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Forbidden Forest #1
Stolen Enchantress
A beast. An enchantress. An unbreakable curse . . .
When her little sister is taken by the beast of the Forbidden Forest, Larkin does the unthinkable: she goes in after her.
Deep within the sentient woods, Larkin uncovers a secret that puts her in dreadful danger. Worse, now that the beast has had his taste, he’ll never stop hunting her. But the forest has woken something inside Larkin; something that gives her the power to fight back.
Magic.
Using forbidden magic will get Larkin hanged. Not using it will leave her at the mercy of the beast's enchantment. But there’s a third option; one that scares her more than anything.
She could fall in love with the beast.
Fans of A CURSE SO DARK AND LONELY and A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES will be spellbound by the fairytale retelling of Beauty and the Beast and The Pied Piper in Stolen Enchantress. One-click now to find out why readers around the world are getting lost in the Forbidden Forest!
“Moody, whimsical, & enchanting.” - Emily R. King, author of The Hundredth Queen Series
OTHER TITLES BY AMBER ARGYLE
Forbidden Forest Series
Lady of Shadows
Stolen Enchantress
Piper Prince
Wraith King
Curse Queen
Fairy Queens Saga
Of Ice and Snow
Winter Queen
Of Fire and Ash
Summer Queen
Of Sand and Storm
Daughter of Winter
Winter’s Heir
Witch Song Series
Witch Song
Witch Born
Witch Rising
Witch Fall
When her little sister is taken by the beast of the Forbidden Forest, Larkin does the unthinkable: she goes in after her.
Deep within the sentient woods, Larkin uncovers a secret that puts her in dreadful danger. Worse, now that the beast has had his taste, he’ll never stop hunting her. But the forest has woken something inside Larkin; something that gives her the power to fight back.
Magic.
Using forbidden magic will get Larkin hanged. Not using it will leave her at the mercy of the beast's enchantment. But there’s a third option; one that scares her more than anything.
She could fall in love with the beast.
Fans of A CURSE SO DARK AND LONELY and A COURT OF THORNS AND ROSES will be spellbound by the fairytale retelling of Beauty and the Beast and The Pied Piper in Stolen Enchantress. One-click now to find out why readers around the world are getting lost in the Forbidden Forest!
“Moody, whimsical, & enchanting.” - Emily R. King, author of The Hundredth Queen Series
OTHER TITLES BY AMBER ARGYLE
Forbidden Forest Series
Lady of Shadows
Stolen Enchantress
Piper Prince
Wraith King
Curse Queen
Fairy Queens Saga
Of Ice and Snow
Winter Queen
Of Fire and Ash
Summer Queen
Of Sand and Storm
Daughter of Winter
Winter’s Heir
Witch Song Series
Witch Song
Witch Born
Witch Rising
Witch Fall
448 pages, Paperback
First published July 20, 2016
751 people are currently reading
4440 people want to read
About the author
Amber Argyle
30 books1,095 followersAmber Argyle is the bestselling fantasy & romance author of the Forbidden Forest, Fairy Queens, Witch Song, & Wild Heart Ranch Romance series. Her award-winning books have been translated into several languages and praised by such authors as NYT bestsellers David Farland and Jennifer A. Nielsen.
Amber grew up on a cattle ranch and spent her formative years in the rodeo circuit and on the basketball court. She graduated cum laude from Utah State University. She’s delightfully sarcastic, loves all things outdoors, and believes spiders should be relegated to horror novels where they belong.
She has completed three series and is working on a fourth.
To receive her starter library of four free books, simply tell her where to send it: http://amberargyle.com/freebooks/
Amber grew up on a cattle ranch and spent her formative years in the rodeo circuit and on the basketball court. She graduated cum laude from Utah State University. She’s delightfully sarcastic, loves all things outdoors, and believes spiders should be relegated to horror novels where they belong.
She has completed three series and is working on a fourth.
To receive her starter library of four free books, simply tell her where to send it: http://amberargyle.com/freebooks/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 247 reviews
September 26, 2018
I have no clever words left. They're all trapped in this book.
Here's a snippet of a song inside:
Within the shadows of the trees,
The beast doth live, the beast doth breathe.
When days does and shadows grow,
the beast without his kingdom goes.
Shadows his cloak, magic his staff;
His snaggily claws reach ‘n grasp
Snatching the virgins from their dreams,
Never a chance to voice their screams.
Back to the forest he doth go
To nibble and dribble their bones just so.
Here's a snippet of a song inside:
Within the shadows of the trees,
The beast doth live, the beast doth breathe.
When days does and shadows grow,
the beast without his kingdom goes.
Shadows his cloak, magic his staff;
His snaggily claws reach ‘n grasp
Snatching the virgins from their dreams,
Never a chance to voice their screams.
Back to the forest he doth go
To nibble and dribble their bones just so.
May 6, 2018
This book was... frustrating. I will start with the good. The premise was neat, and the world building pretty good. I was excited to read it. I even enjoyed the hero, despite the dubious circumstances of their relationship.
Now for the not so good. Larkin. Larkin was an immature, whining pain in the ass. So many times, I just wanted to slap her for being a complete moron. Even within a single scene, her decisions changed like lightning from understandable to nonsensical. She just stubbornly refused to listen or learn from her mistakes. There was nothing endearing or even mildly likable about her, yet she is the typical, “chosen one” heroine.
The plot. An abrupt ending after not even resolving much plot left me unsatisfied. There was no real climax or resolution. It’s an obvious setup for a sequel I will probably pass on, due to the rage inducing nature of our main character.
The romance. There was zero chemistry in either relationship. The whole setup with her and Bane made no sense. I don’t understand at all how he ends up the way he does, considering the things that are revealed later on. And Denan was supposed to be her “heartsong”, yet there was no passion, no love, and no chemistry AT ALL.
Overall, I was left unsatisfied by this book. And that was extra disappointing because these fairy tale retelling fantasy books are totally up my alley, and I was excited to read this one.
Now for the not so good. Larkin. Larkin was an immature, whining pain in the ass. So many times, I just wanted to slap her for being a complete moron. Even within a single scene, her decisions changed like lightning from understandable to nonsensical. She just stubbornly refused to listen or learn from her mistakes. There was nothing endearing or even mildly likable about her, yet she is the typical, “chosen one” heroine.
The plot. An abrupt ending after not even resolving much plot left me unsatisfied. There was no real climax or resolution. It’s an obvious setup for a sequel I will probably pass on, due to the rage inducing nature of our main character.
The romance. There was zero chemistry in either relationship. The whole setup with her and Bane made no sense. I don’t understand at all how he ends up the way he does, considering the things that are revealed later on. And Denan was supposed to be her “heartsong”, yet there was no passion, no love, and no chemistry AT ALL.
Overall, I was left unsatisfied by this book. And that was extra disappointing because these fairy tale retelling fantasy books are totally up my alley, and I was excited to read this one.
May 11, 2018
I was wavering between 4 and 5 stars but figured why not just round up. I'm in a charitable mood I guess. Larkin gets a tad...um...insufferable? at times, though I'm on the fence between admiring her tenacity and face palming because she just doesn't get it. There's also a little too much back and forth and back and forth (capture, escape, repeat) but I honestly COULD. NOT. PUT. IT. DOWN. It's an extremely fascinating world, with a suitably creepy forest (which I adore) and one that still has plenty of mystery to uncover... I'm anxious to see what book 2 brings. Definitely recommend for lovers of fantasy with a fairy tale twist.
June 9, 2020
Wow
I'm kind of all over the place, having a hard time deciding what to write and how to rank this one. I was sucked in from the start and could not put it down. I haven't read a long book like this in a while, but the pages just flew by. Overall, I really liked it and liked the characters and storyline. Ms. Argyle is a gifted writer and storyteller. She's able to create unique characters, evil villains and a new world that is so well developed. Now, I'm not sure if I can write the rest without giving spoilers (although I will try not to), so here it goes...
