Young Adult Fantasy – Author Gail Marie

Book Review – The Gilded Wolves (The Gilded Wolves 1) by Roshani Chokshi

I feel like this was another instance of walking into reading a book based on high expectations. This book won an award and I had this recommended to me by many other readers. At least for me, I was disappointed with most of this book. I didn’t love her characters and their dialogue had me questioning where the historical aspects were meant to be since they didn’t seem to match. Her writing style didn’t draw me in or build any suspense throughout the plot. The pace was awkward since it didn’t seem to always line up with the plot. This was an all-right road but I’m glad I checked this out with kindle unlimited before purchasing it. (2/5 rating)
Checked out with kindle unlimited, August 2023.

Book Review – The Cruel Prince (The Folk of the Air 1) by Holly Black

This book centers around twin human sisters (Jude and Taryn) and one Fae sister (Vivienne), growing up alongside Fae children after their mother is killed. The only way for Jude to find a future among them will force her to compete at a famous yearly fighting competition. If she does well enough, she would be granted knight status. But one bloody night will change life as they know it and throw the realm into chaos. I feel like I read this at a bad time, or maybe my expectations were way too high, but I struggle to connect with some aspects of the story. I liked Jude and her desire to find her place. I liked this world and the political plot points that set up the ending. Given the circumstances that bring the sisters into Fae, I struggle with Madoc’s behavior. I feel like I would have enjoyed this more from the viewpoint of Vivienne. (3/5 rating)

Book Review – The Queen of Cursed Things (The Serpents and Kings Trilogy 1) by S.M. Gaither

This was my first novel by S.M. Gaither, so I checked it out with my kindle membership first. Our female MC is Alaya, is a descendant of a banished serpent clan and born with the ability to wake them up. Our male MC, the Prince of a monstrous king who wants him dead, will do anything to gain power to stop his father. Together they plan to bring peace to the realm. The premise of this story is well executed with trust and betrayal, leaving Alaya unsure of who to believe wants to help her cause for peace. Gaither weaves an intimate web of deceit around the cast of characters that come together to save their world. I was intrigued by this world and their magic, and I am certainly invested enough to continue with this trilogy. (3/5 rating)