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A review by arkascha
A Faerie's Secret by Rachel Morgan
5.0
I admit it: I was reluctant to pick up A Faerie's Secret, knowing that the story of Creepy Hollow would not continue with Ryn and Vi, who I had come to love so much in the first three volumes of the series. But of course I did pick up the book, and the only reget I have is that I hesitated for as long as I did.
To keep this review spoiler-free for newcomers and fans of Creepy Hollow who haven't made it to this fourth volume alike, I will just say that both parties will thoroughly enjoy the novel, each in their own way. While it is possible to get into A Faerie's Secret without having read the first three volumes, those who have done so will get the extra bonus of being reunited with old friends (and foes!) in settings that feel like home-coming. This latter part may disappoint some, as the novel does not expand a lot in terms of world building and expansion. I too had moments where this bothered me a bit, but the feeling of knowing where I was (scenery and place- wise), and how much that made me feel part of Creepy Hollow, ultimately overrode the desire for a larger world.
The author's writing style, which has always been matching the characters it describes or speaks, quickly conveys Calla's personality and attitude, giving "double-insight" into the thoughts and expressions of the main protagonist. Some may find the alternating fluent prose and choppy, short sentences a bit cumbersome to read but I found this to be a creative layer of expression that adds depth to the story.
One thing I truly did not enjoy was a part of the novel that attempted to bring in elements of national security versus social justice. While I give triple kudos for trying to tackle a worthy and extremely difficult topic, the justification for why something existed (trying to keep it spoiler-free!) was woven into the story in a way that was too obvious and thus felt like it was merely towing political party lines. Granted, my job makes me have a radar for these types of things, so I am probably being overly sensitive and way too critical, and especially so because it was a very small portion of the book.
In the end, the tiny gripes did absolutely nothing to dim my love for the Creepy Hollow series, which continues to spell-bind (Ha!), entertain, and cause heart palpitations with its roller coaster plot twists author Rachel Morgan is (in)famous for. Calla's journey is rough and tough, and one many of us while be able to empathize with. Calla is vulnerable and strong, bratty and thoughtful, child and adult; throughout the novel, these opposites will help (and also hinder) Calla learn, experience setbacks, and grow on her chosen path to become a guardian. Wait - make that the best guardian!
With this review written, I am left to sit here waiting for book five. Are we there yet?
Oh, did I mention that A Faerie's Secret ends with a massively brainbusting cliffhanger? Yeah, there's that...
To keep this review spoiler-free for newcomers and fans of Creepy Hollow who haven't made it to this fourth volume alike, I will just say that both parties will thoroughly enjoy the novel, each in their own way. While it is possible to get into A Faerie's Secret without having read the first three volumes, those who have done so will get the extra bonus of being reunited with old friends (and foes!) in settings that feel like home-coming. This latter part may disappoint some, as the novel does not expand a lot in terms of world building and expansion. I too had moments where this bothered me a bit, but the feeling of knowing where I was (scenery and place- wise), and how much that made me feel part of Creepy Hollow, ultimately overrode the desire for a larger world.
The author's writing style, which has always been matching the characters it describes or speaks, quickly conveys Calla's personality and attitude, giving "double-insight" into the thoughts and expressions of the main protagonist. Some may find the alternating fluent prose and choppy, short sentences a bit cumbersome to read but I found this to be a creative layer of expression that adds depth to the story.
One thing I truly did not enjoy was a part of the novel that attempted to bring in elements of national security versus social justice. While I give triple kudos for trying to tackle a worthy and extremely difficult topic, the justification for why something existed (trying to keep it spoiler-free!) was woven into the story in a way that was too obvious and thus felt like it was merely towing political party lines. Granted, my job makes me have a radar for these types of things, so I am probably being overly sensitive and way too critical, and especially so because it was a very small portion of the book.
In the end, the tiny gripes did absolutely nothing to dim my love for the Creepy Hollow series, which continues to spell-bind (Ha!), entertain, and cause heart palpitations with its roller coaster plot twists author Rachel Morgan is (in)famous for. Calla's journey is rough and tough, and one many of us while be able to empathize with. Calla is vulnerable and strong, bratty and thoughtful, child and adult; throughout the novel, these opposites will help (and also hinder) Calla learn, experience setbacks, and grow on her chosen path to become a guardian. Wait - make that the best guardian!
With this review written, I am left to sit here waiting for book five. Are we there yet?
Oh, did I mention that A Faerie's Secret ends with a massively brainbusting cliffhanger? Yeah, there's that...