What do you think?
Rate this book
The Sibyl and the Thief
Sabine Gillesella has betrayed her people by working as a spy for Duke Aurich, the most powerful man in a fading kingdom. But now she has been cursed with invisibility and her time is running out before she fades away completely. When she meets Anora, a blind orphan who swears she knows how to help her, Sabine must follow her through a haunted forest, or risk losing more than her life.
Bound by fate, Sabine and Anora uncover truths that challenge who they are, revealing a destiny greater than they ever believed. As the land crumbles around them, they must summon the courage to weave the fabric of the realm back together and restore balance to a world on the brink of collapse.
Bound by fate, Sabine and Anora uncover truths that challenge who they are, revealing a destiny greater than they ever believed. As the land crumbles around them, they must summon the courage to weave the fabric of the realm back together and restore balance to a world on the brink of collapse.
332 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 17, 2024
2 people are currently reading
27 people want to read
About the author
Cordelia Kelly
10 books16 followersCordelia Kelly is the author of the Port of Lost Souls series and the YA fantasy The Sibyl and the Thief.
Her short stories, including “Herbalista” (Prairie Witch) and “Dare to Survive” (Dark & Stormy), have been featured in several horror anthologies. She also self-published a collection of horror stories, Then She Said Hush.
Fun fact: together with her sister, Kelly blogged recaps of the entire Fear Street series on Shadyside Snark, a project that continues to attract over 10,000 hits per month.
Her short stories, including “Herbalista” (Prairie Witch) and “Dare to Survive” (Dark & Stormy), have been featured in several horror anthologies. She also self-published a collection of horror stories, Then She Said Hush.
Fun fact: together with her sister, Kelly blogged recaps of the entire Fear Street series on Shadyside Snark, a project that continues to attract over 10,000 hits per month.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
September 24, 2024
A gripping and thrilling epic fantasy adventure that draws you in hook, line and sinker. With descriptive and wonderful world building, you find yourself on this extraordinary journey with Sabine who has been cursed with invisibility and is beginning to fade away! It’s a dangerous adventure full of magic, hope, action and romance and I thoroughly enjoyed it!
August 23, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I really enjoyed this story is well written. First book I read from this author, and hope for more. This book has fantastic adventures, romance and an excellent storyline. I recommend this book to fantasy readers.
September 25, 2024
An amazing plot, strong characters and beautiful word building kept me hooked in the book! The characters are so well written that I couldn't resist falling in love with each of them! The fantasy world is so beautiful and takes us right inside the book ✨️. The plot is strong as it will keep us guessing till the end. And a happy ending, which is like a perfect end to a perfect book!
This was my first free ARC and I thoroughly enjoyed it! And as an avid fantasy reader, I would say this was perfect!
This was my first free ARC and I thoroughly enjoyed it! And as an avid fantasy reader, I would say this was perfect!
August 9, 2024
I had a fantastic reading experience with the book!
I was particularly drawn to characters like Anora, the blind seer, and Brannon, the God of the Seasons, which suggests they were well-developed and impactful.
The emotional depth and engaging story kept me hooked.
It's always a mark of a great book when it can make you sacrifice sleep, especially with the demands of parenting.
I’m excited to delve deeper into the world Cordelia Kelly has created, which speaks volumes about the book's immersive quality.
July 29, 2024
It’s about a girl who betrayed her people (Sabine) and was cursed with invisibility (not dead, just invisible) and another girl who has been blind (Anora) her whole life. They meet each other and their friendship grows as they uncover their true identities, their abilities, and their destinies in life.
This book is set in a secondary world, a fantasy realm loosely tied to medieval times (Merlin’s era), where kings and dukes rule the country. While on a quest to untangle their lives, we are introduced to mystical creatures, perfectly described by the author. I love how the world-building is written in this story. The writing style (modern English) is simple yet conveys an ancient experience.
I absolutely love Sabine’s loving mother, who prepared loads of food that made me hungry and miss my mother! ‘A feast was laid out on the table, pasties, morasu cakes, and fresh bread!’ I swear I could smell the freshly baked bread taken out of the stone oven.
