me off guard. I loved the complex and intricate storytelling, but there was a lot of it. Near the end of the book, when all the plot lines are being sewn up, I had trouble remembering Karina's family tree, her connection to Idir, etc. I love books with strong mythologies like this one, but I wish it was easier to recall. Maybe it would've helped to have a glossary of the gods' names and lives at the start of the book? Just mentioning the important gods and their abilities more often would've helped me. Specifically, when the challenges were going on, Adil was the only opponent I could keep track of. Tunde was a gem; I love his character so much!!!! I can't say enough good things about him. However, I only remembered his water ability, but none of the other competitors. So far, I don't understand the importance of knowing about the wind, fire, water, etc. competitors.
All in all, I enjoyed this book even more than I expected! It was a perfect quarantine read; I was swept away into a fanciful and compelling land where I was totally engaged in the story being told. I can't wait to read the next book to learn more about the mythology, Karina's future, and Malik's storytelling ability (which I have to say is the coolest power ever!).
Some of my favorite quotes:
- "When he was younger, Malik had just assumed the grim folk were so commonplace that no one spoke of them, the same way no one needed to say that the sky was blue. He had even foolishly considered the creatures his friends, listening to their stories and making up his own to entertain them. But they weren't his friends, because they weren't real."
- "Malik nodded shyly and stared into his bean soup, appalled at how poor his social skills were. At times like these, it felt like every other person in Sonande had been given a guide on how to interact like a normal human being, and his had never arrived."
- "...the village elders had tried to 'fix' him. The same age he'd been when the panic attacks began."
This is an ARC book review for NetGalley.
"That first day on the Marigold came rushing back to me, standing in the passageway with my hand pressed to the crest on the door. I had been a stranger in that place, but I'd come to belong there. And now everything within me ached for it." ~ [b:Namesake|53138025|Namesake (Fable, #2)|Adrienne Young|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1590354154l/53138025._SY75_.jpg|68428327]
This sequel did not disappoint! I love every moment of this adventure. [a:Adrienne Young|16640489|Adrienne Young|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1554841626p2/16640489.jpg] really surpassed herself in terms of plot structure, creation of suspense, and character development. In only the span of two books, the characters in this world have matured so much! I can't believe Fable went from being a young girl trapped on Jeval to a sailing entrepreneur!
Fable is still one of my favorite heroines. She acknowledges her flaws in this book and does her best to overcome them. While most female characters would panic about being captured and hope their boyfriends would save them, Fable uses this time to get to know her captor. I'm glad the kidnapping storyline ended rather quickly - I was ready for Fable to escape like a badass! Clove making an appearance was a wonderful surprise and I liked that Fable had to come to terms with their new relationship. Also, what West did to try and find Fable, oh my gosh!
Fable and West's relationship grows even stronger in "Namesake." At first, it was annoying that they were separated, but that separation only seemed to bring them closer together. I love the practicality of their relationship; they always look after each other and it's an equal partnership. He trusts her instincts and only helps her when she needs it. West is a formidable character in his own right, but I like that he's a constant figure in Fable's life.
As for my critiques, only one aspect of the novel frustrated me. Willa, one of my favorite characters, had a minor role in the plot. I wished we could have seen more of her! She was more present in the previous book. Since she has such a strong and willful personality, her absence was felt. Her background status would have made sense if she hadn't been on board the Marigold, but she was. However, I am very happy with Willa's ending! It feels perfect for her character.
A few more aspects of the book that I enjoyed: the moment West said, "set course for Yuri's Constellation," my heart stopped. That is one committed guy! I love it. Also, when Paj made the joke, "Is there a bastard from here to the Narrows you're not related to?" I almost snorted my coffee. The humor in this novel was on point! Finally, I was shocked at the turn Saint's character takes. Before I saw him as the villain, but now he seems more like an anti-hero.
I'm sad that this epic duology is over now, but I absolutely loved it. It's going up on my list as one of my favorite series of all time. I now have a major book hangover. My heart still resides on the Marigold!
