Cass Yaga
I read this book in 1 day I loved it so much! The characters, the setting, the plot were just all incredible. I immediately told my cousin (who Native Hawaiian and Polynesian mix) that she needed to go read it because it will remind her of home.
Let's first talk about the main character Hanalei. If you adored Lilo growing up then Hanalei is the girlie for you! She is strong, resilient, smart, and remains kind even through all of her hardships. She's just an amazing heroine.
And the plot. This is not just an adventure to find magical dragons eggs, but seriously do you need anything besides that? This book is about coming home, finding your place in society, and protecting those who can't protect themselves. We can all also appreciate a main male character that doesn't always coddle the main female protagonist. Sam understands that Hanalei has been through a lot during her exile from the island and he doesn't press her for details immediately. He gives her the time she needs to be comfortable sharing what happened to her the past 10 years she's been gone.
Just go read this book please. Especially if you're an island girl. You need this book in your life.
Not quite as dark academia as I was originally expecting but Sutherland killed it again with the dark atmospherics that she is well known for. Loved the magic system between demons and witches that she used. All 3 of the main girls were entertaining to read about, they were all well thought out and each brought something to the plot. I even loved Bael who was barely in the book, that's how well she wrote the characters. The mystery was well planned and I did guess the villain but it was still fun to read. I'd honestly love to get a Phoenix House sequel to revisit the girls.
This was a reread about 3 or 4 years after my first time reading this book and I still loved it. This book will always be firmly in my heart and will always hold my “witchy academia” interest. The blend on historical academics and magic bring on such a nostalgic feel. I've never once been to Oxford or England but the descriptions in this book make me feel like I'm sitting right there in the Bodliean with Diana.
Honestly, I loved this book. It was just what I needed, when I needed it. Dragons? A treasure hunter? Dragon rider academy? It had a slight steampunk fantasy vibe to it. It was an incredibly quick read so it didn't drag on long enough to get boring. Lessie is one of my favorite little dragons, so spunky. And Zara is a well rounded character. Flawed but learns from her mistakes. Overall a very enjoyable read.
A whimsical book that feels like summer. There were some dark spots in this book but overall I loved it. The characters were so well written and even the side characters were well thought out. The story ended abruptly yet exactly how I thought it would. A very quick read. If you like Practical Magic then you'll like this as well!