Sabine and Anora are lovable and memorable characters who shine as feminine heroines in this story. I am not a fan of romantasy as the main pillar of a story, so I really appreciate how the author embeds small scenes of romance between the hero and heroine as they venture on their adventures. The love and sparks are believable and not cringy, and didn’t make me roll my eyes! I also love how the mystical creatures in this book are described in the most honorable way, focusing on their intelligence rather than their muscles and fierceness. For example, the dragon is portrayed as an intelligent animal with the ability to fly, rather than just a violent, scaled creature that breathes fire.
I admire how the author writes about the societal and political structure, mirroring the actual world. The story highlights how society can pressure individuals, turning them into social climbers to feed their selfishness, and briefly touches on the toxicity of modern society. It’s about the importance of balancing personal needs with those of society and nature. The themes are not too deep but are sufficient to reveal reality to young adult readers, helping them find their own voice and life principles as they come of age. The author did a great job creating believable and whimsical scenes.
This book has a sad ending (just a heads up).
Overall, this book deserves 4.5 stars—a Harry Potter Magic rating from me! It is a spellbinding experience, very engaging, making me laugh at funny moments and hold my breath during tense ones. I love the writing style, the memorable characters, the great plot, and how everything is interconnected with purpose. This is my first book by the author, and I’ve heard she wrote other books too. "The Well of Souls" is a debut novel by Cornelia, and I ought to get my hands on that one next!
Full booknotes on my blog : https://www.wawahals.com/books-and-living/arc-reviews-the-sibyl-and-the-thief
This book is set in a secondary world, a fantasy realm loosely tied to medieval times (Merlin’s era), where kings and dukes rule the country. While on a quest to untangle their lives, we are introduced to mystical creatures, perfectly described by the author. I love how the world-building is written in this story. The writing style (modern English) is simple yet conveys an ancient experience.
I absolutely love Sabine’s loving mother, who prepared loads of food that made me hungry and miss my mother! ‘A feast was laid out on the table, pasties, morasu cakes, and fresh bread!’ I swear I could smell the freshly baked bread taken out of the stone oven.
Sabine and Anora are lovable and memorable characters who shine as feminine heroines in this story. I am not a fan of romantasy as the main pillar of a story, so I really appreciate how the author embeds small scenes of romance between the hero and heroine as they venture on their adventures. The love and sparks are believable and not cringy, and didn’t make me roll my eyes! I also love how the mystical creatures in this book are described in the most honorable way, focusing on their intelligence rather than their muscles and fierceness. For example, the dragon is portrayed as an intelligent animal with the ability to fly, rather than just a violent, scaled creature that breathes fire.
I admire how the author writes about the societal and political structure, mirroring the actual world. The story highlights how society can pressure individuals, turning them into social climbers to feed their selfishness, and briefly touches on the toxicity of modern society. It’s about the importance of balancing personal needs with those of society and nature. The themes are not too deep but are sufficient to reveal reality to young adult readers, helping them find their own voice and life principles as they come of age. The author did a great job creating believable and whimsical scenes.
This book has a sad ending (just a heads up).
Overall, this book deserves 4.5 stars—a Harry Potter Magic rating from me! It is a spellbinding experience, very engaging, making me laugh at funny moments and hold my breath during tense ones. I love the writing style, the memorable characters, the great plot, and how everything is interconnected with purpose. This is my first book by the author, and I’ve heard she wrote other books too. "The Well of Souls" is a debut novel by Cornelia, and I ought to get my hands on that one next!
Full booknotes on my blog : https://www.wawahals.com/books-and-living/arc-reviews-the-sibyl-and-the-thief
September 8, 2024
Seeing is as much of a burden than not.
This was a refreshing read. Everything about the worldbuilding was enticing and the excellent use of imagery could be noticed. The world was introduced to us in such an organic way that it did not mess up the pacing or story nor did it overwhelm. The lore was also very interesting, which makes me sad. I believe this is a novel, not a series, and there was so much potential to have more of the story and lore to be touched upon.
