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Hunters of the Lost City
Packed with shocking twists, frightening monsters, and dark magic, this is a page-turning fantasy adventure for middle-grade fans of Holly Black and Tamora Pierce.
Twelve-year-old Octavia grew up believing the town of Vittoria was the only one left in the world. The sole survivors of a deadly magical war and plague, the people of Vittoria know there’s no one alive outside the town walls—except the terrible monsters that prowl the forest.
But then the impossible happens: Octavia meets another girl beyond the walls, someone who isn’t Vittorian. Everything she’s ever believed is thrown into question, and there’s no going back.
In her quest for the truth, Octavia discovers a world full of lies, monsters, and magic. She’ll have to use every scrap of her skill, wits, and courage to uncover what’s real about Vittoria and the rest of the world.
Twelve-year-old Octavia grew up believing the town of Vittoria was the only one left in the world. The sole survivors of a deadly magical war and plague, the people of Vittoria know there’s no one alive outside the town walls—except the terrible monsters that prowl the forest.
But then the impossible happens: Octavia meets another girl beyond the walls, someone who isn’t Vittorian. Everything she’s ever believed is thrown into question, and there’s no going back.
In her quest for the truth, Octavia discovers a world full of lies, monsters, and magic. She’ll have to use every scrap of her skill, wits, and courage to uncover what’s real about Vittoria and the rest of the world.
304 pages, Hardcover
First published April 26, 2022
About the author
Kali Wallace
30 books590 followersKali Wallace studied geology and geophysics before she decided she enjoyed inventing imaginary worlds as much as she liked researching the real one. Her short fiction has appeared in Clarkesworld, F&SF, Asimov's, Lightspeed Magazine, and Tor.com. She is the author of the dark, fantastical teen novels Shallow Graves (2016) and The Memory Trees (2017), as well as the middle grade fantasy adventure City of Islands (2018). Her first novel for adults, the sci fi horror SALVATION DAY, is forthcoming from Berkley. She lives in southern California.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
January 12, 2022
Hunters of the Lost City was a book that I was really looking forward to and I was shocked when I got an arc of it at Emerald City Comic Con up in Seattle. My mom is a chronic over sharer and somehow sharing her story about being a teacher to a publisher convinced them to give an arc to her? I don’t understand why but I am so grateful to have been able to read and review this one.
The world building in this novel was my favorite part. It was a well thought out, captivating world that was filled with a unique history to the land and an interesting magic system. The magic system made for a really fun final battle.
Unfortunately that was my only major praise for this novel as I didn’t really enjoy much else about it. The pacing was my biggest issue. It was extremely slow. There was lots of descriptions and flowery sentences used that slowed the pace. I was nearly falling asleep at some parts because it moved along at a snail’s pace. This story could’ve drastically improved if the pace was faster.
The characters were also a big issue for me. I didn’t like any of them and I couldn’t get myself to care about the characters enough to feel super interested in the story. The characters were all dull and slightly annoying.
The writing style was another problem for me. It wasn’t a particularly interesting writing style and a lot of the writing felt too dense, especially for a middle grade novel. Speaking of it being middle grade, the violence seemed a bit too intense at parts for a middle grade story.
This book unfortunately just wasn’t for me. I didn’t care for it much and I was constantly hoping it would just be done soon. There will for sure be people that will like this book, but if you don’t like slow paced books, you should skip this one.
The world building in this novel was my favorite part. It was a well thought out, captivating world that was filled with a unique history to the land and an interesting magic system. The magic system made for a really fun final battle.
Unfortunately that was my only major praise for this novel as I didn’t really enjoy much else about it. The pacing was my biggest issue. It was extremely slow. There was lots of descriptions and flowery sentences used that slowed the pace. I was nearly falling asleep at some parts because it moved along at a snail’s pace. This story could’ve drastically improved if the pace was faster.
The characters were also a big issue for me. I didn’t like any of them and I couldn’t get myself to care about the characters enough to feel super interested in the story. The characters were all dull and slightly annoying.
The writing style was another problem for me. It wasn’t a particularly interesting writing style and a lot of the writing felt too dense, especially for a middle grade novel. Speaking of it being middle grade, the violence seemed a bit too intense at parts for a middle grade story.
