A review by madelinereadsbooks
The North Wind by Alexandria Warwick

  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.25

Wren’s town has been stuck in the dead of winter for the past 300 years; life is difficult and cold. Orphaned a few years ago, Wren bears the responsibility of keeping herself and her twin sister alive. She hunts for food and sells her body, all to save her sister from the same fate. Every thirty years or so, seven suitable women are chosen from the town to offer theirselves to the greatly feared North King. Each time he selects a wife, he takes them away and they are never seen again. This year, Wren’s sister Elora has been selected as one of the seven women to present herself to the North Wind, and Wren will do anything to save her.

The beginning of the book had strong A Court of Thorns and Roses and Hunger Games vibes, and that made so excited to be reading this book. However, I felt let down by the fantasy elements of this book. I felt that there was a lot of focus on the romance, but not a lot of world-building, leaving the fantasy element feeling unfinished. I would recommend this book to Beauty and the Beast lovers (and Hades and Persephone lovers), and to those who prefer the romance element of Romantasy. Please be mindful that this book contains elements that may not be suitable for Young Adult readers.

2.25/5 stars
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