The plot definitely delivered. I saw the description for this book and I was immediately interested, and when I got to read it, I got hooked! An epic fantasy adventure with found family and coming into who you are, as well as the heart to right what has been wronged and the courage to face it.
Sabine, the invisible woman who is filled with much guilt and much hope. She goes through quite a journey all throughout the book, and you can’t help but cheer for her and her motives as she makes the decisions she does. She’s strong and very much adaptive to her surroundings and situation.
Anora deserves the world after everything she’s gone through.
Every other character had their role to play in the progression of this book. There has been betrayals, there has been redemption, there has been acceptance, and there has been understanding. Which is also why I feel sad about this not being a series, so many characters deserve more of their story to be told after the end of the story. But I loved so many characters.
There is a slight romance, not just for the main couple. I say “slight” as while I do enjoy the romance that bloomed on the characters, like they were sweet and caring, and very lovable–I saw it more as a subplot. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, I actually quite enjoyed that it didn’t overwhelm the plot or take away from the events of the story. It wasn’t heavy and very much an exploration of trust and boundaries.
Overall, a very easy to read and swallow book! I loved its premise and the execution. I loved the characters. And I love that I was given the opportunity to read this before release!
This was a refreshing read. Everything about the worldbuilding was enticing and the excellent use of imagery could be noticed. The world was introduced to us in such an organic way that it did not mess up the pacing or story nor did it overwhelm. The lore was also very interesting, which makes me sad. I believe this is a novel, not a series, and there was so much potential to have more of the story and lore to be touched upon.
The plot definitely delivered. I saw the description for this book and I was immediately interested, and when I got to read it, I got hooked! An epic fantasy adventure with found family and coming into who you are, as well as the heart to right what has been wronged and the courage to face it.
Sabine, the invisible woman who is filled with much guilt and much hope. She goes through quite a journey all throughout the book, and you can’t help but cheer for her and her motives as she makes the decisions she does. She’s strong and very much adaptive to her surroundings and situation.
Anora deserves the world after everything she’s gone through.
Every other character had their role to play in the progression of this book. There has been betrayals, there has been redemption, there has been acceptance, and there has been understanding. Which is also why I feel sad about this not being a series, so many characters deserve more of their story to be told after the end of the story. But I loved so many characters.
There is a slight romance, not just for the main couple. I say “slight” as while I do enjoy the romance that bloomed on the characters, like they were sweet and caring, and very lovable–I saw it more as a subplot. Not that there’s anything wrong with that, I actually quite enjoyed that it didn’t overwhelm the plot or take away from the events of the story. It wasn’t heavy and very much an exploration of trust and boundaries.
Overall, a very easy to read and swallow book! I loved its premise and the execution. I loved the characters. And I love that I was given the opportunity to read this before release!
September 22, 2024
**Review!**
“The time has come to make a choice. Follow your destiny or fade away. Only you can change the course of your future” -Anora Daughter of a Goddess
“People make choices in their lives. We may not understand the consequences until later, but that doesn’t mean we stop choosing.” -Brannon God of Death
The Sibyl and the Thief By Cordelia Kelly
A YA/Epic Fantasy Novel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Starting this review just by saying WOW! What an adventure! Such a refreshing read. The word building paints such a vivid picture in your head. You truly feel like you are in the story. I did not want to stop at all once I started reading this book. On top of that, there are some deep quotes in this book that was just beautiful! As I’m reading I had to stop and write them down. They are just beautiful! The word building again was one of the best. You are not rushed, thrown into anything. You are transported into a world as the story goes. Nothing feels rushed. The pace is perfect! My Epic Fantasy people will LOVE this book!