"That first day on the Marigold came rushing back to me, standing in the passageway with my hand pressed to the crest on the door. I had been a stranger in that place, but I'd come to belong there. And now everything within me ached for it." ~ [b:Namesake|53138025|Namesake (Fable, #2)|Adrienne Young|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1590354154l/53138025._SY75_.jpg|68428327]
This sequel did not disappoint! I love every moment of this adventure. [a:Adrienne Young|16640489|Adrienne Young|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1554841626p2/16640489.jpg] really surpassed herself in terms of plot structure, creation of suspense, and character development. In only the span of two books, the characters in this world have matured so much! I can't believe Fable went from being a young girl trapped on Jeval to a sailing entrepreneur!
Fable is still one of my favorite heroines. She acknowledges her flaws in this book and does her best to overcome them. While most female characters would panic about being captured and hope their boyfriends would save them, Fable uses this time to get to know her captor. I'm glad the kidnapping storyline ended rather quickly - I was ready for Fable to escape like a badass! Clove making an appearance was a wonderful surprise and I liked that Fable had to come to terms with their new relationship. Also, what West did to try and find Fable, oh my gosh!
Fable and West's relationship grows even stronger in "Namesake." At first, it was annoying that they were separated, but that separation only seemed to bring them closer together. I love the practicality of their relationship; they always look after each other and it's an equal partnership. He trusts her instincts and only helps her when she needs it. West is a formidable character in his own right, but I like that he's a constant figure in Fable's life.
As for my critiques, only one aspect of the novel frustrated me. Willa, one of my favorite characters, had a minor role in the plot. I wished we could have seen more of her! She was more present in the previous book. Since she has such a strong and willful personality, her absence was felt. Her background status would have made sense if she hadn't been on board the Marigold, but she was. However, I am very happy with Willa's ending! It feels perfect for her character.
A few more aspects of the book that I enjoyed: the moment West said, "set course for Yuri's Constellation," my heart stopped. That is one committed guy! I love it. Also, when Paj made the joke, "Is there a bastard from here to the Narrows you're not related to?" I almost snorted my coffee. The humor in this novel was on point! Finally, I was shocked at the turn Saint's character takes. Before I saw him as the villain, but now he seems more like an anti-hero.
I'm sad that this epic duology is over now, but I absolutely loved it. It's going up on my list as one of my favorite series of all time. I now have a major book hangover. My heart still resides on the Marigold!
"She’d heard whispers about clans of teenage-bodied vampires, carnivorous mothmen, immortal serial killers, devil cults, cannibal families, and slenderpeople. Even if most of the urban legends were fictitious, Ellie had a ghost dog companion. When it came to strange stuff, she could not be too open-minded." ~ [b:Elatsoe|49089632|Elatsoe|Darcie Little Badger|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1581002562l/49089632._SX50_.jpg|71388826]
There are unlimited reasons to love this book:
- Native American representation
- asexual representation
- the author is a badass scientist!
I originally picked up this book because I was excited about a Native American girl being the main character of a novel! The maternal side of my family is Chippewa Indian and, since my grandparents are no longer around for me to ask them questions, I search for novels that feature characters that remind me of them. I don't talk about this a lot because I'm white and I don't want anyone questioning my identity. However, I love reading about Native history, and recently, Native American characters in YA novels. I loved everything about Ellie's character. She's so relatable! Like me, she has a close relationship with her parents and family. Plus, I love my dog Lulu as much as Ellie loves Kirby!
I didn't know going into this book that there was asexual representation. It was such a wonderful surprise! I identify as asexual and there needs to be more representation out there, not only in novels like this but tv shows, movies, etc. It's so comforting to relate to a character who shares your same identity. A pet peeve of mine is when a novel is publicized as being "about an asexual character..." Sure Ellie is asexual, but there is more to her personality! She is a complex woman and that is so realistic. She also has a strong sense of justice, she's curious, and she's loyal to her best friend.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read:
- POC authors
- paranormal mystery stories
- heartwarming family tales
Final thoughts:
- Can I just say, I want to meet Kirby so bad! He sounds adorable.
- I love the worldbuilding in this novel. The concept is so unique: a world similar to ours but fully integrated with magical creatures!