Things I liked...
I loved how the author has reimagined the Pied Piper in this story. It is truly captivating and a great storyline. Reminded me a bit of the movie The Villiage and the book kind of has that same feel to it. I loved our protagonist Larkin, man that girl is tough. I like that she fought the pull of the Piper, but was also looking forward to when she would finally realize what was going on and what was truly best for her. She is also very loyal and is a fighter. And sadly, some use that against her and it tends to get her in trouble. The Romance. I'm a huge sucker for romance in my novels and did enjoy it for this one. It's part of the main plot obviously, but also pretty subtle. I love the scenes when they're together most. I love how patient our Hero is, and determined and just swoony. I really really liked him. And he even added a dash of humor to the story, which I love. I love a guy with a sense of humor, but is super tough at the same time.
Things I didn't like...
There is a lot, a lot, of fighting, running, talk of abuse, that just adds a layer of seriousness to the story. It's heavier than I normally like reading. While there is a lot going on, there were times I found myself wishing things would move a little quicker to get to the next part. And poor Larkin, everyone else always putting her into tough situations.
I really liked the overall story. But, I wish the book had a lighter tone overall, with maybe a bit less peril around every corner. Larkin is jumping from once mess to another. I like the world Ms. Argyle has created, I love our main characters and am curious to see how things are going to play out. Fans of the High Fantasy genre will really enjoy this one.
ContentPG-13 for peril, fighting, abuse
Romance: Pretty clean. Nothing more than kissing. Talk of sex, pregnancy, menstrual cycles, abuse
Language: Very mild, maybe one mild curse word that I recall
Violence: Moderate-Heavy. Nothing overly graphic or gruesome. Larkins father is physically abusive. Another character is mentioned that her father was abusive. Obviously girls being kidnapped. Fighting, curses, peril and death.
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I'm kind of all over the place, having a hard time deciding what to write and how to rank this one. I was sucked in from the start and could not put it down. I haven't read a long book like this in a while, but the pages just flew by. Overall, I really liked it and liked the characters and storyline. Ms. Argyle is a gifted writer and storyteller. She's able to create unique characters, evil villains and a new world that is so well developed. Now, I'm not sure if I can write the rest without giving spoilers (although I will try not to), so here it goes...
Things I liked...
I loved how the author has reimagined the Pied Piper in this story. It is truly captivating and a great storyline. Reminded me a bit of the movie The Villiage and the book kind of has that same feel to it. I loved our protagonist Larkin, man that girl is tough. I like that she fought the pull of the Piper, but was also looking forward to when she would finally realize what was going on and what was truly best for her. She is also very loyal and is a fighter. And sadly, some use that against her and it tends to get her in trouble. The Romance. I'm a huge sucker for romance in my novels and did enjoy it for this one. It's part of the main plot obviously, but also pretty subtle. I love the scenes when they're together most. I love how patient our Hero is, and determined and just swoony. I really really liked him. And he even added a dash of humor to the story, which I love. I love a guy with a sense of humor, but is super tough at the same time.
Things I didn't like...
There is a lot, a lot, of fighting, running, talk of abuse, that just adds a layer of seriousness to the story. It's heavier than I normally like reading. While there is a lot going on, there were times I found myself wishing things would move a little quicker to get to the next part. And poor Larkin, everyone else always putting her into tough situations.
I really liked the overall story. But, I wish the book had a lighter tone overall, with maybe a bit less peril around every corner. Larkin is jumping from once mess to another. I like the world Ms. Argyle has created, I love our main characters and am curious to see how things are going to play out. Fans of the High Fantasy genre will really enjoy this one.
ContentPG-13 for peril, fighting, abuse
Romance: Pretty clean. Nothing more than kissing. Talk of sex, pregnancy, menstrual cycles, abuse
Language: Very mild, maybe one mild curse word that I recall
Violence: Moderate-Heavy. Nothing overly graphic or gruesome. Larkins father is physically abusive. Another character is mentioned that her father was abusive. Obviously girls being kidnapped. Fighting, curses, peril and death.
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April 12, 2018
Stolen Enchantress was a beautiful story! It was so magical and full of life. It had an original story line. I was captivated from the first page!!
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own
May 31, 2019
****4.5 Unique Stars****
This was definitely a very unique kind of story and I was sucked in after the first 1/4 of the book. I absolutely LOVED the world building once inside of the forest!
Can't wait for the next book in this series!
This was definitely a very unique kind of story and I was sucked in after the first 1/4 of the book. I absolutely LOVED the world building once inside of the forest!
Can't wait for the next book in this series!
June 21, 2020
Thank goodness this whole series is out. I don't like series and normally will only read the first book but this is different. It's been a long time since I wanted to read the second book. Can I survive it? This book had me biting my nails. This poor girl is a danger magnet. I thought it would get old but this book is just all about a time of peril, it worked. I couldn't put this book down and was pretty frustrated being interrupted, so you might want to start when you have few interruptions. The story is fast paced, well put together and just good. It is unpredictable and pulls you in over and over. This is a story that I will give my 19 year old to read. She will love it. I might even read it to my 11 and 14 year old changing somethings. There is violence everywhere in this book. It is not too detailed but you understand how awful the life is for some of these people. There is no sex but some kissing and mention of pregnancy before marriage. There is some frietning things like monsters and zombies. This has an older teen feel.
I will be reading more of Amber's books after this.
I will be reading more of Amber's books after this.
February 7, 2019
it feels unfair one of the first books i read in 2019 (and after a long break from goodreads/reading for fun in general) would be absolutely abysmal. really, this book features one of the most grotesque excuses for a fantasy romance that i've read in a while, and what makes it extra galling are the attempts to lampshade the grossness unsuccessfully. it's also unrelentingly grim, at least for the first quarter of the book, and lacks subtlety both from the author and the protagonist. oh, and there's a hard binary between "women's magic" and "men's magic." great.
the plot of the story adapts elements from the pied piper. honestly, i kind of wish this book was intended to be a dark horror fantasy instead of an adventure/romance. that would make the romance less upsetting. instead, there is an insufferable "hero"/love interest whose smugness sparks no chemistry with the protagonist, a woman who is supposedly his "heartsong."
i will not continue with this series. i wouldn't recommend it even as a hate-read.
here's hoping the next book i read make up for how much i hated this one.
the plot of the story adapts elements from the pied piper. honestly, i kind of wish this book was intended to be a dark horror fantasy instead of an adventure/romance. that would make the romance less upsetting. instead, there is an insufferable "hero"/love interest whose smugness sparks no chemistry with the protagonist, a woman who is supposedly his "heartsong."
i will not continue with this series. i wouldn't recommend it even as a hate-read.
here's hoping the next book i read make up for how much i hated this one.
April 12, 2018
This book was exactly what I needed to read even though I didn't know it. When Amber Argyle says she has a new book coming out, I'm the girl in the front of the line with my hand raised, jumping up and down saying, "pick me, pick me!" I think what draws me to her books is the way she creates original and fascinating places and people that just pull me right in. Her books are outside my normal, go to genre but I really love that. Fantasy isn't usually my favorite, but when it comes to Amber Argyle, it is. It gives me a well needed breath of fresh air.
I was intrigued by this book from the very first chapters. It perked up my imagination and my curiosity. I just had to know what was going to happen. That feeling continued throughout the whole book. I love when a book can engage me so entirely. And now, even days later as I write this, I am still thinking about this book. I want more. I want the next book now!
This book has it all- scary creatures, strong characters, magical powers, vivid and varying places and the ever needed theme of good versus evil. There is love and betrayal, light and darkness. It was an incredibly fun adventure and I loved every single minute of it.