The Sibyl and the Thief is about a young girl named Sabine. She was cursed with cursed magic that has made her invisible. She has betrayed her family and friends to work as a spy for the Duke on broken promises that he would help cure her. She becomes a spy. She is running out of time. If she doesn’t fine a cure soon, the magic will fully consume her. On one of her spy missions she meets a blind girl named Anora. Anora swears that she can help Sabine. So Sabine follows the blind girl on a dangerous journey through a deadly magical forest. During this journey both girls discover truths about themselves and others around them. Sabine realizes her destiny is greater than she could have ever imagined. Together they have to save the world as it is on the brink of collapse.
“The time has come to make a choice. Follow your destiny or fade away. Only you can change the course of your future” -Anora Daughter of a Goddess
“People make choices in their lives. We may not understand the consequences until later, but that doesn’t mean we stop choosing.” -Brannon God of Death
The Sibyl and the Thief By Cordelia Kelly
A YA/Epic Fantasy Novel
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Starting this review just by saying WOW! What an adventure! Such a refreshing read. The word building paints such a vivid picture in your head. You truly feel like you are in the story. I did not want to stop at all once I started reading this book. On top of that, there are some deep quotes in this book that was just beautiful! As I’m reading I had to stop and write them down. They are just beautiful! The word building again was one of the best. You are not rushed, thrown into anything. You are transported into a world as the story goes. Nothing feels rushed. The pace is perfect! My Epic Fantasy people will LOVE this book!
The Sibyl and the Thief is about a young girl named Sabine. She was cursed with cursed magic that has made her invisible. She has betrayed her family and friends to work as a spy for the Duke on broken promises that he would help cure her. She becomes a spy. She is running out of time. If she doesn’t fine a cure soon, the magic will fully consume her. On one of her spy missions she meets a blind girl named Anora. Anora swears that she can help Sabine. So Sabine follows the blind girl on a dangerous journey through a deadly magical forest. During this journey both girls discover truths about themselves and others around them. Sabine realizes her destiny is greater than she could have ever imagined. Together they have to save the world as it is on the brink of collapse.
February 12, 2025
Thank you to Book Sirens for the Advanced Reader Copy of this book.
I was initially excited to read Sybil and the Thief. The setting, story arc, and characters are all unique, and the adventure itself was intriguing. From the beginning, the narrative has a very proper tone, almost reminiscent of a classic children’s fairy tale like Cinderella or Snow White. While this style initially felt charming, it created an odd contrast as the story progressed, particularly when the main female character's romantic interactions became more intense. The shift from a proper, almost whimsical tone to suggestive romantic elements felt jarring and incongruous, making some moments uncomfortable to read.
Additionally, there were other insinuations of sexual content that didn’t quite align with the established tone of the story. This mismatch in style and content made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the narrative. While the fantasy elements and adventure were engaging, the pacing sometimes led to what I can only describe as "adventure exhaustion." The constant action, without enough emotional depth or fluidity in the writing, made it harder to stay invested in the stakes of the story. The prose was structured and polished, but this also made it feel rigid at times, preventing deeper emotional engagement with the characters and their journey.
Overall, Sybil and the Thief has an interesting premise and some fun moments, but the tonal inconsistencies and relentless pacing made it a challenging read.
I was initially excited to read Sybil and the Thief. The setting, story arc, and characters are all unique, and the adventure itself was intriguing. From the beginning, the narrative has a very proper tone, almost reminiscent of a classic children’s fairy tale like Cinderella or Snow White. While this style initially felt charming, it created an odd contrast as the story progressed, particularly when the main female character's romantic interactions became more intense. The shift from a proper, almost whimsical tone to suggestive romantic elements felt jarring and incongruous, making some moments uncomfortable to read.
Additionally, there were other insinuations of sexual content that didn’t quite align with the established tone of the story. This mismatch in style and content made it difficult to fully immerse myself in the narrative. While the fantasy elements and adventure were engaging, the pacing sometimes led to what I can only describe as "adventure exhaustion." The constant action, without enough emotional depth or fluidity in the writing, made it harder to stay invested in the stakes of the story. The prose was structured and polished, but this also made it feel rigid at times, preventing deeper emotional engagement with the characters and their journey.
