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Yesterday or Long Ago
"They’d write about her in books she’d never be allowed to read.”
Rinity Garrick isn’t allowed in the Liosi Royal Library, but that hasn’t stopped her from sneaking in every chance she gets. It’s there she meets Tov, the Librarian whose brown eyes are easier to get lost in than the stories she loves.
Things get complicated, however, when Rinity discovers the Librarian is actually the Crown Prince. And his friend, Royal Advisor Gibbs, never seems to be far from the Prince— and seems to have taken an interest in Rinity's best friend.
Amya Cole knows better than to set her sights too high— a merchant’s son is all she needs to be provided for and still be useful. But the Royal Advisor quickly becomes an unexpected development in those plans.
When a mysterious man offers Rinity the opportunity to become the girl the Prince thinks she is, she must decide how far she's willing to go for the answers she wants. Will the girls find their happy ending or bring Liosa down with them as they try to find it?
It's Aladdin meets Pride and Prejudice in this romantic comedy about finding the love you deserve in the most unexpected places.
Rinity Garrick isn’t allowed in the Liosi Royal Library, but that hasn’t stopped her from sneaking in every chance she gets. It’s there she meets Tov, the Librarian whose brown eyes are easier to get lost in than the stories she loves.
Things get complicated, however, when Rinity discovers the Librarian is actually the Crown Prince. And his friend, Royal Advisor Gibbs, never seems to be far from the Prince— and seems to have taken an interest in Rinity's best friend.
Amya Cole knows better than to set her sights too high— a merchant’s son is all she needs to be provided for and still be useful. But the Royal Advisor quickly becomes an unexpected development in those plans.
When a mysterious man offers Rinity the opportunity to become the girl the Prince thinks she is, she must decide how far she's willing to go for the answers she wants. Will the girls find their happy ending or bring Liosa down with them as they try to find it?
It's Aladdin meets Pride and Prejudice in this romantic comedy about finding the love you deserve in the most unexpected places.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2021
4 people are currently reading
298 people want to read
About the author
Jenni Sauer
16 books99 followersJenni Sauer writes fairy tale retellings for soft, angry hearts. She didn’t go to college, but she has a degree of mental health and has her masters in optimism from the school of life. Her proudest achievements include staying soft despite the trauma she’s lived through and holding on when life tried its hardest to take her out
If you’re looking for her, she’s probably bent over her laptop plotting treason—er, her latest story idea—or procrastinating on that by making another playlist or cute aesthetic. Or you can find her on Instagram @ivorypalaceprincess
If you’re looking for her, she’s probably bent over her laptop plotting treason—er, her latest story idea—or procrastinating on that by making another playlist or cute aesthetic. Or you can find her on Instagram @ivorypalaceprincess
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 41 reviews
June 18, 2023
3.5 stars, personally. Clean fiction, no faith content (but the author is a Christian).
This was a fun book. I was instantly interested in it when I first saw it described as “Pride and Prejudice meets Aladdin, but light academia”.
We follow two best friends; one is a gender-bent version of Aladdin (Rinity) and the other’s story is more Pride and Prejudice (Amaya). They both see the good in the other, struggling to believe about the good about themself. I think that may have been a problem at times for me, because they each put themselves down (more so Rinity with herself), but I also loved how they are both so different and yet are the best of friends. Because of their differences, it was really interesting to see how they viewed the other in their own point of view. Frustration, protection, & acceptation of the other’s insecurities and quirks.
I was quickly sold on this book because of the charming writing style, the library scenes (lovely), and the meet cue (adorable). While there were some parts I got frustrated with a character or didn’t like how quick a certain couple was kissing, it was a sweet and easy read. This book is only 244 pages, though, so I think that made the pace quicker that most stories and caused the falling in love to be an instant thing. I do wish the world (galaxy?) was explained better, though I’m assuming because it’s the third (?) book in a technical series the prior books explain it better? Regardless, I wish this book had explained more because I did feel lost at times. I feel like “Yesterday or Long Ago” could have been more fleshed out in this way. Tov was a little too smooth and sus for me, especially when he kissed Rinity at their second time meeting—and says that he was a “habit of doing that—of falling hard and moving too fast” which I assume is a reference to another book by this author, but it made me raise my eyebrows at him. Rinity thinks that he’s probably leading her on, but can’t be mad at him because she’d lied to and betrayed him too (which I don’t personally agree with this reasoning).
I have to add that the author’s love letters to these characters at the end of the book was a really neat touch. Those letters also explained about each character and how she wrote them. Rinity being described as being “book smart but not always smart in other ways” was a good description and highlighted why she tried my patience at times, but Amaya struggled with that same thing and still loved her as a good best friend, which was a very realistic approach. At times, Rinity felt very young and Amaya felt like her mother or big sister, but that was because of Rinity being so caught up in fictional worlds and not the real world.
There was spoilers from the author’s other book (which I’ve had on my TBR for months and have been really wanting to read, but the page length has continued to push it down my top priority list), “Rook Di Goo”, which was a bit of a bummer as I didn’t know they were connected, but I still definitely plan on reading it. Especially since both of the love interests for the best friends were apparently very involved in that book? I’ll be checking it out soon, for sure, so I can read the next book in this world.
Main Content:
Rinity and Tov kiss the second time they meet and kiss many times again throughout the book; Kisses (up to semi-detailed); Amaya kisses Gibbs and falls in love with him without even knowing his first name; Thinking about kisses and kissing & Wanting to be kissed (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, & Dancing (up to semi-detailed); Noticing; Amaya flirts and comes across as a gold-digger because she wants to move up the social ladder; Rinity is embarrassed that she lets Tov kiss her when she barely know him and that he’s probably leading her on, but she reasons it out by thinking that she can’t be mad at him because she’d lead to and betrayed him too; Amaya deals with a young man that isn’t able to take ‘no’ for an answer and touches her waist (she says she’s dealt with worse); Mentions of kissing, kisses, almost kisses, wanting to be kissed, & talking about boys who are good kissers; Mentions of flirting; A few mentions of affairs, some men being handsy, & a father not being the picture of fidelity; A couple mentions of a husband liking to part his wife in her place (that she’s only worth her money, verbal abuse); A couple mentions of curves & the lack of curves; A mention of a crop-top.
Lying (both Amaya and Rinity; Amaya will lie to others, but not to Rinity; Rinity feels major guilt and like she’s betrayed someone when she lies to him); Amaya and Gibbs have a debate about rules, if stupid rules should be broken, & blindly following rules, even if they’re wrong; Rinity has been sneaking into a library for a long time and borrowing books (she’s not allowed into the library because of her status—or lack thereof); Stealing an item to gain information (*Spoiler* ).
Amaya drinks alcohol at parties (twice, including waking up after one party the next day with not quite a hangover but a raging headache); Mentions of drinking, alcohol, & bars; A few mentions of Amaya’s brother having a tattoo and doing something “less than legal” for work to keep a roof over their head.
“Victory” is used by a curse/by-word frequently; Mentions of curses (said, not written, by both Rinity and Amaya); The word “stupid” is used very often (46 times to be exact); Mentions of superstitions (including saying “stars give you strength” after someone sneezes and a phrase that means to swear on your life and if the vow is not kept, dishonor of your ancestors or wrath of the Elassi will happen to you); A mention of the galaxy being cruel.
There is a magic book that is able to tell someone their family history; Mentions of magic in this regard, in fairytale stories, & whether someone believes in magic or not.
This was a fun book. I was instantly interested in it when I first saw it described as “Pride and Prejudice meets Aladdin, but light academia”.
We follow two best friends; one is a gender-bent version of Aladdin (Rinity) and the other’s story is more Pride and Prejudice (Amaya). They both see the good in the other, struggling to believe about the good about themself. I think that may have been a problem at times for me, because they each put themselves down (more so Rinity with herself), but I also loved how they are both so different and yet are the best of friends. Because of their differences, it was really interesting to see how they viewed the other in their own point of view. Frustration, protection, & acceptation of the other’s insecurities and quirks.
