Lemon Squeezy Book Reviews

"No night was perfect for treason, but this one came close." In the Kingdom of Yan, people who can predict the future and wield magic are considered monsters, brutally hunted down and executed - as are their sympathizers - in the name of peace and justice. After her father’s suspicious death, Queen Hesina, with the help of a mysterious convict and her step-siblings, will try to find the culprit, taking the case to the Investigation Bureau for trial and placing her trust in the justice system (Spoiler Alert: Big Mistake).  Welcome to a world where everyone is wearing big, elaborate masks and hiding behind their “good intentions”. The ‘Descendant of the Crane’ is full of political intrigue and self-righteous back-stabbers, with a twisty finish, which, considering how slowly the plot developed, escalated rather quickly and made for a riveting conclusion.   This isn’t a stand-alone novel; the ending lays the groundwork for a sequel. If I'm being honest though...

"A prince always comes home.  Alfie' s mother had told him that when he'd boarded his ship three months ago, leaving San Cristobal behind to be swallowed by the horizon." A Prince looking for his lost brother and a Thief trying to claim her freedom get entangled in a perilous endeavor to stop a dark, menacing magic that has been released into the world, while both struggling with their inner demons and dark secrets. The friendship that burgeons between these two characters, albeit precocious, feels every bit genuine and beautiful, as they make their way down a harrowing path together and sustain each-other against all odds.  Maya has created a universe full of color, Latin culture and abundant, free-flowing magic where everyone is blessed with inherent magical talents, poor and wealthy alike, as the Royal Insignia proclaims: "Magia Para Todos". I'll admit, I was very excited when I started reading this book; it took me a while, however, ...

"The first time Legend appeared in Tella's dreams, he looked as if he'd just stepped out of one of the stories people told about him." I love the Caraval Universe with the epic Fates, the risky games and unexpected twists, the ambiance and abundant romance.  While 'Legendary' had left me in despair with a legendary amount of questions, 'Finale' was the King of finales, seeing our Scarlett and Tella through staggering revelations, impossible decisions, nail-biting confrontations and personal growth. As their mother and the Fates are finally freed from their perennial prison, strong and scheming as ever, the Dragna sisters are pulled into a whirlwind of action, where they will have to choose carefully who they can trust, who they can love and who they should let go.  And of course the desperately charming Santos brothers are there, Legend and Julian, dashing, with a generous side of vulnerable  (and it was about time). A satisfying ending to a ma...