Overall, Sybil and the Thief has an interesting premise and some fun moments, but the tonal inconsistencies and relentless pacing made it a challenging read.
August 12, 2024
The Sibyl and the thief follows the story of Sabine, a young woman who has the power to turn invisible but who is stuck being invisible. In this world, some people develop magic powers but there is actually a blight hitting them. This blight makes them lose control over their power and it eventually leads to their death. Knowing that, Sabine is desperately trying to figure out a way to stay alive even if it means working for a shady duke.
I thought that it was an entertaining novel. I don't know if this is meant to develop into a series but I certainly read it as a standalone novel. There is a true ending to the story.
But maybe because of that, the story felt a bit rushed to me and I feel like it didn't develop its full potential. I found the world building lacking. It was a very interesting world but there was a lack of backstory and in a way it felt like it was very reduced. The rushed feeling made it also difficult for me to get attached to the characters.
Taking into account the scale of the quest, the story could have easily been developed into two books.
While I did not love it, I would still say that it was interesting enough with a nice plot twist at some point.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I thought that it was an entertaining novel. I don't know if this is meant to develop into a series but I certainly read it as a standalone novel. There is a true ending to the story.
But maybe because of that, the story felt a bit rushed to me and I feel like it didn't develop its full potential. I found the world building lacking. It was a very interesting world but there was a lack of backstory and in a way it felt like it was very reduced. The rushed feeling made it also difficult for me to get attached to the characters.
Taking into account the scale of the quest, the story could have easily been developed into two books.
While I did not love it, I would still say that it was interesting enough with a nice plot twist at some point.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 16, 2024
“The Sibyl & The Thief” by Cordelia Kelly is a captivating fantasy that tells the story of Sabine. Who, after being betrayed and cursed with invisibility (not dead, just invisible), finds herself working for the Duke, one of the Kingdom’s most powerful figures.
While on a mission for him, Sab meets Anora, a blind seer who introduces her to a hidden world. Promising Sab she can cure her of the curse. Anora, needs to bring Sab to meet The Lady, but can Sab trust Anora? She has trusted to many in the past, the haunted forest is home to many dangerous creatures.
As their relationship grows friendship is the a highlight - “together until the end”. This showcases their strength and solidarity as female heroines.
Their journey unfolds with the addition of Sabine brother and the God of Seasons joining them, their character development deepens - adding layers to their adventures. These characters work together not only to find a cure for Sab but to save their kingdom.
At under 350 pages, this engaging and accessible read offer a light yet impactful experience that will linger long after the last page.
While on a mission for him, Sab meets Anora, a blind seer who introduces her to a hidden world. Promising Sab she can cure her of the curse. Anora, needs to bring Sab to meet The Lady, but can Sab trust Anora? She has trusted to many in the past, the haunted forest is home to many dangerous creatures.
As their relationship grows friendship is the a highlight - “together until the end”. This showcases their strength and solidarity as female heroines.
Their journey unfolds with the addition of Sabine brother and the God of Seasons joining them, their character development deepens - adding layers to their adventures. These characters work together not only to find a cure for Sab but to save their kingdom.
At under 350 pages, this engaging and accessible read offer a light yet impactful experience that will linger long after the last page.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 12, 2024
The initial chapters of the book were captivating, introducing a fascinating magical system and immersing readers in a captivating realm of magic. The protagonist possesses the extraordinary ability of invisibility, which she perceives as a curse, making her a perfect spy for the duke. She seeks a cure as it threatens her existence, leaving her with only a few weeks to live. Turns out, she wields the powerful magic of a sorceress, specifically that of an illusionist.
I wished there could be more depth to the blind seer’s story. The romantic relationship between the blind seer and the protagonist’s brother seemed like mere "filler" and did not significantly contribute to the overall story development. Some parts of the story felt lacking - what is the link between the protagonist and the blind seer that leads them to venture into the realm together?