I was quickly sold on this book because of the charming writing style, the library scenes (lovely), and the meet cue (adorable). While there were some parts I got frustrated with a character or didn’t like how quick a certain couple was kissing, it was a sweet and easy read. This book is only 244 pages, though, so I think that made the pace quicker that most stories and caused the falling in love to be an instant thing. I do wish the world (galaxy?) was explained better, though I’m assuming because it’s the third (?) book in a technical series the prior books explain it better? Regardless, I wish this book had explained more because I did feel lost at times. I feel like “Yesterday or Long Ago” could have been more fleshed out in this way. Tov was a little too smooth and sus for me, especially when he kissed Rinity at their second time meeting—and says that he was a “habit of doing that—of falling hard and moving too fast” which I assume is a reference to another book by this author, but it made me raise my eyebrows at him. Rinity thinks that he’s probably leading her on, but can’t be mad at him because she’d lied to and betrayed him too (which I don’t personally agree with this reasoning).
I have to add that the author’s love letters to these characters at the end of the book was a really neat touch. Those letters also explained about each character and how she wrote them. Rinity being described as being “book smart but not always smart in other ways” was a good description and highlighted why she tried my patience at times, but Amaya struggled with that same thing and still loved her as a good best friend, which was a very realistic approach. At times, Rinity felt very young and Amaya felt like her mother or big sister, but that was because of Rinity being so caught up in fictional worlds and not the real world.
There was spoilers from the author’s other book (which I’ve had on my TBR for months and have been really wanting to read, but the page length has continued to push it down my top priority list), “Rook Di Goo”, which was a bit of a bummer as I didn’t know they were connected, but I still definitely plan on reading it. Especially since both of the love interests for the best friends were apparently very involved in that book? I’ll be checking it out soon, for sure, so I can read the next book in this world.
Main Content:
Rinity and Tov kiss the second time they meet and kiss many times again throughout the book; Kisses (up to semi-detailed); Amaya kisses Gibbs and falls in love with him without even knowing his first name; Thinking about kisses and kissing & Wanting to be kissed (barely-above-not-detailed); Touches, Embraces, & Dancing (up to semi-detailed); Noticing; Amaya flirts and comes across as a gold-digger because she wants to move up the social ladder; Rinity is embarrassed that she lets Tov kiss her when she barely know him and that he’s probably leading her on, but she reasons it out by thinking that she can’t be mad at him because she’d lead to and betrayed him too; Amaya deals with a young man that isn’t able to take ‘no’ for an answer and touches her waist (she says she’s dealt with worse); Mentions of kissing, kisses, almost kisses, wanting to be kissed, & talking about boys who are good kissers; Mentions of flirting; A few mentions of affairs, some men being handsy, & a father not being the picture of fidelity; A couple mentions of a husband liking to part his wife in her place (that she’s only worth her money, verbal abuse); A couple mentions of curves & the lack of curves; A mention of a crop-top.
Lying (both Amaya and Rinity; Amaya will lie to others, but not to Rinity; Rinity feels major guilt and like she’s betrayed someone when she lies to him); Amaya and Gibbs have a debate about rules, if stupid rules should be broken, & blindly following rules, even if they’re wrong; Rinity has been sneaking into a library for a long time and borrowing books (she’s not allowed into the library because of her status—or lack thereof); Stealing an item to gain information (*Spoiler* ).
Amaya drinks alcohol at parties (twice, including waking up after one party the next day with not quite a hangover but a raging headache); Mentions of drinking, alcohol, & bars; A few mentions of Amaya’s brother having a tattoo and doing something “less than legal” for work to keep a roof over their head.
“Victory” is used by a curse/by-word frequently; Mentions of curses (said, not written, by both Rinity and Amaya); The word “stupid” is used very often (46 times to be exact); Mentions of superstitions (including saying “stars give you strength” after someone sneezes and a phrase that means to swear on your life and if the vow is not kept, dishonor of your ancestors or wrath of the Elassi will happen to you); A mention of the galaxy being cruel.
There is a magic book that is able to tell someone their family history; Mentions of magic in this regard, in fairytale stories, & whether someone believes in magic or not.
January 8, 2023
Excuse me while I go and add every other Jenni Sauer book to my TBR. I’ve been meaning to read her for years…well, ever since the release of Rook Di Goo. That was supposed to be my first read from her, but I think this was the perfect intro. It’s a simplistic fantasy romance that takes on such a beautiful story within its pages. I was enthralled. Enchanted. Unable to tear myself away.
While my family played games on Christmas, I lost myself in a fictional world. Not good…but also so worth it. I recommend this to EVERYONE and if you don’t like it…don’t talk to me.
While my family played games on Christmas, I lost myself in a fictional world. Not good…but also so worth it. I recommend this to EVERYONE and if you don’t like it…don’t talk to me.
July 26, 2022
Yesterday or Long Ago revolves around two young women from poor backgrounds, Rinity and Amya, and their forbidden romances with men far above their station (a prince and a royal advisor respectively). It's been described as a mashup of Aladdin and Pride & Prejudice.
I tend not to enjoy royal romance, so it's not too surprising that I didn't like Rinity and Tov's story. But in this case, it wasn't just the royal romance tropes which turned me off--I didn't like Rinity and Tov as characters. They both felt immature and childish to me. Rinity in particular is naive and irresponsible in the EXTREME, and I never got the sense that she truly changed or grew out of those negative traits. She has an annoying habit of getting into massive scrapes through her own stupid decisions, then relying on other people to shield her from the consequences. She has big Damsel In Distress energy, and I just... nope.
In addition, I was deeply irritated by the author's note at the end which claimed that Rinity is a "far better person" than her friend Amya, because that doesn't track with how I see Rinity and Amya at all. I wouldn't say Amya is a perfect person, she definitely has flaws--but so does Rinity!!! Like, a lot of flaws!!! Being foolish and naive and impulsive and depending on your friends to fix your problems does not make you a good person. And it certainly doesn't make you a BETTER person than the one who selflessly risks everything in order to clean up the mess YOU CREATED. I don't care how starry-eyed and sweet-tempered you are; at some point, you gotta take responsibility for your own choices. It's called growing up.
On the other hand, I loved Amya, even though I didn't love the author's attitude towards her. She's warmhearted, loyal, protective, and unselfish. Her romance with Gibbs was a delight to read, because instead of the childish instalove between Rinity and Tov, we get two mature, grounded people, both a little headstrong and a little prickly, who slowly build up a genuine connection. I only wish the story had focused completely on them, instead of on Rinity and the prince. I would have enjoyed it much more if that had been the case.
I tend not to enjoy royal romance, so it's not too surprising that I didn't like Rinity and Tov's story. But in this case, it wasn't just the royal romance tropes which turned me off--I didn't like Rinity and Tov as characters. They both felt immature and childish to me. Rinity in particular is naive and irresponsible in the EXTREME, and I never got the sense that she truly changed or grew out of those negative traits. She has an annoying habit of getting into massive scrapes through her own stupid decisions, then relying on other people to shield her from the consequences. She has big Damsel In Distress energy, and I just... nope.
In addition, I was deeply irritated by the author's note at the end which claimed that Rinity is a "far better person" than her friend Amya, because that doesn't track with how I see Rinity and Amya at all. I wouldn't say Amya is a perfect person, she definitely has flaws--but so does Rinity!!! Like, a lot of flaws!!! Being foolish and naive and impulsive and depending on your friends to fix your problems does not make you a good person. And it certainly doesn't make you a BETTER person than the one who selflessly risks everything in order to clean up the mess YOU CREATED. I don't care how starry-eyed and sweet-tempered you are; at some point, you gotta take responsibility for your own choices. It's called growing up.
