A review by the_incredible_writing_snail
The Familiar by Leigh Bardugo

dark mysterious tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

A must read for historical fantasy lovers.  The uniqueness of the setting (Spain during the Inquisition) is worth reading this book for alone.  The MC’s position is also a bit unique in genre of YA fantasy, as she is actively and self-admittedly greedy for wealth and power.  A fun, interesting read that does an excellent job of managing multiple POVs of morally gray/ likably unlikable characters.  My only complaints are that the romance feels a tiny bit tacky/tired and that some of the political intrigue elements remain unexplored in favor of focusing on relationships between characters..
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