Content: some violence, peril, death.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
I was intrigued by this book from the very first chapters. It perked up my imagination and my curiosity. I just had to know what was going to happen. That feeling continued throughout the whole book. I love when a book can engage me so entirely. And now, even days later as I write this, I am still thinking about this book. I want more. I want the next book now!
This book has it all- scary creatures, strong characters, magical powers, vivid and varying places and the ever needed theme of good versus evil. There is love and betrayal, light and darkness. It was an incredibly fun adventure and I loved every single minute of it.
Content: some violence, peril, death.
- I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
April 22, 2018
¿Sabéis cuando estáis disfrutando tanto un libro y os encontráis tan metidos en sus páginas que no queréis soltarlo ni para ir al baño y, cuando os veis obligados a parar de leer, no dejáis de pensar en retomarlo? Pues eso es lo que me ha pasado con esta novela. La ambientación, los personajes (Larkin, la protagonista, tan coherente con las situaciones que vive, tan bien desarrollada y con tan buena evolución 👌🏻😍. Y Denan, el prota, tan duro y a la vez tan noble, tan leal, tan dulce... Y esos secundarios que suman, que no están solo para hacer bulto... Incluso los antagonistas te acaban gustando dentro del odio que te suscitan XD), la trama, el sistema de magia, el ritmo de los acontecimientos, que no decae y te mantiene en un enganche continuo... me enamoraron.
September 4, 2018
The idea for the premise of mixing two popular fairy tales was worthy, but after reading the result of the execution, I'm convinced this book would've worked much better as a purely Pied Piper retelling, sans the Beauty and the Beast inserts, which didn't work as well as intended. As an original fantasy plot it'd have worked well also, without the need for borrowing elements of any of these tales.
June 11, 2019
2.5 stars
It was really good at first. Around 40% of the way in, it all went to shit. The forbidden forest was dangerous. Women were lured there and never seen again. Of course things weren't what they seemed. The world building was good, but it wasn't enough to save the story.
It's hard to get into a book when you can't stand the main character. Larkin irritated the hell out of me. She did one stupid thing after another and constantly put herself and others in danger. Learning from her mistakes was not something she seemed capable of. The last half of the book was filled with drama all because Larkin kept making idiotic mistakes. Her intentions were good, but it didn't matter when things always ended badly.
I didn't care for the love triangle. Nothing about it was romantic. It was more like choosing the lesser of two evils. Denan was definitely the lesser of two evils. He was a good guy although I completely understand why Larkin wasn't quick to trust him. Bane was aggravating. He wasn't good or bad. Mainly he was selfish. Larkin professed to love him, but I didn't feel like she did.
The ending was abrupt. It didn't come to a conclusion. There wasn't a true cliffhanger either. It felt like a story that was already way too long ended half way through it. I was too frustrated with this book to want to bother with the next one.
It was really good at first. Around 40% of the way in, it all went to shit. The forbidden forest was dangerous. Women were lured there and never seen again. Of course things weren't what they seemed. The world building was good, but it wasn't enough to save the story.
It's hard to get into a book when you can't stand the main character. Larkin irritated the hell out of me. She did one stupid thing after another and constantly put herself and others in danger. Learning from her mistakes was not something she seemed capable of. The last half of the book was filled with drama all because Larkin kept making idiotic mistakes. Her intentions were good, but it didn't matter when things always ended badly.
I didn't care for the love triangle. Nothing about it was romantic. It was more like choosing the lesser of two evils. Denan was definitely the lesser of two evils. He was a good guy although I completely understand why Larkin wasn't quick to trust him. Bane was aggravating. He wasn't good or bad. Mainly he was selfish. Larkin professed to love him, but I didn't feel like she did.
The ending was abrupt. It didn't come to a conclusion. There wasn't a true cliffhanger either. It felt like a story that was already way too long ended half way through it. I was too frustrated with this book to want to bother with the next one.
November 4, 2019
Thanks to Amber Argyle for giving me this book to review.
Stolen Enchantress is a fast-paced YA fantasy which I really enjoyed. It had brilliant world building and magic system, along with well written characters and a fairytale feel to the novel. The only thing I was not a fan of was why the girls were taken but I cannot say more without spoiling the book.
Larkin is a protective, loyal and caring person, and is a really good protagonist who is stuck in a society which sees her as possession and just wants to be free and valued. Denan is a strong leader but I wasn’t a fan of him as while he was nice and all, he was still kidnapping Larkin and tearing her away from her family.
I enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the next in the series. I would recommend Stolen Enchantress to those who are a fan Amber’s other books or just enjoy an adventure and magic filled YA story.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
Stolen Enchantress is a fast-paced YA fantasy which I really enjoyed. It had brilliant world building and magic system, along with well written characters and a fairytale feel to the novel. The only thing I was not a fan of was why the girls were taken but I cannot say more without spoiling the book.
Larkin is a protective, loyal and caring person, and is a really good protagonist who is stuck in a society which sees her as possession and just wants to be free and valued. Denan is a strong leader but I wasn’t a fan of him as while he was nice and all, he was still kidnapping Larkin and tearing her away from her family.
I enjoyed this book and I am looking forward to reading the next in the series. I would recommend Stolen Enchantress to those who are a fan Amber’s other books or just enjoy an adventure and magic filled YA story.
This and my other reviews can be found at Amethyst Bookwyrm
June 3, 2018
I have mixed feelings about this book. On the one hand, it kept me reading, although at times I was tempted to skim or skip through. I enjoyed the premise and the story world.
The heroine, Larkin, seems strong and distinctive at first. I appreciate her loyalty to family and friends, but her internal drama and naivete get wearing before the halfway point. Most of the conflict toward the end of the book depends on her refusal to communicate with the hero she supposedly trusts, which makes the climactic action predictable. Yes, I read it anyway in hopes of being surprised . . . but I wasn't.
The hero is adorable, and his constancy is admirable, but I really wish he would chew Larkin out at least once. He needs her too much. And her alternate love interest? The guy is a manipulative user.
So, do I recommend this story? With reservations. It is clean but edgy, and the majority of its characters are distinctly unlikable. There is nothing brilliantly new here, but the author knows how to create an exciting story set in a beautifully and creepily fantastical world.
The heroine, Larkin, seems strong and distinctive at first. I appreciate her loyalty to family and friends, but her internal drama and naivete get wearing before the halfway point. Most of the conflict toward the end of the book depends on her refusal to communicate with the hero she supposedly trusts, which makes the climactic action predictable. Yes, I read it anyway in hopes of being surprised . . . but I wasn't.
The hero is adorable, and his constancy is admirable, but I really wish he would chew Larkin out at least once. He needs her too much. And her alternate love interest? The guy is a manipulative user.
So, do I recommend this story? With reservations. It is clean but edgy, and the majority of its characters are distinctly unlikable. There is nothing brilliantly new here, but the author knows how to create an exciting story set in a beautifully and creepily fantastical world.
April 12, 2018
OMG.
I just cant.
This book........OMG!!! I LOVE IT SO MUCH! UGGGGHHHH @@^#&%$^# I don't want to wait for the next one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I need it NOOOOWWWW!!!!!
The mix of fairy tales and witch/enchantress type magic is just perfection.
The characters and the world and the rawness of real like horrors....all mixed in with fairy tales...it's pure MAGIC.
I don't even really know what to say.
At times the book is SOO frustrating because you know things the character doesn't know yet, and you know the true villain/villains aren't out in the open...
The magic and rituals....so unique...and...and...and.....ALL OF IT....I love it all.
I need me a Denan.
This book touches on so many things. Family dynamics. Betrayal. **There are instances of abuse, so beware if that's a trigger for you.**
I just cant.
This book........OMG!!! I LOVE IT SO MUCH! UGGGGHHHH @@^#&%$^# I don't want to wait for the next one!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I need it NOOOOWWWW!!!!!
The mix of fairy tales and witch/enchantress type magic is just perfection.