This book unfortunately just wasn’t for me. I didn’t care for it much and I was constantly hoping it would just be done soon. There will for sure be people that will like this book, but if you don’t like slow paced books, you should skip this one.
April 26, 2022
This was a dark & adventurous magical fantasy! Absolutely LOVED IT! Octavia grew up believing the town of Vittoria was the only one left in the world. The sole survivors of a deadly magical war & plague, the people of Vittoria know there’s no one alive outside the town walls—except the terrible monsters that prowl the forest. But then the impossible happens: Octavia meets another girl beyond the walls, someone who isn’t Vittorian. Everything she’s ever believed is thrown into question, & there’s no going back. In her quest for the truth, Octavia discovers a world full of lies, monsters, & magic. She’ll have to use every scrap of her skill, wits, & courage to uncover what’s real about Vittoria & the rest of the world. The whole backstory of Vittoria, & this world period were so fascinating to me. This had great world building, with vivid descriptive writing. This is a fast-paced, thrilling, fantasy adventure. So many things in here are so imaginative & gripping such as the backstory like I mentioned, the Feroxes, sorcerers, healers, hunters, the council, the past war, Vittoria, & more. Great messages on what greed or the hunger for power can do, & the price people pay trying to get that power. Being taught your whole life 1 way, & then finding out almost everything you’ve been told your whole life is a lie..& what you choose to do with that. Knowledge is power in itself. Using knowledge to do what is right should always be the lesson. Octavia is a great MC. Strong female MC..so brave, determined, loyal, & determined to do what is right & make the truth known. I loved the friendship that grows between her & Sima. I loved their dynamic. I also adored Master Flavia & Rufus. All the twists & turns kept me on the edge of my seat! Definitely a little bit darker upper MG. Absolutely loved this! This is full of magic, friendship, monsters, adventure, danger, suspense, & also amazing story/world building. Highly recommend! BEAUTIFUL cover by Matt Saunders too!💜
April 13, 2022
Rating: 3.75
Author: Kali Wallace
Publication: 4/26/22
This was such a fantastic middle grade fantasy. Warning, this book is slow paced and is filled with lots of description. However, since it is middle grade it was such a quick read that the slow pace didn’t bother me. It is important to think about the target audience of this book. For middle schoolers it is important to have lots of descriptions in stories to help kids picture and imagine what is happening especially in a fantasy book. The author created their own new and unique world and they did such a great job with world building. I truly felt like I was part of it and knew everything about it. Also, the magic was so well thought out. It’s definitely a world I would have loved thinking about when I was younger.
I absolutely loved that this book showcases a young strong female character. That is definitely another thing I would have loved to read about when I was younger. Octavia shows strength, determination, and really valued her family relationships. All of the characters were developed well and some you will love and others you will hate.
Overall, I would really recommend this book to younger readers. I think they would really enjoy this story and they can even learn a thing or two from it.
Thank you again so much @quirkbooks for the #gifted copy, #partner
Author: Kali Wallace
Publication: 4/26/22
This was such a fantastic middle grade fantasy. Warning, this book is slow paced and is filled with lots of description. However, since it is middle grade it was such a quick read that the slow pace didn’t bother me. It is important to think about the target audience of this book. For middle schoolers it is important to have lots of descriptions in stories to help kids picture and imagine what is happening especially in a fantasy book. The author created their own new and unique world and they did such a great job with world building. I truly felt like I was part of it and knew everything about it. Also, the magic was so well thought out. It’s definitely a world I would have loved thinking about when I was younger.
I absolutely loved that this book showcases a young strong female character. That is definitely another thing I would have loved to read about when I was younger. Octavia shows strength, determination, and really valued her family relationships. All of the characters were developed well and some you will love and others you will hate.
Overall, I would really recommend this book to younger readers. I think they would really enjoy this story and they can even learn a thing or two from it.
Thank you again so much @quirkbooks for the #gifted copy, #partner
June 29, 2022
Wow, this book had me hooked from pages one.
Imagine not been able to venture into distant lands or go out at night because there were monsters lurking in the shadows. This is the premise for Hunters of the lost city, the story takes place in the town of Vittoria. Protected by a giant wall and gate, the villagers will stop at nothing to keep their people safe from the dreadful monsters that lurk just outside their walls.
