The Emerald Gate: Book 1

by Yazz Kueen

529 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 23, 2026

Reviews

[Author Jolandi Stadler]

I’ll start by saying that YA isn’t normally what I reach for, so I honestly wasn’t sure how I was going to feel about the novel - but I was pleasantly surprised because I really enjoyed it.
It was such an easy book to get lost in. I found myself becoming more and more curious about Clover, why everyone calls her “Jinx”, and what was actually happening at Briarwood High. The strange symbols, the secrets, the mysterious gate and all the little things that didn’t quite make sense hooked me.
I also really enjoyed the friendships in this book. Watching everyone slowly get pulled into this mystery was probably one of my favourite parts. And obviously I have to mention Mittens
What I liked most, though, was that I could simply enjoy the story. It wasn’t complicated or difficult to follow
There are still quite a few things I want answers to, but considering this is the first book in a duology, I suppose I’m just going to have to be patient. I’m definitely curious to see where the story goes next and what else is hiding behind that gate
Even as someone who doesn’t normally read much YA, I had a really good time with this one. Thank you to Kueen Yazz for dazzling me

[Amanda Moore]

THE EMERALD GATE by Kueen Yazz

This book had me HOOKED.

I absolutely loved following Clover Mist and Andrea Riley as they get pulled into a mystery that is so much bigger and darker than they ever could have imagined. Clover’s “Jinx” reputation made her such an interesting character to follow, and I loved seeing the secrets surrounding her slowly unfold.
Then there’s Andrea, who gets caught up in the mystery of the ancient symbol and that very suspicious door beneath Briarwood High…
The atmosphere, secrets, mystery and that feeling that something is definitely not right kept me turning the pages. There were so many moments where I was questioning what was really going on and what was waiting behind the Emerald Gate. 💚
If you love YA fantasy, mysterious doors, hidden secrets, school mysteries and characters who find themselves in way over their heads, definitely add this one to your TBR!

[Paula Moraes]

I’ll admit, it took me a little while to get into The Emerald Gate, but once I did, I found myself genuinely curious about what was going to happen next.
I really enjoyed the mysterious atmosphere surrounding Clover Mist and Briarwood High. There always seemed to be something strange going on, and I loved trying to piece together the clues and make sense of everything.
What I enjoyed most, though, was the connection between the characters. Their friendships added a warm, emotional side to the story and made me care more about what happened to them.
Overall, this was a fun and intriguing read for me. If you enjoy YA mystery, secrets, and stories that keep you guessing, The Emerald Gate is definitely worth adding to your TBR. 💚✨
@book_nook_26

[Sana]

4.5/5 ⭐

The Emerald Gate started a little slowly for me, but it soon had me hooked and curious about what would happen next.

I really enjoyed the mysterious atmosphere surrounding Briarwood High, Clover Mist's unusual reputation, and the many unanswered questions throughout the story. The mystery and suspense kept me guessing, while the friendships and emotional moments between the characters added a lovely layer to the story.

If you're a beginner reader or enjoy ,YA mystery, suspense, secrets and unexplained happenings, I'd definitely recommend giving this one a try.

A great first ARC experience for me! 💚📖

[Samantha Sturtz]

A YA fantasy & mystery book with found family, cursed heroine, and a mysterious school.

This book had the vibe of Lockwood & Co and the School of Good and Evil.

I really enjoyed Clover & Mittens, the friendship and the supernatural elements.

I wish there was a tighter pacing and more background on the mythology but overall an excellent book!