- The whole time I was reading I pictured Kawennáhere Devery Jacobs as Ellie. If a movie is ever made inspired by this novel (which I would LOVE) I hope Jacobs gets cast.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"'You can bring a guest to the wedding, but nobody too weird. I get that you’re asexual, so, like, it can be a friend or zucchini or …' She trailed off, sounding a bit uncertain. 'Yeah. Just. Nobody my parents would hate. They already don’t like the groom.' 'Cool. Does my dog count as too weird?'"
"'One reason I struggle with exams,' he said. 'Anxiety wipes my brain clean.'"
There are unlimited reasons to love this book:
- Native American representation
- asexual representation
- the author is a badass scientist!
I originally picked up this book because I was excited about a Native American girl being the main character of a novel! The maternal side of my family is Chippewa Indian and, since my grandparents are no longer around for me to ask them questions, I search for novels that feature characters that remind me of them. I don't talk about this a lot because I'm white and I don't want anyone questioning my identity. However, I love reading about Native history, and recently, Native American characters in YA novels. I loved everything about Ellie's character. She's so relatable! Like me, she has a close relationship with her parents and family. Plus, I love my dog Lulu as much as Ellie loves Kirby!
I didn't know going into this book that there was asexual representation. It was such a wonderful surprise! I identify as asexual and there needs to be more representation out there, not only in novels like this but tv shows, movies, etc. It's so comforting to relate to a character who shares your same identity. A pet peeve of mine is when a novel is publicized as being "about an asexual character..." Sure Ellie is asexual, but there is more to her personality! She is a complex woman and that is so realistic. She also has a strong sense of justice, she's curious, and she's loyal to her best friend.
I would recommend this novel to anyone who wants to read:
- POC authors
- paranormal mystery stories
- heartwarming family tales
Final thoughts:
- Can I just say, I want to meet Kirby so bad! He sounds adorable.
- I love the worldbuilding in this novel. The concept is so unique: a world similar to ours but fully integrated with magical creatures!
- The whole time I was reading I pictured Kawennáhere Devery Jacobs as Ellie. If a movie is ever made inspired by this novel (which I would LOVE) I hope Jacobs gets cast.
Some of my favorite quotes:
"'You can bring a guest to the wedding, but nobody too weird. I get that you’re asexual, so, like, it can be a friend or zucchini or …' She trailed off, sounding a bit uncertain. 'Yeah. Just. Nobody my parents would hate. They already don’t like the groom.' 'Cool. Does my dog count as too weird?'"
"'One reason I struggle with exams,' he said. 'Anxiety wipes my brain clean.'"
"I am not that kind of witch, no matter how many years they locked me away in AndNot and begged me to be better. I am not who they want me to be. So I turn my fury on the kingdom." ~ [b:Ever Cursed|52767394|Ever Cursed|Corey Ann Haydu|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1585286799l/52767394._SY75_.jpg|73727817]
This novel is perfect for fans of [b:Red Hood|43721070|Red Hood|Elana K. Arnold|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1561406538l/43721070._SY75_.jpg|68041410], [b:Cinderella Is Dead|43900612|Cinderella Is Dead|Kalynn Bayron|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1574698353l/43900612._SY75_.jpg|68309452], [b:The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea|51710973|The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea|Maggie Tokuda-Hall|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1592729153l/51710973._SY75_.jpg|58305868], and [a:Amanda Lovelace|15225448|Amanda Lovelace|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1533076817p2/15225448.jpg]'s poetry. This is a standalone feminist fantasy story in the style of a fairytale. The story basically combines all the concepts of European fairytales and reworks the plots into a new story. Think of it as a feminist fairytale retelling of any Disney movie.
I loved the character Reagan especially. She gives off such strong Maleficient vibes and I'M LIVING FOR IT! It's so cool how author [a:Corey Ann Haydu|5414574|Corey Ann Haydu|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1462801584p2/5414574.jpg] took the well-known story of a witch (Maleficient) cursing a kingdom and princess (Sleeping Beauty) and then explaining what the witch's motivations and reasoning were behind this decision. Another aspect of this novel I thoroughly enjoyed is that nobody is who they seem. I could've never predicted the twist at the end! This book deals with dark subject matters aka sexual assault, rape, sexism, oppression, victim shaming, etc. and I thought the author did an amazing job writing about these topics with grace and maturity.
