A review by yourbookishbff
Asiri and the Amaru by Natalia Hernandez

adventurous funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

This is the epitome of cozy, lighthearted fantasy. It's whimsical and sweet, with fairytale-like storytelling and a large cast of loveable (and talkative) animals. Inspired by Peruvian folklore, the story feels like a coming-of-age or adventure story, given the female main character's departure from home to seek independence. Though both main characters are in their late 20s, the nature of their story arcs makes them feel younger at times, as each is navigating identity and belonging outside of their family units. This is an open-door romance as well, and while I loved the primary romance and how the two characters build their connection, the open-door scenes actually felt so tonally different from the rest of the story that I found myself wishing this had been closed door. I also felt the conflict separating these two was flimsy by the end, and it became more frustrating to see the miscommunication without a rock-solid reason for denying the necessary tell-all. 

I would recommend to those who love to sink into lighthearted and low-stakes fantasies, and only feel conflicted on if this succeeded for me as a romance. 
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