The pacing of the book could have been improved, as some events leading up to the climax felt rushed and disjointed, giving the impression that the author or editor was hastening to conclude each chapter, resulting in a somewhat lacklustre storytelling.
I wished there could be more depth to the blind seer’s story. The romantic relationship between the blind seer and the protagonist’s brother seemed like mere "filler" and did not significantly contribute to the overall story development. Some parts of the story felt lacking - what is the link between the protagonist and the blind seer that leads them to venture into the realm together?
The pacing of the book could have been improved, as some events leading up to the climax felt rushed and disjointed, giving the impression that the author or editor was hastening to conclude each chapter, resulting in a somewhat lacklustre storytelling.
July 17, 2024
"The Sibyl and the Thief" by Cordelia Kelly is an absolute page-turner! Sabine Gillesella, cursed with invisibility, teams up with Anora, a blind orphan who says she knows how to save her. Their trek through an eerie forest is filled with suspense and truly horrifying creatures. Kelly’s vivid descriptions make the forest come alive, and the bond between Sabine and Anora is beautifully developed, showing strength and trust in the face of danger.
What makes this book stand out are the powerful themes of found family and destiny woven into the plot. As Sabine and Anora uncover hidden truths and face incredible challenges, their courage and resilience shine through. If you love fantasy adventures with strong characters and a gripping plot, "The Sibyl and the Thief" is an excellent choice!
What makes this book stand out are the powerful themes of found family and destiny woven into the plot. As Sabine and Anora uncover hidden truths and face incredible challenges, their courage and resilience shine through. If you love fantasy adventures with strong characters and a gripping plot, "The Sibyl and the Thief" is an excellent choice!
August 17, 2024
The overall story was great and I love the elements of hope, resilience, and defiance that echo through the pages. I also enjoyed the way magic utilized, how it called to the wild nature of magic and the need for balance in all things.
However it felt like there were some pacing issues, times where the story seemed to drag when there wasn't much going on, and other instances when a little more would have greatly enhanced the story. Most of the characters are believeable, but I struggled with the Duke's character as it seemed to flip flop, but not in a good way.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you so much for letting me review this story!
However it felt like there were some pacing issues, times where the story seemed to drag when there wasn't much going on, and other instances when a little more would have greatly enhanced the story. Most of the characters are believeable, but I struggled with the Duke's character as it seemed to flip flop, but not in a good way.
*I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank you so much for letting me review this story!
August 18, 2024
The first 40 percent of the books was intriguing and certainly captivating. It kept me hooked, curious about what's going to happen. But somehow the trajectory of the pace fell later. The events that happened after ever since they met the lady of the forest felt rushed. I didn't feel the tension that seems to going on with the characters.
There's romance in this story but it wasn't profound one to be honest. Not swoon worthy.
I think it would have been fine if there's no romance. Not all fantasy stories need romance.
I understood the struggles of the character but I didn't feel connected to them.
I still had fun reading. But it could have been more.
There's romance in this story but it wasn't profound one to be honest. Not swoon worthy.
I think it would have been fine if there's no romance. Not all fantasy stories need romance.
I understood the struggles of the character but I didn't feel connected to them.
I still had fun reading. But it could have been more.
September 5, 2024
Sabine is invisible, working as a spy for a man that has promised to heal her and fix her magic, stealing food and necessities for her family and neighbors, and going through the motions to stay sane in a terrible world. When the man sends her after a powerful source of magic, Sabine finds a friend who drags her along on a dangerous and entertaining adventure.
I was hooked immediately. I love the entrancing world Cordelia Kelly created, the magical creatures, and unique characters. I enjoyed the romance and the action, but my favorite part was how it all came together at the end, my questions answered, and yet I want to read it again to see the entire puzzle as a whole.
I was hooked immediately. I love the entrancing world Cordelia Kelly created, the magical creatures, and unique characters. I enjoyed the romance and the action, but my favorite part was how it all came together at the end, my questions answered, and yet I want to read it again to see the entire puzzle as a whole.
April 10, 2025
Can Sabine save her people, or even herself?
