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booksnapsandcatnaps 's review for:
The Swan Harp
by Elizabeth Creith
lighthearted
fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
No
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
Elizabeth Creith's "The Swan Harp" offers a distinctive take on well-known subjects by fusing dark fantasy elements with coziness reminiscent of fairy tales. Although it is targeted at lovers of Holly Black and SJM, it is best experienced without having too high of an expectation in order to completely enjoy its charm.
Though it leans toward the younger side of young adult fiction, the narrative centers on Kiar and her authentic and sympathetic coming-of-age experience. One of the novel's good points is Kiar's transformation into a convincing queen.
However, the pacing feels off. The story takes a cozy, slow-burn approach for the majority of the book before abruptly shifting to a more intense conflict in the final quarter. This imbalance affects the overall flow and impact of the plot.
While engaging, the conflict is introduced late and resolved too quickly, leaving some emotional depth to be desired.Orla's dark transformation is less striking than anticipated because it felt like her motivation was lacking.
Despite these shortcomings, Creith's writing is compelling, and her grasp of her characters is clear. Although the book ends satisfactorily, the fact that it is intended to be a trilogy means that there isn't a particularly interesting cliffhanger or unsolved problem to pique readers' interest in more installments.
In the end, "The Swan Harp" is a good story that excels because of its distinctive magical features and compelling characters. It may not live up to the hyped comparisons, but it nonetheless tells a sweet and captivating tale that demonstrates Creith's storytelling talent.
Though it leans toward the younger side of young adult fiction, the narrative centers on Kiar and her authentic and sympathetic coming-of-age experience. One of the novel's good points is Kiar's transformation into a convincing queen.
However, the pacing feels off. The story takes a cozy, slow-burn approach for the majority of the book before abruptly shifting to a more intense conflict in the final quarter. This imbalance affects the overall flow and impact of the plot.
While engaging, the conflict is introduced late and resolved too quickly, leaving some emotional depth to be desired.
Despite these shortcomings, Creith's writing is compelling, and her grasp of her characters is clear. Although the book ends satisfactorily, the fact that it is intended to be a trilogy means that there isn't a particularly interesting cliffhanger or unsolved problem to pique readers' interest in more installments.
In the end, "The Swan Harp" is a good story that excels because of its distinctive magical features and compelling characters. It may not live up to the hyped comparisons, but it nonetheless tells a sweet and captivating tale that demonstrates Creith's storytelling talent.