On the other hand, I loved Amya, even though I didn't love the author's attitude towards her. She's warmhearted, loyal, protective, and unselfish. Her romance with Gibbs was a delight to read, because instead of the childish instalove between Rinity and Tov, we get two mature, grounded people, both a little headstrong and a little prickly, who slowly build up a genuine connection. I only wish the story had focused completely on them, instead of on Rinity and the prince. I would have enjoyed it much more if that had been the case.
April 13, 2021
This book made me so happy :-) It is the perfect sort of springtime book, where even when serious things happen, you have the solid sense that everything will work out just fine. It's basically a gender-flipped Aladdin retelling, but it's also just it's own sweet thing, and I loved it.
My favorite thing about Yesterday or Long Ago is how it revolves around a friendship between two young women, Rinity and Amya, who are completely loyal to each other. So often, female friendships in fiction get used to set up tension when they both like the same guy, or one of them gets more successful at her job than the other and jealousy breaks up their friendship. But none of those sorts of clichés happen here -- hooray! Instead, Rinity and Amya are kind, considerate, and truthful with each other. Sure, they do disagree at times, but "will they stay friends?" is not a plot point at all, and I loved that.
This is not exactly a sequel to Sauer's debut novel Rook di Goo, but instead takes some side characters from that book and has them be love interests, antagonists, and secondary characters here. The two books take place in a shared universe, but can be read independently.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and was in no way obligated to review it.
My favorite thing about Yesterday or Long Ago is how it revolves around a friendship between two young women, Rinity and Amya, who are completely loyal to each other. So often, female friendships in fiction get used to set up tension when they both like the same guy, or one of them gets more successful at her job than the other and jealousy breaks up their friendship. But none of those sorts of clichés happen here -- hooray! Instead, Rinity and Amya are kind, considerate, and truthful with each other. Sure, they do disagree at times, but "will they stay friends?" is not a plot point at all, and I loved that.
This is not exactly a sequel to Sauer's debut novel Rook di Goo, but instead takes some side characters from that book and has them be love interests, antagonists, and secondary characters here. The two books take place in a shared universe, but can be read independently.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher and was in no way obligated to review it.
December 13, 2023
5 / 5 stars
I absolutely loved Yesterday or Long Ago! The atmosphere of the story was like sitting down for a cup of tea with an old friend.
The friendship between Rinity and Amaya was the best part of the book. Their friendship was the backbone of this story, and the way they looked out for each other was heartwarming. Each of the characters had a clear purpose
I liked how Yesterday or Long Ago incorporated themes from Aladdin and Pride and Prejudice. It was wonderful to be reminded of these classic stories in a new, fantastic way. Amaya's story especially reminded me of an Jane Austen novel with the way she carved a path for herself in a world that was unaccepting of her. She was bold in what she loved and was not afraid to stand up for others. Her growth too was beautiful (but I don't want to spoil anything!)
I really enjoyed Yesterday or Long Ago and can see myself reading it again in the future! It's a cozy story about love and finding yourself and reads like a contemporary fairytale. I cannot wait to read more from Jenni Sauer!
I absolutely loved Yesterday or Long Ago! The atmosphere of the story was like sitting down for a cup of tea with an old friend.
The friendship between Rinity and Amaya was the best part of the book. Their friendship was the backbone of this story, and the way they looked out for each other was heartwarming. Each of the characters had a clear purpose
I liked how Yesterday or Long Ago incorporated themes from Aladdin and Pride and Prejudice. It was wonderful to be reminded of these classic stories in a new, fantastic way. Amaya's story especially reminded me of an Jane Austen novel with the way she carved a path for herself in a world that was unaccepting of her. She was bold in what she loved and was not afraid to stand up for others. Her growth too was beautiful (but I don't want to spoil anything!)
I really enjoyed Yesterday or Long Ago and can see myself reading it again in the future! It's a cozy story about love and finding yourself and reads like a contemporary fairytale. I cannot wait to read more from Jenni Sauer!
May 30, 2022
A gender-bent Aladdin retelling, Yesterday or Long Ago tells the story of Rinity--a girl who desperately wants to access the library that is only open to the rich and well-known--and the story of Amya (the 'Genie' character--so fun!), a master seamstress whose longing to move up in the world is only topped by her desire to help her friend Rinity. Each girl finds a way to realize her greatest dream...but a tangle of lies and mistakes threaten their respective happy endings. You may stay up late at night to see how it all ends up, but I promise--it will be worth it.
September 26, 2021
So, I'm kind of conflicted on this one.
Because I LOVED loved loved the characters. Amya and Rinity were both SO well-drawn, and Gibbs and Tov were sweet and distinct, and it was not hard to tell characters apart or get to know them. That was amazing.
I loved Rinity's storytelling, especially the way they stopped and ended!
HOWEVER. I thought that there was too much crammed into the plot, and the pacing was WAY strange. The P&P was too subtle, and there wasn't actually much of the plot in...but at the same time, there was too much--the Wickham-y episode was too much. And then Aladdin references were there, but...it seemed also too much and too little. There were parts where Really Pertinent Bits were off-screen, while unimportant things--like characters in prison--were onstage. The pacing was also strange.
Tov's arc was WAY too off-stage, specifically. Gibbs is perfect, as some Mr. Darcys are, and Rinity and Amya actually did have good arcs.
Also, what was with the shrieks? That was 100% the wrong word.
I enjoyed this, but there were issues that I couldn't really overlook. I'd say 3 stars for this one.
Because I LOVED loved loved the characters. Amya and Rinity were both SO well-drawn, and Gibbs and Tov were sweet and distinct, and it was not hard to tell characters apart or get to know them. That was amazing.
I loved Rinity's storytelling, especially the way they stopped and ended!
HOWEVER. I thought that there was too much crammed into the plot, and the pacing was WAY strange. The P&P was too subtle, and there wasn't actually much of the plot in...but at the same time, there was too much--the Wickham-y episode was too much. And then Aladdin references were there, but...it seemed also too much and too little. There were parts where Really Pertinent Bits were off-screen, while unimportant things--like characters in prison--were onstage. The pacing was also strange.
Tov's arc was WAY too off-stage, specifically. Gibbs is perfect, as some Mr. Darcys are, and Rinity and Amya actually did have good arcs.
Also, what was with the shrieks? That was 100% the wrong word.
I enjoyed this, but there were issues that I couldn't really overlook. I'd say 3 stars for this one.
March 25, 2021
*I was given a free ARC copy in exchange for an honest review*
“It’s terrible that society is set up in such a way that gives women little opportunity to get ahead outside of military service or marriage and then scorns them for taking advantage of those opportunities.”
Do you ever read a book that you just love? Do you ever see yourself reflected in a character, almost like a mirror? Yeah, that’s this one.
Yesterday or Long Ago gives us Rinity and Amya, our Aladdin and Genie of the story, and their friendship from the start makes so much sense. They act like two people who know each other better than anyone else. As the story progresses, their actions make sense for the situation.
As per usual in a Jenni Sauer book, it radiates comfort. I love that the automatic response to any problem is “let’s make tea,” which isn’t just about the tea, but the friendship offered in the gesture.
We see a reappearance of characters from Rook Di Goo, and I loved seeing them again. Tov and Gibbs work as wonderful love interests, and I just love them all around.
I really think the driving force behind this series remains the characters, which I loved all of. Rinity is me if I were a character, stupid mistakes and all, aside from being an only child. I’m much more like Amya with my nine siblings in that sense.
While if I had to choose between Rook Di Goo and YOLA I would probably choose Rook Di Goo, the story and heart behind this book are very near and dear to me.
5/5 ⭐️
“It’s terrible that society is set up in such a way that gives women little opportunity to get ahead outside of military service or marriage and then scorns them for taking advantage of those opportunities.”
Do you ever read a book that you just love? Do you ever see yourself reflected in a character, almost like a mirror? Yeah, that’s this one.
Yesterday or Long Ago gives us Rinity and Amya, our Aladdin and Genie of the story, and their friendship from the start makes so much sense. They act like two people who know each other better than anyone else. As the story progresses, their actions make sense for the situation.
As per usual in a Jenni Sauer book, it radiates comfort. I love that the automatic response to any problem is “let’s make tea,” which isn’t just about the tea, but the friendship offered in the gesture.
We see a reappearance of characters from Rook Di Goo, and I loved seeing them again. Tov and Gibbs work as wonderful love interests, and I just love them all around.
I really think the driving force behind this series remains the characters, which I loved all of. Rinity is me if I were a character, stupid mistakes and all, aside from being an only child. I’m much more like Amya with my nine siblings in that sense.
While if I had to choose between Rook Di Goo and YOLA I would probably choose Rook Di Goo, the story and heart behind this book are very near and dear to me.
5/5 ⭐️
March 30, 2021
I rate books on how they make me feel by the end of them, and wow, this is a 6/5.
Compared to Rook Di Goo, YoLA is comparably more lighthearted and fluffy, but it still has that depth of feeling—that emotional core—that Jenni never fails to include in her books. It just makes me fall in love with the characters and I don’t stop reading until they get their happy ending (or, perhaps, their happy beginning). The book is very character driven, and though there isn’t an elaborate external plot, there’s never a boring moment because we’re engaged in the characters’ internal struggles.
Also, I must talk about my new OTP, Gibbs and Amya. I love Tov and Rinity too, but I was so invested in the other two. Confident girl and stoic guy? Yes. Please. I loved them so much I stopped in the middle of the book to make fan art. Best piece I’ve ever made so far. (The clothing/dress descriptions were an artist’s dream, tbh).
Something I overall really loved about this book was that it didn’t have an end, per se. I knew that there was so much more waiting for the characters, that YoLA was only a snippet of their lives. Gah. I love it so much I can’t even write a coherent review.
That’s how you know it’s good, folks.
Compared to Rook Di Goo, YoLA is comparably more lighthearted and fluffy, but it still has that depth of feeling—that emotional core—that Jenni never fails to include in her books. It just makes me fall in love with the characters and I don’t stop reading until they get their happy ending (or, perhaps, their happy beginning). The book is very character driven, and though there isn’t an elaborate external plot, there’s never a boring moment because we’re engaged in the characters’ internal struggles.
Also, I must talk about my new OTP, Gibbs and Amya. I love Tov and Rinity too, but I was so invested in the other two. Confident girl and stoic guy? Yes. Please. I loved them so much I stopped in the middle of the book to make fan art. Best piece I’ve ever made so far. (The clothing/dress descriptions were an artist’s dream, tbh).
Something I overall really loved about this book was that it didn’t have an end, per se. I knew that there was so much more waiting for the characters, that YoLA was only a snippet of their lives. Gah. I love it so much I can’t even write a coherent review.
That’s how you know it’s good, folks.
May 15, 2021
Wow
Oh my word. Wow. I'm in shock that this gorgeous delight of a story is finished. And I'm even more in shock that it made me cry (especially the letters to your characters, oh my heart). This story is beautiful. And it's heartwarming. I love it. Oh I love it. Rinity and her stories. Amya and her fierceness. Tov and his light. And Gibbs being fabulous. I've not read Rook di Goo yet. It's been on my TBR for ever. But this one just pulled at me and once I started, there was absolutely no way I could stop reading. This story has a ridiculously large slice of my heart. Thanks, Jenni.
Oh my word. Wow. I'm in shock that this gorgeous delight of a story is finished. And I'm even more in shock that it made me cry (especially the letters to your characters, oh my heart). This story is beautiful. And it's heartwarming. I love it. Oh I love it. Rinity and her stories. Amya and her fierceness. Tov and his light. And Gibbs being fabulous. I've not read Rook di Goo yet. It's been on my TBR for ever. But this one just pulled at me and once I started, there was absolutely no way I could stop reading. This story has a ridiculously large slice of my heart. Thanks, Jenni.
August 16, 2022
Completely delightful and utterly emotional. I loved every single character and rooted for every single romance. I laughed, I cried, I swooned. This book just radiates comforting vibes and I absolutely adored it. 💗
December 3, 2021
*1 Star*
Summary: A very quick, very simple and almost childish narrative with Insta-love galore and repetitive writing.
Overall, I didn’t enjoy reading this book, which is super unfortunate because it has such a nice concept and there was so much potential for this type of world, atmosphere, and even the characters (and the cover is really pretty of course). But this book was not written well in my opinion, as it almost read like a young teen or pre-teen writing a wattpad story, a fanfiction.
This story is told through dual point-of-view in third person perspective and the chapters vary from being relatively short to a bit longer. The book itself is incredibly short, which I don’t think contributed to the lack of development between characters and their relationships and the plot - it is absolutely possible to write a short book with well developed characters, plots, and relationships, and it simply appears that the author just wanted to make everything simple and rushed. Unfortunately, the “simplicity” of it results in dumb character choices and unbelievable relationships that supposedly drive the crux of the story.
Things I Liked:
- The World: I think the society these characters live in was interesting and unique (and had a lot of potential) regarding the high class being either rich or connected to a high military rank. I liked that there were apartments across the river from the nice neighborhoods, it made it feel urban and modern and yet whimsical - really reminded me of the Pride and Prejudice aesthetic coupled with a contemporary sort of feel. I think the world could’ve been delved into more, but I liked what we got.
- Amya as the Genie: I think she fit the role super well! Not much else to say here, but I think the author did do a good job of meshing the Pride and Prejudice and Aladdin storylines.
- “Plot:” I like the idea of the plot. The basic outline of it. It had potential. It provided conflict caused by the protagonist, a basis for relationships to develop. An interesting political conflict. Unfortunately, it did not deliver, more about what I didn’t like below.
Things I Didn’t Like:
- Plot: The plot took too long to present itself in the narrative, especially for it being such a short book and for the main relationships having already taken off full steam in the first couple of chapters. The plot also really unraveled in the last third - I thought we were hitting a groove but then all of a sudden EVERYTHING that happened in regards to the plot and big developments and revelations happened OFF PAGE. We got to see none of it! And not only did it happen off page, but it also happened super quickly! Oh no, there’s some weird contrived conflict a character started near the end of the book - boom solved right away. The pacing was completely off and the “antagonist” was rather weak and had no semblance of a personality or goal or desires. More a caricature than a proper character, IF that.
- Characters: Most of these characters felt more like caricatures than real people, real characters. I believe the best of the characters was Amya, because she didn’t make dumb decisions, she was flawed, but she was also severely passionate for the people she cares about. Everyone else fell flat. Rinity was extremely immature and childish, and she made a really dumb choice in the second half of the book with no real basis. She was over dramatic - but none of these traits felt real. It just felt like a silly shell of a cartoon. And the love interests had nothing at all!! No development, no personal goals, no one else in their lives. And we were supposed to believe these two love interests were best friends! They never even interacted! No story about their relationship prior to the book! And the super contrived excuse for character development that was thrown in for Tov in like three short chapters not only happened off screen and in a very short time span, but it was also based around a really dumb character decision that made me lose respect for him! He disregarded his responsibilities and was incredibly weak-willed out of nowhere, only for him to change because the plot demanded him to! And Gibbs had a lot of potential, but his characterizations were all over the place and weren’t consistent. His story should’ve been delved into more (as with the prince!) because they were incredibly important to the plot. But no, I barely know either of them. I don’t know their home lives, I don’t know their backstories, I don’t know any of it. Even if these characters appeared in a previous standalone, the author should be able to answer these questions in this new installment. And !! The minor side characters were just cardboard cut outs! We got the most from one of Amya’s younger siblings, but literally every single character in this book outside of the main 4 were practically invisible and were just there to fill up space. I knew nothing about them, especially Rinity’s stepfather - we’re told all these amazing things about him and what he’s done for Rinity and her mother but we see none of it! He’s briefly mentioned in the book a couple of times and has no personality or personal drive.
- Insta-Love: The Big One. This is what turned me off almost immediately from the book. Granted, I finished the book in hopes that the rest of it would make up for the Insta-love. But alas, it did not. And honestly, this was the worst case of Insta-love I’ve ever read. In Rinity’s case, think The Little Mermaid. Ariel sees Eric one time, saves his life, then the next time she sees her father, she tells him that she loves Eric. That’s what Rinity does, but worse. Rinity has one conversation with the guy. She’s already swooning hard (despite not knowing anything about him and actually believing he was someone else). I was willing to give the benefit of the doubt and just trump it up to her being super attracted to him, but no. In the next meeting, they’re making out, and Tov claims he falls quick and hard. Like… what? For the rest of the novel I’m supposed to just buy that they’re in love, that they’ll never have a love like theirs ever again despite the fact that they just met and they’re only like 19 or so (which is a harmful idea that media should stop perpetuating). Because of this (and the rest of the book) I believe the first chapter was the best. In Amya’s case, think more like Ariel’s level of love for the love interest mixed with a slower start (literally just like 2 extra meetings than Rinity). And at the very end of the book she even admits she doesn’t know anything about him! Not even his damn name! And she still claims to love him! Sigh. It was awful. And I hated how the author (and apparently most reviewers, because I didn’t know about this before I picked it up!) expected me to just go along with this worse-than-a-Disney-Princess love story. Ugh. In fact, that second meeting I told you about where Rinity is making out with Tov already? That happened in like chapter 3? I was convinced for the majority of the chapter that it was some sort of dream or story that Rinity was fabricating in her mind, since her whole shtick is telling stories. It was not. I was disappointed and lowkey mad. I think that route would’ve been much more interesting to explore (- especially since I read Rinity as a neurodivergent character? I might be wrong but she felt that way to me, with her claiming to “hear” her books and her actual need to finish a story or else she’ll just combust).
- Writing: The writing was extremely juvenile, which is odd because at first it did not read as such. But as the story progressed the simplicity was made clearer. It was super on the nose at times, as if the author were trying to talk down to the reader. SO much telling and not showing. A lot of important things happened off page or super quickly. It was extremely redundant - oftentimes the author would repeat a sentence or sentiment multiple times across chapters or even within a chapter as if they were brand new thoughts being thought up when in reality we had already established that or hashed it out. Relationship and friendship conflict came out of nowhere just for the sake of conflict (I mean, are you seriously jealous that your best friend has a client who’s nice? Ugh), and so many things were resolved so quickly. An issue arose, and it was addressed and resolved on the next page. Like why do we even bother including it. Whatever.
That being said, the concept for this story was great and had a lot of potential but it wasn’t able to execute it well at all.
Summary: A very quick, very simple and almost childish narrative with Insta-love galore and repetitive writing.
Overall, I didn’t enjoy reading this book, which is super unfortunate because it has such a nice concept and there was so much potential for this type of world, atmosphere, and even the characters (and the cover is really pretty of course). But this book was not written well in my opinion, as it almost read like a young teen or pre-teen writing a wattpad story, a fanfiction.
This story is told through dual point-of-view in third person perspective and the chapters vary from being relatively short to a bit longer. The book itself is incredibly short, which I don’t think contributed to the lack of development between characters and their relationships and the plot - it is absolutely possible to write a short book with well developed characters, plots, and relationships, and it simply appears that the author just wanted to make everything simple and rushed. Unfortunately, the “simplicity” of it results in dumb character choices and unbelievable relationships that supposedly drive the crux of the story.
Things I Liked:
- The World: I think the society these characters live in was interesting and unique (and had a lot of potential) regarding the high class being either rich or connected to a high military rank. I liked that there were apartments across the river from the nice neighborhoods, it made it feel urban and modern and yet whimsical - really reminded me of the Pride and Prejudice aesthetic coupled with a contemporary sort of feel. I think the world could’ve been delved into more, but I liked what we got.
- Amya as the Genie: I think she fit the role super well! Not much else to say here, but I think the author did do a good job of meshing the Pride and Prejudice and Aladdin storylines.
- “Plot:” I like the idea of the plot. The basic outline of it. It had potential. It provided conflict caused by the protagonist, a basis for relationships to develop. An interesting political conflict. Unfortunately, it did not deliver, more about what I didn’t like below.
Things I Didn’t Like:
- Plot: The plot took too long to present itself in the narrative, especially for it being such a short book and for the main relationships having already taken off full steam in the first couple of chapters. The plot also really unraveled in the last third - I thought we were hitting a groove but then all of a sudden EVERYTHING that happened in regards to the plot and big developments and revelations happened OFF PAGE. We got to see none of it! And not only did it happen off page, but it also happened super quickly! Oh no, there’s some weird contrived conflict a character started near the end of the book - boom solved right away. The pacing was completely off and the “antagonist” was rather weak and had no semblance of a personality or goal or desires. More a caricature than a proper character, IF that.
- Characters: Most of these characters felt more like caricatures than real people, real characters. I believe the best of the characters was Amya, because she didn’t make dumb decisions, she was flawed, but she was also severely passionate for the people she cares about. Everyone else fell flat. Rinity was extremely immature and childish, and she made a really dumb choice in the second half of the book with no real basis. She was over dramatic - but none of these traits felt real. It just felt like a silly shell of a cartoon. And the love interests had nothing at all!! No development, no personal goals, no one else in their lives. And we were supposed to believe these two love interests were best friends! They never even interacted! No story about their relationship prior to the book! And the super contrived excuse for character development that was thrown in for Tov in like three short chapters not only happened off screen and in a very short time span, but it was also based around a really dumb character decision that made me lose respect for him! He disregarded his responsibilities and was incredibly weak-willed out of nowhere, only for him to change because the plot demanded him to! And Gibbs had a lot of potential, but his characterizations were all over the place and weren’t consistent. His story should’ve been delved into more (as with the prince!) because they were incredibly important to the plot. But no, I barely know either of them. I don’t know their home lives, I don’t know their backstories, I don’t know any of it. Even if these characters appeared in a previous standalone, the author should be able to answer these questions in this new installment. And !! The minor side characters were just cardboard cut outs! We got the most from one of Amya’s younger siblings, but literally every single character in this book outside of the main 4 were practically invisible and were just there to fill up space. I knew nothing about them, especially Rinity’s stepfather - we’re told all these amazing things about him and what he’s done for Rinity and her mother but we see none of it! He’s briefly mentioned in the book a couple of times and has no personality or personal drive.
- Insta-Love: The Big One. This is what turned me off almost immediately from the book. Granted, I finished the book in hopes that the rest of it would make up for the Insta-love. But alas, it did not. And honestly, this was the worst case of Insta-love I’ve ever read. In Rinity’s case, think The Little Mermaid. Ariel sees Eric one time, saves his life, then the next time she sees her father, she tells him that she loves Eric. That’s what Rinity does, but worse. Rinity has one conversation with the guy. She’s already swooning hard (despite not knowing anything about him and actually believing he was someone else). I was willing to give the benefit of the doubt and just trump it up to her being super attracted to him, but no. In the next meeting, they’re making out, and Tov claims he falls quick and hard. Like… what? For the rest of the novel I’m supposed to just buy that they’re in love, that they’ll never have a love like theirs ever again despite the fact that they just met and they’re only like 19 or so (which is a harmful idea that media should stop perpetuating). Because of this (and the rest of the book) I believe the first chapter was the best. In Amya’s case, think more like Ariel’s level of love for the love interest mixed with a slower start (literally just like 2 extra meetings than Rinity). And at the very end of the book she even admits she doesn’t know anything about him! Not even his damn name! And she still claims to love him! Sigh. It was awful. And I hated how the author (and apparently most reviewers, because I didn’t know about this before I picked it up!) expected me to just go along with this worse-than-a-Disney-Princess love story. Ugh. In fact, that second meeting I told you about where Rinity is making out with Tov already? That happened in like chapter 3? I was convinced for the majority of the chapter that it was some sort of dream or story that Rinity was fabricating in her mind, since her whole shtick is telling stories. It was not. I was disappointed and lowkey mad. I think that route would’ve been much more interesting to explore (- especially since I read Rinity as a neurodivergent character? I might be wrong but she felt that way to me, with her claiming to “hear” her books and her actual need to finish a story or else she’ll just combust).
- Writing: The writing was extremely juvenile, which is odd because at first it did not read as such. But as the story progressed the simplicity was made clearer. It was super on the nose at times, as if the author were trying to talk down to the reader. SO much telling and not showing. A lot of important things happened off page or super quickly. It was extremely redundant - oftentimes the author would repeat a sentence or sentiment multiple times across chapters or even within a chapter as if they were brand new thoughts being thought up when in reality we had already established that or hashed it out. Relationship and friendship conflict came out of nowhere just for the sake of conflict (I mean, are you seriously jealous that your best friend has a client who’s nice? Ugh), and so many things were resolved so quickly. An issue arose, and it was addressed and resolved on the next page. Like why do we even bother including it. Whatever.
That being said, the concept for this story was great and had a lot of potential but it wasn’t able to execute it well at all.
April 13, 2021
4.5/5 stars (rounded up to 5)
I received an ARC of this and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I knew I was going to love this book the moment I heard that it was gender-bent Aladdin meets Pride & Prejudice!
Rinity loves books and spending time at the library. The only problem is that it's illegal for her to visit the library and she could get charged with treason for sneaking in. And then she meets Tov, a Librarian, and falls head over heels for him. Things only get more complicated for Rinity when she finds out he's actually the Crown Prince and way out of her league. Meanwhile, Amya, Rinity's best friend, plans to marry a merchant's son and live in comfort for the rest of her days. However, the Royal Advisor throws her plans into disarray. When the girls get caught up in a mess of epic proportions, it threatens to bring ruin to the entire kingdom.
This book was an excellent combination of cute romance with fascinating world-building! I really liked all four of the main characters, though Amya and Gibbs were my favorites! I liked Rinity and Tov, though it slightly bothered me how quickly they fell for each other. The description of the library made me swoon and I could understand why Rinity loved it there so much! And though I loved all the romantic relationships, I also really enjoyed the friendship between Amya and Rinity. The way they were there for each other through the ups and downs was just so amazing! I also want to mention that the descriptions of the dresses had me longing for a gorgeous gown of my own to flaunt at a ball!
I would recommend this to fans of Aladdin, Pride & Prejudice, and anyone looking for a cute and light read! This romance is clean, and it's such an enjoyable story!
I received an ARC of this and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I knew I was going to love this book the moment I heard that it was gender-bent Aladdin meets Pride & Prejudice!
Rinity loves books and spending time at the library. The only problem is that it's illegal for her to visit the library and she could get charged with treason for sneaking in. And then she meets Tov, a Librarian, and falls head over heels for him. Things only get more complicated for Rinity when she finds out he's actually the Crown Prince and way out of her league. Meanwhile, Amya, Rinity's best friend, plans to marry a merchant's son and live in comfort for the rest of her days. However, the Royal Advisor throws her plans into disarray. When the girls get caught up in a mess of epic proportions, it threatens to bring ruin to the entire kingdom.
This book was an excellent combination of cute romance with fascinating world-building! I really liked all four of the main characters, though Amya and Gibbs were my favorites! I liked Rinity and Tov, though it slightly bothered me how quickly they fell for each other. The description of the library made me swoon and I could understand why Rinity loved it there so much! And though I loved all the romantic relationships, I also really enjoyed the friendship between Amya and Rinity. The way they were there for each other through the ups and downs was just so amazing! I also want to mention that the descriptions of the dresses had me longing for a gorgeous gown of my own to flaunt at a ball!
I would recommend this to fans of Aladdin, Pride & Prejudice, and anyone looking for a cute and light read! This romance is clean, and it's such an enjoyable story!
April 5, 2021
Ah this book was so cute! A gender-bent Aladdin meets Pride & Prejudice, Jenni has created characters that are fun, a plot that’s intriguing, and an ending that gives you all the heart eyes!
•
I loved, loved, loved the romance between two of the secondary characters! Yes, I know that’s strange, but I absolute adore Amya and Gibbs. Their wit, sass, and unusual predicament are so engaging and just ... ahhhh I love them so much!
•
The writing style of this novel was a little different. At first I was sure I was gonna like it. But the more I read it, the more I loved it!
•
The only problem I had was how fast the main character fell for her love interest. I’ve never been a huge fan of instant love and Rinity falling for her librarian was ... fast. Almost immediate. It just felt very sudden and I wasn’t a fan.
•
But beside that, I loved this story! It was a cute, light read that leaves you awing and a huge smile on your face!
•
Four out of five stars!
Ages 14 & up!
•
I loved, loved, loved the romance between two of the secondary characters! Yes, I know that’s strange, but I absolute adore Amya and Gibbs. Their wit, sass, and unusual predicament are so engaging and just ... ahhhh I love them so much!
•
The writing style of this novel was a little different. At first I was sure I was gonna like it. But the more I read it, the more I loved it!
•
The only problem I had was how fast the main character fell for her love interest. I’ve never been a huge fan of instant love and Rinity falling for her librarian was ... fast. Almost immediate. It just felt very sudden and I wasn’t a fan.
•
But beside that, I loved this story! It was a cute, light read that leaves you awing and a huge smile on your face!
•
Four out of five stars!
Ages 14 & up!
March 19, 2023
I’m very perplexed by the setting. Is it a fantasy world? Is it the real world? What about these planets? If it’s on another planet, what is up with the fashion being what you’d see when you head outside today?
Also, terrible, terrible case of insta-love. By the second meeting, characters are making out. They don’t have any real conversations because it’s all physical.
Also, terrible, terrible case of insta-love. By the second meeting, characters are making out. They don’t have any real conversations because it’s all physical.
May 8, 2021
I really enjoyed the close friendship of Rinity and Amya. I also really liked Gibbs, he is a devoted friend, serious in his duties while also being observant and kind. Thank you to the author for the eArc, I enjoyed reading another story about the people of Liosa.
January 19, 2023
My rating: 5 out of 5 stars
This is the third book set in the Evraft Universe that I've read and it's definitely my favorite! "Yesterday or Long Ago," is a sweet and fun story that draws inspiration from both the Aladdin legend and The Pride and Prejudice novel.
My favorite thing about this novel, hands down, are the characters. Each of the 4 main characters are so likable that you can't help but root for them. Rinity is so imaginative and hopeful and she always sees the best in others. Amya is an confident woman who is fiercly protective of those she loves. Gibbs is a man with a strong moral compass that leads him to helping others. Tov is generous and understanding, even when wronged. All of the 4 main characters are also flawed people, who make questionable decisions sometimes. Rinity doesn't realize how her actions could affect others. Amya lets her temper get the best of her. Gibbs can be a little high and mighty. Tov is often too impulsive. Throughout the story each of the character have their ups and downs and learn from the experiences they have.
Another thing I really liked about this book was the pacing. My attention was kept the whole time. There was a good mix of action, dialogue, and reflection. "Yesterday or Long Ago," never felt too long or too short.
The last thing I liked about this book was the romance. It was very sweet and clean. Both couples, Rinnity and Tov and Amya and Gibbs, fit each other perfectly. I hope we will find out how their relationships progress in future books set in the Evraft Universe:)
This is the third book set in the Evraft Universe that I've read and it's definitely my favorite! "Yesterday or Long Ago," is a sweet and fun story that draws inspiration from both the Aladdin legend and The Pride and Prejudice novel.
My favorite thing about this novel, hands down, are the characters. Each of the 4 main characters are so likable that you can't help but root for them. Rinity is so imaginative and hopeful and she always sees the best in others. Amya is an confident woman who is fiercly protective of those she loves. Gibbs is a man with a strong moral compass that leads him to helping others. Tov is generous and understanding, even when wronged. All of the 4 main characters are also flawed people, who make questionable decisions sometimes. Rinity doesn't realize how her actions could affect others. Amya lets her temper get the best of her. Gibbs can be a little high and mighty. Tov is often too impulsive. Throughout the story each of the character have their ups and downs and learn from the experiences they have.
Another thing I really liked about this book was the pacing. My attention was kept the whole time. There was a good mix of action, dialogue, and reflection. "Yesterday or Long Ago," never felt too long or too short.
The last thing I liked about this book was the romance. It was very sweet and clean. Both couples, Rinnity and Tov and Amya and Gibbs, fit each other perfectly. I hope we will find out how their relationships progress in future books set in the Evraft Universe:)
May 1, 2025
To nobody’s surprise, I loved this book. I really think Jenni Sauer is one of my favorite authors ever atp.
Tov and Rinity are both precious little beans, such silly little guys /pos. They’re both down bad so fast and it’s lwk hilarious and so in character
I love Amya and Gibbs even more though 🫢 I know I know but guyssssss they’re just the best okay???? I kinda wish their development was even more slow burn actually but I’m obsessed with slow burn so yk yk
Tov and Rinity are both precious little beans, such silly little guys /pos. They’re both down bad so fast and it’s lwk hilarious and so in character
I love Amya and Gibbs even more though 🫢 I know I know but guyssssss they’re just the best okay???? I kinda wish their development was even more slow burn actually but I’m obsessed with slow burn so yk yk
September 25, 2021
This book was pitched to me as gender-bent Aladdin meets Pride and Prejudice. It was supposed to be an adorkable fluffy romance. And it is! But I'm not used to reading fluffy romances that ALSO have a surprisingly gripping plot about one of the MCs trying to find out who her father is. And having the answer to that question be something I couldn't predict from the beginning. The plot was woven in well and was well-paced.
The story is told from two alternating POVs: Rinity (our female Aladdin) and Amya (our Lizzy). I loved this storytelling style, because while the two friends are going through most of the same things together, they don't always communicate well with each other. There is sometimes a stark contrast between what each is thinking. They each think better of the other than of themselves. It was sweet to see how each cared about the other and made decisions with that in mind, even if their intent was sometimes mistaken.
So, plot? Surprisingly gripping. Characters? Sweet and relatable. World? I've seen some of it already in Rook Di Goo, but it was fun to see the world expanded a little further. And fun to see some characters I recognized.
I also enjoyed the Aladdin/P&P vibes being woven in smoothly in a way that had me grinning at comparisons while not giving away the story completely. My ONLY negative comment is that the writing felt a little choppy to me at times (more so at the beginning - it smoothed out).
Overall, a reasonably quick but highly enjoyable read. Recommended to those who enjoy clean romance, and especially to those who also love tea.
I received a free ARC in return for an honest review.
The story is told from two alternating POVs: Rinity (our female Aladdin) and Amya (our Lizzy). I loved this storytelling style, because while the two friends are going through most of the same things together, they don't always communicate well with each other. There is sometimes a stark contrast between what each is thinking. They each think better of the other than of themselves. It was sweet to see how each cared about the other and made decisions with that in mind, even if their intent was sometimes mistaken.
So, plot? Surprisingly gripping. Characters? Sweet and relatable. World? I've seen some of it already in Rook Di Goo, but it was fun to see the world expanded a little further. And fun to see some characters I recognized.
I also enjoyed the Aladdin/P&P vibes being woven in smoothly in a way that had me grinning at comparisons while not giving away the story completely. My ONLY negative comment is that the writing felt a little choppy to me at times (more so at the beginning - it smoothed out).
Overall, a reasonably quick but highly enjoyable read. Recommended to those who enjoy clean romance, and especially to those who also love tea.
I received a free ARC in return for an honest review.
June 23, 2021
**I received a free copy from the author for an honest review**
Yesterday Or Long Ago was a fun read. It is the type of book that you read curled up with your favorite drink, in your favorite spot because you know it is going to be a good day.
It is truly a heart warming tale, filled with love, friendship and people wanting to break free from the restrictions surrounding them.
I loved the friendship between Rinity and Amya-talk about girl power! And the friendship between Tov and Gibbs- while it isn't shown nearly as much, you can still feel it there.
The love between the characters was well written, and you where cheering for them at the end ( I mean that ending! Loved it!)
I liked being able to see more of the world El is from (the MC from Rook Di Goo), it was rich with history and well put together.
The overall plot was well done-and while it wasn't a book that kept me on edge, I still wanted to know how the characters would find a way to be together/overcome the obstacles that where in the way.
Overall, Yesterday Or Long Ago is a new classic love story.
Yesterday Or Long Ago was a fun read. It is the type of book that you read curled up with your favorite drink, in your favorite spot because you know it is going to be a good day.
It is truly a heart warming tale, filled with love, friendship and people wanting to break free from the restrictions surrounding them.
I loved the friendship between Rinity and Amya-talk about girl power! And the friendship between Tov and Gibbs- while it isn't shown nearly as much, you can still feel it there.
The love between the characters was well written, and you where cheering for them at the end ( I mean that ending! Loved it!)
I liked being able to see more of the world El is from (the MC from Rook Di Goo), it was rich with history and well put together.
The overall plot was well done-and while it wasn't a book that kept me on edge, I still wanted to know how the characters would find a way to be together/overcome the obstacles that where in the way.
Overall, Yesterday Or Long Ago is a new classic love story.
March 24, 2023
*clicks tongue* Gibbs, Gibbs, why do you always make friends who get entangled in treason.
Love the cozy, welcoming aura that is Jenni Sauer's stories. This book is second in the Evraft Chronicles, but can easily be read as a standalone. It's a loose Aladdin/Pride and Prejudice retelling (it works?? don't ask) and the P&P aspects are hilariously fun.
The Aladdin parts, personally less so; it is PAINFUL for me to read about people making really stupid deceptive decisions; but I survived and made it to the heartwarming, feel-good conclusion. Gibbs is personally relatable, Amya a wonderful genie, Rinity adorable and sometimes a mood (even if that mood is "ouch, I see my problems magnified in you"). Thrived on the dress descriptions and Amya's seamstress travails.
Totally recommend for anyone seeking friend-helps-friend stories, sweet romance, and excellent character dynamics.
Love the cozy, welcoming aura that is Jenni Sauer's stories. This book is second in the Evraft Chronicles, but can easily be read as a standalone. It's a loose Aladdin/Pride and Prejudice retelling (it works?? don't ask) and the P&P aspects are hilariously fun.
The Aladdin parts, personally less so; it is PAINFUL for me to read about people making really stupid deceptive decisions; but I survived and made it to the heartwarming, feel-good conclusion. Gibbs is personally relatable, Amya a wonderful genie, Rinity adorable and sometimes a mood (even if that mood is "ouch, I see my problems magnified in you"). Thrived on the dress descriptions and Amya's seamstress travails.
Totally recommend for anyone seeking friend-helps-friend stories, sweet romance, and excellent character dynamics.
June 13, 2021
Wow! This book blew me away. I don’t have words to say how much I loved it and how much it and the characters (especially Rinity and Tov) mean to me. It was such a sweet and charming book with so much heart behind every word. I also love how subtle Jenni’s retellings are. They have all the staples of the original tales (this one being Aladdin) while also being completely it’s own. I’ve never read a retelling like this one or like Rook Di Goo.
If you love sci-fi, swoonworthy romance, Aladdin, Pride and Prejudice and relatable characters this is a much read!
If you love sci-fi, swoonworthy romance, Aladdin, Pride and Prejudice and relatable characters this is a much read!
December 27, 2021
Why did this take me so long to budget time to finish????
I have Christmas brain right now, so I’d like to leave a better review in time, but the goobery highlights:
This was so sweet.
Honestly, Gibbs ran away with this one. I was looking forward to his reappearance since book one, and he did not disappoint here. Start to finish, Gibbs was an absolute delight. I snorted out loud multiple times at his dialogue, and he makes a convincing Darcy to Tov’s Bingley.
I’m super excited for the next installment—watching the universe expand with each story is a lot of fun!
I have Christmas brain right now, so I’d like to leave a better review in time, but the goobery highlights:
This was so sweet.
Honestly, Gibbs ran away with this one. I was looking forward to his reappearance since book one, and he did not disappoint here. Start to finish, Gibbs was an absolute delight. I snorted out loud multiple times at his dialogue, and he makes a convincing Darcy to Tov’s Bingley.
I’m super excited for the next installment—watching the universe expand with each story is a lot of fun!
May 15, 2021
I want to write a nice long review but I stayed up too late reading it and all my brain can think right now is GIBBS AMYA RINITY TOV and lots of hearts.
June 19, 2025
This was a very sweet little book.
The insta-love is very much insta-love, the cinnamon rolls are the sweetest, Rinity deserves everything, and Gibbs is one of the best characters in the Evraft Galaxy who also deserves everything.
While the romantic relationships were so sweet and lovely, I think the friendship between Rinity and Amya was the best part of the book. These two girls with so little in common but both willing to do anything for the other, I loved the both of them. And seeing a little hint of Bender! (I know this book came first but I read it the opposite way XD, so I met Bender first).
The main reason I enjoyed this book a little less than the other books I've read by this author is that the main conflict is built up so well, taking steady little steps forward, and then...just kind of goes nowhere? Like, it gets solved so easily. It was a little disappointing because I wanted to see this have much greater ramifications / a bigger fallout, and while I know this is a cozy little book, it felt a little too easy. I'm glad things worked out for both of our couples but realistically, there should have been some more hubbub about what happened.
This was a very sweet book and I cannot wait to read more books in the Evraft world (or wherever else the author takes us!).
January 22, 2024
Excellent sci fi adventure with double romance
Amazon has this book incorrectly categorized as fantasy/mythology, which explains why Yesterday never showed up when I browsed science fiction. Yesterday is related to Sauer's War on Taras series; it has some of the same characters but has a much lighter storyline. The age of the main characters would classify the book as New Adult, but the story should appeal to people of all ages. The characters' flaws and foibles make them even more loveable and engaging. I like both Tov and Gibbs and enjoyed this further, lighter adventure (which is probably only a temporary respite from the grim happenings on Taras based on the author's letters to her characters).
Amazon has this book incorrectly categorized as fantasy/mythology, which explains why Yesterday never showed up when I browsed science fiction. Yesterday is related to Sauer's War on Taras series; it has some of the same characters but has a much lighter storyline. The age of the main characters would classify the book as New Adult, but the story should appeal to people of all ages. The characters' flaws and foibles make them even more loveable and engaging. I like both Tov and Gibbs and enjoyed this further, lighter adventure (which is probably only a temporary respite from the grim happenings on Taras based on the author's letters to her characters).
January 16, 2026
Another great read! This had a different feel than the other two books I’ve read (Rook Di Goo and Kling Klang Gloria), but it was still so fun to read. I fell in love with the characters, especially Rinity and Amya’s friendship, I love it when friends are caring and understanding of each other and those girls are such a good example of friendship. And Gibbs, oh this book made me love Gibbs, and also adore his relationship with Amya, they are just so cute and sassy, they are perfect for each other 😌
July 15, 2025
This may well be my FAVORITE Evraft book, which is saying a LOT!!! But like. It's everything I love!!! It's books, and slowburns, and an Aladdin retelling, and it has Pride and Prejudice vibes!! It has FABULOUS romance and equally amazing platonic dynamics, and such a great plot, and I love all the tea, and also Amaya is highkey key inspiring me to learn to sew. Because she's amazing
November 25, 2023
Everything things author writes feels like a cozy hug
May 12, 2021
3.5 stars
This was a cute story that I’ve seen described as a “genderbent Aladdin story meets Pride and Prejudice vibes” (paraphrased).
Some things I enjoyed:
- Rinity and her love of books and stories. Going to the library is one of my favorite things to do, so I could really relate to Rinity and her love of the Library.
- When Rinity and Tov meet for the first time. I don’t want to spoil anything, but it was hilarious and adorable and is now one of my favorite meet-cutes.
- Rinity and Amya’s friendship. It is beautiful to see and I appreciated how they knew each other so well and cared about each other, even during frustrating times.
- The elements I recognized from Aladdin. I love fairytale retellings and it was so much fun to see different Aladdin elements throughout the story. This book worked well as a genderbent retelling, with Rinity in the Aladdin role.
Some things I would have preferred to see more of:
- A more in-depth development of the romantic relationships of the book. There are two relationships and both of them are insta-love. I’m not usually a fan of insta-love, though I do think the author did a good job of making it work for the story.
- I liked both Tov and Gibbs, but I don’t feel like I know them very well now that I’ve finished the book. They were good love interests, but I wanted to know them better as individual characters too.
I’ll end this review with my favorite quote from the book:
“And while most of [Rinity’s] books ended with a customary ‘and so we come to the conclusion of our tale—or perhaps the beginning,’ she knew that the tale she lived offered no such hope or promise. It would all come to an end. It had to. And she might spend the rest of her life opening the tale again and again to relive her favorite parts, but the end would always still come crashing down on her.”
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This was a cute story that I’ve seen described as a “genderbent Aladdin story meets Pride and Prejudice vibes” (paraphrased).
Some things I enjoyed:
- Rinity and her love of books and stories. Going to the library is one of my favorite things to do, so I could really relate to Rinity and her love of the Library.
- When Rinity and Tov meet for the first time. I don’t want to spoil anything, but it was hilarious and adorable and is now one of my favorite meet-cutes.
- Rinity and Amya’s friendship. It is beautiful to see and I appreciated how they knew each other so well and cared about each other, even during frustrating times.
- The elements I recognized from Aladdin. I love fairytale retellings and it was so much fun to see different Aladdin elements throughout the story. This book worked well as a genderbent retelling, with Rinity in the Aladdin role.
Some things I would have preferred to see more of:
- A more in-depth development of the romantic relationships of the book. There are two relationships and both of them are insta-love. I’m not usually a fan of insta-love, though I do think the author did a good job of making it work for the story.
- I liked both Tov and Gibbs, but I don’t feel like I know them very well now that I’ve finished the book. They were good love interests, but I wanted to know them better as individual characters too.
I’ll end this review with my favorite quote from the book:
“And while most of [Rinity’s] books ended with a customary ‘and so we come to the conclusion of our tale—or perhaps the beginning,’ she knew that the tale she lived offered no such hope or promise. It would all come to an end. It had to. And she might spend the rest of her life opening the tale again and again to relive her favorite parts, but the end would always still come crashing down on her.”
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
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