The people of Vittoria believe they are the only survivors of the deadly magical plague that ravaged the world. Until one day our intrepid main character Octavia, meets another girl outside the city. After that life changing event, Octavia will set on a dangerous and secret mission to discover the truth of what really happened to the world. This book had some phenomenal spooky moments and I found myself reading faster with every chapter to know what really happened and to know the origins of these monsters that endangered so many people. Another thing I truly enjoyed was the magic system and the bravery that Octavia showed as she navigated the outside world.
Imagine not been able to venture into distant lands or go out at night because there were monsters lurking in the shadows. This is the premise for Hunters of the lost city, the story takes place in the town of Vittoria. Protected by a giant wall and gate, the villagers will stop at nothing to keep their people safe from the dreadful monsters that lurk just outside their walls.
The people of Vittoria believe they are the only survivors of the deadly magical plague that ravaged the world. Until one day our intrepid main character Octavia, meets another girl outside the city. After that life changing event, Octavia will set on a dangerous and secret mission to discover the truth of what really happened to the world. This book had some phenomenal spooky moments and I found myself reading faster with every chapter to know what really happened and to know the origins of these monsters that endangered so many people. Another thing I truly enjoyed was the magic system and the bravery that Octavia showed as she navigated the outside world.
March 31, 2024
I enjoyed the overall story, but it was a bit too slow paced for me.
(The decriptive words slowed it down a lot. There is setting the scene... and then there are run-on sentences using every describing word you can find. It just didn't always flow smoothly.)
(The decriptive words slowed it down a lot. There is setting the scene... and then there are run-on sentences using every describing word you can find. It just didn't always flow smoothly.)
December 20, 2021
Nearly a month since I finished this and I FINALLY can sit down and actually write a review for this book. This is not because of the book itself, but because I have been so snowed under at work that I could barely read, never mind write a review. But now, I am on my Christmas break!
First of all, thank you to Kali Wallace and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Octavia has grown up in Vittoria, the last populated city after the rest of the kingdom was decimated in a horrific magical war. Outside the city walls, ferox roam and will attack anyone outside the city gates after dark. Octavia longs to be a hunter of ferox, but is being forced into another path after the death of her sister and the injury of her mother at the hands of a ferox. That doesn't stop Octavia roaming outside the walls though and is then that she encounters a girl who claims she is from another city. Who is telling the truth in this world?
I really enjoyed reading this novel and I know that a lot of my KS3 students would enjoy this too. It reminds me of a YA version of The Village and I think it is executed really well. All the characters are believable and you become really invested in the story. I highly recommend it.
First of all, thank you to Kali Wallace and Netgalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Octavia has grown up in Vittoria, the last populated city after the rest of the kingdom was decimated in a horrific magical war. Outside the city walls, ferox roam and will attack anyone outside the city gates after dark. Octavia longs to be a hunter of ferox, but is being forced into another path after the death of her sister and the injury of her mother at the hands of a ferox. That doesn't stop Octavia roaming outside the walls though and is then that she encounters a girl who claims she is from another city. Who is telling the truth in this world?
I really enjoyed reading this novel and I know that a lot of my KS3 students would enjoy this too. It reminds me of a YA version of The Village and I think it is executed really well. All the characters are believable and you become really invested in the story. I highly recommend it.
August 22, 2021
Kali Wallace has written a truly gripping, nail biting read which grabs you from the first page.
From the start, the unfolding narrative captures your imagination. From the terrifying, magical Feroxes to the heartbreaking apathy of the villagers of Vittoria; this is a tale that will remain with you when it's over.
Packed with shocking twists, frightening monsters, and dark magic, this is a page-turning fantasy adventure about twelve-year-old Octavia who grew up believing the town of Vittoria was the only one left in the world. The sole survivors of a deadly magical war and plague, the people of Vittoria know there’s no one alive outside the town walls—except the terrible monsters that prowl the forest.
But then the impossible happens: Octavia meets another girl beyond the walls, someone who claims to have traveled from far away. Everything she’s ever believed is thrown into question, and there’s no going back.
In her quest for the truth, Octavia discovers a world full of lies, monsters, and magic. She’ll have to use every scrap of her wits and courage to uncover what’s real about her family, her home, and the rest of the world.
