Reviews with content warning for Rape - Legendborn

“Death is not a thread. It is the sharp cut that severs us. Death separates us from one another, and yet it holds us close. As deeply as we hate it, it loves us more.” (pg. 305)

I have heard nothing but good things about this book, and I now see why! This has easily become my new favorite book, and I cannot wait to get my grubby little fingers on Bloodmarked and Oathbound when it’s released next year 😭. I don’t know why I put off reading it for as long as I have, but I will not be making the same mistake with the others in this series.

Brianna “Bree” Matthews is an African American teen who recently lost her mother to a car accident and is currently attending an early college program at the University of California, which her mother just so happened to attend 25 years prior. While there, she discovers that the world isn’t exactly as it seems, and there may be someone who knows about the mysteries surrounding her mother’s death. This story focuses heavily on the grieving process and the lasting, current impacts of slavery. As a black woman, I was able to relate to these issues and the anger/injustice that Bree felt throughout the book, which added another layer of enjoyment. However, anyone from any race can enjoy this book and learn from it, and I would highly recommend it to anyone who has even the slightest interest in fantasy.

I’m not one to give out 5 stars so liberally, so believe me when I say that I really tried to wrack my brain for any possibly gripe I could have had with this book. None exist. This is an amazing book, 10/10, no notes. Period. Genuinely, I’ve sat with this book for a couple days, and I still am in love with it and I can’t even think to utter a negative word about it.

The background behind the magic systems was well thought out and helped push the theme even further. Bree was a complex character that helped spread awareness for PCBD, which is something I’d never heard of before reading this book. Alice was a true ride or die best friend that anyone would be lucky to have in their corner, and I loved their banter. There were cute, romantic moments that had me giggling and kicking my feet. And the TWISTS! My God! Towards the end of the book, my jaw gradually dislocated to the point that it hit the floor and beyond. I’m still picking it up to this day.

Ms. Deonn knows exactly what she’s doing!! I cannot wait to see where this story goes. I’m also curious about the end-game love interest. I have very high hopes for the rest of the series; I can hardly wait!

Content Warnings

blakeandbooks's review

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adventurous emotional inspiring mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

5.0

I am absolutely KICKING MYSELF for not reading this sooner!!! This is so much more than a fantasy book—it dives so deep into anti-blackness, colonization, racism, grief, self-discovery, familial history, complex friendships, and so much more. This is everything I want in a YA Fantasy. Bree is an absolute powerhouse, and I LOVED her as a main character. She has such an incredible character arc that I cannot wait to see develop into more of her power and strength in the rest of the series. I love all of the friendships she forms and how hilarious she is 😭 I honestly was expecting something wild to happen at the end, but I was so excited with how Deonn weaves Bree’s story together. I cannot wait to read Bloodmarked!!!

Content Warnings

ebp's review against another edition

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adventurous emotional inspiring mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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