I struggled to remember and comprehend all of the worldbuilding. The family tree is vast and I couldn't pinpoint how all the characters were related. While I love that this novel is a standalone story, it feels like there are 3+ novels worth of worldbuilding in just one book. The kingdom of Ever is well-developed, but there's so much backstory explanation that it made it difficult for me to keep up with the plot.
Overall I am beyond impressed with the author's use of metaphor in this novel. There are allusions to modern issues that we all deal with, but it's not written in such an obvious way that takes away from the magic of the book. Also, can I just say how awesome it is that Ever welcomes people of all gender identities, sexualities, and races??? I love it!
Some of my favorites quotes:
"Witches were our partners in keeping Ever safe. We protected them. They protected us. Perfect symbiosis. Everything about this witch, from her age to her words to the spell itself, was wrong."
"The voice belongs to Abbott Shine. He is not a princess or a witch or Spellbound. He is handsome and tall; he has a voice that is lower than I ever thought his voice would reach. He is just like them, except he knows a different king than they do."
"'You are not a king,' the Queen of Ever says, her first words in five years, but still they sound sure and easy, a little like music. 'Give us the crown.'"
"We grew up thinking queens were quiet women and kings were gentle, good men, but all of that was wrong."
"Every woman in every kind of body, and others, who identify only as witch."
This novel is perfect for fans of [b:Red Hood|43721070|Red Hood|Elana K. Arnold|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1561406538l/43721070._SY75_.jpg|68041410], [b:Cinderella Is Dead|43900612|Cinderella Is Dead|Kalynn Bayron|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1574698353l/43900612._SY75_.jpg|68309452], [b:The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea|51710973|The Mermaid, the Witch, and the Sea|Maggie Tokuda-Hall|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1592729153l/51710973._SY75_.jpg|58305868], and [a:Amanda Lovelace|15225448|Amanda Lovelace|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1533076817p2/15225448.jpg]'s poetry. This is a standalone feminist fantasy story in the style of a fairytale. The story basically combines all the concepts of European fairytales and reworks the plots into a new story. Think of it as a feminist fairytale retelling of any Disney movie.
I loved the character Reagan especially. She gives off such strong Maleficient vibes and I'M LIVING FOR IT! It's so cool how author [a:Corey Ann Haydu|5414574|Corey Ann Haydu|https://images.gr-assets.com/authors/1462801584p2/5414574.jpg] took the well-known story of a witch (Maleficient) cursing a kingdom and princess (Sleeping Beauty) and then explaining what the witch's motivations and reasoning were behind this decision. Another aspect of this novel I thoroughly enjoyed is that nobody is who they seem. I could've never predicted the twist at the end! This book deals with dark subject matters aka sexual assault, rape, sexism, oppression, victim shaming, etc. and I thought the author did an amazing job writing about these topics with grace and maturity.
I struggled to remember and comprehend all of the worldbuilding. The family tree is vast and I couldn't pinpoint how all the characters were related. While I love that this novel is a standalone story, it feels like there are 3+ novels worth of worldbuilding in just one book. The kingdom of Ever is well-developed, but there's so much backstory explanation that it made it difficult for me to keep up with the plot.
Overall I am beyond impressed with the author's use of metaphor in this novel. There are allusions to modern issues that we all deal with, but it's not written in such an obvious way that takes away from the magic of the book. Also, can I just say how awesome it is that Ever welcomes people of all gender identities, sexualities, and races??? I love it!
Some of my favorites quotes:
"Witches were our partners in keeping Ever safe. We protected them. They protected us. Perfect symbiosis. Everything about this witch, from her age to her words to the spell itself, was wrong."
"The voice belongs to Abbott Shine. He is not a princess or a witch or Spellbound. He is handsome and tall; he has a voice that is lower than I ever thought his voice would reach. He is just like them, except he knows a different king than they do."
