Review by localghhost - The Stolen Heir

localghhost 's review for:

The Stolen Heir by Holly Black

4.5

adventurous emotional medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Complicated

Diverse cast of characters: No

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

I love a book with a slightly unhinged protagonist and I found this in both Wren and Oak. Both characters are wresting with trauma and dealing with it in different (and sometimes similar) ways. I love the contrast of these two and the way they highlight how different people respond and react to violence and abuse. The plot, while engaging, does tend to take a backseat. This is a quality that can be off putting but I find it makes sense in the context.

Given that Wren is the missing Heart of Mellith, it makes sense that the plot focuses more on her and Oak.

This feels like a book with high stakes. I found myself thinking about it after I finished and immediately looking to read the next one.

Content Warnings