A review by anais_novels
Forest of Dreams and Whispers by Katherine Macdonald

adventurous funny medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? Character
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

3.5

“Sleeping beauty meets The Cruel Prince (with its strong parts and leaving out the weaknesses)” this was the premise I got the book recommended with.

I really enjoyed the first half. The banter between our hero Juliana, a strong, independent guard of the prince and said flirty prince was fun. Seeing the story and their past/ present relationship unfold interesting and catching. 

But near the middle of the book (it could also be around 60%/ 70% mark) it started dragging. Things happened which wouldn’t have changed the story if they got cut. Which made it longer without reason. The antagonist felt bland in character and motivation. I like his later physical character design though. Because I really enjoy fearsome and brutally evil villains I see this as a missed opportunity because he could have been much more. Also the end felt a bit rushed.

One pet peeve I have to add is that at some points in the book some phrases and words get repeated quite often which always disrupt my reading flow when it just gets to much.

Even though I enjoyed the first half way more some of my favourite scenes were in the second part. All in all I had my fun with this book and  recommend it to fans of The Cruel Prince and readers who just want to have a fun read with lots of banter and some tender and loving moments between former “enemies”.

This is of course only my personal opinion and everyone can enjoy what they want. 
I’m sorry of possible errors because English isn’t my mother tongue.