after_i_finish_this_chapter's review
adventurous
funny
inspiring
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
bohemianhermit04's review
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
This book was an absolute delight! First of all, thank you Natalia for sending me an arc-copy!
Anyone who loves heartfelt stories, a little adventure, and animals, Asiri and the Amaru is for you! The world and culture of these characters is so rich and colorful! And the characters are utter sweethearts the lot of them; I’m smitten! Asiri was such a refreshing protagonist; she’s sincere and kind! I loved how Peruvian legend and culture was seamlessly intertwined into the very heart of this book! I had so much fun reading this book, cheering on our characters with their pursuits and dreams!
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Alcohol, Medical content, and Emotional abuse
nitrojenn's review
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This is one of my favorite reads of the year! Asiri is so so easy to root for. She does come off kind of young BUT I think that's because she is still naive despite her age. She was working for her father assuming he had her best interests at heart. She loved what she did and had no reason to leave or question things. And when she realizes that her father had used her, she doesn't know who she can trust anymore. And of course she stumbled as she figures it out. Sometimes I was pulling my hair, dying for her to just trust her new friends lol. But she just had to figure it out for herself. Also, I love the way she respects each and every animal. There are some really sweet moments between her and animals she comes across. She's just awesome.
And Dario is just a cinnamon roll of a man lol. He is sweet and thoughtful. To me, he also reads as autistic coded. He has previously been made to feel bad about his special interests and the way he goes on about them without noticing people are not interested. But he knows his worth and that there's absolutely nothing wrong with the way he is. I just loved the way he unapologetically went for what he wanted in his heart and would not give up unless Asiri made it clear she did not want him. Also, who doesn't love a guy who rescues animals?!
Asiri and Dario are very sweet people and so cute together. But there are also some intensely hot moments in this story. Their chemistry is undeniable. Asiri tries to deny it, but thank goodness she fails miserably.
In summary, you should definitely read this book! 💜
And Dario is just a cinnamon roll of a man lol. He is sweet and thoughtful. To me, he also reads as autistic coded. He has previously been made to feel bad about his special interests and the way he goes on about them without noticing people are not interested. But he knows his worth and that there's absolutely nothing wrong with the way he is. I just loved the way he unapologetically went for what he wanted in his heart and would not give up unless Asiri made it clear she did not want him. Also, who doesn't love a guy who rescues animals?!
Asiri and Dario are very sweet people and so cute together. But there are also some intensely hot moments in this story. Their chemistry is undeniable. Asiri tries to deny it, but thank goodness she fails miserably.
In summary, you should definitely read this book! 💜
bookwitchgwen's review
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
owlslibrary's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
5.0
This is such a cute story 🥹🥹 and the world building is A+!!!
veva85's review
adventurous
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
5.0
Omg the imagery in this book blew me away. I wish I lived I this world. The complexity of the characters was truly one of the other highlights of this book. Be authentic was a saying that kept popping up in my mind as I read this story and loved how Asiri and Dario each had their own journey with this theme.
goatsinspace's review
funny
lighthearted
medium-paced
4.25
This is an immersive, delightful story that seamlessly weaves elements of Peruvian mythology into a heartwarming and charming romance. Centered around Asiri, the story unfolds as she grapples with the complexities of her unique ability to communicate with animals and her desire for a life of normalcy. Her journey evolves as she finds herself in a coastal village, attempting to conceal her extraordinary gift to hide from her past. However, her carefully laid plans are soon challenged when she crosses paths with the affable and dashing animal healer/veterinarian(?), Dario. The burgeoning chemistry between Asiri and Dario sets the stage for a captivating romantic escapade, filled with endearing moments and humorous encounters. There are spirit planes, mythical creatures, and hilarious animals with charming personalities.
Hernandez's skillful storytelling effortlessly combines elements of cozy fantasy, sweet romance, and folklore, creating a rich tapestry of lore that adds depth and charm to the narrative. Both cozy fantasy and romance readers will love this one. It's got spice!
Thank you to this beloved author for the eARC (seriously join her newsletter). This is an honest review.
Hernandez's skillful storytelling effortlessly combines elements of cozy fantasy, sweet romance, and folklore, creating a rich tapestry of lore that adds depth and charm to the narrative. Both cozy fantasy and romance readers will love this one. It's got spice!
Thank you to this beloved author for the eARC (seriously join her newsletter). This is an honest review.
jaime_scott's review
funny
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
bobby_obiviously's review
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This is one of the cutest books I’ve ever read. Friends to lovers? Miscommunication? Cute animals? Like it’s just all amazing.
ekstanding's review
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I absolutely adored this book. It feels like being wrapped in a warm hug that you never want to leave. I would have to say that the footnotes to explain different aspects of Peruvian culture or simply sassy notes about Marco (who honestly might have been my favourite character 😂) were my favourite part. I loved being able to learn about the different tidbits sprinkled throughout. They were also really helpful as someone who is not a Spanish speaker to understand the context of the story better. I’ve loved Natalia ever since I saw her Tiktok about the Name Bearer (when it was just the idea/teaser of the story) when it appeared on my FYP. I have been obsessed with her ever since. I am very excited for the sequel to come out in 2024. For those of you who have preordered and can’t wait to get your hands on this book just know that those of us who finished are back in the same boat with you again!
Edit: this might be spoilery so veer away if you want to read this book spoiler free———
My one issue with the book is how Asiri ran from her controlling father and then it didn’t really have a consequence except that it helped with the miscommunication trope???? That part bothered me, it felt like she needed a confrontation with her father and it doesn’t feel like it’s going to be a next book moment.
Edit: this might be spoilery so veer away if you want to read this book spoiler free———
My one issue with the book is how Asiri ran from her controlling father and then it didn’t really have a consequence except that it helped with the miscommunication trope???? That part bothered me, it felt like she needed a confrontation with her father and it doesn’t feel like it’s going to be a next book moment.