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New York Times bestselling author Adrienne Young returns to the world of The Narrows with Saint, a captivating prequel to Fable and Namesake.
As a boy, Elias learned the hard way what happens when you don’t heed the old tales.
Nine years after his lack of superstition got his father killed, he’s grown into a young man of piety, with a deep reverence for the hallowed sea and her fickle favor. As stories of the fisherman’s son who has managed to escape the most deadly of storms spreads from port to port, his devotion to the myths and creeds has given him the reputation of the luckiest bastard to sail the Narrows.
Now, he’s mere days away from getting everything his father ever dreamed for a ship of his own, a crew, and a license that names him as one of the first Narrows-born traders. But when a young dredger from the Unnamed Sea with more than one secret crosses his path, Elias’ faith will be tested like never before. The greater the pull he feels toward her, the farther he drifts from the things he’s spent the last three years working for.
He is dangerously close to repeating his mistakes and he’s seen first hand how vicious the jealous sea can be. If he’s going to survive her retribution, he will have to decide which he wants more, the love of the girl who could change their shifting world, or the sacred beliefs that earned him the name that he’s known for—Saint.
As a boy, Elias learned the hard way what happens when you don’t heed the old tales.
Nine years after his lack of superstition got his father killed, he’s grown into a young man of piety, with a deep reverence for the hallowed sea and her fickle favor. As stories of the fisherman’s son who has managed to escape the most deadly of storms spreads from port to port, his devotion to the myths and creeds has given him the reputation of the luckiest bastard to sail the Narrows.
Now, he’s mere days away from getting everything his father ever dreamed for a ship of his own, a crew, and a license that names him as one of the first Narrows-born traders. But when a young dredger from the Unnamed Sea with more than one secret crosses his path, Elias’ faith will be tested like never before. The greater the pull he feels toward her, the farther he drifts from the things he’s spent the last three years working for.
He is dangerously close to repeating his mistakes and he’s seen first hand how vicious the jealous sea can be. If he’s going to survive her retribution, he will have to decide which he wants more, the love of the girl who could change their shifting world, or the sacred beliefs that earned him the name that he’s known for—Saint.
330 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 29, 2022
424 people are currently reading
34865 people want to read
About the author
Adrienne Young
26 books17.9k followersAdrienne Young is the New York Times and international bestselling author of the Sky and Sea duology, the Fable series, and Spells for Forgetting. When she’s not writing, you can find Adrienne on her yoga mat, on a walk in the woods, or planning her next travel adventure. She lives and writes in the Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina.
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Instagram: @adrienneyoungbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,124 reviews
February 4, 2023
i very rarely pick up companion books, like prequels or sequel novellas. but, when it comes to the fable series, i will never have enough content.
i enjoyed everything about this, but mainly because im just so obsessed with this world. it has everything i need to feel like im living a stolen life on the open seas with the salty wind in my hair and a map in my hand. and this installment is no exception.
AY notes in her acknowledgements that saint is the most favourite character she has written to date and you can tell. the care she takes to tell his story is quite lovely and i enjoyed getting to know more about him.
10/10 would recommend.
↠ 4.5 stars
i enjoyed everything about this, but mainly because im just so obsessed with this world. it has everything i need to feel like im living a stolen life on the open seas with the salty wind in my hair and a map in my hand. and this installment is no exception.
AY notes in her acknowledgements that saint is the most favourite character she has written to date and you can tell. the care she takes to tell his story is quite lovely and i enjoyed getting to know more about him.
10/10 would recommend.
↠ 4.5 stars
Want to read
November 7, 2022
THE WAY I BEGGED FOR THIS BEFORE NAMESAKE EVEN RELEASED!!!
THANK YOU ADRIENNE FOR GIVING THE PEOPLE WHAT THEY WANT!!!
I’M SO READY FOR SAINT AND ISOLDE’S STORY!!! 😍🙌🏻
June 23, 2023
✅ Gorgeous cover
✅ Pirates/sea adventure
✅ Characters
✅ 2 POVs
✅ World-building
✅ Pace
✅🆗 Plot
🆗 Romance
While this is a prequel and it tells the story of how Saint and Isolde met, I would still recommend reading it after Fable and Namesake.
After reading the Fable duology, I was really intrigued by Saint, so I was thrilled to hear that the author would be releasing a prequel about Isolde and him. Honestly, Saint remains pretty much a mystery, even after reading this book, but I am not saying this is a bad thing. It’s more in the sense that even though I read over 300 pages about him and his debut as a captain, there is still so much that we don’t know about him, and he remains a very layered character, of whom we’ve only seen the first few layers.
I was expecting this book to be more about Saint, Clove, and Isolde traveling together, growing closer, and building their empire, but it’s really more about how Saint and Isolde met, and how it all began. We do not see much of Saint’s empire and power here, but we see his cunning and his dreams and hopes for the future. It started a little slow, and it took me a while to get into the book, but despite that, I enjoyed it very much and once I was into it, I couldn’t stop reading it.
The world-building was as interesting and well done as in the Fable duology, but while the pace was good, and the different POVs made it even easier to fly through this book, the plot was not as elaborate or engaging as the other books in this series. There is also a bittersweet quality to this book if you read it after reading the Fable duology because you know what awaits Saint and Isolde, and that bittersweetness mixed with the ruthlessness of the Narrows was a great combination. It gave me a feeling similar to when I read Fable for the first time.
The romance was a little weak in my opinion. The relationship between Saint and Clove shone more than the one between Saint and Isolde. While I loved meeting Isolde and seeing her determination and grit, I didn’t really care if she ended up with Saint or not. I didn’t feel that much chemistry or sexual tension between them, and I was honestly more intrigued and involved in understanding Clove and Saint’s strong friendship. Sure, Isolde and Saint do have a connection, born of mistrust and reluctance, but slowly building toward something more, but they didn’t spend enough time together for the romance to truly develop between them.
Honestly, I would love to have another book about Saint, Clove, and Isolde because I really liked the aspect of their characters I saw in this book, and I know that there is SO MUCH MORE to discover about them as characters, but also about their journey leading to Fable and Namesake. I would buy this book without any hesitation.
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✅ Pirates/sea adventure
✅ Characters
✅ 2 POVs
✅ World-building
✅ Pace
✅🆗 Plot
🆗 Romance
While this is a prequel and it tells the story of how Saint and Isolde met, I would still recommend reading it after Fable and Namesake.
After reading the Fable duology, I was really intrigued by Saint, so I was thrilled to hear that the author would be releasing a prequel about Isolde and him. Honestly, Saint remains pretty much a mystery, even after reading this book, but I am not saying this is a bad thing. It’s more in the sense that even though I read over 300 pages about him and his debut as a captain, there is still so much that we don’t know about him, and he remains a very layered character, of whom we’ve only seen the first few layers.
