Tag: Lily Farrell

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Goddess Crown by Shade Lapite

Goddess Crown cover

Goddess Crown takes place in the Kingdom of Galla and is centred around Kalothia, who has grown up under the protection and guidance of her two guardians, Aunty and teacher in the Faledi Forest. Here she is kept hidden from the outside world, for her parents supported Queen Sylvia and thus were traitors of King Osura. So to protect her from the King and his assassins she stayed out of sight.

The day after she turns 16 disaster strikes and Kalothia’s life is turned upside down. Nothing is as it seemed and everything she thought she knew was a lie. Her life in the forest is swiftly replaced with her new role in Galla’s Royal Court. Kalothia will need to muster up all her strength and courage in order to survive and navigate this new world she has been propelled into.

I really enjoyed this book. It is fast paced and gorgeously written. There are so many beautifully described places and people that it is enchanting to read. The story is exciting and dramatic, which did in fact lead me to audibly gasp at certain parts. Kalothia is formidable and brave and can most certainly stand up for herself which was inspiring to read about. I think this book is for everyone who enjoys fantasy and adventure novels although there is a lot of violence and death which some readers might not like.

Lily Farrell, 17

Goddess Crown
Shade Lapite
Walker Books, February 2024
Paperback, £8.99
ISBN 9781529503715

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Review: Defy the Night by Brigid Kemmerer

Defy the Night
Brigid Kemmerer
Bloomsbury YA, September 2021
Paperback, £7.99
ISBN 9781526632807

In the land of Kandala a deadly fever consumes the citizens one by one, and only the rich can afford the cure. Here, we meet Tessa Cade, an outlaw who, with the masked Weston Lark, steals food and medicine from the rich and gives it to the poor. But when disaster strikes, Tessa believes that the only way to help everyone is to take down King Harrison and Prince Corrick, the rulers of Kandala. Tessa heads into the unknown, discovering things that may change her life forever.

The world that Brigid Kemmerer has set up is very intriguing. There are many interesting characters with different personalities and backgrounds. For instance, Tessa is strong and determined, yet she is also anxious and questions herself. Each character has an array of strengths and weaknesses making them feel more real.

When you first start the book, it takes a while to essentially remember which character is which. This can make the book slightly confusing. As you make your way through the story, you come across vivid explanations of suffering, which might upset some readers. One thing I enjoyed about the book is that it shares the perspectives of two of the main characters. This gives the reader a real insight into how they feel. This book is for those who enjoy really immersing themselves in a good story, filled with unexpected twists and turns. I certainly enjoyed it!

Lily Farrell, 14