Good afternoon! I am a bit behind on reviews so wanted to catch up on my ARCs. Here are my last 3 reads of April.
Last Voyage of Poe Blythe by Ally Condie
RATING: 4.25 stars
This novel was a pleasant surprise. The strong female lead was enjoyable, and the dystopian/pirate mix was unique. Poe learned how to be a true leader, and the female empowerment element of that was great to read about. The novel was set at a good pace, and it was a quick read for the most part. I liked the plot twists, as I did not see some of them coming. I did hope for a more defined ending, but perhaps it could lead to a sequel later on haha.
* Thank you Penguin Teen Canada for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *
The Sound of Drowning by Katherine Fleet
Meet Meredith Hall, a high school student who takes a ferry every night to visit her best friend, and first love, Ben. But after meeting Wyatt, a Texas newcomer with an accent and sweet heart, her heart begins to flutter for someone else. However, nothing is as it seems, and when secrets are revealed, Meredith's will have to fight for what she wants, and let the past go, if she wants to stay alive.
This novel is a whirlwind of emotions, with plot twists that keep coming. Contemporary fans will appreciate the romance in the novel, with a unique writing style that switches from past and present. The mental health in this novel was very well done, and offered a powerful voice in YA fiction regarding depression and other topics. I do not want to spoil anything, but I was so surprised with this novel, and highly recommend it.
* Thank you Manda Group for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *
Merciful Crow by Margaret Owen
RATING: 4 stars
This bold fantasy novel follows Fie, a member of the lowest caste in her kingdom, on a high stakes vow to save the crown prince and his warrior bodyguard. But when things take a bloody turn, Fie's family, and the kingdom, are at stake.
Overall, I think readers will be pleasantly surprised by this novel, especially high fantasy fans.
* Thank you FierceReads for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *