Published: March 6, 2018 by: Henry Holt Books for Young Readers
Pages: 544
Rating: 2/5 stars
Zelie was born to a Reaper, a magical woman with powers to summon souls from the dead. But now, Zelie's land of Orisha has no magic, as a tyrannical king killed all those possessing power. Determined to avenge her mother and bring back her rightful magic, Zelie embarks on a journey through Orisha with a rogue princess by her side, while she attempts to find herself, and tap into her own maji powers for help.
I know, I know, this book was hyped up. And, it had potential. I was very excited to go into this novel, and it seemed like a very unique concept with a beautiful setting. However, I found it to be lacking any kind of interest for me, and overall I was just very bored.
Let's start with one positive thing though, I did love the setting of the novel. I think Adeyemi sets a scene very well, and her world building was incredible. I enjoyed reading about the scenery, and I found her descriptions of setting to be beautiful. But that's pretty much where my love for this novel ends.
I just was so unbelievably bored. I found the story to take too many twists and turns that I was confused. I didn't find myself connected to the characters, and I wanted more from the magic. I don't know if it was just me, but I didn't find the plot to have much substance and everything seemed very character-driven, it was just: meh.
I know I have had a love-hate with fantasies in the past, but I really was ready to give this book a fighting chance, due to all the hype. However, I think it just fits into the category of fantasies that are way too confusing, and need more action. I skimmed pages, and everything just fell flat. I'm sorry Book Twitter :(
Have you read Children of Blood and Bone? What did you think?
Emily @ Paperback Princess
Oh no, I'm sad this one didn't work for you. :( I actually really loved, and I think I rounded up my rating to five stars - I was hesitating between 4 and 5. I liked the characters, and found them very realistic as teens who are suddenly put into this situation and who make bad or hasty decisions. I enjoyed the plot, but it wasn't very memorable - besides the ending I can barely recall any specific scenes, haha. But yeah, like you said, this is very character driven, and I think it works (for me) because of that. :)
ReplyDeleteI’m glad you enjoyed it, Veronika! I guess it all depends on personal preference :)
DeleteIf you don't like it, Em, you don't like it *shrugs* Hope your next read is more for you! XD <3
ReplyDeleteThanks Cee! Sometimes that’s just the way it is!
DeleteAs much as I love fantasy books, I haven't been interested in reading this one at all. Sometimes a lot of hype surrounding a book weirdly turns me off to it, haha. But I'm sorry this one didn't work out for you! I don't think I'll be reading it.
ReplyDeleteI don’t think you’re missing much, to be honest haha!
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