A review by kearstinreading
The Monarchs by Danielle Paige, Kass Morgan

adventurous dark mysterious medium-paced

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

3.75

"The Monarchs," a sequel to "The Ravens," had big shoes to fill after my appreciation of its predecessor. While it didn't quite match the heights of the original, it remains a good read in its own right, offering a story that, while not as character-driven as the first book, still manages to captivate readers.

This installment picks up with Vivi and Scarlett as they navigate the aftermath of a year filled with loss and upheaval. Determined to move forward and prove that they're still a force to be reckoned with, they face the daunting challenge of preserving the sisterhood they cherish. Yet, as the new school year commences, an ominous darkness begins to infiltrate their idyllic world, leaving them scrambling to make sense of the unraveling mysteries.

While the first book placed significant emphasis on character development, "The Monarchs" leans more on its plot, making it a slightly surprising approach for a young adult novel. Despite this shift, the story doesn't shy away from highlighting the importance of found family and the unbreakable bonds of sisterhood. While romantic love plays a more prominent role here than in the original, it's not overdone and fits well within the narrative.

One of the highlights of "The Monarchs" is its ability to deliver unexpected twists and turns, particularly in the final chapters. The book manages to keep readers on their toes, preventing them from guessing the culprit and eliciting genuine gasps of surprise.

Overall, "The Monarchs" may not surpass its predecessor, but it remains a good read, particularly for those seeking a casual autumnal story. The themes of sisterhood and a well-executed plot make it a worthy addition to the series, and it's certainly a recommendation I'd make to a friend in search of an engaging read.