What ho, folksies! How do you do?
I hope 2024 has been treating you all well so far. Me, I’ve gotten to the point where 2023 already feels like ancient history. (Who knew college finals could make one month feel so long?) Now it’s almost sakura-blooming season in Japan and in honor of that, we’re here for a book review!
Last post I did a cover reveal for Ellen McGinty’s new book, Saints & Monsters, and promised to post my review later. And this year I’m keeping my promises. So without further ado, here’s a refresh on what this book is about!
about the book
With her crooked spine and reckless heart, Princess Meera always knew she wasn’t meant to become queen of Ezo. But when her sister, the rightful heir, is cursed on the eve of her coronation, Meera must defend her kingdom from ruthless invaders by taking the throne. Yet, while some countries have simple coronations, in Ezo . . . the princess must first claim a sea dragon.
Only the dragon is vicious, perfect, and whole—everything Meera is not. And if the dragon doesn’t deem her worthy, it will devour her. Turning to the Saints for help, she doesn’t anticipate that her actions will transform the dragon into a mortal, or that she’ll steal his heart . . . literally.Now, as two hearts beat inside Meera’s chest, she’s reminded that her life is entwined with a dragon, who despises her weaknesses. Despite their differences, they must work together to reverse the curse and save the kingdom before more is lost than their stolen hearts.
my thoughts
Dragons, bargains, and Meiji-inspired fantasy kingdoms, oh my! For the setting and premise alone, I’d recommend this book to most YA lovers.
Right from the start, McGinty’s writing is lush, vivid, and imaginative; in just about three seconds I was drawn into the kingdom of Ezo. The MC’s character is established not much later — in spite of her physical limitations, her heart is brave and true. I’m not sure what I expected, but her character took me by surprise in the most refreshing way. I haven’t encountered many YA heroines like Princess Meera.
Likewise, the other main characters are fleshed out wonderfully. There are some I had trouble connecting with more than others, but I found the inclusion of their POVs a fascinating addition, especially on the part of Cassian — I won’t say more. That struggle of conflicting motives between characters who don’t hate each other is something I will never tire of seeing.
The world is very unique and beautifully crafted, probably my favorite part of the book (that, and possibly the boy with the pink pants) (*cough* there’s a double layer of inside joke in that). I think this book is a standalone, but I wouldn’t mind exploring more of this world.
I think the main thing that cut down my enjoyment of this book was the portrayal of the sister. I’m all for strong sister relationships in fiction, but I can’t be the only one who’s noticed them being everywhere recently? Personally I’m just not a fan of the “perfect older sister who is actually perfect” type of character because I’m never too clear on exactly what kind of role they’re meant to have. (A realistic portrayal of a sibling certainly seems out of the question…) Anyway, I just thought I’d throw that out there. As a whole, I quite enjoyed this book!
In conclusion, I’d recommend Saints & Monsters for just about anyone who enjoys romantic YA fantasy with fantastic worldbuilding, gorgeous prose, and complex and driven characters with a wholesome message at heart. Thanks to the author for an ARC of this book!
And there you have it, folksies! You can find the link to Amazon here and the link to Goodreads here.
Imperial Scribis 
This sounds so cool! I’m going to have to read this one
LikeLiked by 1 person
let me know what you think of it!
LikeLike
Ooh, this sounds interesting! Great review!
LikeLiked by 1 person
It was a very unique read! Thank you!
LikeLiked by 1 person