"'You are not a king,' the Queen of Ever says, her first words in five years, but still they sound sure and easy, a little like music. 'Give us the crown.'"
"We grew up thinking queens were quiet women and kings were gentle, good men, but all of that was wrong."
"Every woman in every kind of body, and others, who identify only as witch."
4.5 stars
"The moon was a sliver tonight, but the embers of the fire on the roof still burned, giving the normally vivid and varied colors of her garden the same orange hue. The grass was cold, wet, and prickly against her bare feet as she padded across the garden to the door in the wall. She felt like a sleepwalker, taking one step and then the next as if compelled by something outside herself. She didn’t care that it was the middle of the night. She didn’t care that she was in her nightdress, her feet bare. All she cared about was the monster waiting for her in the dungeon beneath the palace." ~ [b:Girl, Serpent, Thorn|51182650|Girl, Serpent, Thorn|Melissa Bashardoust|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1596558892l/51182650._SY75_.jpg|57956968]
I love this book too much. You know a book is good when you finish it and then want to read it again right away! I started this book, got 100 pages in, and was about to call it a night. The book was off to a slow start but just then it started to get good. Long story short: I stayed up until 2 am and read 240 pages without stopping. I regret nothing!
This novel deserves ALL THE HYPE. It's a gorgeous fantasy standalone novel about what it means to be a poisonous princess. Soraya has had the most sheltered upbringing until she meets Azad...and the story snowballs from there. Soraya goes on an incredible adventure where she learns the truth of her family's history, more about the mythical creatures of the land, and what it means to love someone. Soraya reminds me a lot of Elsa from "Frozen" even though she's based on "Sleeping Beauty" and "Rapunzel" fairytales. Similar to Elsa, Soraya is hidden from her kingdom and can't touch anyone without the fear of hurting them. Both have a strained relationship with a sibling and possess a unique ability of sorts. I love how Soraya isn't a typical hero princess; she's a stubborn antihero and I love it.
The only aspect of this novel that bothered me was the slow start. There's barely rising action in the plot, it just goes from zero to a hundred so fast. When Soraya went to search for the magic feather, I expected the book to have moved more quickly at that point. The following chapter is so fast-paced that I couldn't stop reading; that's where the plot really picks up. For anyone who has started to read this book and finds the first few chapters boring, trust me, it gets SO GOOD!
If you love bad boy villains, this book has one! I feel a great deal of sympathy for Azad. I actually really loved his backstory and his relationship with Soraya. Don't get me wrong, he's not perfect by any standard, but he's such a compelling character. I think Soraya believed in him; believed he really had the capacity to change. While their relationship wasn't healthy, it added to a great deal of Soraya's development. In a strange way, I can't imagine them apart. I would've loved Soraya's relationship with Parvaneh if they had more time together. Everyone raves about the gay love story in this novel, and it's not that I didn't #ship them, but I needed more scenes with them to understand their relationship. Overall I was won over by the lyrical prose, enigmatic characters, and unpredictable plot. Definitely one of my favorite reads of 2020!
Favorite Quotes:
"In their glowing smiles, she saw the truth: that she always would have lost them, because they were meant to know joy. And no matter how much she wanted to deny it, Soraya knew that a part of her would always resent them for that joy, for having even the possibility of it."
"'Do you see now why I recognized you? You’re my favorite story. I feel like I’ve known you for a long time.' Soraya drew in a breath, unable to speak. For the first time, she saw herself as Azad had imagined her—the heroine of a story, not the monster."
"I like the person I am when I’m with you. And I’d like to help you be whoever you want to be."
"Very well, then. Be angry. Be violent. But not for his sake. Not to do as he commands. Be angry for yourself. Use that rage to fight him."
