gail_71 's review for:

By The Orchid And The Owl by Mariah Montoya
4.5

One of my book groups recommended the book By the Orchid and the Owl, and I’m so glad they did.

This book is the first instalment in Mariah Montoya’s The Esholian Institute series. It follows the story of 18-year-old Rayna during her first year at the Institute, where she will receive her magic and be trained to use it over the next five years.

I found this book to be fantastic! It features elements of fantasy, magic, romance, dystopian themes, and games/trials. The adventure and mind trap the main characters' navigation to create a fantastic narrative.

I loved everything about this book: the plot, the twists, the characters, and the world-building. The characters are relatable and well-developed, the story is intricate yet easy to follow, and the magic system is unique.

I loved this book and cannot wait for the second instalment!