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A review by relovesbooks
Never the Roses by Jennifer K. Lambert
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ALC of Never the Roses.
This book is a mature slow-burn romantasy, and I loved it. It is a reimagining of the classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. The main characters in this story are rival sorcerers, each possessing unique magical abilities. The FMC has exiled herself and has magical animal companions. Without spoiling the book too much, her magical capabilities center around sleeping and dreaming.
This story is more character-driven than plot-driven. The writing is enchanting yet catered to adults. The world-building is rich. The characters are older with lived experiences, unlike the common growing pains or coming-of-age themes we see in most romantasies. I love that the enemies-to-lovers romance builds slowly. This book may not work for those who do not enjoy a "quiet fantasy." It does not have action-packed battle scenes or some sort of grand mission/adventure. I compare the pacing to Sword Catcher or The Invisible Life of Addie Larue. Similar to those two books, you have character development through the main characters daily living in the beginning, the pace picks up after the 50% mark, and the payoff comes together beautifully at the end. The epilogue...the EPILOGUE...that's all I can say.
This is a fantastic debut with emotional depth. I personally enjoy these types of reads and look forward to reading more from the author.
This book is a mature slow-burn romantasy, and I loved it. It is a reimagining of the classic fairy tale Sleeping Beauty. The main characters in this story are rival sorcerers, each possessing unique magical abilities. The FMC has exiled herself and has magical animal companions. Without spoiling the book too much, her magical capabilities center around sleeping and dreaming.
This story is more character-driven than plot-driven. The writing is enchanting yet catered to adults. The world-building is rich. The characters are older with lived experiences, unlike the common growing pains or coming-of-age themes we see in most romantasies. I love that the enemies-to-lovers romance builds slowly. This book may not work for those who do not enjoy a "quiet fantasy." It does not have action-packed battle scenes or some sort of grand mission/adventure. I compare the pacing to Sword Catcher or The Invisible Life of Addie Larue. Similar to those two books, you have character development through the main characters daily living in the beginning, the pace picks up after the 50% mark, and the payoff comes together beautifully at the end. The epilogue...the EPILOGUE...that's all I can say.
This is a fantastic debut with emotional depth. I personally enjoy these types of reads and look forward to reading more from the author.