Good morning everyone! Who's ready for the weekend?
Today's reviews are for two of my most anticipated 2020 reads - and both have STUNNING covers, might I add haha. Hope you enjoy!
The Stars We Steal by Alexa Donne
RATING: 4.35 stars
RELEASE DATE: February 4, 2020
REVIEW:
Lou's hunt for a suitor to save her family's failing finances takes a tough turn when her ex-fiance shows up for the Valg season. Elliott is now one of the most sought after bachelors at the event, but is he here to help Lou, or ruin her once and for all?
In short, this is novel can be described as a 'Persuasion' by Jane Austen retelling meets the Bachelor, in space. Going further, it had a bit of everything, which I think will draw in a variety of readers. There was romance (enemies to lovers fans, this one is for you!), sci-fi (it takes place IN SPACE), and some mystery.I was entertained throughout this entire story. The characters were diverse, witty, and amusing to follow. At times, Lou could be a tad irritating, but her moments with Elliott were great. The action fan in me was rooting for that underlying mystery, and the moments of rebellion from some of the characters and the plot satisfied that.
I definitely recommend this one to contemporary and sci-fans, and I look forward to reading Alexa Donne's other novel now!
Link to Goodreads review
* Thank you Raincoast Books for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *
The Queen's Assassin by Melissa de la Cruz
RATING: 4.25 stars
RELEASE DATE: February 4, 2020
REVIEW:
Caledon - the Queen's assassin, bound by blood to return the missing Deian Scrolls, a record of magical history and knowledge, stolen many years ago by a bold and rebellious group.
Shadow - trains to join the Guild like her aunts, and become a feared assassin. Meeting Caledon, let alone grow close to him, was not part of the plan.
But as their feelings grow, so does the danger around them, and the kingdom they strive to protect. This first novel in a new series will have readers drawn into its lush fantasy setting as they fight for their lives, and each other.
This novel hooked me from the first chapter. I was engrossed in the characters, and loved the alternating POVs. The writing style was different, with the first person and third person mix, but I did not find it too hard to overlook. I know there are mixed reviews on this title, and I understand some of the concerns. I unfortunately was disappointed with the ending of the novel. I had really liked the fantasy elements and secrets until then, and while I suspected the plot twist from only a few chapters in, I did not like Shadow's decision at the very end. The ending seemed rushed, and left a bit too many questions. I thought Caledon deserved way better than that, and I felt bad for him. However, if this ends up shifting in the next in the series, then I might change my mind.I think younger YA readers will really enjoy this one, and I am excited to see how the series continues.
Link to Goodreads review
* Thank you PenguinTeen Canada for the advanced copy in exchange for an honest review *