A review by moonlitreading_
Faebound by Saara El-Arifi

emotional funny hopeful lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

“Forever the war will rage, until united, the three shall die. Humans made low, then fae made lower, Then elves in ignorance, gone is their power, Cursed to endure, cursed to survive. All shall perish lest all three thrive.”

This book was something I was looking forward to reading and I was really happy when I got approved for an ARC. Elves, fae, magic, mythical creatures, diversity, and sapphic romance. Who wouldn’t be excited to read something with all those elements?? I especially loved the POC and the LGBTQIA+ representation; I think Saara El-Arifi did a good job in that area.

Unfortunately, the rest of the book has left me disappointed. The prologue and the first few chapters of the book sparked my interest that made me think I was about to go on an epic journey (I didn’t). The worldbuilding itself wasn’t bad but it felt lacking. Some of the twists were obvious, especially the ones from prophecies, and this is coming from someone who is pretty bad at guessing them. As for the romance, I did not care for any of the romantic relationships. It felt forced like they were there just for the sake of having romance in the book.

Thank you HarperCollins UK and Netgalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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