The characters and the world and the rawness of real like horrors....all mixed in with fairy tales...it's pure MAGIC.
I don't even really know what to say.
At times the book is SOO frustrating because you know things the character doesn't know yet, and you know the true villain/villains aren't out in the open...
The magic and rituals....so unique...and...and...and.....ALL OF IT....I love it all.
I need me a Denan.
This book touches on so many things. Family dynamics. Betrayal. **There are instances of abuse, so beware if that's a trigger for you.**
April 10, 2018
3.5 stars
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
The cover is a piece of art, and the blurb for once says the truth: this book is a sort of The Pied Piper meets The Beauty and the Beast for real and the author shows an imagination rich and wonderful. I love the cover and I think that it’s the right one for this story.
And what a story! This is a highly enjoyable reading, even if I wasn’t so enamored, because it was too much angsty for my tastes. I prefer something with less angst all around, and in this one the author is not really kind to her characters, so I don’t know if I would read the next one in the series. But… but it was a great reading nonetheless!
The writing is good, and the author did a really good job while telling us her story. It’s all so imaginative, and fairy-tailesque (is this even a word?) and good. We see her world and we see what she wants us to see.
And then we have the characters. They’re all quite good (even if there was a thing with Bane that didn’t sit very well with me, but I can’t say more because it would be spoiler!) and they all are not just wallpaper, they are real! Larkin is not a bad MC, even if I didn’t love her. I wasn’t always so fond of her decisions and I had some problems putting myself in her shoes, so I didn’t love her, but I liked her, and I liked Denan. I think that he was my favorite character, but there are some others really good. I liked Alorica, too, and that was a surprise, a really big one, to be honest, because she’s the mean girl and usually I am not a fan, but hey… the author did a good job with her too! And we have a lot of interesting characters, Crazy Maisy (I haven’t decided to go on with the series, that’s true, but if I’ll go on I really hope to read more about her!), Talox and Tam, and also the Black Druids.
But my favorite thing of all was the Alamat. It’s a place so magical, so wonderful, that you have to fall in love with it!
And the story is full of twist and it’s enthralling. In some parts, I was really hooked up, even if in some other parts it reminded me a lot of ACOTAR. It’s not a bad thing, and it’s not a good thing, it’s just so.
Anyway… this book is a book about choices, about consequences, but also about family and relationship set in a wonderful world. On one hand, I was expecting something more, if I speak about how much I enjoyed it, because I am not a fan of angst and in this book there is a lot of it… really a lot! But, on the other hand, I wasn’t expecting something so good, because the storytelling is really good and the author creates a world so full, so vivid and magic that it’s like a spell.
This was my first Amber Argyle’s book but it won’t be the last, that’s for sure. I hope that not all of her books are so angsty, but I am really curious about them!
I received a copy from the author in exchange for an honest review
The cover is a piece of art, and the blurb for once says the truth: this book is a sort of The Pied Piper meets The Beauty and the Beast for real and the author shows an imagination rich and wonderful. I love the cover and I think that it’s the right one for this story.
And what a story! This is a highly enjoyable reading, even if I wasn’t so enamored, because it was too much angsty for my tastes. I prefer something with less angst all around, and in this one the author is not really kind to her characters, so I don’t know if I would read the next one in the series. But… but it was a great reading nonetheless!
The writing is good, and the author did a really good job while telling us her story. It’s all so imaginative, and fairy-tailesque (is this even a word?) and good. We see her world and we see what she wants us to see.
And then we have the characters. They’re all quite good (even if there was a thing with Bane that didn’t sit very well with me, but I can’t say more because it would be spoiler!) and they all are not just wallpaper, they are real! Larkin is not a bad MC, even if I didn’t love her. I wasn’t always so fond of her decisions and I had some problems putting myself in her shoes, so I didn’t love her, but I liked her, and I liked Denan. I think that he was my favorite character, but there are some others really good. I liked Alorica, too, and that was a surprise, a really big one, to be honest, because she’s the mean girl and usually I am not a fan, but hey… the author did a good job with her too! And we have a lot of interesting characters, Crazy Maisy (I haven’t decided to go on with the series, that’s true, but if I’ll go on I really hope to read more about her!), Talox and Tam, and also the Black Druids.
But my favorite thing of all was the Alamat. It’s a place so magical, so wonderful, that you have to fall in love with it!
And the story is full of twist and it’s enthralling. In some parts, I was really hooked up, even if in some other parts it reminded me a lot of ACOTAR. It’s not a bad thing, and it’s not a good thing, it’s just so.
Anyway… this book is a book about choices, about consequences, but also about family and relationship set in a wonderful world. On one hand, I was expecting something more, if I speak about how much I enjoyed it, because I am not a fan of angst and in this book there is a lot of it… really a lot! But, on the other hand, I wasn’t expecting something so good, because the storytelling is really good and the author creates a world so full, so vivid and magic that it’s like a spell.
This was my first Amber Argyle’s book but it won’t be the last, that’s for sure. I hope that not all of her books are so angsty, but I am really curious about them!
August 20, 2018
Oh my gosh I loved this!!!
Larkin goes into the forrest to save her little sister, Sela from being taken but while trying to rescue Sela Larkin gets marked by the beast.
Bane her best friend and hopefully soon to be husband says no she is mine and the beasts of the forrest cant have her but the druids and townspeople disagree she is marked for death. If the forrest doesnt get what t wants it will come after us all.
Larkin is sent into the forrest where she again meets the beast. Denan who is not the monster she thought but he is different and strange but not a monster.
The writing was beautiful and the characters were brought to life so wonderfully. I loved it! I want more!
Larkin goes into the forrest to save her little sister, Sela from being taken but while trying to rescue Sela Larkin gets marked by the beast.
Bane her best friend and hopefully soon to be husband says no she is mine and the beasts of the forrest cant have her but the druids and townspeople disagree she is marked for death. If the forrest doesnt get what t wants it will come after us all.
Larkin is sent into the forrest where she again meets the beast. Denan who is not the monster she thought but he is different and strange but not a monster.
The writing was beautiful and the characters were brought to life so wonderfully. I loved it! I want more!
November 2, 2020
YES. AHAHA. YES. GOOD. I AM PLEASED.
I was a little hesitant about this--I'd nearly bought it a few times in the past, but something drew me away--but I decided since I have kindle unlimited right now to finally try it out. After all, a lot of books I was hesitant about in the past turned out really great.
I wasn't disappointed! This story has fantastic atmosphere, good emotional depth, worthwhile conflict, interesting ideas, a romance I could actually fathom, a very likeable male lead, and a heroine I could get behind. Plus, the story actually acts like a story with a full arc that lands on a note that will allow book two to be the next step of the journey.
Although the blurb says "beauty and the beast" retelling, it's more in the sense that a girl taken against her will finds it in her to love her captor and his world--find beauty and acceptance in what she perceived as terrible and evil--and there's a curse, but, the curse doesn't affect the male lead, but rather, the world as a whole. It's definitely more original than the blurb gives it credit for.
I'd compare this to a story like Uprooted for having a similar atmosphere, some shared themes, and a few of the same plot points involving the heroine's magic and what not.
As for the setting, I wasn't sure what to expect, but think of medieval world where there's a sector of men--called druids--who are almost like inquisitors or like priestly types; they claim to be working for the good of the people against the evil of the forest, but manipulate them with lies and do things that are often not in the people's best interest, especially against a magical threat. Then we have the pipers--the alamantians--who live in the forest in trees, all attuned to magic and nature. I liked the contrast. We also learn about a third sector of being: wraiths.
I enjoyed Larkin's story. I liked her relationship with Denan. I liked the complexity of her emotions and how her loyalties shifted as she learned things about the people in her life. I was often so gripped, wanting to know what was next, I'd read too fast and have to read the page over to get the details.
I'll definitely be picking up book #2. I'm just mad book #3 isn't due until September!