From the start, the unfolding narrative captures your imagination. From the terrifying, magical Feroxes to the heartbreaking apathy of the villagers of Vittoria; this is a tale that will remain with you when it's over.
Packed with shocking twists, frightening monsters, and dark magic, this is a page-turning fantasy adventure about twelve-year-old Octavia who grew up believing the town of Vittoria was the only one left in the world. The sole survivors of a deadly magical war and plague, the people of Vittoria know there’s no one alive outside the town walls—except the terrible monsters that prowl the forest.
But then the impossible happens: Octavia meets another girl beyond the walls, someone who claims to have traveled from far away. Everything she’s ever believed is thrown into question, and there’s no going back.
In her quest for the truth, Octavia discovers a world full of lies, monsters, and magic. She’ll have to use every scrap of her wits and courage to uncover what’s real about her family, her home, and the rest of the world.
May 3, 2022
Octavia has lived all her life within the walls of her city, the last refuge for humanity in a world that has been destroyed by war and plague. The only living things outside the walls were monsters. There was no human life left anywhere except in Octavia's city.... or so she believed. Octavia meets a mysterious girl who claims to be from another city. Together they could destroy everything the town believes and bring healing to a society drowning in lies.
I loved this book so much! The adventure, the magic, the world building, the character growth; this book has it all! I got emotionally attached to the characters very quickly, and it was so wonderful to see how Octavia grows and heals and changes as the story progresses. There are so many big revelations and plot twists as Octavia learns just how deep the lies really go. Every time she discovers something new in her world, the reader discovers it along with her.
I loved the writing style. It pulled me into the story and captured my heart. The pacing is wonderful and really keeps you reading through the night.
There are a couple of sad and dark scenes in the plot. There are few people who die or are murdered, and there is talk of blood, but it's not too graphic or scary. It's just right for a middle grade book, and it is not disturbing or upsetting. I liked that those things give weight and gravitas to the story, raising the stakes for our heroes so their actions really having meaning.
I also liked that there is a map of the city at the beginning so you can really visualize everything that is happening. I only wish there was a map of the lands outside the walls, but I guess a map like that would give away too many spoilers as Octavia begins to explore outside her city.
This is such an exciting book! Now I want to read more books from this author!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
I loved this book so much! The adventure, the magic, the world building, the character growth; this book has it all! I got emotionally attached to the characters very quickly, and it was so wonderful to see how Octavia grows and heals and changes as the story progresses. There are so many big revelations and plot twists as Octavia learns just how deep the lies really go. Every time she discovers something new in her world, the reader discovers it along with her.
I loved the writing style. It pulled me into the story and captured my heart. The pacing is wonderful and really keeps you reading through the night.
There are a couple of sad and dark scenes in the plot. There are few people who die or are murdered, and there is talk of blood, but it's not too graphic or scary. It's just right for a middle grade book, and it is not disturbing or upsetting. I liked that those things give weight and gravitas to the story, raising the stakes for our heroes so their actions really having meaning.
I also liked that there is a map of the city at the beginning so you can really visualize everything that is happening. I only wish there was a map of the lands outside the walls, but I guess a map like that would give away too many spoilers as Octavia begins to explore outside her city.
This is such an exciting book! Now I want to read more books from this author!
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for a free and honest review. All the opinions stated here are my own true thoughts, and are not influenced by anyone.
May 8, 2022
This was such a great middle grade fantasy book! The author crafted such a detailed world and the story itself was full of adventure and magic.
The book starts off very exciting and then the pacing slows down considerably around the 25% point and picks up again in the middle. Once Octavia and Sima leave Vittoria, the real action and intrigue begins! I felt the author did such a good job with the world-building. The Ferox sound truly horrifying, especially the fact that they mimic bird cals and even children to trick their victims. I love a good post-war setting in fantasy and Vittoria and the surrounded towns had that gritty, dystopian feel where the influence of the war is still felt by many. The author really created this tense, gloomy atmosphere in Vittoria.