This is a fantasy. A fantasy about a woman who can turn invisible. Then she meets a blind woman who can tell the future and knows things. This is their story, full of pain and loss, but also hope and love. There is a very definite Celtic twist to this whole tale, one that I thoroughly enjoyed. The world building is fantastic, the characters all grow and mature. One of my favorite characters has got to be Novi, and of course, Brannon. The ending of this story I really did not see coming, but I loved it! Highly enjoyable fantasy and one I definitely recommend.
This is a fantasy. A fantasy about a woman who can turn invisible. Then she meets a blind woman who can tell the future and knows things. This is their story, full of pain and loss, but also hope and love. There is a very definite Celtic twist to this whole tale, one that I thoroughly enjoyed. The world building is fantastic, the characters all grow and mature. One of my favorite characters has got to be Novi, and of course, Brannon. The ending of this story I really did not see coming, but I loved it! Highly enjoyable fantasy and one I definitely recommend.
July 29, 2024
I really enjoyed the idea of this book, it was great to read about characters that had a unique feel to them. It was great that the one character was invisible and the other was blind. It had that fantasy element perfectly and was engaged with the world and characters. Cordelia Kelly wrote this perfectly and had me want to read more in this world. It uses the fantasy element and had that element that I wanted from a young adult novel. I can't wait for more from Cordelia Kelly.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 18, 2024
This was such a beautiful story by Ms. Cordelia Kelly. Following Sabine’s journey of truly finding herself amid the evil of her world and situation is such a journey. The friendship, love, and fierce protectiveness that this story evokes is simply magnificent. There is magic, evil, nature gods and goddesses, and a story of bravery through the darkest times. Please read this wonderful story about Sabine, she has my heart.
July 31, 2024
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
well written high fantasy novel. I was hooked from start to finish, this book is very fast paced (maybe too fast at some points?). the characters are very lovable and this book is perfect for autumn. the magic system is pretty unique and the world building was easy to understand and very interesting.
well written high fantasy novel. I was hooked from start to finish, this book is very fast paced (maybe too fast at some points?). the characters are very lovable and this book is perfect for autumn. the magic system is pretty unique and the world building was easy to understand and very interesting.
October 10, 2024
What an amazing journey! Barely a few pages into the story, the reader is drawn into a whirlwind of fantastic events, filled with unexpected, brilliant plot twists, colorful scenes that sparkle with energy, and characters you can’t resist falling in love with. Fantasy lovers should not miss this book!
July 16, 2024
I loved this book! It was engaging and a fun read that I couldn't put down. The main character Sabine was complex... wanting to save herself as well as help her people who are being oppressed by Duke Aurich. This book has adventure, romance and an excellent storyline!
September 10, 2024
ARC Review.
OMG I loved this one.
You could sit it on a shelf full of The Forgotten Realm books and it would fit right in.
Full of magic, evil, greed and humans who face it all even as their hearts are torn out.
I will definitely be buying a physical copy for my shelf when it's released.
OMG I loved this one.
You could sit it on a shelf full of The Forgotten Realm books and it would fit right in.
Full of magic, evil, greed and humans who face it all even as their hearts are torn out.
I will definitely be buying a physical copy for my shelf when it's released.
September 21, 2024
I loved the magic and myth included in this story. There is an underlying importance of family and protecting the innocent. Betrayal and darkness fight against goodness and light. Which side will win? I received an advance reader copy of this story and I’m happy to leave this review.
August 12, 2024
i had a really good time reading this book! it was haunting and well written! i loved the mystery of the plot and the suspense of the telling. this is the first book ive read from the author and it did not disappoint!
Want to read
October 22, 2024This looks really interesting. I'll add it to my to-read list.
December 2, 2024
This was a fun and cool fantasy story! I really liked it.
I received a copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a copy of this book via BookSirens and am voluntarily leaving a review.
December 27, 2024
So good. This was such an amazing book. The world and all the characters are so well written. I really enjoyed the entire story line. I hope that there will be more books in this world.