I was a little hesitant about this--I'd nearly bought it a few times in the past, but something drew me away--but I decided since I have kindle unlimited right now to finally try it out. After all, a lot of books I was hesitant about in the past turned out really great.
I wasn't disappointed! This story has fantastic atmosphere, good emotional depth, worthwhile conflict, interesting ideas, a romance I could actually fathom, a very likeable male lead, and a heroine I could get behind. Plus, the story actually acts like a story with a full arc that lands on a note that will allow book two to be the next step of the journey.
Although the blurb says "beauty and the beast" retelling, it's more in the sense that a girl taken against her will finds it in her to love her captor and his world--find beauty and acceptance in what she perceived as terrible and evil--and there's a curse, but, the curse doesn't affect the male lead, but rather, the world as a whole. It's definitely more original than the blurb gives it credit for.
I'd compare this to a story like Uprooted for having a similar atmosphere, some shared themes, and a few of the same plot points involving the heroine's magic and what not.
As for the setting, I wasn't sure what to expect, but think of medieval world where there's a sector of men--called druids--who are almost like inquisitors or like priestly types; they claim to be working for the good of the people against the evil of the forest, but manipulate them with lies and do things that are often not in the people's best interest, especially against a magical threat. Then we have the pipers--the alamantians--who live in the forest in trees, all attuned to magic and nature. I liked the contrast. We also learn about a third sector of being: wraiths.
I enjoyed Larkin's story. I liked her relationship with Denan. I liked the complexity of her emotions and how her loyalties shifted as she learned things about the people in her life. I was often so gripped, wanting to know what was next, I'd read too fast and have to read the page over to get the details.
I'll definitely be picking up book #2. I'm just mad book #3 isn't due until September!
October 2, 2019
One of my most favourite books is In the Coils of the Snake, I read it a long time ago and have never, not once, been close to finding a book similar to that one. Ever. Until now. This book brings such good memories despite it being a rather dark theme through out the story. Similarly, the H has a thing for the h right from the beginning, and singles her out amongst the other girls in the h's village through her youngest sister. (in ITCOTS Nir, the elf H has his powers telling him that a human girl who has been altered magically by a former goblin king is his destined bride). Both h's come from a somewhat abusive households so really there's no way they'd want to return to their home (Miranda from ITCOTS does have the goblins to escape to from her birth mother who ironically was raised by them as well, but her intended goblin husband ends up taking an elf as a bride instead, leaving Miranda on her own). Anyway, trust me that there's a lot of similarities between these two books that I had that same happy feeling reading this book just as I did the first time I read ITCOTS so many years ago now.
So, as I was saying, the H is a type of wood piper from a village of similar pipers who kidnap human girls from villages by luring them with music and making them their brides. Suffice to say that the h gave it her all and managed to escape this fate not only once or twice but about 4 times until there was no other place for her to be in and didn't want to have a horrific fate awaiting her, so she sort of relented in the end. But through the story, we come to learn the woes of her village and how superstitiously evil her neighbours really were to the point where they almost killed her themselves, thus forcing her to go along with the pipers. I can't wait to get my hands on the second book.
So, as I was saying, the H is a type of wood piper from a village of similar pipers who kidnap human girls from villages by luring them with music and making them their brides. Suffice to say that the h gave it her all and managed to escape this fate not only once or twice but about 4 times until there was no other place for her to be in and didn't want to have a horrific fate awaiting her, so she sort of relented in the end. But through the story, we come to learn the woes of her village and how superstitiously evil her neighbours really were to the point where they almost killed her themselves, thus forcing her to go along with the pipers. I can't wait to get my hands on the second book.
April 15, 2018
I'm a huge fan of Argyle's Fairy Queens-series and when I started reading Stolen Enchantress I was a little bit afraid my high expectations were going to ruin the experience. I needn't have worried. Stolen Enchantress drew me in from the very first page and didn't let go until the very last. It is a beautifully written fantasy with a lovely fairytale-like feel to it. It's captivating and suspenseful, filled with magic, love, intriguing characters and a battle for freedom.
As always, Argyle impresses me with her world-building and vivid descriptions. I get transported to Larkin's world and have no problems imagining the many varying places she goes to or the terrifying creatures she encounters on the way. It's such an imaginative and rich world. I love how the setting reflects the overall theme and feel of the novel. If that makes sense.
The battle between good and evil has been a prominent theme in all the Argyle novels I've read, and you might think it could get a bit repetitive, but no. I love the way Argyle manages to bring something new and unique to that theme in every book. She has a way of bringing out the whole greyscale spectrum, that makes you question everything over and over. In Stolen Enchantress more than ever. And I love it!
The main character, Larkin, is an interesting character and I love following along on her adventures and watching her evolve and grow as a person. She's extremely loyal and caring. There's nothing she wouldn't do to protect her loved ones. She's also fierce and brave and proves again and again that she's a real survivor. Larkin is the star of the novel, but Argyle still manages to bring life to all the secondary characters, giving them their own stories and voices. You'll do best not to get too attached though, because heartbreak is lurking behind every corner and no one is ever truly safe. That's actually something I really like with Stolen Enchantress - never knowing what is coming next, both story- and character wise. It keeps you on edge throughout.
If you're looking for a gripping and unputdownable fantasy with a sprinkle of fairytale-retelling, Stolen Enchantress is the book for you. With its memorable characters, rich world building, enchanting magic and suspenseful story it is sure to draw you in.
As always, Argyle impresses me with her world-building and vivid descriptions. I get transported to Larkin's world and have no problems imagining the many varying places she goes to or the terrifying creatures she encounters on the way. It's such an imaginative and rich world. I love how the setting reflects the overall theme and feel of the novel. If that makes sense.
The battle between good and evil has been a prominent theme in all the Argyle novels I've read, and you might think it could get a bit repetitive, but no. I love the way Argyle manages to bring something new and unique to that theme in every book. She has a way of bringing out the whole greyscale spectrum, that makes you question everything over and over. In Stolen Enchantress more than ever. And I love it!
The main character, Larkin, is an interesting character and I love following along on her adventures and watching her evolve and grow as a person. She's extremely loyal and caring. There's nothing she wouldn't do to protect her loved ones. She's also fierce and brave and proves again and again that she's a real survivor. Larkin is the star of the novel, but Argyle still manages to bring life to all the secondary characters, giving them their own stories and voices. You'll do best not to get too attached though, because heartbreak is lurking behind every corner and no one is ever truly safe. That's actually something I really like with Stolen Enchantress - never knowing what is coming next, both story- and character wise. It keeps you on edge throughout.
If you're looking for a gripping and unputdownable fantasy with a sprinkle of fairytale-retelling, Stolen Enchantress is the book for you. With its memorable characters, rich world building, enchanting magic and suspenseful story it is sure to draw you in.
April 29, 2018
**FTC DISCLAIMER: I RECEIVED AN E-ARC FROM THE AUTHOR IN EXCHANGE FOR AN HONEST REVIEW. RECEIPT OF THIS BOOK IN THIS MANNER DOES NOT AFFECT MY OPINION OF THE BOOK OR THE CONTENT OF MY REVIEW**
Any girl unlucky enough to enter the forbidden forest, never returns...until one did. Larkin should have been watching her little sister better; she should have been keeping a wary eye on the trees surrounding her family’s fields. But, she let her mind wander for just a moment, and now little Sela has disappeared from sight completely and there’s only one place she could have gone. Larkin is fully aware of the many dangers of the forest and the beast within. But, seeing no other option, she heads straight in after her sister. With Sela cliched protectively in her arms, she manages to escape, but not before she learns the truth lurking within the evil thicket. She’s managed to escape from the dark maliciousness of the forest and evaded the beast. But, now, she’s attracted his attention and he’s turned the full force of his magic on her, and she isn’t sure how much longer she can resist!
Having read other books by Amber Argyle, I wasn’t at all surprised that The Stolen Enchantress is an amazing book. Amber is incredibly talented and everything that I’ve read by her has been awesome. That said, this one is by far my favorite book by Amber. When I finished, my first thought was “Wow...just WOW!!” She incorporates action, intrigue, romance, and betrayal in a way that keeps you glued to the book. I honestly couldn’t put it down, even though I was trying to pace myself because I needed to finish after a certain time for a challenge I’m doing. I failed because I just couldn’t wait!! Amber also seamlessly blends two incredibly different fairytales: Beauty and the Beast and The Pied Piper. She does a great job paying homage to both stories while also making them uniquely her own. And, I’ll be honest, I’ve never really liked The Pied Piper story very much. But, I love Amber’s version! The characters are all incredibly well written and developed, enough that even the characters I hated, I also loved. And, while Larkin’s village was somewhat typical for a medieval style village , there was much to set it apart. And the Forbidden Forest was completely a world unto its own, complete with created flora and fauna of many imaginative varieties. And the ending!!!! I seriously cannot wait another moment for the sequel to see what happens next! Thank you, again, for letting me read and review your newest book!
Any girl unlucky enough to enter the forbidden forest, never returns...until one did. Larkin should have been watching her little sister better; she should have been keeping a wary eye on the trees surrounding her family’s fields. But, she let her mind wander for just a moment, and now little Sela has disappeared from sight completely and there’s only one place she could have gone. Larkin is fully aware of the many dangers of the forest and the beast within. But, seeing no other option, she heads straight in after her sister. With Sela cliched protectively in her arms, she manages to escape, but not before she learns the truth lurking within the evil thicket. She’s managed to escape from the dark maliciousness of the forest and evaded the beast. But, now, she’s attracted his attention and he’s turned the full force of his magic on her, and she isn’t sure how much longer she can resist!
Having read other books by Amber Argyle, I wasn’t at all surprised that The Stolen Enchantress is an amazing book. Amber is incredibly talented and everything that I’ve read by her has been awesome. That said, this one is by far my favorite book by Amber. When I finished, my first thought was “Wow...just WOW!!” She incorporates action, intrigue, romance, and betrayal in a way that keeps you glued to the book. I honestly couldn’t put it down, even though I was trying to pace myself because I needed to finish after a certain time for a challenge I’m doing. I failed because I just couldn’t wait!! Amber also seamlessly blends two incredibly different fairytales: Beauty and the Beast and The Pied Piper. She does a great job paying homage to both stories while also making them uniquely her own. And, I’ll be honest, I’ve never really liked The Pied Piper story very much. But, I love Amber’s version! The characters are all incredibly well written and developed, enough that even the characters I hated, I also loved. And, while Larkin’s village was somewhat typical for a medieval style village , there was much to set it apart. And the Forbidden Forest was completely a world unto its own, complete with created flora and fauna of many imaginative varieties. And the ending!!!! I seriously cannot wait another moment for the sequel to see what happens next! Thank you, again, for letting me read and review your newest book!
October 13, 2020
I think this is my first 5 star read of the year, I think my reading list is very poor or my moods are just not for it.
This book was a breath of fresh air, fast paced, filled with adventures and mystery, lies and deceit.
I loved how Larkin evolved from being nothing to finding herself. You can see how a little bit of power can change the life of the oppressed. Also if proves how, no matter what life throws at you, an honest person will stay steadfast.
All the characters have depth, all well developed, even the ones that appears once or twice during the whole book.
The story kept me glued to the screen until I finished it.
It is a story about old magic and how the human will twisted it into something damaged and hurtful. It is enchanting and mesmerizing. I loved it.
This book was a breath of fresh air, fast paced, filled with adventures and mystery, lies and deceit.
I loved how Larkin evolved from being nothing to finding herself. You can see how a little bit of power can change the life of the oppressed. Also if proves how, no matter what life throws at you, an honest person will stay steadfast.
All the characters have depth, all well developed, even the ones that appears once or twice during the whole book.
The story kept me glued to the screen until I finished it.
It is a story about old magic and how the human will twisted it into something damaged and hurtful. It is enchanting and mesmerizing. I loved it.
April 3, 2022
I loved this dark and twisty fantasy so, so much. Beauty and the Beast meets the Pied Piper, while also reminiscent of The Hollow Kingdom (one of my all time favorites, by Clare B. Dunkle). Really looking forward to starting book 2!
November 18, 2021
4/5⭐
Creo que tengo muchas cosas que quiero decir acerca de este libro. Pero como lo acabo de terminar por ahora solo diré:
Wow
Creo que tengo muchas cosas que quiero decir acerca de este libro. Pero como lo acabo de terminar por ahora solo diré:
Wow
June 22, 2021
"Don't apologize for hurting me while you're doing it. It's hypocritical."
Por un lado leí que era un retelling de la bella y la bestia, por lo que pensé, debo de leerlo ahora.
Mis expectativas fueron muy altas.
La historia comienza con Larkin, que en un descuido, pierde a su hermana, en el bosque, en el cuál se encuentran criaturas terroríficas, pero de igual manera por obra del destino ella entra a rescatarla, y en parte termina siendo ayudada por un joven que no se podrá librar una vez que se conozcan.
Larkin me pareció insoportable, cada decisión que tomaba era una contradicción junto a otra. Que lo odio, ahora lo quiero, luego no puedo, lo quiero pero no debería, igual lo quiero y me vale todos mis principios.
Lo que puedo rescatar y me dejo con la boca abierta porque no lo imaginaba es el motivo del cambio de su hermana, eso fue inesperado.
Lo malo, casi todo porque el justificar un secuestro y obligar a alguien a que haga ciertas cosas omitiendo verdades con el cuento de que eres mi alma gemela. NO. Para nada agradable.
Por un lado leí que era un retelling de la bella y la bestia, por lo que pensé, debo de leerlo ahora.
Mis expectativas fueron muy altas.
La historia comienza con Larkin, que en un descuido, pierde a su hermana, en el bosque, en el cuál se encuentran criaturas terroríficas, pero de igual manera por obra del destino ella entra a rescatarla, y en parte termina siendo ayudada por un joven que no se podrá librar una vez que se conozcan.
Larkin me pareció insoportable, cada decisión que tomaba era una contradicción junto a otra. Que lo odio, ahora lo quiero, luego no puedo, lo quiero pero no debería, igual lo quiero y me vale todos mis principios.
Lo que puedo rescatar y me dejo con la boca abierta porque no lo imaginaba es el motivo del cambio de su hermana, eso fue inesperado.
Lo malo, casi todo porque el justificar un secuestro y obligar a alguien a que haga ciertas cosas omitiendo verdades con el cuento de que eres mi alma gemela. NO. Para nada agradable.
May 26, 2018
(2.5 stars)
This is by far more a Pied Piper retelling than a Beauty and the Beast tale, and the elements that remain true to the PP storyline are the most intriguing of the story. The first chapter was just stupid AF to me, with the ridiculous cliche of: 1) rescuing a sister, 2) crazy Maisy (who was just overboard in this first bit and then semi-improved 3) everything. Just everything was a cliche.
Things I personally hated: the MC was just stupid AF. I didn't loooooathe her, but I just thought she was ignorant. Sure, she was brave, but like a big dumb ox is courageous: there was no logic behind it. It was bumbling and trouble-causing in a way that was annoying, not in a way that moved the pot along in an intriguing manner. There were so many problems, if one stopped to think about the plot--which I don't recommend if you read this story. For instance, if Larkin were so horrifically drawn to the forest, why not take TWO seconds to have a little chit chat about what's going on? Because the MC doesn't mind being rescued, but she'll poo-poo any conversation past that. Admittedly, Denan doesn't offer much by way of conversation when he occasionally kidnaps/saves her sorry ass, but what is this? A convention between democrats and republicans?!!!! Do these characters speak the same language?! SERIOUSLY.
