Estimated reading time: 10 mins
Book Series: Braided Fate
Book: Warrior Princess Assassin (Book 1)
Author: Brigid Kemmerer
Number of pages: 386
Genre: Fantasy, Political, Romance, Young Adult, Dystopian, LGBTQ+
Attended Audience Age: Young Adult
Medium Type (physical, digital, audio): physical
Book rating: ⭐⭐⭐
Summary:
Princess Jory is sheltered but kind, and is to be wed to King Maddox, who is known for his vicious fiery temper and magic. The wedding, as they each understand, is strictly political, as Maddox’s people are suffering from plentiful, healthy lands, while Astranza’s is not. But everything falls apart when the princess's childhood friend, Asher, a skilled assassin, is hired to kill both the king and the princess. Forced to escape, the unlikely trio’s relationship runs dangerously cold when the princess and assassin accidentally kidnap the king. Despite the harsh events, the trio finds itself leaning on one another as it grapples with the uncertain dangers ahead.
Qualities:
Prose: The prose uses simple yet alluring language that draws the reader in.
Character Development: The narrative follows three main characters: King Maddox, Princess Jory, and Asher, an assassin. The characters' interactions are enough to expose the truth from lies, foster personal growth, and deepen their connection.
World Building: Much of the story is focused on Astranza, Princess Jory’s kingdom. Gradually, it moves beyond the castle, the cold, bitter lands, and eventually into King Maddox’s country. Hardly anything else is mentioned besides the journey.
Recommendation:
This novel may be for you if you enjoy a fast-paced and character-driven narrative. The novel's priority seems to be the connection among the three main characters, hence the title. The plot felt spotty and unrevised. The world-building was narrow despite the vast expanse it implies. Though the narrative does a good job of keeping secrets hidden, it does not hint or foreshadow expectations. The narrative is repetitive, unstable, and risky. I was prepared for an exciting read, but was left wanting more explanations and less repetition.
Notable Quotes:
- “’Right for the eyes? That’s vicious princess.’ He doesn’t sound too upset about it though” p. 69
- “It takes a moment for him to look away, and when he does, his eyes flick to the floor, anywhere but me. He thrusts the dagger back into the hilt. The panther slinking back into the brush to wait for easier prey” p. 121
- “I can’t believe this asshole is defending me and insulting me in the same breath. The worst part is that I agree with him” p. 197
Related Music:
- Warrior by Imagine Dragons
- Fight song by Rachel Platten
- Open Up by Matt Simons
Comments
Post a Comment