When it comes to the characters, the side characters aren’t as fleshed out. Sima is really cool but I wanted a bit more personality. Side note: Sima and Octavia are so cute. There are very small flutterings of a crush on both sides, I think. Anyways, other than Rufus who we mainly see at the beginning of the book, I didn’t feel a connection to the side characters. Fortunately, I loved our main character Octavia. She’s smart, bold, and honorable. And was just the perfect hero for this story.
Overall, this was a fantastic middle grade fantasy!
The book starts off very exciting and then the pacing slows down considerably around the 25% point and picks up again in the middle. Once Octavia and Sima leave Vittoria, the real action and intrigue begins! I felt the author did such a good job with the world-building. The Ferox sound truly horrifying, especially the fact that they mimic bird cals and even children to trick their victims. I love a good post-war setting in fantasy and Vittoria and the surrounded towns had that gritty, dystopian feel where the influence of the war is still felt by many. The author really created this tense, gloomy atmosphere in Vittoria.
When it comes to the characters, the side characters aren’t as fleshed out. Sima is really cool but I wanted a bit more personality. Side note: Sima and Octavia are so cute. There are very small flutterings of a crush on both sides, I think. Anyways, other than Rufus who we mainly see at the beginning of the book, I didn’t feel a connection to the side characters. Fortunately, I loved our main character Octavia. She’s smart, bold, and honorable. And was just the perfect hero for this story.
Overall, this was a fantastic middle grade fantasy!
April 7, 2022
I received an advance copy of this book via NetGalley.
This way-after-apocalypse fantasy for middle grade readers delves into deep, gritty subject matter in a fun, thoughtful way. Octavia is a girl who yearns to be a hunter of monsters like her dead sister. She lives in the last city to survive a war of devastating magic fifty years before—or so she has been told. When a hunting trip goes awry, she’s saved by a strange girl from a city that shouldn’t exist. Her concept of the world shatters, and she sets out to help her new friend—and find the truth.
Octavia is such a tenacious, relatable character. She does what’s right even when it’s difficult. The book addresses topics like war, death, loss, and the ways that adults can lie and manipulate, and it’s all done with nuance and care. I was truly impressed by how the book developed.
This way-after-apocalypse fantasy for middle grade readers delves into deep, gritty subject matter in a fun, thoughtful way. Octavia is a girl who yearns to be a hunter of monsters like her dead sister. She lives in the last city to survive a war of devastating magic fifty years before—or so she has been told. When a hunting trip goes awry, she’s saved by a strange girl from a city that shouldn’t exist. Her concept of the world shatters, and she sets out to help her new friend—and find the truth.
Octavia is such a tenacious, relatable character. She does what’s right even when it’s difficult. The book addresses topics like war, death, loss, and the ways that adults can lie and manipulate, and it’s all done with nuance and care. I was truly impressed by how the book developed.
July 6, 2022
Hunters of the Lost City is a fun middle grade book that follows Octavia as she steps up to try and save those around her.
I had a good time reading this one overall! I thought Octavia was a great main character to follow, and there was quite a bit of intense action sprinkled throughout. However, there were moments when I felt the plot dragging, and I began to get a little bit bored. Some of the plot connections were also confusing, but I think I understood everything in the end. Middle grade is a favorite of mine, and I love finding new books to read in that category. Hunters of the Lost City very much focused on family and relationships, and I appreciated seeing that.
CW for loss of loved ones, deaths, violence, blood, sorcery, disappearances.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Quirk Books for the ARC of Hunters of the Lost City
by Kali Wallace!
I had a good time reading this one overall! I thought Octavia was a great main character to follow, and there was quite a bit of intense action sprinkled throughout. However, there were moments when I felt the plot dragging, and I began to get a little bit bored. Some of the plot connections were also confusing, but I think I understood everything in the end. Middle grade is a favorite of mine, and I love finding new books to read in that category. Hunters of the Lost City very much focused on family and relationships, and I appreciated seeing that.
CW for loss of loved ones, deaths, violence, blood, sorcery, disappearances.
Thanks so much to NetGalley and Quirk Books for the ARC of Hunters of the Lost City
by Kali Wallace!
August 2, 2022
Absolutely stellar mid-grade adventure with female lead.
October 20, 2022
I have some timing questions that weren’t fully answered, but overall this is an action-packed read about the stories we tell about the past and the power we give them to lie to us.
