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A review by moony_reads
Celestial Monsters by Aiden Thomas
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
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
Celestial Monsters is a brilliant conclusion to a Aiden Thomas’ YA fantasy duology.
I have been a fan of Thomas’ work for a few years now, they forge characters beautifully and have a real gift when it comes to YA fantasy. Not too heavy but not too childish. Very Goldilocks.
The duology has a strong focus on family, legacy and community, with stunning references to mythology. We explore a variety of family dynamics and how these powers play out differently for the semidioses’, as well as the expectations created for them.
The dulology is surprisingly empowering for fantasy works and as with Thomas’ other work, important messages are hidden. The core message is one of love and friendship, embodied by the central trio of Teo, Aurelio and Niya, who have perfect chemistry.
And the shining star: Teo. He is wonderful protagonist, embracing his power and learning to celebrate his brilliance. The character arc he has been on is beautiful and the development throughout is so well done. It’s also wonderful to read a trans character and not have their trans-ness be the main plot.
Celestial Monsters is a perfect ending to the duology.
Thank you Macmillan Children’s and Netgalley for the ARC!
I have been a fan of Thomas’ work for a few years now, they forge characters beautifully and have a real gift when it comes to YA fantasy. Not too heavy but not too childish. Very Goldilocks.
The duology has a strong focus on family, legacy and community, with stunning references to mythology. We explore a variety of family dynamics and how these powers play out differently for the semidioses’, as well as the expectations created for them.
The dulology is surprisingly empowering for fantasy works and as with Thomas’ other work, important messages are hidden. The core message is one of love and friendship, embodied by the central trio of Teo, Aurelio and Niya, who have perfect chemistry.
And the shining star: Teo. He is wonderful protagonist, embracing his power and learning to celebrate his brilliance. The character arc he has been on is beautiful and the development throughout is so well done. It’s also wonderful to read a trans character and not have their trans-ness be the main plot.
Celestial Monsters is a perfect ending to the duology.
Thank you Macmillan Children’s and Netgalley for the ARC!