Young Adult is crashing in the category of likable MC's. Maybe the last twenty-million series I've read made me lose the faith, but JESUS CHRIST! Must all teenaged girls be dipshit bitches?!!! I say that with love. Namaste.
I hated was the NON STOP OVER THE TOP DRAMA. Not action, just drama. Like, "I'm running out to the forest! Oh no! they want to burn me at the stake! Yikes! Let me tra la la la la back out there again because Denan is hot! BUT I HATE HIM! YUCK! Oh, no! They want to imprison me!" I get that all this stupid "plot tension" was supposed to create tension and blah blah blah, but it just was like, oh my god, just put her through the crucible already. I DON'T EVEN CARE! BECAUSE SHE'S STUPID! (Again, I say that with love. The Light in me acknowledges the Light in you. But I think YA fantasy is dimming that Light BY THE BOOK).
Another thing I didn't love was that the sentences---though sometimes beautifully written---felt choppy. He grabbed her---suddenly some across the room did something! Mama began breastfeeding Brenna! (This is kind of verbatim, by the way)
Also, this author expresses every little nuance of pain, above and beyond and you're giving me a headache! Whether it's the pain experienced staggering (multiple times) through the forest, or being punched in the gut, Argyle will describe it in detail.
I don't personally love this book, and I definitely won't be reading the sequel, but I also think it's worth recommending on the fact that individual tastes do differ and I love a goddamn twist on a storytale. There is enough good to assume people will mostly like it. I just mostly didn't.
The nod to the Pied Piper was done extremely well. That was my favorite part. It was interesting without being too creepy. I mean, yeah, he kinda kidnapped her, but he kinda didn't. It's a shady line to walk, but I could dig it enough to get on board with the story. I just wish the main character wasn't a dingbat and used her gift of language to ask WTF was going on before the final portion of the book. BECAUSE HONESTLY. I just got exhuasted. But I'm also in Bermuda so maybe it's the ocean making me tired? Whatever. I don't even care. I'm not reading book 2.
This is by far more a Pied Piper retelling than a Beauty and the Beast tale, and the elements that remain true to the PP storyline are the most intriguing of the story. The first chapter was just stupid AF to me, with the ridiculous cliche of: 1) rescuing a sister, 2) crazy Maisy (who was just overboard in this first bit and then semi-improved 3) everything. Just everything was a cliche.
Things I personally hated: the MC was just stupid AF. I didn't loooooathe her, but I just thought she was ignorant. Sure, she was brave, but like a big dumb ox is courageous: there was no logic behind it. It was bumbling and trouble-causing in a way that was annoying, not in a way that moved the pot along in an intriguing manner. There were so many problems, if one stopped to think about the plot--which I don't recommend if you read this story. For instance, if Larkin were so horrifically drawn to the forest, why not take TWO seconds to have a little chit chat about what's going on? Because the MC doesn't mind being rescued, but she'll poo-poo any conversation past that. Admittedly, Denan doesn't offer much by way of conversation when he occasionally kidnaps/saves her sorry ass, but what is this? A convention between democrats and republicans?!!!! Do these characters speak the same language?! SERIOUSLY.
Young Adult is crashing in the category of likable MC's. Maybe the last twenty-million series I've read made me lose the faith, but JESUS CHRIST! Must all teenaged girls be dipshit bitches?!!! I say that with love. Namaste.
I hated was the NON STOP OVER THE TOP DRAMA. Not action, just drama. Like, "I'm running out to the forest! Oh no! they want to burn me at the stake! Yikes! Let me tra la la la la back out there again because Denan is hot! BUT I HATE HIM! YUCK! Oh, no! They want to imprison me!" I get that all this stupid "plot tension" was supposed to create tension and blah blah blah, but it just was like, oh my god, just put her through the crucible already. I DON'T EVEN CARE! BECAUSE SHE'S STUPID! (Again, I say that with love. The Light in me acknowledges the Light in you. But I think YA fantasy is dimming that Light BY THE BOOK).
Another thing I didn't love was that the sentences---though sometimes beautifully written---felt choppy. He grabbed her---suddenly some across the room did something! Mama began breastfeeding Brenna! (This is kind of verbatim, by the way)
Also, this author expresses every little nuance of pain, above and beyond and you're giving me a headache! Whether it's the pain experienced staggering (multiple times) through the forest, or being punched in the gut, Argyle will describe it in detail.
I don't personally love this book, and I definitely won't be reading the sequel, but I also think it's worth recommending on the fact that individual tastes do differ and I love a goddamn twist on a storytale. There is enough good to assume people will mostly like it. I just mostly didn't.
The nod to the Pied Piper was done extremely well. That was my favorite part. It was interesting without being too creepy. I mean, yeah, he kinda kidnapped her, but he kinda didn't. It's a shady line to walk, but I could dig it enough to get on board with the story. I just wish the main character wasn't a dingbat and used her gift of language to ask WTF was going on before the final portion of the book. BECAUSE HONESTLY. I just got exhuasted. But I'm also in Bermuda so maybe it's the ocean making me tired? Whatever. I don't even care. I'm not reading book 2.
April 9, 2018
I loved this book! It's entrancing, the characters are deep and well developed and the story world is utterly believable! The story has a fantastic female lead character and is suspenseful and full of imagination. Amber Argyle has done it again! I love her style of writing and have not read anything of hers that I haven't loved. I highly recommend this to all fantasy fans!
April 14, 2018
A thrilling fantasy adventure that pulls the reader in and holds him in a tight grip until the very last word.
Larkin leads a tough life in a small town next to the Forbiddrn forest. Aside from her dysfunctional family, abusive father, and the monsters and dangers coming from the forest, she must now face the threats coming from the townspeople, her own sister, and the black druids because of coming back from the forest unharmed and saving her sister. Desperate to survive, she lets herself being dragged away by Denan, one of the pipers, and gets introduced not only to the curse of the forest, but to the beauty of the magic as well. Nevertheless, the protective barriers are collapsing and war is bidding its time.
A brilliant read from the beginning to the end. The author's writing skills create vivid scenes and play with the reader's imagination constantly, showing the beautiful and dangerous world, the power of magic, and the deception of the evil. The world is built with care, balance, and attention to detail, yet not driving the reader's attention away from the plot. The plot develops quickly, with many turns and surprises, showing a unique twist on the classic tales we all know.
I enjoyed the emotional side of the story the most. I could feel the sensations and raging emotions alongside the characters, and my heart ached in several places, willing the tension to release. But it only built more, with more action and adventure the further I got in the story. Larkun and Denan are awesome characters, complex and easy to connect with, and the antagonists are complementing them greatly. I wish I could continue the story immediately.
Larkin leads a tough life in a small town next to the Forbiddrn forest. Aside from her dysfunctional family, abusive father, and the monsters and dangers coming from the forest, she must now face the threats coming from the townspeople, her own sister, and the black druids because of coming back from the forest unharmed and saving her sister. Desperate to survive, she lets herself being dragged away by Denan, one of the pipers, and gets introduced not only to the curse of the forest, but to the beauty of the magic as well. Nevertheless, the protective barriers are collapsing and war is bidding its time.
A brilliant read from the beginning to the end. The author's writing skills create vivid scenes and play with the reader's imagination constantly, showing the beautiful and dangerous world, the power of magic, and the deception of the evil. The world is built with care, balance, and attention to detail, yet not driving the reader's attention away from the plot. The plot develops quickly, with many turns and surprises, showing a unique twist on the classic tales we all know.
I enjoyed the emotional side of the story the most. I could feel the sensations and raging emotions alongside the characters, and my heart ached in several places, willing the tension to release. But it only built more, with more action and adventure the further I got in the story. Larkun and Denan are awesome characters, complex and easy to connect with, and the antagonists are complementing them greatly. I wish I could continue the story immediately.
October 4, 2017
SO MUCH LOVE FOR THIS BOOK!!!
Fantastic female lead character, incredible world that I just wanted to soak up and breathe in and love... The tension between characters was spot on. The world was amazing. This is everything I love about fantasy.
This is a total read and re-read.
Fantastic female lead character, incredible world that I just wanted to soak up and breathe in and love... The tension between characters was spot on. The world was amazing. This is everything I love about fantasy.
This is a total read and re-read.
June 21, 2021
Larkin sabe que el bosque es peligroso y no debe acercarse, pero cuando su hermana menor se pierde allí, no puede hacer más que ir a buscarla. Y así se topa con un monstruo y un chico que las salva, pero que parece entrañar un peligro mucho mayor.
~~~
Sabiendo que esto es un retelling de la bella y la bestia, ya nos damos idea de la dinámica que existirá entre los protas y cómo empiezan su relación. Lo que es diferente en esta versión es la ambientación.
Larkin vive en un mundo donde las mujeres solo sirven para casarse. Los hombres toman las decisiones. Pero ella sabe bien que los hombres no son confiables; su padre golpea a su madre y hermanas, así que ella ha aprendido a salir adelante con sus propios recursos en la medida de lo posible. Y ese miedo visceral que le han inculcado toda la vida por el bosque cerca de su pueblo, no evita que se lance de inmediato tras su hermana cuando ésta desaparece. En eso y en muchos otros detalles posteriores, podemos ver su fortaleza y temple.
El problema empieza cuando aparece Denan, un misterioso desconocido que salva a Larkin y a su hermana y desea llevarlas a lo profundo del bosque, y una vez que Larkin escucha la canción del bosque, ya no puede huir a su llamado. Esa es toda la química que existe entre esta "pareja destinada" que escuchan la canción del otro... No hay momentos emotivos, ni cortejo siquiera. "Te secuestro porque sé que serás mi esposa" 😑 ¿Qué importa que después le muestre un lugar muy 'revolucionado' donde las mujeres son pilares de la sociedad por poder usar magia? ¿O que las anteriores mujeres secuestradas vivan felices allí?
He empezado a aborrecer los clichés tóxicos sobre la damisela 'rescatada' de una vida común para ser llevada a la fuerza a un mundo 'mejor' donde debe hacer lo que le dicen (hacer magia), casarse con el que la llevó allí y no irse nunca.
La autora se esfuerza por mostrar que la vida es maravillosa, pero no puede borrar la premisa oculta de que esas mujeres no llegaron allí por voluntad propia, todas fueron secuestradas para casarse con sus secuestradores y tener a sus hijos (y tienen el 'privilegio' de tener oficios) porque su hogar está maldito y no nacen mujeres. Y es incluso peor cuando Larkin escapa del influjo del bosque, y en su pueblo la rechazan porque regresó.
Todo eso se parece demasiado a esa costumbre abominable en Kirguistán de "el secuestro de esposas".
Para empeorarlo todo, hay un segundo interés romántico (o el original más bien) que se va a rescatar a Larkin y por propio egoísmo desoye las súplicas de ella de que la deje donde está... O sea que Larkin (con ambos pretendientes) tiene que ir a donde un hombre la lleve porque "están haciendo lo mejor para ella" y su opinión y lo que quiere no son relevantes.
Todo lo que disfrute del principio se diluyó con estos detalles. Pese a que el universo era prometedor con el misterio sobre la extinción de la magia, y la parte oscura del bosque y los espectros, la verdad es que hay cosas que son insalvables en este caso. Yo sé que es fantasía y todo, pero así como a los niños en la edad media se les contaban esos cuentos de hadas tétricos para advertirles de los peligros del mundo, este libro tiene responsabilidad con los jóvenes impresionables que lo lean.
El nivel de inglés para "disfrutar" este libro es intermedio.
¿Qué me gustó?
Larkin es una mujer de acción. Va al bosque a rescatar a su hermana, se lanza de cabeza a una inundación para salvar a su madre y hermanas, enfrenta al pueblo cuando la condenan por 'escapar del bosque'.
¿Qué prefiero olvidar
Todos los hombres en este libro son muy mala compañía.
Citas
None of us are ever free, Larkin, but we can choose the chains that bind us.
Don't apologize for hurting me while you're doing it. It's hypocritical.
~~~
Sabiendo que esto es un retelling de la bella y la bestia, ya nos damos idea de la dinámica que existirá entre los protas y cómo empiezan su relación. Lo que es diferente en esta versión es la ambientación.
Larkin vive en un mundo donde las mujeres solo sirven para casarse. Los hombres toman las decisiones. Pero ella sabe bien que los hombres no son confiables; su padre golpea a su madre y hermanas, así que ella ha aprendido a salir adelante con sus propios recursos en la medida de lo posible. Y ese miedo visceral que le han inculcado toda la vida por el bosque cerca de su pueblo, no evita que se lance de inmediato tras su hermana cuando ésta desaparece. En eso y en muchos otros detalles posteriores, podemos ver su fortaleza y temple.
El problema empieza cuando aparece Denan, un misterioso desconocido que salva a Larkin y a su hermana y desea llevarlas a lo profundo del bosque, y una vez que Larkin escucha la canción del bosque, ya no puede huir a su llamado. Esa es toda la química que existe entre esta "pareja destinada" que escuchan la canción del otro... No hay momentos emotivos, ni cortejo siquiera. "Te secuestro porque sé que serás mi esposa" 😑 ¿Qué importa que después le muestre un lugar muy 'revolucionado' donde las mujeres son pilares de la sociedad por poder usar magia? ¿O que las anteriores mujeres secuestradas vivan felices allí?
He empezado a aborrecer los clichés tóxicos sobre la damisela 'rescatada' de una vida común para ser llevada a la fuerza a un mundo 'mejor' donde debe hacer lo que le dicen (hacer magia), casarse con el que la llevó allí y no irse nunca.
La autora se esfuerza por mostrar que la vida es maravillosa, pero no puede borrar la premisa oculta de que esas mujeres no llegaron allí por voluntad propia, todas fueron secuestradas para casarse con sus secuestradores y tener a sus hijos (y tienen el 'privilegio' de tener oficios) porque su hogar está maldito y no nacen mujeres. Y es incluso peor cuando Larkin escapa del influjo del bosque, y en su pueblo la rechazan porque regresó.
Todo eso se parece demasiado a esa costumbre abominable en Kirguistán de "el secuestro de esposas".
Para empeorarlo todo, hay un segundo interés romántico (o el original más bien) que se va a rescatar a Larkin y por propio egoísmo desoye las súplicas de ella de que la deje donde está... O sea que Larkin (con ambos pretendientes) tiene que ir a donde un hombre la lleve porque "están haciendo lo mejor para ella" y su opinión y lo que quiere no son relevantes.
Todo lo que disfrute del principio se diluyó con estos detalles. Pese a que el universo era prometedor con el misterio sobre la extinción de la magia, y la parte oscura del bosque y los espectros, la verdad es que hay cosas que son insalvables en este caso. Yo sé que es fantasía y todo, pero así como a los niños en la edad media se les contaban esos cuentos de hadas tétricos para advertirles de los peligros del mundo, este libro tiene responsabilidad con los jóvenes impresionables que lo lean.
El nivel de inglés para "disfrutar" este libro es intermedio.
¿Qué me gustó?
Larkin es una mujer de acción. Va al bosque a rescatar a su hermana, se lanza de cabeza a una inundación para salvar a su madre y hermanas, enfrenta al pueblo cuando la condenan por 'escapar del bosque'.
¿Qué prefiero olvidar
Todos los hombres en este libro son muy mala compañía.
Citas
None of us are ever free, Larkin, but we can choose the chains that bind us.
Don't apologize for hurting me while you're doing it. It's hypocritical.
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