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shereadytoread's review
adventurous
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.5
“Go to that wonderful place and stay there as long as you can manage. In that place, you are free. In that place, we are all free.”
Review: 4.5 stars rounded up
The Nightland Express is a YA historical fantasy that takes place in the antebellum frontier. It is such a fun ride with depth and stakes. It follows two young people trying to escape their secrets as they join the Pony Express only to find out they are taking an adventure on the magical Nightland Express instead.
The main characters Jesse and Ben are such deeply written characters and their foil brings so much to the table. As their secrets are slowly revealed to one another, we see how important the promises that we make to ourselves and each other can be. The queer representation in the book is explored through the fantasy elements and it’s so beautiful. It also speaks to colonization and historical traumas very well.
I can say that I am not a big fan of historical fiction or westerns but the themes of this book push out of the genre and pulled me into the story.
Disclaimer: I received a gifted finished copy of this book.
Review: 4.5 stars rounded up
The Nightland Express is a YA historical fantasy that takes place in the antebellum frontier. It is such a fun ride with depth and stakes. It follows two young people trying to escape their secrets as they join the Pony Express only to find out they are taking an adventure on the magical Nightland Express instead.
The main characters Jesse and Ben are such deeply written characters and their foil brings so much to the table. As their secrets are slowly revealed to one another, we see how important the promises that we make to ourselves and each other can be. The queer representation in the book is explored through the fantasy elements and it’s so beautiful. It also speaks to colonization and historical traumas very well.
I can say that I am not a big fan of historical fiction or westerns but the themes of this book push out of the genre and pulled me into the story.
Disclaimer: I received a gifted finished copy of this book.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence and Slavery
Minor: Transphobia
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