Publisher: 7th October 2020 by Harlequin Teen
Pages: 416 pages
How I Read It: ARC book
Genre: young adult, fantasy
My Rating: 4 cups
Synopsis:
The Cruel Prince meets Ash Princess in this thrilling fantasy, the much-anticipated sequel to Crown of Coral and Pearl.
Ever since Nor was forced to go to a nearby kingdom in her sister's place, she's wanted nothing more than to return to the place and people she loves. But when her wish comes true, she soon finds herself cast out from both worlds, with a war on the horizon.
As an old enemy resurfaces more powerful than ever, Nor will have to keep the kingdom from falling apart with the help of Prince Talin and Nor's twin sister, Zadie. There are forces within the world more mysterious than any of them ever guessed-and they'll need to stay alive long enough to conquer them...
My Thoughts
“What’s troubling you?” he asked after a few minutes. “I can’t see my way forward anymore,” I said, my voice thick with unshed tears. “I know, child.” He smoothed my hair off my forehead. “Your journey has never been an easy one. I fear it never will be.” “Why?” I asked ... “Some of us are born knowing exactly who and what we are.” he said. “Others have to search a little harder.”
Kingdom of Sea and Stone is book two in the Crown of Coral and Pearl series which the author has stated is a duology. It picks up right from where book one left off which is wonderful for fans as the riveting story continues straight away. Nor returns to Varenia, but only briefly, as news arrives and she embarks on a journey in an attempt to avert a war.
“... somehow I don’t see that making you happy.” You have no idea what will make me happy,” I whispered. “You’re right, Nor. I don’t. But the real question is, do you?”
This is wonderful teen fantasy writing that is full of action and suspense. The world building is unique and worth reading in itself. Told from Nor’s point of view, it proves to be a definite asset for what would be its predominantly young female readers. Nor is on a journey of self discovery and she often struggles with finding a place for herself which I am sure many young people can relate to. Yet she is strong and intelligent, determined to stay true to herself and what she what’s her life to be. As stated, the settings are unique and the magic more pronounced in this volume. It does not solely revolve around the romance which is refreshing but the love interests are definitely present. There are solid secondary characters who add much to the drama and personal development of several story arcs.
“ ... you’ve tried so hard to escape that way of thinking, but it still controls you subconsciously. Real beauty can’t be painted on with cosmetics or pinned up onto your head. I know you know that.” I remembered what Zadie had told me before I left for Varenia, how it was my inner strength that made me beautiful.’
All up this is a most engaging teen escapist read with strong female leads and writing that delivers not only a good tale but also strong messages. With many aspects of this story to appreciate, with escape to unique settings and a touch of magic thrown in as well. A worthy sequel wrapping up a good duology.
‘In that moment, I realized that Adriel was right. I hadn’t just been judging myself by Ilarean standards of beauty; I had been judging myself by the opinions of people who didn’t even know me, let alone care about me. I always tried to see the best in the people who had wronged me, but I never saw the best in myself.’
This review is based on a complimentary copy from the publisher in exchange for an honest review. The quoted material may have changed in the final release.
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