"The moon was a sliver tonight, but the embers of the fire on the roof still burned, giving the normally vivid and varied colors of her garden the same orange hue. The grass was cold, wet, and prickly against her bare feet as she padded across the garden to the door in the wall. She felt like a sleepwalker, taking one step and then the next as if compelled by something outside herself. She didn’t care that it was the middle of the night. She didn’t care that she was in her nightdress, her feet bare. All she cared about was the monster waiting for her in the dungeon beneath the palace." ~ [b:Girl, Serpent, Thorn|51182650|Girl, Serpent, Thorn|Melissa Bashardoust|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1596558892l/51182650._SY75_.jpg|57956968]
I love this book too much. You know a book is good when you finish it and then want to read it again right away! I started this book, got 100 pages in, and was about to call it a night. The book was off to a slow start but just then it started to get good. Long story short: I stayed up until 2 am and read 240 pages without stopping. I regret nothing!
This novel deserves ALL THE HYPE. It's a gorgeous fantasy standalone novel about what it means to be a poisonous princess. Soraya has had the most sheltered upbringing until she meets Azad...and the story snowballs from there. Soraya goes on an incredible adventure where she learns the truth of her family's history, more about the mythical creatures of the land, and what it means to love someone. Soraya reminds me a lot of Elsa from "Frozen" even though she's based on "Sleeping Beauty" and "Rapunzel" fairytales. Similar to Elsa, Soraya is hidden from her kingdom and can't touch anyone without the fear of hurting them. Both have a strained relationship with a sibling and possess a unique ability of sorts. I love how Soraya isn't a typical hero princess; she's a stubborn antihero and I love it.
The only aspect of this novel that bothered me was the slow start. There's barely rising action in the plot, it just goes from zero to a hundred so fast. When Soraya went to search for the magic feather, I expected the book to have moved more quickly at that point. The following chapter is so fast-paced that I couldn't stop reading; that's where the plot really picks up. For anyone who has started to read this book and finds the first few chapters boring, trust me, it gets SO GOOD!
If you love bad boy villains, this book has one! I feel a great deal of sympathy for Azad. I actually really loved his backstory and his relationship with Soraya. Don't get me wrong, he's not perfect by any standard, but he's such a compelling character. I think Soraya believed in him; believed he really had the capacity to change. While their relationship wasn't healthy, it added to a great deal of Soraya's development. In a strange way, I can't imagine them apart. I would've loved Soraya's relationship with Parvaneh if they had more time together. Everyone raves about the gay love story in this novel, and it's not that I didn't #ship them, but I needed more scenes with them to understand their relationship. Overall I was won over by the lyrical prose, enigmatic characters, and unpredictable plot. Definitely one of my favorite reads of 2020!
Favorite Quotes:
"In their glowing smiles, she saw the truth: that she always would have lost them, because they were meant to know joy. And no matter how much she wanted to deny it, Soraya knew that a part of her would always resent them for that joy, for having even the possibility of it."
"'Do you see now why I recognized you? You’re my favorite story. I feel like I’ve known you for a long time.' Soraya drew in a breath, unable to speak. For the first time, she saw herself as Azad had imagined her—the heroine of a story, not the monster."
"I like the person I am when I’m with you. And I’d like to help you be whoever you want to be."
"Very well, then. Be angry. Be violent. But not for his sake. Not to do as he commands. Be angry for yourself. Use that rage to fight him."
ARC BOOK REVIEW FOR NETGALLEY
"A gardener's daughter with blood that could raise entire forests?" ~ [b:Among the Beasts & Briars|50622362|Among the Beasts & Briars|Ashley Poston|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1581362704l/50622362._SY75_.jpg|60423336]
This was my most anticipated book of 2020 and IT DIDN'T DISAPPOINT!!!! I'm still reeling from the perfection of this book. I love this novel's dreamy autumn aesthetic - everything from the beautiful woodland cover to quotes like: "the village was the one I remembered - with its smoky chimneys and brightly covered rooftops and the clock in the town square ringing noon every day, the sweet smell of cinnamon rolls and the high-rising breads from the bakery, the town musician on his fiddle." Who gave this book the right to be so gorgeous?!
