Monday Review by the Book Dragon: A beautifully written original fairy tale for all ages!

The Book Dragon has read An Echo of the Fae by Jenelle L. Schmidt and gives it 5 claws!

My review: This is a lovely, lyrical fantasy quest story that begins quietly but with a strong undercurrent of mystery. Then the almost 13-year-old heroine is faced with life-changing choices and must reach into the deepest corners of her soul to find courage and perseverance in overcoming the obstacles to the object of her quest.

It's difficult to write a review without spoilers. This story is uplifting and family-friendly in so many ways, a true "noblebright" fantasy tale! I encourage readers of all ages who like original fairy tales, selkies, the realm of fae, portals into other worlds, dragons, and magic to read this jewel! It's one of the best stories I've read this year.

Monday Review by the Book Dragon: An imaginative sort-of Cinderella retelling

 

The Book Dragon has finished Ashen by H. L. Burke and gives it 5 claws!

My review: 4.5 stars for an imaginative world populated by memorable characters, especially the mysterious heroine Lizbete with skin the color of ash and a constant need for warmth. Burke is so good at writing stories about scrappy young female protagonists, and this one is hard to put down! It's difficult to write a review without spoilers, but if you like magic, mystery, and romance, you must read this book! It's fun to see the Cinderella tropes reimagined, but mostly it's a journey of discovery for Lizbete, her few friends, and the many who fear or distrust her. The climax is amazing! And I'm still puzzling over how Burke wrote temperature so well--I felt a chill in some places and began to sweat in others. Bravo!

Monday Review by the Book Dragon: A dark and deep fantasy with a strong heroine

 

The Book Dragon has read Thorn by Intisar Khanani and gives it 4 claws!

My review: This is a fantasy that immersed me in another time and culture with rich details. The characters were living and breathing, and there was an element of mystery as well as magic. The title character was relatable and sympathetic, and some of the minor characters stole my heart. The story is deep and dark and at times very uncomfortable; it makes the reader think about justice and mercy, vengeance and forgiveness. There is minor language and are some disturbing situations that might give a young or tender-hearted reader nightmares. I'd recommend for ages 17 and up.