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plotandpaper 's review for:
Beyond Mulberry Glen
by Millie Florence
adventurous
mysterious
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I received this book as an ARC from NetGalley and requested it based on the description, my love of middle grade adventures, and—let’s be honest—the cuteness of the cover. I was ready to step into my “Middle Grade Reading Era” with something whimsical and adventurous, and this book definitely delivered on that front.
What I Loved:
The worldbuilding was wonderful, with a lush and magical setting that felt easy to get lost in. I adored the side characters—especially the mischievous Zs—who brought humor and charm to the story. It captured that middle-grade heart of belonging and figuring out your place in the world, while still being full of magic and wonder.
What I Didn’t Love:
The pacing felt a little slow at times, with more detail than I usually expect in middle-grade fantasy. While I loved the setting and side characters, Lydia herself didn’t always hold my attention, and the ending left me feeling a little underwhelmed after such a promising start.
Rating:
I’m giving Beyond Mulberry Glen 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a whimsical, magical middle-grade adventure—full of heart, charming side characters, and beautiful worldbuilding—more of a stroll through a fantasy world than a sprint, but worth the journey
Recommendation:
A great pick for fantasy-loving middle grade readers (or adults like me who love the genre) who enjoy magical adventures, ragtag sidekicks, and a touch of whimsy. Perfect if you want a story that’s cozy, magical, and easy to read—even if it dawdles here and there.
One Compelling Sentence:
A whimsical, magical adventure with heart—more of a stroll through a fantasy world than a sprint, but worth the journey.
Thank you to Waxwing Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
What I Loved:
The worldbuilding was wonderful, with a lush and magical setting that felt easy to get lost in. I adored the side characters—especially the mischievous Zs—who brought humor and charm to the story. It captured that middle-grade heart of belonging and figuring out your place in the world, while still being full of magic and wonder.
What I Didn’t Love:
The pacing felt a little slow at times, with more detail than I usually expect in middle-grade fantasy. While I loved the setting and side characters, Lydia herself didn’t always hold my attention, and the ending left me feeling a little underwhelmed after such a promising start.
Rating:
I’m giving Beyond Mulberry Glen 4 out of 5 stars. It’s a whimsical, magical middle-grade adventure—full of heart, charming side characters, and beautiful worldbuilding—more of a stroll through a fantasy world than a sprint, but worth the journey
Recommendation:
A great pick for fantasy-loving middle grade readers (or adults like me who love the genre) who enjoy magical adventures, ragtag sidekicks, and a touch of whimsy. Perfect if you want a story that’s cozy, magical, and easy to read—even if it dawdles here and there.
One Compelling Sentence:
A whimsical, magical adventure with heart—more of a stroll through a fantasy world than a sprint, but worth the journey.
Thank you to Waxwing Books and NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.