Review #505
I love the title & cover. I picked this for a bookclub and now that I’m finished I’m not sure how to rate it. 3.9/5 out of frustration or 4.3/5 as a whole…?
I guess I’ll settle in the middle with 4.1/5 stars
This is a fantasy with bits of romance. I thought it was YA but then apparently not. It’s written in one point of view, third person narrative & has a sequel coming out in May.
Here’s my thoughts he s while reading. Be careful of the spoilers:
The opening chapter is clear, vivid, created two likable characters with opposing goals and set up the setting well. Very well done.
I like how concise the writing is and how much action there already is. She’s already likeable because of her love for the orphan children and how she volunteered to take her aunt’s place.
I adore bookish books so the fact that she’s in a library is awesome. What are the fae trying to find? Why hasn’t it been used in so long?
At the halfway mark I love that she’s experiencing this strange magic she may have. Is she a half light fae by chance? Im glad she’s trying to protect herself too. But what is her main goal? To explore what else is out there in the world and feel magic or go home to help her town?
After Chapter 16 I still don’t know if the second male on the cover is Gray or Finndryl or neither.
Most of chapter 17 & half of 18 felt unneeded
I’m so confused in chapter 19 that this is now a possible love triangle in the future book (coming out in May). It’s strange to have main characters be brought into the story so late. The plot feels a bit aimless now and I want her to get back on track.
I hate her choice to go into the woods alone after so many people have made sacrifices to keep her safe.
After chapter 23 I have no good prediction of where this story is going anymore. Now she wants to go save Grey instead of going home? There isn’t a clear goal or direction.
I feel like the pages will run out before I learn why she has magic as a human.
When Asher returns their increased feelings towards each other feels like whiplash. They didn’t seem to be that strong of a couple when he had left.
Their mini segzy scene, though short, was more intense than I expected because there hasn’t been much hint that there’d be steam since it has felt YA so far.
It doesn’t make sense that she’s becoming so powerful so fast.
Interesting cliffhanger but there isn’t enough inklings or support to do such a full 180. So as much of a “shocker” it is to readers, it feels a bit too far fetched to have a complete reversal.
So, I liked the action scenes and the beginning part had a lot of potential. I feel as if the structure fell apart as the novel progressed.
Having 2 options for guys is always compelling for me to turn the pages so I read this quickly but I’m unsure about wanting to read the next one.