April 16, 2025
Great romance! Fun adventure! The world-building is cool and unique! I enjoyed this book. Give it a go and you’ll enjoy it too!
September 17, 2024
Such a Unique World!
This book has nothing to do with the other book of Kelly’s, so I was super interested in what it would be about. It’s a standalone, so I don’t need to worry about waiting for the next book to come out (I prefer buying all the books in a series so there’s not such a long gap between books—a little odd, I know). I know it’s sort of medieval fantasy, which I don’t like as much as contemporary fantasy, but I was hooked nonetheless.
This is your typical young adult adventure. It takes place in a magical fantasy world with medieval technology. The plot progresses is a clear, chronological manner—no flashbacks but with hints of mysteries from the past along the way.
Sabine is the main character, and while she gets lost at times, her morals and sense of justice are strong. She doesn’t always know this about herself, though, so luckily Anora is there to balance her out (and be the gem that she is). Rafi, Sabine’s brother, is kind and a bit rash, but strong and adorable in his own right. Other characters flit in and out of frame, each feeling unique and diverse.
The main trio is Sabine, Anora, and Rafi, who escape the city and traverse into the dark and deadly forest, following Anora as they search for a cure for Sabine’s magic, which has made her invisible and is slowly killing her. I love the strong bond these three share. The alliances they make along the way are vivacious, and some of the plot twists really got me!
The writing of this story is perfect for a young adult audience. Lots of action, lots of twists and turns—a bit of romance mixed in! There were several moving parts, but nothing too complex or over my head either. This book had an excellent overall message and some vital themes sprinkled throughout.
The pacing struck me at times to wander, but overall, it was great. One thing after another drew the plot forward naturally while still giving our heroes time to rest and recuperate.
I highly recommend this book! It’s a fun stand-alone for the YA Fantasy lover!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This book has nothing to do with the other book of Kelly’s, so I was super interested in what it would be about. It’s a standalone, so I don’t need to worry about waiting for the next book to come out (I prefer buying all the books in a series so there’s not such a long gap between books—a little odd, I know). I know it’s sort of medieval fantasy, which I don’t like as much as contemporary fantasy, but I was hooked nonetheless.
This is your typical young adult adventure. It takes place in a magical fantasy world with medieval technology. The plot progresses is a clear, chronological manner—no flashbacks but with hints of mysteries from the past along the way.
Sabine is the main character, and while she gets lost at times, her morals and sense of justice are strong. She doesn’t always know this about herself, though, so luckily Anora is there to balance her out (and be the gem that she is). Rafi, Sabine’s brother, is kind and a bit rash, but strong and adorable in his own right. Other characters flit in and out of frame, each feeling unique and diverse.
The main trio is Sabine, Anora, and Rafi, who escape the city and traverse into the dark and deadly forest, following Anora as they search for a cure for Sabine’s magic, which has made her invisible and is slowly killing her. I love the strong bond these three share. The alliances they make along the way are vivacious, and some of the plot twists really got me!
The writing of this story is perfect for a young adult audience. Lots of action, lots of twists and turns—a bit of romance mixed in! There were several moving parts, but nothing too complex or over my head either. This book had an excellent overall message and some vital themes sprinkled throughout.
The pacing struck me at times to wander, but overall, it was great. One thing after another drew the plot forward naturally while still giving our heroes time to rest and recuperate.
I highly recommend this book! It’s a fun stand-alone for the YA Fantasy lover!
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Read
November 16, 2024"Stellar fantasy of a young woman facing a curse and daring to rebel."
— Booklife Reviews Editor's Pick
"Dynamic characters galvanize this entertaining, well-paced magical tale. The story continues to dish out startling plot turns (not just in the final act) before reaching an unforgettable open ending."
—Kirkus Reviews
— Booklife Reviews Editor's Pick
"Dynamic characters galvanize this entertaining, well-paced magical tale. The story continues to dish out startling plot turns (not just in the final act) before reaching an unforgettable open ending."
—Kirkus Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews