skellington1999 's review for:

Legendary by Stephanie Garber

4.25

adventurous challenging dark mysterious fast-paced

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Similar to Caraval, I once again found myself swept into a world of magic and glittering veils of deceit. But this time, the enchantment felt less soft and sweet, and far more treacherous—sharp, dangerous, and intoxicating. Donatella, unlike her sister Scarlett, is a force all her own. Younger, more unpredictable, and brimming with a charm that’s as compelling as it is volatile, she captivated me completely. I admire her refusal to bow to fear, her recklessness in straying from a clear path, and yet, paradoxically, the certainty she carries in knowing what she truly wants. Bold and unyieldingly stubborn, Tella makes this story shine, and for that reason, I find myself loving this book just a smidge more than its predecessor.

The plot is gloriously complex and deliciously unnerving. Meeting the infamous Prince of Hearts was like being handed a sweet surprise, adding a sharper edge to the story and deepening my appreciation for this charming, dangerous figure. Legend, however, is every bit as daring, and the tension between characters makes the story even more irresistible. Tella’s arc, filled with growth and self-discovery, is powerful and moving, especially as she grapples with questions of fate and choice. The ending, in true Stephanie Garber fashion, is both frustrating and heartbreaking. And just as with Once Upon a Broken Heart, I found that the second book captured my love even more than the first.