Ratings
Content Warning: Minor/Brief Self-Injury , Implied/Referenced Sexual Assault, Children Disciplined Using Corporal Punishment
Introduction
Absolutely loved this book! The writing and build-up to the end was fantastic! Margret Rogerson is now one of my favorite authors. I adore the characters and the story. It flowed nicely and was uniquely beautiful. The premise was different from most other books I’ve read and I loved it. It was honestly refreshing to read something so original with lovable characters and a strong plot twist. I wish there was a sequel because I would love to experience this world again!
Pros
- A map!
- World-building
- Lovable characters
- Strong plot
- Grimoires
Cons
- No explanation of Elisabeth’s powers
WARNING: SPOILERS AHEAD
Plot
The plot of the story and its execution was wonderful! It kept me on the edge of my seat and I did not see the plot twist coming! I didn’t think the goal was to unleash higher demons. Speaking of demons, the magic/sorcery system here was brilliant. Such a unique take that I was truly blown away. I mean, who would think to combine demon magic and living books?
The pace was balanced and gave me enough time to re-cooperate between each major event. The only thing I was more time was spent on was Elisabeth’s powers, how she got them, and why. I would have loved a better explanation.
Characters
Elisabeth
Elisabeth was a strong, badass character. She handled everything thrown at her with pose and a clear head. Can’t say I’d do the same in these situations. She was fun and smart and a joy to read. I related to Elisabeth and her love of books. I’d much rather be with books myself than with people, too.
Nathanael
The mysterious “bad boy” who is actually adorable. And can we talk about how he casually admitted to being bi?! I love how this scene was handled and how it was no big deal to any of them. It was also refreshing to see the male protagonist deal with nightmares or some type of tragic past instead of the female protagonist. He was truly a strong and caring character.
Silas
Silas is precious and should be protected at all costs! (regardless if he’s a demon). He was so loyal and protective for both Nathanael and Elisabeth through it all. He went above and beyond for Nathanael and truly became his friend.
Side Characters
Ashcroft was a cool villain because he really did feel like the hero and good guy that just cared about his image a bit too much. When first introduced to him, I liked him, but definitely felt like something was off. His character arc was great and I loved seeing him succumb to his own plan.
Writing
The writing style was beautiful and lyrical. I didn’t struggle deciphering scenes or awkward dialog. Everything was written so well. And the banter! It felt real and I loved it. It’s hard to writer good, witty banter, but Rogerson did it!
Conclusion
Sorcery of Thorns is a unique and breath taking YA fantasy book. The imagination and creativity put into this book is beautiful. I love it so much. I want more of Elisabeth, Silas, and Nathanael. Their relationship is so cute and soft. It was nice to experience a different relationship trope than the typically dark haired, bad boy type and “I’m special” girl type. They felt real.
And not to mention the living books! I would love to work in a library with grimoires and interact with them. Overall, the world-building and characters were beautiful. I’m not typically a fan of YA books now that I’m older, but the slow-burn in this one was sweet and one I swooned hard over. Sorcery of Thorns will truly hold a special place in my heart.
What did you think of the book? Did you like it or could you have done without it? I’d love to hear your thoughts!
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