I was expecting this book to be more about Saint, Clove, and Isolde traveling together, growing closer, and building their empire, but it’s really more about how Saint and Isolde met, and how it all began. We do not see much of Saint’s empire and power here, but we see his cunning and his dreams and hopes for the future. It started a little slow, and it took me a while to get into the book, but despite that, I enjoyed it very much and once I was into it, I couldn’t stop reading it.
The world-building was as interesting and well done as in the Fable duology, but while the pace was good, and the different POVs made it even easier to fly through this book, the plot was not as elaborate or engaging as the other books in this series. There is also a bittersweet quality to this book if you read it after reading the Fable duology because you know what awaits Saint and Isolde, and that bittersweetness mixed with the ruthlessness of the Narrows was a great combination. It gave me a feeling similar to when I read Fable for the first time.
The romance was a little weak in my opinion. The relationship between Saint and Clove shone more than the one between Saint and Isolde. While I loved meeting Isolde and seeing her determination and grit, I didn’t really care if she ended up with Saint or not. I didn’t feel that much chemistry or sexual tension between them, and I was honestly more intrigued and involved in understanding Clove and Saint’s strong friendship. Sure, Isolde and Saint do have a connection, born of mistrust and reluctance, but slowly building toward something more, but they didn’t spend enough time together for the romance to truly develop between them.
Saint believed that she would never betray him. He'd given his heart to her, after all. Like he'd given it to me. But something told me the deep wouldn't share a love like that forever. One day, she would take.
Honestly, I would love to have another book about Saint, Clove, and Isolde because I really liked the aspect of their characters I saw in this book, and I know that there is SO MUCH MORE to discover about them as characters, but also about their journey leading to Fable and Namesake. I would buy this book without any hesitation.
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December 23, 2022
3.5⭐️
I was really intrigued by Saint in the other books. I wanted to know so much more about him and Isolde. I realize that many fans also wanted this and hence why we got this one.
All the characters were really interesting in this one! I like that Saint still had that aura of mystery in this book and Isolde’s character complimented him well.
For the rest of the story like the last books, I couldn’t really get into the overall story as much as I would have wanted to.
I would recommend it.
I was really intrigued by Saint in the other books. I wanted to know so much more about him and Isolde. I realize that many fans also wanted this and hence why we got this one.
All the characters were really interesting in this one! I like that Saint still had that aura of mystery in this book and Isolde’s character complimented him well.
For the rest of the story like the last books, I couldn’t really get into the overall story as much as I would have wanted to.
I would recommend it.
April 2, 2024
❝My father told me once that the only fools who sailed through the Narrows were the dead and the dying. Sometimes, I think I’m both.❞
when written well, prequels are some of my favorite books to read. They can incorporate lots of little easter eggs and foreshadowing, and even reveal things about characters from the original book or series. I had been eying Saint up since before I even read the Fable duology; something about the creepy yet mesmerizing cover and the premise that promised a haunting story intrigued me– and it definitely delivered.
I loved both Saint and Isolde in the original series, even though we saw little of one and frankly none of the other. The suspense and mystery was built up so skillfully around their characters that I couldn’t quell a rising need to learn more about them– another thing that made this such an unputdownable read. There was something so potent about seeing the man who climbed his way to a place of power by the skin of his teeth while he was still a nobody sailor with a nearly wrecked ship and lots of ambition; same to see the legendary Isolde when she was just a scared teenager. Clove was also one of my favorites and I loved him and his relationship with Saint.
This series is not known for being lighthearted or cute, but there was something so innocent about the romance in this book that made it different from the Fable duology. Isolde was and remained to be, long after her death, Saint’s one weakness and the only person who can get past the masks he puts on for the world. The ending was perfectly creepy and set up beautifully for the next series. If it weren’t for the spoilers that this book has for the Fable duology, I would even recommend reading this beforehand as it really gives a nice set up for the version of the Narrows that Fable takes place in.
╰⪼ overall, this was a captivating book, and definitely a series that I highly recommend!
❝There were some sins you paid for your whole life. I knew that now. ❞
March 21, 2023
I enjoyed revisiting the world of Fable in this prequel. I wouldn’t say it blew me away but I was happy enough.
We learn more about Fable’s parents when they were young. How they met and what they were like. I liked them both as characters, they were both flawed and interesting to read about.
It was a bit insta-lovey but I come to expect that from YA, so overall I had a good time and would read more in this world.
We learn more about Fable’s parents when they were young. How they met and what they were like. I liked them both as characters, they were both flawed and interesting to read about.
It was a bit insta-lovey but I come to expect that from YA, so overall I had a good time and would read more in this world.
December 28, 2023
3/ 5⭐
0/5 🌶️
I enjoyed revisiting the world of Fable in this prequel. I wouldn’t say it blew me away. It was ok.
I like that Saint still had that aura of mystery in this book and Isolde’s character complimented him well. The story is thrilling, fast-paced and full of adventure. It is the romantic aspect of the book that is understated. It was barley there. I expected more. A LOT more. I wanted the magic like Fable had. The moments. It didn't have enough moments.
I absolutely loved meeting Isolde. I love her. And I'm sad for Fable now, because I can understand what she lost. And not only her mother physically, but her father emotionally. Saint never recover from that lost but Cover should of done more for Fable. ugh heart breaking
0/5 🌶️
I enjoyed revisiting the world of Fable in this prequel. I wouldn’t say it blew me away. It was ok.
I like that Saint still had that aura of mystery in this book and Isolde’s character complimented him well. The story is thrilling, fast-paced and full of adventure. It is the romantic aspect of the book that is understated. It was barley there. I expected more. A LOT more. I wanted the magic like Fable had. The moments. It didn't have enough moments.
I absolutely loved meeting Isolde. I love her. And I'm sad for Fable now, because I can understand what she lost. And not only her mother physically, but her father emotionally. Saint never recover from that lost but Cover should of done more for Fable. ugh heart breaking
April 8, 2022
Cinematic and Romantic. You need this book.
July 31, 2022
this book felt like a fever dream where i wanted it bad enough so i hallucinated it into existence? i remember reading fable for the first time, and wanting more, more, more about saint and isolde; but i always assumed it was doomed to be one of those things you need, you wish for, but never get. and then this book was announced, and i think a part of me just broke, but i still didn’t fully believe it was real - until just now, 2 minutes ago - until now that i’ve finished it, and it’s so perfect, so much better that i could’ve ever imagined wanting it to be. i’m actually heartbroken that it’s done and over, because i know i’ll never look forward to anything quite so much as i did here.
i have zero coherent thoughts, i just love everything about this - from the writing to the plot, to the characters (i always knew saint was insane but i’m very happy this book confirmed he’s certified <3 my favorite man i think?). i loved saint so very much in fable; i remember reading namesake and highlighting every single line he had, and while isolde and his story was already predefined, i wanted it written out, just them, so badly. and that is essentially what saint was: a look past the amalgamation of saint's ambition and isolde's spirit, to what made them who they are, where they are. saintisolde truly are my favorite people, and this book just confirmed it further, in addition to making me weep an unreasonable amount of times. i didn't think it was possible for me to love them (and clove), and to root for them and their happy ending (so, so badly) even as i already knew how it would end. more so, particularly as a prequel, i adore how this elevates fable, and gives a clearer setting to a duology that’s so close to my heart already. but mostly, i just really really really really love saintisolde, like crying-on-my-bed-at-5pm kind of love, and nothing else compares to that.
thank you sm to wednesday books for the arc.(!!)
i have zero coherent thoughts, i just love everything about this - from the writing to the plot, to the characters (i always knew saint was insane but i’m very happy this book confirmed he’s certified <3 my favorite man i think?). i loved saint so very much in fable; i remember reading namesake and highlighting every single line he had, and while isolde and his story was already predefined, i wanted it written out, just them, so badly. and that is essentially what saint was: a look past the amalgamation of saint's ambition and isolde's spirit, to what made them who they are, where they are. saintisolde truly are my favorite people, and this book just confirmed it further, in addition to making me weep an unreasonable amount of times. i didn't think it was possible for me to love them (and clove), and to root for them and their happy ending (so, so badly) even as i already knew how it would end. more so, particularly as a prequel, i adore how this elevates fable, and gives a clearer setting to a duology that’s so close to my heart already. but mostly, i just really really really really love saintisolde, like crying-on-my-bed-at-5pm kind of love, and nothing else compares to that.
thank you sm to wednesday books for the arc.(!!)
May 27, 2023
3.5 stars
not me being a complete idiot thinking Saint was West (MMC of Fable) and feeling ridiculously confused for...idk the first 10/15% of this book. 😩🔫 i forgot Saint was Fables dad. i thought i was reading Wests backstory. speaking of which, i didnt know what i expected exactly, but it was somewhat disappointing that we didnt see this book end in tragedy. we know the kind of man Saint becomes in Fables duology (ruthless, cruel, someone who abandons his own daughter), and we assume hes like that because & after he lost the love of his life, Isolde.
however, we didnt get to that point (the part where Isolde died) in this book. in fact, the ending was sorta cliffhanger-y/just a HFN. Saint was ambitious & cunning. his dynamic with Isolde was giving KazInej vibes, in a way that their love was silent, tender, delicate, angsty, and slow burn. it was also giving WestFable vibes. i guess thats just how AY writes her romance. tbh it was underwhelming because we didnt see them interact often and seemed rushed at the end. in any case, this prequel is more about how Saint & Isolde meet and not Saints “anti-hero” origin story.
(read as an audiobook)
not me being a complete idiot thinking Saint was West (MMC of Fable) and feeling ridiculously confused for...idk the first 10/15% of this book. 😩🔫 i forgot Saint was Fables dad. i thought i was reading Wests backstory. speaking of which, i didnt know what i expected exactly, but it was somewhat disappointing that we didnt see this book end in tragedy. we know the kind of man Saint becomes in Fables duology (ruthless, cruel, someone who abandons his own daughter), and we assume hes like that because & after he lost the love of his life, Isolde.
however, we didnt get to that point (the part where Isolde died) in this book. in fact, the ending was sorta cliffhanger-y/just a HFN. Saint was ambitious & cunning. his dynamic with Isolde was giving KazInej vibes, in a way that their love was silent, tender, delicate, angsty, and slow burn. it was also giving WestFable vibes. i guess thats just how AY writes her romance. tbh it was underwhelming because we didnt see them interact often and seemed rushed at the end. in any case, this prequel is more about how Saint & Isolde meet and not Saints “anti-hero” origin story.
(read as an audiobook)
January 22, 2023
"My father told me once that the only fools who sailed the Narrows were the dead and the dying. Sometimes, I think I'm both."
What an opener! Now THAT is an opening line.
I love everything about this book. I love everything about this world. I just love it all so much!!!
And I want to crew with Saint so bad.
I love Henrik so much more after reading this. I already loved the whole Roth family, but I appreciate his background and what he had to go through to get where he is later so much more now. He and Saint are cut from the same cloth, so I totally see why they get along so well.
And now I really want to read through The Last Legacy again to see every interaction between him and Saint, because I had no clue they had all this history when I first read it. I'm starting to think I shouldn't have done my reread in publication order, but in chronological order, but oh well. When another book in this world comes out I'll reread everything chronologically.
I absolutely loved meeting Isolde. I love her. And I'm sad for Fable now, because I can understand what she lost. And not only her mother physically, but her father emotionally. I can see why he became so closed off, because Isolde was his whole world, and I don't know how he managed to keep going without her. I appreciate him so much more now. And of course he calls her love!!
And all the easter eggs were so cool! The Lark😭😭😭 and this quote💔💔💔
"Once, a man who ran the gambit shop in Dern told me that the sea gives and she takes. That for every gem dredged from the reefs, she required restitution. And she was patient. She waited to call in her debts."😭😭😭😭😭
AND WEST!!!!!!!!!! I literally was NOT expecting that AT ALLLLLLLLLLL OH MY WORDDDD I WAS SCREAMINGGGG. My family kept telling me to calm down because it's fake and just a book, but this is literally the biggest plot twist I've had from a book in a long time. I don't know if my jaw has ever dropped lower. I just wasn't expecting it at all!!!!! Like what???!!! Another reason to go back and reread The Last Legacy, because I NEED to see all their interactions with new eyes now too I am SHOOOK.
And then Saint😍 He's amazing and I love him and he's basically Kaz at sea and I love that so so so much. And I loved the backstory on how he got his name! All of that was so cool, and with his sea superstitious and everything ahhhhh I loved ittt.
And speaking of the sea, that setting literally could not have been more fabulous😍😍😍😍😍 I had actually forgotten how atmospheric these books are and it's AMAZING. Literally the vibes and sea-ness and dingy, rough edged, saltiness of everything could not be more perfect. THIS is why sea settings are one of my favorites. That's one of the main reasons I loved this so much, it's just so good!! Why is anything that takes place at sea the literal best thing ever??? I don't know, but it IS. And the more rickety the ship, the better, so the Riven was everything I could have asked for and more. And storms! I LOVE storms at sea on smallish ships. Love it.
I'm not a big tea drinker (although I want to become one) but this book made me be a tea drinker while I was reading it. It just felt necessary to be sipping on hot tea while it's dark and cold outside and a storm is raging in the book. It completed the experience perfectly and I loved it so much.
Also Adrienne Young is just so good at descriptions and world building that I thought her other books in this series had maps but apparently this one's the first. She just makes it seem so alive that you don't even need a map, which is the best.
Also the big font made me happy because I'd been having trouble reading anything but this book cured me.
So this book delivered in every possible way and absolutely lived up to every possible expectation and I love it so much!
__________
Oh my WORD!! I can't believe this book is actually a thing and I'm just so ridiculously excited!! 19 year old Saint?? Yessss!!! I don't know how I can wait so long for it though! And I'm feeling the need for a reread of the original series.
What an opener! Now THAT is an opening line.
I love everything about this book. I love everything about this world. I just love it all so much!!!
And I want to crew with Saint so bad.
I love Henrik so much more after reading this. I already loved the whole Roth family, but I appreciate his background and what he had to go through to get where he is later so much more now. He and Saint are cut from the same cloth, so I totally see why they get along so well.
And now I really want to read through The Last Legacy again to see every interaction between him and Saint, because I had no clue they had all this history when I first read it. I'm starting to think I shouldn't have done my reread in publication order, but in chronological order, but oh well. When another book in this world comes out I'll reread everything chronologically.
I absolutely loved meeting Isolde. I love her. And I'm sad for Fable now, because I can understand what she lost. And not only her mother physically, but her father emotionally. I can see why he became so closed off, because Isolde was his whole world, and I don't know how he managed to keep going without her. I appreciate him so much more now. And of course he calls her love!!
And all the easter eggs were so cool! The Lark😭😭😭 and this quote💔💔💔
"Once, a man who ran the gambit shop in Dern told me that the sea gives and she takes. That for every gem dredged from the reefs, she required restitution. And she was patient. She waited to call in her debts."😭😭😭😭😭
AND WEST!!!!!!!!!! I literally was NOT expecting that AT ALLLLLLLLLLL OH MY WORDDDD I WAS SCREAMINGGGG. My family kept telling me to calm down because it's fake and just a book, but this is literally the biggest plot twist I've had from a book in a long time. I don't know if my jaw has ever dropped lower. I just wasn't expecting it at all!!!!! Like what???!!! Another reason to go back and reread The Last Legacy, because I NEED to see all their interactions with new eyes now too I am SHOOOK.
And then Saint😍 He's amazing and I love him and he's basically Kaz at sea and I love that so so so much. And I loved the backstory on how he got his name! All of that was so cool, and with his sea superstitious and everything ahhhhh I loved ittt.
And speaking of the sea, that setting literally could not have been more fabulous😍😍😍😍😍 I had actually forgotten how atmospheric these books are and it's AMAZING. Literally the vibes and sea-ness and dingy, rough edged, saltiness of everything could not be more perfect. THIS is why sea settings are one of my favorites. That's one of the main reasons I loved this so much, it's just so good!! Why is anything that takes place at sea the literal best thing ever??? I don't know, but it IS. And the more rickety the ship, the better, so the Riven was everything I could have asked for and more. And storms! I LOVE storms at sea on smallish ships. Love it.
I'm not a big tea drinker (although I want to become one) but this book made me be a tea drinker while I was reading it. It just felt necessary to be sipping on hot tea while it's dark and cold outside and a storm is raging in the book. It completed the experience perfectly and I loved it so much.
Also Adrienne Young is just so good at descriptions and world building that I thought her other books in this series had maps but apparently this one's the first. She just makes it seem so alive that you don't even need a map, which is the best.
Also the big font made me happy because I'd been having trouble reading anything but this book cured me.
So this book delivered in every possible way and absolutely lived up to every possible expectation and I love it so much!
__________
Oh my WORD!! I can't believe this book is actually a thing and I'm just so ridiculously excited!! 19 year old Saint?? Yessss!!! I don't know how I can wait so long for it though! And I'm feeling the need for a reread of the original series.
December 14, 2022
Saint is a prequel to the duology Fable so if you haven’t read Fable please make sure you read that one first. I was so glad to return back to this world. Fable is probably my favorite book of all time. I’ve read it 5 times now and was even rereading it while reading Saint. I listened to the audiobook of this one and I am so glad I did. Both narrators did a fantastic job and I feel like the voices really fit the characters. I LOVED both Saint and Isolde. Reading their backstory and how they came together was just chef's kiss! I would love to go on and on but really this is a series you need to just pick up and give a chance. If you're looking for a book to truly take you out of your world and into another then these are for you. I would highly recommend these.
Thank you so much @macmillan.audio for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Thank you so much @macmillan.audio for the gifted copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 29, 2022
Saint (The Warrior of the Narrows #0) by Adrienne Young (audiobook review)
Narrated by Ell Potter; Will Damron (9 hours 26 minutes).
Teen & YA Fantasy (5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Saint (The World of the Narrows #0) is the prequel to the best-selling book Fable. This is my first read in this series by Adrienne Young, so I jumped in blind. Oh my word...I definitely will be reading Fable, Namesake and The Last Legacy. I am hooked!
This audiobook follows Saint. His backstory is exciting including how he met Isodle. The plot alternates between Saint and Isodle's perspectives. The story is thrilling, fast-paced and full of adventure. You feel like you're in the middle of the action thanks to the amazing narration by Ellen Potter and Will Damron. The nail-biting scenes keep you on the edge of your seat. It is the romantic aspect of the book that is understated, but most compelling. Oh lala, it's so delicious!
Warnings: Language: very basic - Romance: kisses - Violence: medium, physical altercations, loss of loved ones, loss of life
Book and audiobook versions of Saint by Adrienne Young will be available on November 29th, just in time for Christmas.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio, Macmillan Young Listeners for sharing this intriguing audiobook with me. Your kindness is appreciated.
#Saint #AdrienneYoung #Audiobooks #netgalleyreviewer #bookworm #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #Bookishcom #trending #bestsellingbooks #bookoutureauthors #b
Narrated by Ell Potter; Will Damron (9 hours 26 minutes).
Teen & YA Fantasy (5 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐)
Saint (The World of the Narrows #0) is the prequel to the best-selling book Fable. This is my first read in this series by Adrienne Young, so I jumped in blind. Oh my word...I definitely will be reading Fable, Namesake and The Last Legacy. I am hooked!
This audiobook follows Saint. His backstory is exciting including how he met Isodle. The plot alternates between Saint and Isodle's perspectives. The story is thrilling, fast-paced and full of adventure. You feel like you're in the middle of the action thanks to the amazing narration by Ellen Potter and Will Damron. The nail-biting scenes keep you on the edge of your seat. It is the romantic aspect of the book that is understated, but most compelling. Oh lala, it's so delicious!
Warnings: Language: very basic - Romance: kisses - Violence: medium, physical altercations, loss of loved ones, loss of life
Book and audiobook versions of Saint by Adrienne Young will be available on November 29th, just in time for Christmas.
Thank you NetGalley and Macmillan Audio, Macmillan Young Listeners for sharing this intriguing audiobook with me. Your kindness is appreciated.
#Saint #AdrienneYoung #Audiobooks #netgalleyreviewer #bookworm #bookishcommunity #bookstagramcommunity #readingcommunity #Books #bookfriends #booksbooksbooks #booksta #bookstagram #newtobookstagram #bookreview #bookreviews #instabookstagram #bookish #bookishielife #newtobookstagram #newtoinsta #newtoinstagra #Bookishcom #trending #bestsellingbooks #bookoutureauthors #b
December 6, 2022
3.5 stars.
November 28, 2022
3.5
From a writing perspective, Adrienne Young is one of the most talented, and underrated authors in young adult. Despite its atrocious covers, the World of the Narrows Series is lush with world-building. Saint represents that achievement, a beautifully lush book that focuses less on telling a story and more on taking the reader through the Narrows. Its politics, culture, and geography.
'Saint' is at its core, a "no plot just vibes" book. It requires you to have some background on the characters in Young's other works as it fills in some gaps from previous books. I loved this book because Young also creates openings for more stories while expanding her world.
'Saint' is supposed to be Isolde and Saint's backstory, but by the time we meet them here, they are fully formed people who have gone through a lot. This isn't a 'coming of age' book, and I would argue that its pretty slow and politic heavy for even a YA book. We have already skipped over Saint's life as a kid/teen starting out on his adventures. He's a cold, somewhat calculating adult who isn't rattled easily. Isolde is also grown in the story, and while her arc resembles 'Fable' A bit more, she's still a reserved, mature young woman who knows how the world works. Both characters are found at the intersection of their lives, where they meet and fall in love.
This means there is room for novellas of both characters before they meet each other. These two are full people by the time 'Saint' starts, and they don't really go through any development. I think of this entry to the Narrows series as a "didn't you ever wonder," and it isn't necessary to some extent, but it is fun to see Fables parents being absolute badasses before she's born.
There isn't....really a plot. The plot is 'how I met your mother'. About 1/3rd of the book is talking about sea politics. It is very, very slow; and contrary to the fact that this contains a pretty important love story, character interaction is not the focus here. Isolde and Saint are largely in their own solitary worlds dealing with different forms of isolation.
Sometimes, this gets boring, I can't lie..and the romance is a speed run. I rarely tolerate instalove, but since both characters are so icy and mature, its not quite as annoying as that type of romance usually is.
If you like Adrienne Young and 'Fable', don't miss this one. If you were MEH about Fable or haven't read it it, skip it for now.
October 9, 2024
Loved getting to know young Isolde and Saint but it wasn’t anything super special I really just love the vibe of these books
April 1, 2023
After finishing Namesake, I was hoping for this story. Thank you, Adrienne Young, for delivering! I will never grow tired of this world she created. Saint is my favorite character so I am happy I got to spend a little more time with him. Although I wish it had been a little longer, it was great to get a glimpse of his and Isolde’s backstory as well as his history with Clove. AY’s writing is stellar as always. She makes it so easy for me to visualize everything as I’m reading it. This series truly has a cinematic feel and would make a great movie. 4 stars!
January 15, 2024
3.8 ☆
◇A prequel for Fable and Namesake – the origin story of the famous Saint + a dash of Saint & Isolde’s introduction love story ◇
✔️Dual POVs
✔️Dual narrators for audiobook
“The sea’s a lot more honest than people are.”
~ Saint
Although I thoroughly enjoyed my Saint moments very much, I was a bit let down by this prequel story. I don’t know why I expected it to be any better than the other two books which were just average, but I had my hopes up anyway… I was hoping for an epic and exciting love introduction story between Saint and Isolde, but it was just so underwhelming (nearly unbelievable) and frankly a complete letdown.
When we meet Saint in the duology, we immediately see his cunning and cruel ways in knowing he abandoned his only daughter Fable to fend for herself at such a young age. The story leads you to believe it’s because he endured this tragic loss of the love of his life (Fable’s mother Isolde), and it gives you a sense of a partial understanding of his pain by imagining this epic and drama-filled passionate love story that ended with him shielding himself with a protective barrier resulting in cruelty and bitterness toward his own daughter. But their romance story is nothing of the sort in this book which only creates all these questions and holes.
Saint was really the only reason why I kept on reading this series. He really stood out in the duology and held this book up. I was eager to learn more about his background and be around for more of his cruel and cutthroat moments. He is definitely morally grey, and we get some fun “touch her and die” vibes when it comes to Isolde. I strongly admire his toughness toward the world and his will to survive/rise above those who believe he is nothing. In this book, it also introduces the start of his rise in status above Holland.
“But she’d never met her match. Not like she would when the dream Saint had encased in the ink of that map came to life. And it would. I’d see to that myself. Thus myth-born trader from nowhere was an enemy she didn’t even know existed.”
~ Isolde (referring to her mother Holland)
There were also some surprise connections that were dropped that tied into unknowns from the duology such as the midnight stone, Zola, Henrik Roth, and even the discovery of who a certain character really was from Fable. That last thing elicited a small shocked gasp from me. Some of the info from this book will also help tie into what happens with the Roths in book #4 which should be interesting to further connect.
It was also nice to have the chance to learn more about Isolde and how she escaped her mother Holland, the monster even if that was brief. It definitely brought out new perspectives about Fable and her character knowing a bit more about Isolde. I loved that they were both gem sages. I was also disappointed that the ending wraps up just before Isolde and Saint end up on the Lark, and we already know how that ends….
Anyway, I enjoyed my travels back on the sea in the World of the Narrows. My overall rating is 3.8 stars rounded up. I just wish this series would have offered more…it had so much potential! I still plan to finish it out by reading The Last Legacy and the short story about Willa and Koy, but then I plan to retire from the sea for a while.
"We both knew just how quickly your fate could change in those moments. How, in a blink, the sea's hands could reach up and take what it wanted."
2024 Monster Mash Challenge:
|The Wolfman Category|
◇ Read a book with a man on the cover.✔️
◇A prequel for Fable and Namesake – the origin story of the famous Saint + a dash of Saint & Isolde’s introduction love story ◇
✔️Dual POVs
✔️Dual narrators for audiobook
“The sea’s a lot more honest than people are.”
~ Saint
Although I thoroughly enjoyed my Saint moments very much, I was a bit let down by this prequel story. I don’t know why I expected it to be any better than the other two books which were just average, but I had my hopes up anyway… I was hoping for an epic and exciting love introduction story between Saint and Isolde, but it was just so underwhelming (nearly unbelievable) and frankly a complete letdown.
When we meet Saint in the duology, we immediately see his cunning and cruel ways in knowing he abandoned his only daughter Fable to fend for herself at such a young age. The story leads you to believe it’s because he endured this tragic loss of the love of his life (Fable’s mother Isolde), and it gives you a sense of a partial understanding of his pain by imagining this epic and drama-filled passionate love story that ended with him shielding himself with a protective barrier resulting in cruelty and bitterness toward his own daughter. But their romance story is nothing of the sort in this book which only creates all these questions and holes.
Saint was really the only reason why I kept on reading this series. He really stood out in the duology and held this book up. I was eager to learn more about his background and be around for more of his cruel and cutthroat moments. He is definitely morally grey, and we get some fun “touch her and die” vibes when it comes to Isolde. I strongly admire his toughness toward the world and his will to survive/rise above those who believe he is nothing. In this book, it also introduces the start of his rise in status above Holland.
“But she’d never met her match. Not like she would when the dream Saint had encased in the ink of that map came to life. And it would. I’d see to that myself. Thus myth-born trader from nowhere was an enemy she didn’t even know existed.”
~ Isolde (referring to her mother Holland)
There were also some surprise connections that were dropped that tied into unknowns from the duology such as the midnight stone, Zola, Henrik Roth, and even the discovery of who a certain character really was from Fable. That last thing elicited a small shocked gasp from me. Some of the info from this book will also help tie into what happens with the Roths in book #4 which should be interesting to further connect.
It was also nice to have the chance to learn more about Isolde and how she escaped her mother Holland, the monster even if that was brief. It definitely brought out new perspectives about Fable and her character knowing a bit more about Isolde. I loved that they were both gem sages. I was also disappointed that the ending wraps up just before Isolde and Saint end up on the Lark, and we already know how that ends….
Anyway, I enjoyed my travels back on the sea in the World of the Narrows. My overall rating is 3.8 stars rounded up. I just wish this series would have offered more…it had so much potential! I still plan to finish it out by reading The Last Legacy and the short story about Willa and Koy, but then I plan to retire from the sea for a while.
"We both knew just how quickly your fate could change in those moments. How, in a blink, the sea's hands could reach up and take what it wanted."
2024 Monster Mash Challenge:
|The Wolfman Category|
◇ Read a book with a man on the cover.✔️
November 29, 2022
Adrienne Young has created a name for herself when it comes to gorgeous seafaring adventures and morally grey characters that you can't help cheer for.
I was so spellbound by her Fable duology and I couldn't wait to get my hands on Saint's origin story. I'm here to tell you that this one certainly did not disappoint. It was everything I expected to be and more.
I loved the timeframe of the story as we get into the heads of Isolde and Saint as they try to escape and make a name for themselves on the waters. I loved their interactions and the atmospheric & gritty sea setting only added to that. I loved having this added history behind Saint and Clove's relationship and I wished this book would have been even longer because of it. The romance aspect is light but their connection was believable and I enjoyed it nonetheless.
I listened to the audiobook (thank you @macmillanaudio) and the dual pov....PLUS dual narrator combo was an A+. I just think I could read a dozen stories in this world and still want more. Plus these covers are some of the best ive ever seen.
All in all if you are hesitant to try this, don't be. Its execution is on par with the rest of the series and will make you want to pick up Fable and read it all over again. (highly recommend reading those books before (even though this is a prequel) *I just loved that added link and connection to the story.
I was so spellbound by her Fable duology and I couldn't wait to get my hands on Saint's origin story. I'm here to tell you that this one certainly did not disappoint. It was everything I expected to be and more.
I loved the timeframe of the story as we get into the heads of Isolde and Saint as they try to escape and make a name for themselves on the waters. I loved their interactions and the atmospheric & gritty sea setting only added to that. I loved having this added history behind Saint and Clove's relationship and I wished this book would have been even longer because of it. The romance aspect is light but their connection was believable and I enjoyed it nonetheless.
I listened to the audiobook (thank you @macmillanaudio) and the dual pov....PLUS dual narrator combo was an A+. I just think I could read a dozen stories in this world and still want more. Plus these covers are some of the best ive ever seen.
All in all if you are hesitant to try this, don't be. Its execution is on par with the rest of the series and will make you want to pick up Fable and read it all over again. (highly recommend reading those books before (even though this is a prequel) *I just loved that added link and connection to the story.
March 12, 2023
I picked this book as an audiobook read. The best part: the writing. Adrienne Young has a gift for descriptions, immersing you in the world of The Narrows, a war between sea and ship.
I loved the imagined world, dark, fantasy with a Victorian edge.
The main theme is searching for lost treasures and finding love. Elias (Saint), a young man, wanting to walk in the footsteps of his father takes on the sea, the drudgery of life on it, the treasures to behold and the secrets to uncover.
Isodle, fleeing her past, with secrets she carries potentially destroying the goals Saint has set for himself. She's independent, but unsure if herself as she moves on the path with the ship. What will Saint do for love?
I didn't know if it was this ship or the sea or the strange look of the sky that made my blood hum in my veins. I hoped it was. I hoped it was anything but him
While I enjoyed the writing, the plot became too political and I lost interest in the Saint's plight. I wish the plot would have reeled me in, but I felt a disconnect. The writing kept me going.
Overall 3/5 stars
I loved the imagined world, dark, fantasy with a Victorian edge.
The main theme is searching for lost treasures and finding love. Elias (Saint), a young man, wanting to walk in the footsteps of his father takes on the sea, the drudgery of life on it, the treasures to behold and the secrets to uncover.
Isodle, fleeing her past, with secrets she carries potentially destroying the goals Saint has set for himself. She's independent, but unsure if herself as she moves on the path with the ship. What will Saint do for love?
I didn't know if it was this ship or the sea or the strange look of the sky that made my blood hum in my veins. I hoped it was. I hoped it was anything but him
While I enjoyed the writing, the plot became too political and I lost interest in the Saint's plight. I wish the plot would have reeled me in, but I felt a disconnect. The writing kept me going.
Overall 3/5 stars
May 4, 2024
This one did not disappoint! I’m so glad I read it after Fable & Namesake. I definitely recommend reading it after if you’re thinking of reading this series. I think reading it prior may spoil some of the plot/suspense of the first two books!
I loved getting a glimpse into these characters lives prior to Fable. Gosh, my heart. And there were still little twists along the way. I love these characters and this world so much! 🥹
I loved getting a glimpse into these characters lives prior to Fable. Gosh, my heart. And there were still little twists along the way. I love these characters and this world so much! 🥹
February 27, 2024
Adrienne Young writes in such a beautiful way that always has me super immersed in the stories she creates. I loved being back in this world and seeing how Saint and Isolde met. The ending of this story was so good and unexpected. I would read so many more books in this world but I’m excited to read some of her other stories now!
November 1, 2022
Favorite of the Fable world's books, I swear. So, so good.
September 30, 2024
Quel plaisir de retrouver l’univers et l’ambiance de Fable ! Ce préquel sur les parents de Fable est aussi addictif, original et intéressant que la saga d’origine. C’est un peu lent, pas mal centré sur les intrigues quasi politiques et les tractations commerciales mais j’ai été happée du début à la fin et j’ai adoré tous les petits clins d’œil à la duologie de base 🤌
March 21, 2023
EXCUSE ME THIS COVER??? (reaction applies to the UK cover too but in horror because why did they have to change it to something so ugly when the US cover is *perfection*?! weeping. truly.)
I buddy-read this with Julie and Leslie and I'm really glad that we read it together cos it was fun to talk about just how satisfying it was to learn about Saint's past and his utterly swoontastic romance with Isolde. While this wasn't a fast-paced book and neither did it have a lot of action, it's perfect for fans who loved the Fable duology because we get to see where and how it all began! I'd even go so far as to say it (personally) gave slice-of-life vibes as we follow this hungry crew as they establish themselves in this world.
I've been looking forward to picking this up since I saw the cover for it towards the end of last year and although this wasn't the action-packed story that I thought it could be, I still found myself really enjoying it. I think this is in part due to the connection that I've already formed with the characters from the previous books. Saint wasn't my favourite character for much of the duology but my curiosity about his origin story, particularly that with Isolde, only grew into the second book and I ended up really empathising with his character! I would actually recommend reading the duology first before reading this prequel because it'll definitely be a lot more satisfying that way!
I've come to really enjoy Young's writing and I think that's a large part of why I enjoyed this book. The story flows very well and the world-building was done so well. It was satisfying to return to the Narrows and the Unnamed Sea, as we follow a young woman running away from a monster and a young man working tirelessly to fulfil his father's dreams in a cut-throat world full of merciless and power-hungry merchants and traders.
What I appreciated about this book is that we really get into Saint's head and we see lots of different sides to him that we only get a passing glimpse of in the Fable duology. His backstory is tragic and heartbreaking and it shows in his already hardened exterior, and we already see the deadly ruthlessness he's known for later on. That said, there's definitely a softness to his person that was new and heartwarming to witness. That quiet vulnerability mostly applies to a select few people in his life, particularly Isolde and Clover, but it rounded out his character even more. Isolde was a great character who was really easy to root for. She kind of jumps into situations without really thinking ahead and though she's not very street-smart, she's strategically smart and a great addition to the Saint and Clove team. Although she's literally running for her life and trying to survive in a world she's been (mostly) sheltered from, she's incredibly tough and is willing to do what needs to be done. She doesn't run away or push her mistakes onto others but faces them head-on despite her fears and that made me respect her more. She actually reminded me a lot of Fable, which again is bittersweet, but it was so great to see her as a fully formed character of her own in this book!
Aside from Saint and Isolde, I also really loved seeing more of Clove and the origins of his "devotion" to Saint and the life they're building together. I also loved seeing how Nash came into the picture and the start of Saint's partnership with the Rothschild's. I love how the author connected everything together and although it's been a while since I read the duology, I still had quite a few of those "aha!" moments that were enjoyable. I could've honestly spent days with these characters, following them on their adventures across the seas, building their life together, forming their crew, and earning their formidable reputation as traders not to be crossed. I wished that we got to see a bit more of that part of their life, although I did appreciate going back to the very very beginning of how they started. Ultimately, it's a satisfying story and I especially loved how Young ended it with a nice link to the duology.
I buddy-read this with Julie and Leslie and I'm really glad that we read it together cos it was fun to talk about just how satisfying it was to learn about Saint's past and his utterly swoontastic romance with Isolde. While this wasn't a fast-paced book and neither did it have a lot of action, it's perfect for fans who loved the Fable duology because we get to see where and how it all began! I'd even go so far as to say it (personally) gave slice-of-life vibes as we follow this hungry crew as they establish themselves in this world.
I've been looking forward to picking this up since I saw the cover for it towards the end of last year and although this wasn't the action-packed story that I thought it could be, I still found myself really enjoying it. I think this is in part due to the connection that I've already formed with the characters from the previous books. Saint wasn't my favourite character for much of the duology but my curiosity about his origin story, particularly that with Isolde, only grew into the second book and I ended up really empathising with his character! I would actually recommend reading the duology first before reading this prequel because it'll definitely be a lot more satisfying that way!
I've come to really enjoy Young's writing and I think that's a large part of why I enjoyed this book. The story flows very well and the world-building was done so well. It was satisfying to return to the Narrows and the Unnamed Sea, as we follow a young woman running away from a monster and a young man working tirelessly to fulfil his father's dreams in a cut-throat world full of merciless and power-hungry merchants and traders.
What I appreciated about this book is that we really get into Saint's head and we see lots of different sides to him that we only get a passing glimpse of in the Fable duology. His backstory is tragic and heartbreaking and it shows in his already hardened exterior, and we already see the deadly ruthlessness he's known for later on. That said, there's definitely a softness to his person that was new and heartwarming to witness. That quiet vulnerability mostly applies to a select few people in his life, particularly Isolde and Clover, but it rounded out his character even more. Isolde was a great character who was really easy to root for. She kind of jumps into situations without really thinking ahead and though she's not very street-smart, she's strategically smart and a great addition to the Saint and Clove team. Although she's literally running for her life and trying to survive in a world she's been (mostly) sheltered from, she's incredibly tough and is willing to do what needs to be done. She doesn't run away or push her mistakes onto others but faces them head-on despite her fears and that made me respect her more. She actually reminded me a lot of Fable, which again is bittersweet, but it was so great to see her as a fully formed character of her own in this book!
Aside from Saint and Isolde, I also really loved seeing more of Clove and the origins of his "devotion" to Saint and the life they're building together. I also loved seeing how Nash came into the picture and the start of Saint's partnership with the Rothschild's. I love how the author connected everything together and although it's been a while since I read the duology, I still had quite a few of those "aha!" moments that were enjoyable. I could've honestly spent days with these characters, following them on their adventures across the seas, building their life together, forming their crew, and earning their formidable reputation as traders not to be crossed. I wished that we got to see a bit more of that part of their life, although I did appreciate going back to the very very beginning of how they started. Ultimately, it's a satisfying story and I especially loved how Young ended it with a nice link to the duology.
December 8, 2022
I fell in love with this world way back when Fable was released and I am just so happy that Young continues to expand. I feel that the sea has many stories to tell and I am here for every one.
Saint is a prequel to the Fable duology that gives us more insight into Fable's parents. In the original duology, we do meet Saint but all we get to see is the man who's been forever changed by his past and the love that he lost. Saint was just one of the many characters who jumped off the page and demanded that we know more. Thankfully, Young felt the same way and through this story we get to see Saint meet Isolde and watch as the two of them carve out this beautiful dream they both share.
I absolutely love the way Young writes. The sea moves like poetry on the pages and you can just feel Saint's love for the water. Nothing can rival it until Isolde comes along. The two of them together is electric. And I just love how effortless Isolde fit in with the group - oh rather Saint and Clove. Speaking of Clove, loved him so much. We get to really see the bond between him and Saint and learn more about what drives both of them.
I honestly wish that I would have read Fable again because there were so many Easter eggs in here that I just know I missed some because it wasn't fresh in my mind. There were many familiar faces and it was fun to see them younger and, for some, not so weatherworn. What a fun read.
Saint is a prequel to the Fable duology that gives us more insight into Fable's parents. In the original duology, we do meet Saint but all we get to see is the man who's been forever changed by his past and the love that he lost. Saint was just one of the many characters who jumped off the page and demanded that we know more. Thankfully, Young felt the same way and through this story we get to see Saint meet Isolde and watch as the two of them carve out this beautiful dream they both share.
I absolutely love the way Young writes. The sea moves like poetry on the pages and you can just feel Saint's love for the water. Nothing can rival it until Isolde comes along. The two of them together is electric. And I just love how effortless Isolde fit in with the group - oh rather Saint and Clove. Speaking of Clove, loved him so much. We get to really see the bond between him and Saint and learn more about what drives both of them.
I honestly wish that I would have read Fable again because there were so many Easter eggs in here that I just know I missed some because it wasn't fresh in my mind. There were many familiar faces and it was fun to see them younger and, for some, not so weatherworn. What a fun read.
April 20, 2023
Reread 2023:
This was even better the second time around.
I was able to reread Fable & Namesake before reading Saint this time, and it made all the details pop even more! This series has my heart💚
Original Review 2022:
I liked the character Saint in the Fable duo, but I LOVE him now!!!
It was so fabulous to get all the juicy details of his comeuppance with Isolde.
💚💙💜This was everything I hoped for and more💚💙💜
Much love to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and Adrienne Young for my DRC!!!
This was even better the second time around.
I was able to reread Fable & Namesake before reading Saint this time, and it made all the details pop even more! This series has my heart💚
Original Review 2022:
I liked the character Saint in the Fable duo, but I LOVE him now!!!
It was so fabulous to get all the juicy details of his comeuppance with Isolde.
💚💙💜This was everything I hoped for and more💚💙💜
Much love to NetGalley, Macmillan Audio and Adrienne Young for my DRC!!!
August 1, 2022
“the feeling that we were only the beginning of a story that would be told long after we were gone. they were things i could take with me.”
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL AND BITTERSWEET LITTLE BOOK. I CRIED SO MANY TIMES.
ily forever saintisolde.
WHAT A BEAUTIFUL AND BITTERSWEET LITTLE BOOK. I CRIED SO MANY TIMES.
ily forever saintisolde.
December 31, 2022
Rating: 2.5 stars
I am sad.
The minute I heard we were getting a book about Saint & Isolde I was SO excited because I absolutely loved Saint in Fable and Namesake. But to be honest I really didn't feel much of anything in regards to the romance in this one. I did, however, love the backstory to Saint and Clove's friendship. The world-building as usual was great and I would continue to read any book set in this world, but the plot of this book was a pretty big let down for me.
I am sad.
The minute I heard we were getting a book about Saint & Isolde I was SO excited because I absolutely loved Saint in Fable and Namesake. But to be honest I really didn't feel much of anything in regards to the romance in this one. I did, however, love the backstory to Saint and Clove's friendship. The world-building as usual was great and I would continue to read any book set in this world, but the plot of this book was a pretty big let down for me.
February 5, 2023
Headlines:
Still read after Fable/Namesake
Quietly brooding Saint
As a self confessed fan of the Fable series, the addition of Saint's book just brings a 360 degree feeling to the series. I have come away from this feeling that even though its a prequel, it's best read after Fable and Namesake. I think going into this book with the whole history of Saint good and bad is great, but more importantly, how you perceive Saint in the next books would be skewed if read first.
Saint was dark, brooding, quiet and contemplative. He was a fierce figure, quite severe in some ways but there was a slightly softer centred that slowly revealed itself. I enjoyed seeing the start of his and Clove's sketchy sea life, the rye trade and that family. In addition, seeing Holland in earlier days sealed my negative thoughts of her. Isolde was a understandably secretive but she was honest and open in other ways.
The connection between these two I would describe as gentle, bourne of distrust but building into more. I wanted to see a bit more of that on the page but that's probably just my love of the series and characters coming through.
I just loved this reading journey, being back in the world, the peril, adventures, allegiances and enemies. The series truly feels complete now.
Thank you to Titan Books for the review copy.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
Still read after Fable/Namesake
Quietly brooding Saint
As a self confessed fan of the Fable series, the addition of Saint's book just brings a 360 degree feeling to the series. I have come away from this feeling that even though its a prequel, it's best read after Fable and Namesake. I think going into this book with the whole history of Saint good and bad is great, but more importantly, how you perceive Saint in the next books would be skewed if read first.
Saint was dark, brooding, quiet and contemplative. He was a fierce figure, quite severe in some ways but there was a slightly softer centred that slowly revealed itself. I enjoyed seeing the start of his and Clove's sketchy sea life, the rye trade and that family. In addition, seeing Holland in earlier days sealed my negative thoughts of her. Isolde was a understandably secretive but she was honest and open in other ways.
The connection between these two I would describe as gentle, bourne of distrust but building into more. I wanted to see a bit more of that on the page but that's probably just my love of the series and characters coming through.
I just loved this reading journey, being back in the world, the peril, adventures, allegiances and enemies. The series truly feels complete now.
Thank you to Titan Books for the review copy.
Find this review at A Take From Two Cities Blog.
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