Review of Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim

 

Read for: Requested Review/Netgalley/ Love the Author's Books

Synopsis: "Shiori, the only princess of Kiata, has a secret. Forbidden magic runs through her veins. Normally she conceals it well, but on the morning of her betrothal ceremony, Shiori loses control. At first, her mistake seems like a stroke of luck, forestalling the wedding she never wanted, but it also catches the attention of Raikama, her stepmother.

Raikama has dark magic of her own, and she banishes the young princess, turning her brothers into cranes, and warning Shiori that she must speak of it to no one: for with every word that escapes her lips, one of her brothers will die.

Penniless, voiceless, and alone, Shiori searches for her brothers, and, on her journey, uncovers a conspiracy to overtake the throne—a conspiracy more twisted and deceitful, more cunning and complex, than even Raikama's betrayal. Only Shiori can set the kingdom to rights, but to do so she must place her trust in the very boy she fought so hard not to marry. And she must embrace the magic she's been taught all her life to contain—no matter what it costs her."

My Review:  I just finished Lim's Blood of Stars duology earlier this year and was so excited to see another book coming out. I immediately fell in love with Shiori, she is an amazing main character that you can really get behind and want to root for her to succeed every step of the way; she had such great growth throughout the story and really came into her own. I also loved the family bond in this story, I always love a good sibling story that can show those intense bonds between them. The world building was smooth and though we only get bits and pieces throughout the story, I didn't ever feel like I was really lost or missing anything, just wanting to know more. The romance element was a nice addition, it developed naturally and didn't take over the main themes in the story just melded in and wasn't forced. I thoroughly enjoyed this whole journey and can't wait for the next book!

My Rating: I definitely recommend this book, especially the audio book, it was beautifully written and beautifully narrated.  I give it a rating of Four Paws and a Stump Wag!

I received a complimentary copy of this book via Netgalley, the above is my honest review and opinion.

You can find out more about Elizabeth Lim on her Goodreads page or Website.

Six Crimson Cranes was just released on July 6th so you can obtain your own copy in print or digital format from all your favorite booksellers, or request it at your local bookstore or library.