What do you think?
Rate this book
Paper Castles Trilogy #1
Paper Castles
In the first book of a fast-paced, high-stakes New Adult dystopian trilogy, a secret heir must survive a deadly tradition that lets her people kill her and take the throne for themselves, while a catastrophic war threatens her reign before it has even begun.
A reluctant heir, a fight for the throne, and a conspiracy that will change everything.
After the queen is assassinated, 20-year-old Alexandria Redmond is named the heir and must prepare for the fight of her life: the Campaign. She can only ascend if she makes it to the throne, all while defending herself against citizens who have been given free rein to kill her on her journey to the palace and take the crown for themselves.
Assigned a Protector with secrets hidden beneath his smile, Alexandria navigates life as a fugitive among her own people. Along the way, she discovers a twisted thread connecting herself, the dead queen, and the war that killed her first love.
Will Alexandria risk her life for the opportunity to save her people, or will the fears of her past keep her in hiding and allow an even bigger threat to emerge in the capital?
Paper Castles is a love letter to 2010s YA Dystopian books, perfect for fans of Marie Lu's Legend, Tahereh Mafi's Watch Me, and The 100 (TV series).
A reluctant heir, a fight for the throne, and a conspiracy that will change everything.
After the queen is assassinated, 20-year-old Alexandria Redmond is named the heir and must prepare for the fight of her life: the Campaign. She can only ascend if she makes it to the throne, all while defending herself against citizens who have been given free rein to kill her on her journey to the palace and take the crown for themselves.
Assigned a Protector with secrets hidden beneath his smile, Alexandria navigates life as a fugitive among her own people. Along the way, she discovers a twisted thread connecting herself, the dead queen, and the war that killed her first love.
Will Alexandria risk her life for the opportunity to save her people, or will the fears of her past keep her in hiding and allow an even bigger threat to emerge in the capital?
Paper Castles is a love letter to 2010s YA Dystopian books, perfect for fans of Marie Lu's Legend, Tahereh Mafi's Watch Me, and The 100 (TV series).
350 pages, Paperback
First published May 11, 2024
56 people are currently reading
705 people want to read
About the author
Ellie Ember
3 books24 followersEllie Ember is the author of sci-fi and fantasy books for hopeless romantics who love reading about royal power plays and high-stakes political intrigue. Her debut trilogy, Paper Castles, is a love letter to the 2010s YA Dystopian books she grew up on.
From Young Adult fantasy to gothic horror, Ellie is always looking for her next favorite book. This variety of interests doesn't end with genres; after changing her major five times, Ellie finally graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Science in Library and Information Science. She completed an honors thesis on the political implications of language in dystopian literature, writing double the required amount of pages (*cue "Non-Stop" from Hamilton*). Beyond the pages, Ellie is a librarian who loves to explore museums and search for new gluten free restaurants.
From Young Adult fantasy to gothic horror, Ellie is always looking for her next favorite book. This variety of interests doesn't end with genres; after changing her major five times, Ellie finally graduated with a Bachelor of Arts in English and a Master of Science in Library and Information Science. She completed an honors thesis on the political implications of language in dystopian literature, writing double the required amount of pages (*cue "Non-Stop" from Hamilton*). Beyond the pages, Ellie is a librarian who loves to explore museums and search for new gluten free restaurants.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
April 4, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
This book was such a ride! Right from the get-go, the story, while not missing out on introducing the setting and characters, quickly jumped right into the action. This story was fast-paced, full of twists and high stakes, and had emotional depth to it, which made it a page turner!
Thank you so much for the author for an early copy. All thoughts are expressly my own.
This book was such a ride! Right from the get-go, the story, while not missing out on introducing the setting and characters, quickly jumped right into the action. This story was fast-paced, full of twists and high stakes, and had emotional depth to it, which made it a page turner!
Thank you so much for the author for an early copy. All thoughts are expressly my own.
November 24, 2024
Re-read Nov. 2024:
In preparation for Burned Queens, I wanted to refresh myself on this story. There is an audiobook for this book now available for anyone interested! I enjoyed the story just as much as the first time, and I hold the same thoughts as my initial review.✨
Initial review Jan 2024:
If you are a fan of the Hunger Games, Divergent, Red Queen, or The 100, then you will love Paper Castles!
This new and unique dystopian story will have you hooked from the beginning! It’s a fast-paced story filled with twists and turns, mystery, and adventure! Ellie sucks you right in with her talented way of building the suspense and leaving you with so many questions! You will find you can’t and won’t stop reading because the book will have you on the edge of your seat. I sped through this one because I had to know what was going to happen next. I loved the plot, the characters, and the political intrigue.
Alexandria is an awesome FMC who is caring, relatable, and a little bit sarcastic (which I always love & appreciate). I loved watching her grow throughout the story and the way she navigated her choices and decisions to determine who she could trust and keep herself alive. I also enjoyed her and Carter’s development, banter, and slow-burn chemistry.
I highly recommend this book, and I’m SO happy to know Ellie is working on the next book… because I need book 2 ASAP. I cannot wait to see where this story goes and read more books by Ellie Ember in the future!♥️
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: No spice, no language, Danger + Violence, Discussions of death, Brief descriptions of familial abuse, Alcoholism , Suicidal thoughts
In preparation for Burned Queens, I wanted to refresh myself on this story. There is an audiobook for this book now available for anyone interested! I enjoyed the story just as much as the first time, and I hold the same thoughts as my initial review.✨
Initial review Jan 2024:
If you are a fan of the Hunger Games, Divergent, Red Queen, or The 100, then you will love Paper Castles!
This new and unique dystopian story will have you hooked from the beginning! It’s a fast-paced story filled with twists and turns, mystery, and adventure! Ellie sucks you right in with her talented way of building the suspense and leaving you with so many questions! You will find you can’t and won’t stop reading because the book will have you on the edge of your seat. I sped through this one because I had to know what was going to happen next. I loved the plot, the characters, and the political intrigue.
Alexandria is an awesome FMC who is caring, relatable, and a little bit sarcastic (which I always love & appreciate). I loved watching her grow throughout the story and the way she navigated her choices and decisions to determine who she could trust and keep herself alive. I also enjoyed her and Carter’s development, banter, and slow-burn chemistry.
I highly recommend this book, and I’m SO happy to know Ellie is working on the next book… because I need book 2 ASAP. I cannot wait to see where this story goes and read more books by Ellie Ember in the future!♥️
𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗗𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗿𝗲𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀: No spice, no language, Danger + Violence, Discussions of death, Brief descriptions of familial abuse, Alcoholism , Suicidal thoughts
April 2, 2025
4.5 ⭐'s
This book was fast paced, while not missing things like the setting and the character introduction. It was well written, and held my interest All the way through!! IMO it's quite under-hyped 😜 I loved it enough to read the whole thing in a day.
This book was fast paced, while not missing things like the setting and the character introduction. It was well written, and held my interest All the way through!! IMO it's quite under-hyped 😜 I loved it enough to read the whole thing in a day.
April 12, 2024
4.5/5 ⭐️ (ARC review)
Warning: this book is ADDICTING! I honestly haven’t read much dystopian fiction recently, but I couldn’t get enough of Paper Castles! Dare I say - I liked it better than The Hunger Games 😱
Ember’s chapter-to-chapter plot pacing was brilliant! The end of every chapter had me diving straight into the next one wanting more. I loved the characters and their dialogue (and inner dialogue), and am very invested in their story and relationships.
I gave 4.5 because I wish there had been a *bit* more world-building and scene setting. And sometimes the transitions within the chapter scenes or conversations seemed quite abrupt. However, that did not take away from the story or the tension within the plot!
I’m so excited to see where this author takes this trilogy! That ending cliffhanger has my brain reeling. 😳 Book 1 isn’t technically released yet and I’m already ready for book 2!
Warning: this book is ADDICTING! I honestly haven’t read much dystopian fiction recently, but I couldn’t get enough of Paper Castles! Dare I say - I liked it better than The Hunger Games 😱
Ember’s chapter-to-chapter plot pacing was brilliant! The end of every chapter had me diving straight into the next one wanting more. I loved the characters and their dialogue (and inner dialogue), and am very invested in their story and relationships.
I gave 4.5 because I wish there had been a *bit* more world-building and scene setting. And sometimes the transitions within the chapter scenes or conversations seemed quite abrupt. However, that did not take away from the story or the tension within the plot!
I’m so excited to see where this author takes this trilogy! That ending cliffhanger has my brain reeling. 😳 Book 1 isn’t technically released yet and I’m already ready for book 2!
November 29, 2024
Paper Castles is the first book in the Paper Castles trilogy, and it does a fantastic job. I'm tired of trilogies at this point, since more and more of them use book 1 for setting the stage and neglect a standalone plot. But Paper Castles does everything a first book in a trilogy should do and more!
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 4/5
I've heard this book described as a mix between the Hunger Games and other dystopian novels I've never heard of, and it definitely captures the tension and personal stakes. I'm usually not a fan of prologues, but this one was phenomenal. It immediately got me thinking that there was something else going on beneath the surface. When we meet Alexandra Redmond, I immediately like her. She's got a strong personality, and she values family, loyalty, and honesty. Her Protector, Carter, is as sarcastic as she is, and I really enjoyed seeing their dynamic change and evolve from beginning to end! Queen Evangeline is also a central character, even though we only hear of her after her death, but her previous actions and secrets have huge consequences that propel the novel forward. The last few chapters of the book had so many twists and turns and yet the ending felt inevitable and justified. Loved it!
I wouldn't consider this novel a Christian novel (and nor was it portrayed as such). There are mentions of God, and Alexandria does mention prayer, but it's more a world-building aspect than anything else. On another note, this book holds a more Catholic perspective, with mentions of last rites and confession by a priest. That aside, the themes of the novel--standing and fighting for what's right even at the cost of your own life--are great.
Overall rating: 4.5/5. All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to checking out the sequel, Burned Queen. I got a free ebook from the author and all opinions expressed are my own.
Story: 5/5
Worldview: 4/5
I've heard this book described as a mix between the Hunger Games and other dystopian novels I've never heard of, and it definitely captures the tension and personal stakes. I'm usually not a fan of prologues, but this one was phenomenal. It immediately got me thinking that there was something else going on beneath the surface. When we meet Alexandra Redmond, I immediately like her. She's got a strong personality, and she values family, loyalty, and honesty. Her Protector, Carter, is as sarcastic as she is, and I really enjoyed seeing their dynamic change and evolve from beginning to end! Queen Evangeline is also a central character, even though we only hear of her after her death, but her previous actions and secrets have huge consequences that propel the novel forward. The last few chapters of the book had so many twists and turns and yet the ending felt inevitable and justified. Loved it!
I wouldn't consider this novel a Christian novel (and nor was it portrayed as such). There are mentions of God, and Alexandria does mention prayer, but it's more a world-building aspect than anything else. On another note, this book holds a more Catholic perspective, with mentions of last rites and confession by a priest. That aside, the themes of the novel--standing and fighting for what's right even at the cost of your own life--are great.
Overall rating: 4.5/5. All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to checking out the sequel, Burned Queen. I got a free ebook from the author and all opinions expressed are my own.
January 16, 2025
I devoured this. I'll get the comparison out of the way and say, yes, it does have a similar premise/competition to Hunger Games. However, Paper Castles stands on its own as a fresh take on the dystopian genre.
Alexandria has watched her city succumb to the queen's draft for the war against Genea, so when the queen is assassinated and Alexandria is mysteriously named heir, she doesn't want the power, the crown, or the throne. Forced to participate in the Campaign, a bloodthirsty ritual in which anyone can kill her before she ascends the throne, Alexandria finds herself drawn into a game of deception with the mysterious boy sent to protect her.
I loved how cohesive the plot was. While the twists were predictable to anyone familiar with story structure, they were no less engaging. The bond between Alexandria and her family and friends was extremely compelling. I never doubted her motivations because it always tied back to protecting someone she loved. There's a cast of characters, and more to be seen in book 2. I haven't been this excited for a sequel in a long time!
Alexandria has watched her city succumb to the queen's draft for the war against Genea, so when the queen is assassinated and Alexandria is mysteriously named heir, she doesn't want the power, the crown, or the throne. Forced to participate in the Campaign, a bloodthirsty ritual in which anyone can kill her before she ascends the throne, Alexandria finds herself drawn into a game of deception with the mysterious boy sent to protect her.
I loved how cohesive the plot was. While the twists were predictable to anyone familiar with story structure, they were no less engaging. The bond between Alexandria and her family and friends was extremely compelling. I never doubted her motivations because it always tied back to protecting someone she loved. There's a cast of characters, and more to be seen in book 2. I haven't been this excited for a sequel in a long time!
March 3, 2024
4.5/5
"I’m going to die either way. Whether she was killed by a vicious thronehunter or she ascended the throne, Alexandria Redmond would no longer exist."
In a world where every person been touched by the seemingly neverending war, one girl is about to ascend to the throne. That is, if she can survive the fight to get there first. Anyone and everyone could be out to kill Alexandria to claim their right to sit on the throne. To survive, she must figure out who she can trust while also battling the thought that she is not who should be the next queen.
"Though she knew the next words were not true, she wrote them anyway. Mom, I will fight. I promise."
Warning, once you start this book, you may not want to put it down! With plenty of action and romantic tension, this story was so fun to read. I'm dying to know what happens next with our characters after all the twists and turns at the end of book 1!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC copy of the book!
"I’m going to die either way. Whether she was killed by a vicious thronehunter or she ascended the throne, Alexandria Redmond would no longer exist."
In a world where every person been touched by the seemingly neverending war, one girl is about to ascend to the throne. That is, if she can survive the fight to get there first. Anyone and everyone could be out to kill Alexandria to claim their right to sit on the throne. To survive, she must figure out who she can trust while also battling the thought that she is not who should be the next queen.
"Though she knew the next words were not true, she wrote them anyway. Mom, I will fight. I promise."
Warning, once you start this book, you may not want to put it down! With plenty of action and romantic tension, this story was so fun to read. I'm dying to know what happens next with our characters after all the twists and turns at the end of book 1!
Thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC copy of the book!
March 15, 2024
[E-Arc review]
Not going to lie, it took a while for me to get into this book. Though, that’s usually the case with the first book in any fantasy\dystopian series, since there is so much world-building and overall plot building going on.
But, as soon as their duo turned into four, I was absolutely hooked. I started loving the characters in a way I hadn’t really before, just because it started to feel like you actually knew them and like their relationships had more depth.
Basically, almost everything I was kind of on the fence about in the beginning ended up being amazing.
I am Carter and Alexandria’s biggest fan, and I NEED THE SECOND BOOK RN!!!
Not going to lie, it took a while for me to get into this book. Though, that’s usually the case with the first book in any fantasy\dystopian series, since there is so much world-building and overall plot building going on.
But, as soon as their duo turned into four, I was absolutely hooked. I started loving the characters in a way I hadn’t really before, just because it started to feel like you actually knew them and like their relationships had more depth.
Basically, almost everything I was kind of on the fence about in the beginning ended up being amazing.
I am Carter and Alexandria’s biggest fan, and I NEED THE SECOND BOOK RN!!!
June 19, 2024
Everything you could ask for in a dystopian novel! Ellie Ember has crafted a high-stakes, fast-paced adventure that will keep you hooked from start to finish. The twists of the storyline were fantastically written, and I can’t wait for the sequel!
July 12, 2024
4.75✨❤️one of my new favorites
September 11, 2024
5❤️🩹 so ready for the next one
July 4, 2024
This read and is a YA dystopian book, if this is what you like it will deliver. It's not the best one out there so keep expectations on a mid level.
Me, personally, could see the twist coming a mile away, probably the one the author didn't want you to see to fast too. Didn't make for a gripping read.
The main character is a weird blend between capable (survival skill, suprisingly fit and making good decicions in though situations) and (very) often crying over her lost love with flashback memories about him that start annoyingly midparagraph. Then in best YA fashion falling for the (here only losely termed) bad guy. 😒
Worldbuilding is solala, it was hinted in the last twenty percent! that it is our world after an atomic war. So cars, telephones and tv's are there for the rich but they fight more with swords and knives. Take that as you will, it's not elaborate.
Still can't decide if I want to read on. It's not uninteresting just very mid.
Me, personally, could see the twist coming a mile away, probably the one the author didn't want you to see to fast too. Didn't make for a gripping read.
The main character is a weird blend between capable (survival skill, suprisingly fit and making good decicions in though situations) and (very) often crying over her lost love with flashback memories about him that start annoyingly midparagraph. Then in best YA fashion falling for the (here only losely termed) bad guy. 😒
Worldbuilding is solala, it was hinted in the last twenty percent! that it is our world after an atomic war. So cars, telephones and tv's are there for the rich but they fight more with swords and knives. Take that as you will, it's not elaborate.
Still can't decide if I want to read on. It's not uninteresting just very mid.
March 11, 2024
3.5 ⭐️
I loved the concept of this book and the idea of the heir having to fight for their throne. The pacing was amazing, and the storyline had me hooked from the beginning of the book. Alexandria’s grief for a certain character was written beautifully, and I enjoyed her developing relationships with other characters too.
Although it’s described as New Adult, this read like a Young Adult book, from the writing style to the characters’ attitudes and decisions. The timeline after Alexandria left her home felt rushed and I would have liked her to spend more time training and getting to know Carter, as two weeks felt very brief considering her feelings towards him and reactions to certain plot points later in the book. I would also have loved a little more world-building, especially regarding the post apocalyptic aspect of the story!
Thank you to Ellie Ember for the ARC ❤️
I loved the concept of this book and the idea of the heir having to fight for their throne. The pacing was amazing, and the storyline had me hooked from the beginning of the book. Alexandria’s grief for a certain character was written beautifully, and I enjoyed her developing relationships with other characters too.
Although it’s described as New Adult, this read like a Young Adult book, from the writing style to the characters’ attitudes and decisions. The timeline after Alexandria left her home felt rushed and I would have liked her to spend more time training and getting to know Carter, as two weeks felt very brief considering her feelings towards him and reactions to certain plot points later in the book. I would also have loved a little more world-building, especially regarding the post apocalyptic aspect of the story!
Thank you to Ellie Ember for the ARC ❤️
May 26, 2024
Wow. Just wow. Excuse me while I go recover now.🥲
I loved Paper Castles.
The pacing was beautifully done, and the unexpected (yet very believable) twists kept me hooked.
The characters were deep, and the growth they experienced was beautiful, raw, and powerful.
Alexandria and Carter were my FAVORITE!
When Paper Castles releases, this book is going on my physical shelf!
I loved Paper Castles.
The pacing was beautifully done, and the unexpected (yet very believable) twists kept me hooked.
The characters were deep, and the growth they experienced was beautiful, raw, and powerful.
Alexandria and Carter were my FAVORITE!
When Paper Castles releases, this book is going on my physical shelf!
March 13, 2025
If you have been craving a new dystopian book that is action packed all the way through, filled with great banter, and jaw dropping plot twist. Then you have to pick this book up!!! Can not wait to start the second one!!
May 13, 2024
My rating: 4/5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐
This book got me hooked right from the beginning and brought me back to the old days of dystopian novels. It’s a fast-paced story with twists and turns, action and adventure! 🔥
Alexandria starts off quite reluctant to actively participate in the race to the throne but soon realizes she has no other options and she would do anything for her loved ones' safety. I liked the banter between her and Carter and the development of a slow-burn love which I’m sure we’ll see throughout all three books. Liked to see her character arc and how she came from an unwilling to willing participant learning how to fight along the way. 🗡️
I just wish I could've gotten to know a bit of backstory into the whole 'fight or die' for the throne thing but I guess we'll see it in the next book.
The ending is a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see how Alexandria & Carter come back together. And I hope we can get to know Carter more in the next book. All the revelations at the end make me want the next book ASAP.🙈
So, if you are a fan of The Hunger Games, Red Queen, or The 100, then Paper Castles is IT for you!❤️
I would like to thank the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. And I cannot wait for the next book in line! 💛
This book got me hooked right from the beginning and brought me back to the old days of dystopian novels. It’s a fast-paced story with twists and turns, action and adventure! 🔥
Alexandria starts off quite reluctant to actively participate in the race to the throne but soon realizes she has no other options and she would do anything for her loved ones' safety. I liked the banter between her and Carter and the development of a slow-burn love which I’m sure we’ll see throughout all three books. Liked to see her character arc and how she came from an unwilling to willing participant learning how to fight along the way. 🗡️
I just wish I could've gotten to know a bit of backstory into the whole 'fight or die' for the throne thing but I guess we'll see it in the next book.
The ending is a cliffhanger and I can’t wait to see how Alexandria & Carter come back together. And I hope we can get to know Carter more in the next book. All the revelations at the end make me want the next book ASAP.🙈
So, if you are a fan of The Hunger Games, Red Queen, or The 100, then Paper Castles is IT for you!❤️
I would like to thank the author for providing me with an ARC in exchange for an honest review. And I cannot wait for the next book in line! 💛
March 12, 2024
Thank you so much to Ellie Ember (what a cool name) for the ARC of her upcoming novel Paper Castles! I was super excited for this one because the premise is so interesting and I felt like Christmas came early when I saw it in my email! The story drew me in from the beginning and there were surprises I didn’t see coming throughout, which is always fun and keeps you second guessing. There were a few moments where there were flashbacks or sudden jumps in the story that left me a little confused and I had to re-read a sentence or two to understand what just happened and the writing is a little simplistic at times and hovers in the YA/NA realm (it is marketed/written as NA), which is not a bad thing and does not take away from the novel or the writing itself, but just to be aware of if that’s not your thing. I think it honestly shows that she nailed what she set out to do. She has talked at length about wanting to create a novel that gives you the feelings of YA after you have grown out of it, that makes commentary on issues in the real world while remaining fantastical, that has a romance subplot without being too spicy, and that creates a world and gives depth to characters without being a long, drawn out read and she delivers on all of these fronts with Paper Castles. The story also touches on some tougher topics and trauma without going so far as to make me feel like I need to add trigger warnings to my review. Overall, a great debut novel. I am excited to see how the world building opens up in the sequel and can’t wait to watch how some of the story lines (and romance - Carter has my heart 🫶🏼) unfolds!
Vibes: political turmoil, women in power, twists and turns, NA dystopian, found family, slow burn.
Favorite quote: “Alexandria Redmond, you are not going to die here. You are going to get to Regia, sit on the throne, and live a long life. You are going to become the queen and grow old and live.” His voice broke, mouth pressed against her ear. “Don’t you dare give up on me now.”
Excerpt From
ARC: Paper Castles
Ellie Ember
This material may be protected by copyright.
Vibes: political turmoil, women in power, twists and turns, NA dystopian, found family, slow burn.
Favorite quote: “Alexandria Redmond, you are not going to die here. You are going to get to Regia, sit on the throne, and live a long life. You are going to become the queen and grow old and live.” His voice broke, mouth pressed against her ear. “Don’t you dare give up on me now.”
Excerpt From
ARC: Paper Castles
Ellie Ember
This material may be protected by copyright.
April 30, 2025
Interesting take on a dystopian world where when a monarch dies, the heir has to make it to the throne in order to claim the crown while anyone is free to challenge them. Perfect for fans who love YAs with a girl who can do anything and a proximity romance thrown in. I personally wanted more focus on the actual work and the campaign and it was just wasn't the main focus.
This just wasn't for me, and not just because it reads and feels like a YA. It just feels like everything happens to Alexandria, instead of her actively choosing much of anything, which is something I personally dislike. Plus the romance was lackluster for me--especially because Alexandria is always telling us that he's the only safe thing she has and also she can't get too close. Just felt like a lot of repetition and attention for something that ended up being a let down.
Now to be fair, I didn't go in thinking this was YA because I thought it was adult, so some of these issues are my own for not actively looking into the book more.
This just wasn't for me, and not just because it reads and feels like a YA. It just feels like everything happens to Alexandria, instead of her actively choosing much of anything, which is something I personally dislike. Plus the romance was lackluster for me--especially because Alexandria is always telling us that he's the only safe thing she has and also she can't get too close. Just felt like a lot of repetition and attention for something that ended up being a let down.
Now to be fair, I didn't go in thinking this was YA because I thought it was adult, so some of these issues are my own for not actively looking into the book more.
July 21, 2025
I enjoyed the idea of this book but I felt as though it was very repetitive. Every interaction with Carter was “I should be mad at him but I can’t think of why” or “I just loved when he touched me and I never wanted it to stop” every single time he just brushed past her. I couldn’t get it in my head that she was any older than 16. She didn’t seem to have many original thoughts besides “I’m gonna die” or “I shouldn’t like Carter but I do”. I was really hoping for a stronger personality and determination with the circumstances she was placed in. Everything just kept happening to her and she didn’t really do much.
I will still be continuing the series to see where the author takes this story.
I will still be continuing the series to see where the author takes this story.
June 15, 2024
Wow. Ellie Ember has created an incredibly intriguing story that pulled me in right from the start. The pace, the reveals, the plot twists, character development—it is all excellently done. This was the first dystopian novel I’ve read, and while this genre isn’t something I typically look for, I thouroughly enjoyed this book! There were enough moments of “down time” that I wasn’t overly stressed by the action or conflicts. I really enjoyed the way the relationships between characters developed. Excellent, from start to finish!
February 29, 2024
Wow!
This book was SO GOOD. I am not usually a fan of dystopian, BUT Ellie manages fo pull it off in a unique way that still feels nolstalgic. I absolutely love the themes of adoption, friendship, and bonds forged through hardship. I loved the character development and how you see Alexandria grow throughout the book as well as step into her role, even though she is reluctant.
The only complaint I have is that it was slow in the beginning, but once it got going, it got GOING!
This book was SO GOOD. I am not usually a fan of dystopian, BUT Ellie manages fo pull it off in a unique way that still feels nolstalgic. I absolutely love the themes of adoption, friendship, and bonds forged through hardship. I loved the character development and how you see Alexandria grow throughout the book as well as step into her role, even though she is reluctant.
The only complaint I have is that it was slow in the beginning, but once it got going, it got GOING!
March 6, 2024
Ellie absolutely knocked this one out of the park. I am not a huge fan of the post-apocalyptical genre, but I would read Paper Castles over and over and over again. Plot twists at every turn, suspense, mystery, intrigue... you name it. Stress and anticipation definitely shaved a year or two off my life. I will be telling everyone to add Paper Castles to the top of their TBR. You won't be disappointed.
May 10, 2024
All I can really say is wow.
The story immediately throws you into a mystery that hinges Alexandria’s life onto it.
The pacing was perfect, the characters were interesting and dynamic, and the world was full of lore that was sprinkled in.
Dystopian is one of those genres I had strong feelings about, but Ellie has changed my mind with this amazing book!
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a dystopian read that’s easy to get into!
The story immediately throws you into a mystery that hinges Alexandria’s life onto it.
The pacing was perfect, the characters were interesting and dynamic, and the world was full of lore that was sprinkled in.
Dystopian is one of those genres I had strong feelings about, but Ellie has changed my mind with this amazing book!
I highly recommend this book if you’re looking for a dystopian read that’s easy to get into!
August 5, 2024
Great story with some classic YA tropes but also some great twists!
I enjoyed this book!
Loved the characters, even if some are a little 2D, they've got a couple more books to go!
The storyline was great, I kept thinking "I know where this is headed" and then -ope!- a twist! I'm a person who doesn't mind a predictable story as long as the writing is decent, and this book ticks all the boxes.
Very excited for the next installment, especially with the very last twist!
I enjoyed this book!
Loved the characters, even if some are a little 2D, they've got a couple more books to go!
The storyline was great, I kept thinking "I know where this is headed" and then -ope!- a twist! I'm a person who doesn't mind a predictable story as long as the writing is decent, and this book ticks all the boxes.
Very excited for the next installment, especially with the very last twist!
February 2, 2025
This story was so intense from beginning to end! It had such a grip on me that I could barely put it down. You really just don't know what is coming next or what secrets are going to be unearthed. I even cried a couple times! And there are still so many questions left to be answered, I am itching for the next book! A story of finding your strength, of political secrets and of fighting for what is right.
April 9, 2025
OMG, "Paper Castles" by Ellie Ember is AMAZING! From the very first page, I was hooked. The action is non-stop and totally exciting.
But can we talk about Carter? Their banter is EVERYTHING! The slow-burn romance between them had me swooning. The plot is full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.
I will admit though, the main girl kind of annoyed me at the end with her lack of trust in Carter and the fact that she sent him away. It made me so mad! But still, I can’t wait to dive into book 2! Highly recommend!
But can we talk about Carter? Their banter is EVERYTHING! The slow-burn romance between them had me swooning. The plot is full of twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat.
I will admit though, the main girl kind of annoyed me at the end with her lack of trust in Carter and the fact that she sent him away. It made me so mad! But still, I can’t wait to dive into book 2! Highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 10, 2024
Once this fast-paced adventure grips you, it absolutely will not let you go! The characters had so many layers, each one more intriguing than the last as the story unpacks mystery after mystery. It had me guessing until the very last page! What a wonderful read from this debut author—I’m already hooked on whatever she writes next!
July 6, 2024
I snagged this during a "stuff your Kindle" event and I am not disappointed in my decision at all!
I'll be mentioning this to all my book friends who love YA stuff like The Hunger Games.
Can't wait for the next one!
I'll be mentioning this to all my book friends who love YA stuff like The Hunger Games.
Can't wait for the next one!
January 16, 2025
*4.5 stars
Really really enjoyed this one! It was a captivating and fun read! While a little predictable overall, I don’t think that was a negative thing. Rather, it was a well done nod to dystopian novels, and had some wonderful twists that were unexpected. Very much looking forward to book 2!
Really really enjoyed this one! It was a captivating and fun read! While a little predictable overall, I don’t think that was a negative thing. Rather, it was a well done nod to dystopian novels, and had some wonderful twists that were unexpected. Very much looking forward to book 2!
January 28, 2025
3.5 rounded up.
Fully invested in the plot and the political secrets that abound! Writing was a little choppy and romance subplot a bit messy, but the characters are creative and endearing. Looking forward to book 2!
Fully invested in the plot and the political secrets that abound! Writing was a little choppy and romance subplot a bit messy, but the characters are creative and endearing. Looking forward to book 2!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews