thepaperreels's review
4.0
Color me surprised AND amazed. I will not be forgetting this book in such a long time.
If you’ve been one of my followers ever since I started, you’ll know that I don’t read the Fantasy genre a lot. I just started last year to support BIPOC creators (and will continue to do so) but, I’m really more of a Contemporary reader to be honest. So I found myself stunned when I started reading In The Jaded Grove. I finished it in two days with no struggle but left it yearning for more.
The story focuses on our two main leads, Jessa and Simith. One being on the mortal world and the other one being a Pixie and residing in the Jaded Grove. I don’t want to say anything more but this is one of the MOST well written Fantasy book I’ve ever read. Its so well written BUT the pacing didn’t suffer. Which is what I’m really looking for in any fantasy book. In The Jaded Grove is that fast paced, well thought out plot with authentic characters that you won't help but root for book that you're looking for. Plus, the main character is a Filipina! One of of my pet peeves when it comes to reading a Filipino character is when they're written in a way that the readers feel like he author is trying tp force to bring out the Filipino-ness (I know that's not a word) of the character into the story. Jessa wasn't written in that way. She is well-aware of her roots but still acknowledging that part of her that really distanced her from home. I really like that side of her.
As much as I love our main character though, I can't help but be enamored by our main hero as well. Heroes for Fantasy books are usually marketed as Alpha Male and that apparently should justify their arrogance. Well, I'm glad Simith isn't written this way. Don't get me wrong, Simith is still an Alpha. He's definitely a Pixie you can't help but swoon over, however, he seems more real because of how conscious he is with his faults. That makes him more likeable and believable in my eyes. Secondary characters such as Relle and Katie were written in such a rich manner too. I wouldn't mind a sequel or a book about them. Plus lets face it, we all need a Katie in our lives.
I am leaving one star for two reasons-- I'm not entirely sold with this cover. I just feel like the cover should be something MORE. The story is SO GOOD that the cover should reflect how epic it is. Second reason would be the ending,
I can see how and why the author did this, however, I feel like it was wrapped up abruptly even with that last chapter. I hope the author will be able to explore Simiths world, I wouldn't even mind if they're different main leads.
In The Jaded Grove will win you over from the first chapter. I can assure an engrossing story and set of characters that will touch you heart strings. With a fast paced plot and very readable writing, In The Jaded Grove should be you next Fantasy read!
If you’ve been one of my followers ever since I started, you’ll know that I don’t read the Fantasy genre a lot. I just started last year to support BIPOC creators (and will continue to do so) but, I’m really more of a Contemporary reader to be honest. So I found myself stunned when I started reading In The Jaded Grove. I finished it in two days with no struggle but left it yearning for more.
The story focuses on our two main leads, Jessa and Simith. One being on the mortal world and the other one being a Pixie and residing in the Jaded Grove. I don’t want to say anything more but this is one of the MOST well written Fantasy book I’ve ever read. Its so well written BUT the pacing didn’t suffer. Which is what I’m really looking for in any fantasy book. In The Jaded Grove is that fast paced, well thought out plot with authentic characters that you won't help but root for book that you're looking for. Plus, the main character is a Filipina! One of of my pet peeves when it comes to reading a Filipino character is when they're written in a way that the readers feel like he author is trying tp force to bring out the Filipino-ness (I know that's not a word) of the character into the story. Jessa wasn't written in that way. She is well-aware of her roots but still acknowledging that part of her that really distanced her from home. I really like that side of her.
As much as I love our main character though, I can't help but be enamored by our main hero as well. Heroes for Fantasy books are usually marketed as Alpha Male and that apparently should justify their arrogance. Well, I'm glad Simith isn't written this way. Don't get me wrong, Simith is still an Alpha. He's definitely a Pixie you can't help but swoon over, however, he seems more real because of how conscious he is with his faults. That makes him more likeable and believable in my eyes. Secondary characters such as Relle and Katie were written in such a rich manner too. I wouldn't mind a sequel or a book about them. Plus lets face it, we all need a Katie in our lives.
I am leaving one star for two reasons-- I'm not entirely sold with this cover. I just feel like the cover should be something MORE. The story is SO GOOD that the cover should reflect how epic it is. Second reason would be the ending,
I can see how and why the author did this, however, I feel like it was wrapped up abruptly even with that last chapter. I hope the author will be able to explore Simiths world, I wouldn't even mind if they're different main leads.
In The Jaded Grove will win you over from the first chapter. I can assure an engrossing story and set of characters that will touch you heart strings. With a fast paced plot and very readable writing, In The Jaded Grove should be you next Fantasy read!
onebookmore's review against another edition
5.0
The first book in the Kindred Realms series, In the Jaded Grove follows Jessa, a human, and Simith, a pixie warrior, a pair inadvertently bound together and trying to find a way to end the impending war that threatens to invade the human realm. Simith is tired of his battle-filled life and longs for a different, more peaceful future. But war always looms in his world, and he, one of the fiercest and most notorious warriors, is often in the middle of it.
Simith is wounded and fleeing from his enemies when he goes through a portal and meets Jessa. Their lives become magically bound, and, as the truth behind the wars between trolls and pixies emerges, Jessa and Simith must reevaluate all they know about the worlds they live in and the conflicts that threaten them both.
The story is broken up into three parts. In the first section, Simith goes through a portal to the human world, which is where he first meets Jessa. In the second, Simith returns to his world, and Jessa follows him. Here the reader is introduced to a fantastical place of pixies, pookas, trolls, fairies, and more. The final part explores both the human and supernatural worlds. I love that the settings are varied, vivid, and well-developed, from the sunflower fields of Michigan to the various settings in the supernatural world. I also love the reactions of both characters as they experience new things for the first time. When Simith first hears and sees a car, for example, and when Jessa first sees a troll, their reactions are fantastic.
The characters are also dynamically developed and intriguing. Details about Simith’s life and what led him to the portal that took him to the human world are devastating, riddled with anger and guilt, and complex. Jessa’s story, in turn, is tragic and moving, and the terrible events she’s experienced very much define her. A gifted poet, Jessa has lost her ability to write, and she closed herself off from the world. Her experiences with Simith, and the bond that they share helps to heal them both.
One consequence of Jessa and Simith’s magical bond is that their dreams reveal the other person’s memories. Jessa sees the tragedy that led to Simith’s ruthlessness. Simith, in turn, sees Jessa’s lovely yet lonely childhood, and her grief-filled world. Both characters understand, empathize, and accept each other completely, which I love. The pair teaches each other what it feels like to be accepted no matter what and that it is ok to trust and depend on others.
I am a sucker for a good romance, and this one is slow-building and lovely. Jessa and Simith are two wounded people who feel incapable of giving and receiving love. The pair has a strong connection from the start, but fear and feelings of unworthiness stand in their way. I love how they find each other and slowly learn to feel again. Though they are from different worlds and many obstacles stand in their way, they are tied together by a magical and an emotional bond, and this bond strengthens as the story progresses. They are stronger together, and they seem to offer the wisdom, strength, and support that the other so desperately needs. They also have an incredible amount of chemistry!
Filled with action, adventure, and a few unexpected twists, In the Jaded Grove is an engrossing and immersive story. The world-building and the character development are fabulous, as is the political intrigue. And I liked the secondary characters almost as much as Simith and Jessa. Jessa’s best friend, her best friend’s love interest, Simith’s family, several troll leaders, and more add so much to the story.
I’m very thankful to Anela Deen for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the Kindred Realms series. Deen is a gifted storyteller, and I always look forward to reading her unique and beautifully written stories! I think readers who enjoy YA or NA fantasy and urban fantasy will love this captivating new series.
Simith is wounded and fleeing from his enemies when he goes through a portal and meets Jessa. Their lives become magically bound, and, as the truth behind the wars between trolls and pixies emerges, Jessa and Simith must reevaluate all they know about the worlds they live in and the conflicts that threaten them both.
The story is broken up into three parts. In the first section, Simith goes through a portal to the human world, which is where he first meets Jessa. In the second, Simith returns to his world, and Jessa follows him. Here the reader is introduced to a fantastical place of pixies, pookas, trolls, fairies, and more. The final part explores both the human and supernatural worlds. I love that the settings are varied, vivid, and well-developed, from the sunflower fields of Michigan to the various settings in the supernatural world. I also love the reactions of both characters as they experience new things for the first time. When Simith first hears and sees a car, for example, and when Jessa first sees a troll, their reactions are fantastic.
The characters are also dynamically developed and intriguing. Details about Simith’s life and what led him to the portal that took him to the human world are devastating, riddled with anger and guilt, and complex. Jessa’s story, in turn, is tragic and moving, and the terrible events she’s experienced very much define her. A gifted poet, Jessa has lost her ability to write, and she closed herself off from the world. Her experiences with Simith, and the bond that they share helps to heal them both.
One consequence of Jessa and Simith’s magical bond is that their dreams reveal the other person’s memories. Jessa sees the tragedy that led to Simith’s ruthlessness. Simith, in turn, sees Jessa’s lovely yet lonely childhood, and her grief-filled world. Both characters understand, empathize, and accept each other completely, which I love. The pair teaches each other what it feels like to be accepted no matter what and that it is ok to trust and depend on others.
I am a sucker for a good romance, and this one is slow-building and lovely. Jessa and Simith are two wounded people who feel incapable of giving and receiving love. The pair has a strong connection from the start, but fear and feelings of unworthiness stand in their way. I love how they find each other and slowly learn to feel again. Though they are from different worlds and many obstacles stand in their way, they are tied together by a magical and an emotional bond, and this bond strengthens as the story progresses. They are stronger together, and they seem to offer the wisdom, strength, and support that the other so desperately needs. They also have an incredible amount of chemistry!
Filled with action, adventure, and a few unexpected twists, In the Jaded Grove is an engrossing and immersive story. The world-building and the character development are fabulous, as is the political intrigue. And I liked the secondary characters almost as much as Simith and Jessa. Jessa’s best friend, her best friend’s love interest, Simith’s family, several troll leaders, and more add so much to the story.
I’m very thankful to Anela Deen for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review, and I can’t wait to read the next book in the Kindred Realms series. Deen is a gifted storyteller, and I always look forward to reading her unique and beautifully written stories! I think readers who enjoy YA or NA fantasy and urban fantasy will love this captivating new series.
under_the_aurora_borealis's review against another edition
5.0
After a tragic accident befalls her family, Jessa is overcome by lose and despair.
Simith is a pixie, forced into fighting a war but hoping for peace.
When Simith is set upon by fairies disguised as trolls, he escapes through a portal into a non-magical human realm. Here he stumbles across Jessa, where their unexpected meeting results in them being inadvertently bound together.
Unbeknownst to them, Simith soon returns to his world to help bring about peace but soon realizes things are not what they seem. Jessa upon learning of the bond must journey to Simith’s world to warn him.
Filled with magic, war, hurt and healing, In the Jaded Grove is a wonderfully engrossing narrative full of unexpected twist and turns. With a variety of world settings, which in some books can be poorly invested in, everything in this book is so well developed that the places are vividly imagined by the reader. Combine this with wonderful main characters and intriguing side characters and you can see why people easily fall in love with this book.
I was pleasantly surprised by just how much I loved this book and highly recommend it for anyone with a love for fantasy.
I received an eARC by BookSirens in exchange for a honest review.
Simith is a pixie, forced into fighting a war but hoping for peace.
When Simith is set upon by fairies disguised as trolls, he escapes through a portal into a non-magical human realm. Here he stumbles across Jessa, where their unexpected meeting results in them being inadvertently bound together.
Unbeknownst to them, Simith soon returns to his world to help bring about peace but soon realizes things are not what they seem. Jessa upon learning of the bond must journey to Simith’s world to warn him.
Filled with magic, war, hurt and healing, In the Jaded Grove is a wonderfully engrossing narrative full of unexpected twist and turns. With a variety of world settings, which in some books can be poorly invested in, everything in this book is so well developed that the places are vividly imagined by the reader. Combine this with wonderful main characters and intriguing side characters and you can see why people easily fall in love with this book.
I was pleasantly surprised by just how much I loved this book and highly recommend it for anyone with a love for fantasy.
I received an eARC by BookSirens in exchange for a honest review.
lindsaybonnez's review
5.0
I’m a bit flabbergasted to be completely honest. I know I may come across as if I always have deep feelings about a book and will kind of love anything you push into my hands, but I know for a fact ‘in the jaded grove’ will be my top one read of 2021. (Also I do always have deep feelings about books, that’s just who I am, but that doesn’t matter right now). I havn’t read fantasy in awhile, and after loving the cruel prince series & Heartless so much, I wasn’t sure if I just got lucky with two good books, or if I liked the genre that much. In the jaded grove didn’t make me any wiser, cause it’s 1. Amazing & 2. It reminds me of the parts I love most of the books stated above so it’s absolutely perfect in every way.
In the jaded grove has an amazing world, a fastpaced feel and good plottwists, and amazing lore. The story is intricate and thought-through and we haven’t even discussed the characters yet. Deen’s word choice to state the difference between Jessa’s world & Simmith’s has this intricate magical feel to it and her overall choice of words is pleasant & makes you want to deepdive in the book. The side characters are fun, detailed and fit Jessa & Simmith well.
As mentioned in the description, grief is heavy to hold. It is one thing to make that come across as something you can relate too in a way that makes it fit for your story, but to me personally it’s another to make it right. In the last 9 months of carrying my personal grief, I have had lots of moments where I felt like I was going crazy by the way it is romanticized in movies, series and even books. Like it’s another way to make your story deeper, but without actually considering how it really feels. As if you feel the big implode and then you just move on. Whereas I’m 9 months in and have only been properly allowing my grief for the last few weeks. Anela Deen understands. And I don’t think I have felt this understood in my whole process. I felt pain when the characters felt pain because I knew exactly what she was talking about, as she voices it so so right. It gave me insights I didn’t know I needed, and I know I will think back of this book fondly.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy. My opinion however is entirely my own.
In the jaded grove has an amazing world, a fastpaced feel and good plottwists, and amazing lore. The story is intricate and thought-through and we haven’t even discussed the characters yet. Deen’s word choice to state the difference between Jessa’s world & Simmith’s has this intricate magical feel to it and her overall choice of words is pleasant & makes you want to deepdive in the book. The side characters are fun, detailed and fit Jessa & Simmith well.
As mentioned in the description, grief is heavy to hold. It is one thing to make that come across as something you can relate too in a way that makes it fit for your story, but to me personally it’s another to make it right. In the last 9 months of carrying my personal grief, I have had lots of moments where I felt like I was going crazy by the way it is romanticized in movies, series and even books. Like it’s another way to make your story deeper, but without actually considering how it really feels. As if you feel the big implode and then you just move on. Whereas I’m 9 months in and have only been properly allowing my grief for the last few weeks. Anela Deen understands. And I don’t think I have felt this understood in my whole process. I felt pain when the characters felt pain because I knew exactly what she was talking about, as she voices it so so right. It gave me insights I didn’t know I needed, and I know I will think back of this book fondly.
I voluntarily reviewed this book after receiving a free copy. My opinion however is entirely my own.
stephaniereadss's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
lighthearted
fast-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
4.0
What originally drew me to this book was the filipino representation, but I ended up loving the story and all the other characters! It’s a fast paced story that also deals with grief and loss, which brings the two main characters together and shows that they are still deserving of love.
adominiquereads's review against another edition
4.0
"Matibay and walis, palibhasa'y magkabigkis."
"A broom is sturdy because its stands are tightly bound."
I received an e-ARC copy of this book from the author and Caffeine Tours in exchange for an honest review.
I honestly did not know anything about this book aside from its gorgeous cover, and that it is a portal fantasy standalone with fae in it - and I always did like those mythical creatures in my stories. To say I was pleasantly surprised and highly entertained is an understatement.
In the Jaded Grove is a very fast-paced, lyrical fantasy standalone that features the vast world of the fae world called the Kindred Realms wherein creatures such as fae, pixies, trolls and other faeirie creatures reside. In this book, we follow a pixie warrior named Simith who finds his hands tied when the species he has served for many years has turned against him. He then unexpectedly finds himself travelling through a portal towards the human world to escape his enemies, thereby encountering a human girl named Jessa on the other side of it. Both of them are suddenly thrust into a head-spinning series of events that force them to be near each other, and find themselves in the middle of a war in the Kindred Realms.
The characters were definitely something I really enjoyed and loved. Jessa and Simith were introduced with a lot of tragedy and grief in their lives, and it was clearly evident to see these emotions in them all throughout the book. The awful stuff that happened to them in the past (and continually haunt them) had not only served as a fuel to their actions, but also see parts of them that they needed to discover yet. It was also interesting to see how those things helped both Simith and Jessa out in this book, and them overcoming those tragedies. The other side characters, such as their friends and other faerie creatures, were also a nice treat that complimented the main characters immensely. The dynamics and relationships played throughout this book was evident and prevalent, and I would have wished to see a bit more of it. While there was a clear romance play in this book, I found myself not really getting attached to it because it just felt insta-love almost immediately, though it did occur in a slow burn motion. It was cute towards the end, but I wouldn't have minded it if it wasn't there.
The world-building and magic system were highly enjoyable. I always did enjoy a fae-centered story that featured the very dark and twisted core of the fae, and this book delivered. No cutesy, Disney-like creatures in this novel! Everything was very easy to understand and digest, and it was painted very vividly that it gripped me immediately. On the flipside in the mortal realm, I was actually really shocked that Jessa is a Filipina (yay!) so I could immediately put myself into her shoes so easily, especially whenever she talks about the language, culture, and little nuisances of every Filipino family. The mix of the magic and non-magic worlds were something that thoroughly entertained me and added a need spice into the world, especially with how both worlds were beneficial and disastrous to one another.
The plot very action-packed and fast-paced. It wasn't short on action, adventure, and a lot of political scheming and intrigue. While it did have its few crazy twists and turns, it didn't exactly have the wow factor for me, but it still kept my mind whirling. I also did find the pacing to be very fast for my liking. I don't normally mind a quick read, the story just felt a bit too rushed for my tastes, and that some transitions could have been done better. It would have been really amazing to see certain scenes and events simmered further.
Over-all, I still highly recommend this book to any readers who are looking for a quick, heart-aching yet full of hope kind of fantasy tale. The poetry featured in this book also helped to give it more interest!
Other favorite quotes:
"No monster lives but for the evil others have done before him."
"If a shard of her broken heart had survived, maybe she would have something to offer the tiny ember growing within her.
"A broom is sturdy because its stands are tightly bound."
I received an e-ARC copy of this book from the author and Caffeine Tours in exchange for an honest review.
I honestly did not know anything about this book aside from its gorgeous cover, and that it is a portal fantasy standalone with fae in it - and I always did like those mythical creatures in my stories. To say I was pleasantly surprised and highly entertained is an understatement.
In the Jaded Grove is a very fast-paced, lyrical fantasy standalone that features the vast world of the fae world called the Kindred Realms wherein creatures such as fae, pixies, trolls and other faeirie creatures reside. In this book, we follow a pixie warrior named Simith who finds his hands tied when the species he has served for many years has turned against him. He then unexpectedly finds himself travelling through a portal towards the human world to escape his enemies, thereby encountering a human girl named Jessa on the other side of it. Both of them are suddenly thrust into a head-spinning series of events that force them to be near each other, and find themselves in the middle of a war in the Kindred Realms.
The characters were definitely something I really enjoyed and loved. Jessa and Simith were introduced with a lot of tragedy and grief in their lives, and it was clearly evident to see these emotions in them all throughout the book. The awful stuff that happened to them in the past (and continually haunt them) had not only served as a fuel to their actions, but also see parts of them that they needed to discover yet. It was also interesting to see how those things helped both Simith and Jessa out in this book, and them overcoming those tragedies. The other side characters, such as their friends and other faerie creatures, were also a nice treat that complimented the main characters immensely. The dynamics and relationships played throughout this book was evident and prevalent, and I would have wished to see a bit more of it. While there was a clear romance play in this book, I found myself not really getting attached to it because it just felt insta-love almost immediately, though it did occur in a slow burn motion. It was cute towards the end, but I wouldn't have minded it if it wasn't there.
The world-building and magic system were highly enjoyable. I always did enjoy a fae-centered story that featured the very dark and twisted core of the fae, and this book delivered. No cutesy, Disney-like creatures in this novel! Everything was very easy to understand and digest, and it was painted very vividly that it gripped me immediately. On the flipside in the mortal realm, I was actually really shocked that Jessa is a Filipina (yay!) so I could immediately put myself into her shoes so easily, especially whenever she talks about the language, culture, and little nuisances of every Filipino family. The mix of the magic and non-magic worlds were something that thoroughly entertained me and added a need spice into the world, especially with how both worlds were beneficial and disastrous to one another.
The plot very action-packed and fast-paced. It wasn't short on action, adventure, and a lot of political scheming and intrigue. While it did have its few crazy twists and turns, it didn't exactly have the wow factor for me, but it still kept my mind whirling. I also did find the pacing to be very fast for my liking. I don't normally mind a quick read, the story just felt a bit too rushed for my tastes, and that some transitions could have been done better. It would have been really amazing to see certain scenes and events simmered further.
Over-all, I still highly recommend this book to any readers who are looking for a quick, heart-aching yet full of hope kind of fantasy tale. The poetry featured in this book also helped to give it more interest!
Other favorite quotes:
"No monster lives but for the evil others have done before him."
"If a shard of her broken heart had survived, maybe she would have something to offer the tiny ember growing within her.
mothmanreads's review against another edition
5.0
I may have just found another favorite book! Even though this story took me a bit to get into, I ended up really enjoying it and absolutely loving the characters. I don’t often see a mix of fantasy and reality quite like this, and I loved it! Aside from the characters, I also loved the whole plot of this story. The quest they embarked on in order to obtain freedom for themselves and others from their true names was so fun. It was pretty new to me, too, for a human character to still be helpful and powerful during this quest. The teamwork the author wrote into the quest was so natural and fun to read. All in all, I really enjoyed this book and I highly recommend it for other fantasy fans out there. I received a free copy of this story from Hidden Gems and am choosing to leave an honest review of it.
el_rincon_de_lena's review against another edition
3.0
---Spanish---
*Recibí una copia de revisión anticipada de forma gratuita y dejo esta revisión voluntariamente. Gracias BookSirens!*
En general: 3/5 estrellas
Spice: No
Personajes: 3/5
Tensión: 3/5
Trama: 4/5
Esta es una historia llena de fantasía, faes y guerra. Nuestra personaje principal, por las coincidencias de la vida se encuentra con un extraño hombre en las afueras de un bosque. Y para peor, que está herido y que alguien lo persigue para matarlo. En un pobre intento de ayudarlo ella se ve involucrada en una antigua guerra de otro mundo.
Lo bueno es que no es la típica historia de faes que intenta copiar el estilo de Sarah J. Maas. Es decir, en ese sentido la trama se me ha hecho super original y entretenida.
Mi problema principal con éste libro es que no logré conectar con los personajes, y el tema de que la personaje principal estuviera embarazada (no es spoiler, lo mencionan al principio del libro), se me hizo totalmente innecesario, sobre todo porque los otros personajes la alejan de las peleas e intentan protegerla todo el tiempo y yo prefiero leer el tipo de personaje principal más fuerte.
Aparte de eso, es un buen libro, la trama es original y el mundo ésta bien construido.
---English---
Overall: 3/5 stars
Spice: No
Characters: 3/5
Tensión: 3/5
Plot: 4/5
This is a story full of fantasy, faes, and war. By the coincidences of life, our main character meets a strange man on the outskirts of a forest. And soon discovers that he is injured and that someone is after him to kill him. In a poor attempt to help him, she finds herself involved in an ancient war from another realm.
The good news about this book is that it is not your typical fae story that tries to copy the style of Sarah J. Maas, in that sense, I found the plot and the romance super original and entertaining.
My main problem with this book is that I couldn't connect with the characters, and the fact that the main character is pregnant (not a spoiler, they mention it at the beginning of the book),
felt unnecessary for me, like... why? It didn´t have any sense and didn't have any relation with the plot. And obviously, because she is pregnant the other Characters keep her out of fights and try to protect her all the time, but I prefer to read a strong female lead.
Apart from that, it is a good book, the plot is original and the world is well constructed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thanks, BookSirens!
*Recibí una copia de revisión anticipada de forma gratuita y dejo esta revisión voluntariamente. Gracias BookSirens!*
En general: 3/5 estrellas
Spice: No
Personajes: 3/5
Tensión: 3/5
Trama: 4/5
Esta es una historia llena de fantasía, faes y guerra. Nuestra personaje principal, por las coincidencias de la vida se encuentra con un extraño hombre en las afueras de un bosque. Y para peor, que está herido y que alguien lo persigue para matarlo. En un pobre intento de ayudarlo ella se ve involucrada en una antigua guerra de otro mundo.
Lo bueno es que no es la típica historia de faes que intenta copiar el estilo de Sarah J. Maas. Es decir, en ese sentido la trama se me ha hecho super original y entretenida.
Mi problema principal con éste libro es que no logré conectar con los personajes, y el tema de que la personaje principal estuviera embarazada (no es spoiler, lo mencionan al principio del libro), se me hizo totalmente innecesario, sobre todo porque los otros personajes la alejan de las peleas e intentan protegerla todo el tiempo y yo prefiero leer el tipo de personaje principal más fuerte.
Aparte de eso, es un buen libro, la trama es original y el mundo ésta bien construido.
---English---
Overall: 3/5 stars
Spice: No
Characters: 3/5
Tensión: 3/5
Plot: 4/5
This is a story full of fantasy, faes, and war. By the coincidences of life, our main character meets a strange man on the outskirts of a forest. And soon discovers that he is injured and that someone is after him to kill him. In a poor attempt to help him, she finds herself involved in an ancient war from another realm.
The good news about this book is that it is not your typical fae story that tries to copy the style of Sarah J. Maas, in that sense, I found the plot and the romance super original and entertaining.
My main problem with this book is that I couldn't connect with the characters, and the fact that the main character is pregnant (not a spoiler, they mention it at the beginning of the book),
felt unnecessary for me, like... why? It didn´t have any sense and didn't have any relation with the plot. And obviously, because she is pregnant the other Characters keep her out of fights and try to protect her all the time, but I prefer to read a strong female lead.
Apart from that, it is a good book, the plot is original and the world is well constructed.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Thanks, BookSirens!
theheavycrown's review against another edition
4.0
This book could easily be a cover buy, but it has a story on the inside that is just as lovely!
In the Jaded Grove has everything that I look for in a GREAT novel—complex characters, beautifully deft world building, thought provoking concepts, & fantastic relationships. I LOVE Jessa, a Filipino poet, & Simith, a Pixie warrior, the 2 leads from entirely different worlds that crossed paths & became irrevocably bound in a slow burn romance that had me rooting for them with hearts in my eyes (plus some great blushes as their attraction developed). I highly recommend you read it...& then come talk to me about it.
In the Jaded Grove has everything that I look for in a GREAT novel—complex characters, beautifully deft world building, thought provoking concepts, & fantastic relationships. I LOVE Jessa, a Filipino poet, & Simith, a Pixie warrior, the 2 leads from entirely different worlds that crossed paths & became irrevocably bound in a slow burn romance that had me rooting for them with hearts in my eyes (plus some great blushes as their attraction developed). I highly recommend you read it...& then come talk to me about it.
tinyelfarcanist's review against another edition
adventurous
hopeful
lighthearted
tense
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
4.0
Another Anela Deen’s story about broken people from different worlds who find sanctuary in each other: A lonely and wary man who cannot admit his gentle heart; a kind woman surviving recent trauma whose life is about to change. The characters and their relationship are close enough to Beneath Cruel Fathoms to taint my enjoyment by comparison. If you enjoyed this book, I recommend checking Beneath Cruel Fathoms.
Deen shines in her character development; their emotions are palpable and the romantic tension thrilling. She's one of my favorite writers.
Deen shines in her character development; their emotions are palpable and the romantic tension thrilling. She's one of my favorite writers.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death of parent, Death, and Mental illness
Minor: Abortion