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kmartbooks 's review for:
A Blossom at Midnight
by A.L. Knorr
slow-paced
I was debating DNFing this book at around 50%, to be completely honest. The sweat perfume was introduced and it seemed like this was a far more cozy read than I anticipated. I came on to see other reviews and noted that things started escalating soon, so I stuck it out and I'm SO glad that I did. I REALLY enjoyed this. Things got much darker - MUCH darker - and far more interesting.
This begins with a deceptively cozy atmosphere that belies the much darker, more complex story waiting beneath its surface. It’s set in a nature-infused world where flora and fauna magic take center stage. Readers looking for a dreamy yet layered fantasy will find plenty to love—if they’re patient enough to let the story unfold.
The book’s opening half leans heavily into world-building, introducing Jessica and her induction into the glittering, secretive world of the Calyx, where even the smallest details—like the sweat perfume—carry significance. Admittedly, this part feels slow, and I found myself questioning whether the story would pick up. But once it does, wow, does it escalate. Darkness creeps in, stakes rise, and the narrative takes unexpected turns that retroactively justify the earlier groundwork. By the time the pace quickened, I was fully invested.
The story’s strength lies in its rich world-building and its balance of characters. Jessica’s journey is compelling as she navigates her half-fae identity and uncovers her family’s secrets. Laec’s arc brings emotional depth and the intrigue of court politics, while Çifta’s plight is haunting and intense. The characters’ paths eventually intertwine in ways that promise even more excitement in future installments.
A Blossom at Midnight rewards readers who stick with it. Knorr weaves an intricate tale that sets the stage for what feels like a promising series. By the end, I was hooked, and I’m eager to dive into the next book to see how this richly imagined world continues to unfold.
This begins with a deceptively cozy atmosphere that belies the much darker, more complex story waiting beneath its surface. It’s set in a nature-infused world where flora and fauna magic take center stage. Readers looking for a dreamy yet layered fantasy will find plenty to love—if they’re patient enough to let the story unfold.
The book’s opening half leans heavily into world-building, introducing Jessica and her induction into the glittering, secretive world of the Calyx, where even the smallest details—like the sweat perfume—carry significance. Admittedly, this part feels slow, and I found myself questioning whether the story would pick up. But once it does, wow, does it escalate. Darkness creeps in, stakes rise, and the narrative takes unexpected turns that retroactively justify the earlier groundwork. By the time the pace quickened, I was fully invested.
The story’s strength lies in its rich world-building and its balance of characters. Jessica’s journey is compelling as she navigates her half-fae identity and uncovers her family’s secrets. Laec’s arc brings emotional depth and the intrigue of court politics, while Çifta’s plight is haunting and intense. The characters’ paths eventually intertwine in ways that promise even more excitement in future installments.
A Blossom at Midnight rewards readers who stick with it. Knorr weaves an intricate tale that sets the stage for what feels like a promising series. By the end, I was hooked, and I’m eager to dive into the next book to see how this richly imagined world continues to unfold.