An unexpected pleasure of this novel is Cerys and Lorne's dialogue. Their witty and dynamic banter is lovely! Their exchanges were the scenes I lived for. Cerys's chapters were a joy to read; she has such an intelligent, yet a humble way of seeing the world. My favorite line of hers was: "Cryptic undead men were the worst." LOL
As for critiques, I only have one. I didn't like the way Vala's story ended at all...she was one of my favorite characters! However, there is so much to love about this book. I'm kinda curious if the quote, "I nailed my courage to the sticking place" was a "Beauty and the Beast" reference? I'd love it if it was!
This is supposed to be a standalone but the ending really hints at a sequel, so what's up? I'd thoroughly enjoy another book with these whimsical characters! I want to know more about Seren, the Lady of the Wood! Keeping my fingers crossed. Overall I'd recommend this novel to anyone who enjoyed [b:An Enchantment of Ravens|30969741|An Enchantment of Ravens|Margaret Rogerson|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1486244049l/30969741._SY75_.jpg|51586838], [b:A Court of Thorns and Roses|16096824|A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1)|Sarah J. Maas|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1546406962l/16096824._SY75_.jpg|21905102], [b:Poison Study|60510|Poison Study (Study, #1)|Maria V. Snyder|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1388519019l/60510._SY75_.jpg|1180409], and the Disney movie "Brave" because Vala reminds me so much of Queen Elinor!
Some of my favorite quotes:
"'Go to sleep, Daisy. Maybe you'll unpack some of those bags under your eyes.'" LOL
"'Oh sure, I'll just ask the ancients if they can wait until we've had our morning coffee before they try to kill us again.'"
"Women were everywhere - brandishing swords in the barracks and debating policies in the streets."
"They were questions I should've been asking before, but my ears had been filled with stories that were lies."
"A gardener's daughter with blood that could raise entire forests?" ~ [b:Among the Beasts & Briars|50622362|Among the Beasts & Briars|Ashley Poston|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1581362704l/50622362._SY75_.jpg|60423336]
This was my most anticipated book of 2020 and IT DIDN'T DISAPPOINT!!!! I'm still reeling from the perfection of this book. I love this novel's dreamy autumn aesthetic - everything from the beautiful woodland cover to quotes like: "the village was the one I remembered - with its smoky chimneys and brightly covered rooftops and the clock in the town square ringing noon every day, the sweet smell of cinnamon rolls and the high-rising breads from the bakery, the town musician on his fiddle." Who gave this book the right to be so gorgeous?!
An unexpected pleasure of this novel is Cerys and Lorne's dialogue. Their witty and dynamic banter is lovely! Their exchanges were the scenes I lived for. Cerys's chapters were a joy to read; she has such an intelligent, yet a humble way of seeing the world. My favorite line of hers was: "Cryptic undead men were the worst." LOL
As for critiques, I only have one. I didn't like the way Vala's story ended at all...she was one of my favorite characters! However, there is so much to love about this book. I'm kinda curious if the quote, "I nailed my courage to the sticking place" was a "Beauty and the Beast" reference? I'd love it if it was!
This is supposed to be a standalone but the ending really hints at a sequel, so what's up? I'd thoroughly enjoy another book with these whimsical characters! I want to know more about Seren, the Lady of the Wood! Keeping my fingers crossed. Overall I'd recommend this novel to anyone who enjoyed [b:An Enchantment of Ravens|30969741|An Enchantment of Ravens|Margaret Rogerson|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1486244049l/30969741._SY75_.jpg|51586838], [b:A Court of Thorns and Roses|16096824|A Court of Thorns and Roses (A Court of Thorns and Roses, #1)|Sarah J. Maas|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1546406962l/16096824._SY75_.jpg|21905102], [b:Poison Study|60510|Poison Study (Study, #1)|Maria V. Snyder|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1388519019l/60510._SY75_.jpg|1180409], and the Disney movie "Brave" because Vala reminds me so much of Queen Elinor!
Some of my favorite quotes:
"'Go to sleep, Daisy. Maybe you'll unpack some of those bags under your eyes.'" LOL
"'Oh sure, I'll just ask the ancients if they can wait until we've had our morning coffee before they try to kill us again.'"
"Women were everywhere - brandishing swords in the barracks and debating policies in the streets."
"They were questions I should've been asking before, but my ears had been filled with stories that were lies."