November 9, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley for the ARC! This was a nice, fresh middle grade book about a strong female character. Octavia ventures beyond the walls of the only place she has ever known, opens her eyes to more than what she knew the world held, and comes to do fabulous things. I enjoyed the story and characters and the twists in it. It was left open for future books, but the ending wasn’t unsatisfying (not as much wrap up as some may want). I also got a vibe of the friend being a possible love interest. It’s nothing that would turn anyone away from this book, but I found it refreshing (it might have been just me and not the intent). Overall, a book I would recommend to any young readers looking for adventure and a bit of fantasy with strong female characters.
May 1, 2022
Setting 🏹
First of all, can we just appreciate this cover? Out of the middle grade books I've read this year, this cover is my favorite. The colors, the layout, the mystery...I absolutely judged this book by its cover and wanted to pick it up immediately. Speaking of favorites, the setting is one of my favorite parts of this book. It begins in a quaint town that reminds me of what a stereotypical Swiss village must be like, although I've never been to Switzerland. The main character works for her family's bakery, and although you don't quite know at first, it becomes apparent that the story takes place either in the past, where there's no technology like guns or electricity, or in a future where those things have been eradicated. Until the monsters showed up (which, admittedly, was pretty soon) the whole setup reminded me of Kiki's Delivery Service.
Once things get tense and the protagonist, Octavia, has to leave the town, the atmosphere changes from relaxing and whimsical to dark and lush. Wallace describes the monster-filled forest with such detail that I was legitimately unsettled while reading the book in broad daylight. Having lived in Vermont for a time, I also enjoyed the descriptions of the first snow of winter, and the gorgeous morning after a snowfall when the sunlight makes the tree branches glow and everything is quiet.
Hopefully without giving anything away, I also wanted to highlight that several different locations come into the story, and they are all unique and fully, richly imagined.
🏹 Worlduilding 🏹
Similarly to setting, worldbuilding is a strength of this book. Early on, the reader is introduced to the rules of Octavia's town, Vittoria. A brutal illustration of why the townspeople aren't allowed to be outside the gates after dark is thrown in our faces when the townspeople find the dead body of a shepherd who stayed out too late. I wondered if this was too dark for middle grade, but quickly realized I don't care, as it fit the story perfectly.
I don't typically enjoy high fantasy as much as other subgenres of fantasy, but Hunters of the Lost City explained the world and magic system without going into pages of backstory. It moved at a good pace while making sure the reader understood what was going on and why certain moments were significant. I loved the chill going down my spine when I read a scene in which Octavia comes face to face with a monster by herself for the first time. These monsters are created out of small animal bones and flesh, as well as wood and metal waste. They sound absolutely horrifying, and only get worse when you remember that they speak with human voices. Shudder. Wallace explained their contents, and how an old war led to their creation, without boring me at all.
🏹 Character 🏹
When I think back to Just Be Cool, Jenna Sakai or The Best Liars in Riverview, I reflect that character was one of my favorite things about each of those books. The emotional arcs in each are momentous, and heartbreaking, and beautiful. I did not get the sense that the emotional arc of Hunters of the Lost City was the main event, but Octavia certainly didn't bother me. Sure, she had an emotional wound (the death of her sister), but the flashy plot and fantasy elements sort of overshadowed Octavia. At the end, I felt like her character could have been different in any number of ways and the book would have had the same effect.
Seeing Octavia juxtaposed with Sima, a mysterious girl Octavia meets in the forest, was enjoyable throughout the book. The arc of Octavia and Sima's friendship (which was maybe more than just a platonic friendship?) was my favorite character arc in the story. At first both girls are suspicious of and snippy with each other, and then they develop such a close, mutually beneficial friendship. This felt like the closest bond in the story, and raised the stakes when Sima's life was in danger.
🏹 Plot 🏹
The plot twists more in this story than the winding path twists through the forest outside the city. I simply gasped at certain points and lowered the book so I could fully appreciate what just happened. I don't want to give away too much here, because the plot twists will hopefully throw anyone for a loop, but there are at least three major reveals that left me breathless. I would suggest reading and finding out for yourself!
As always, this is just one English teacher's opinion!
First of all, can we just appreciate this cover? Out of the middle grade books I've read this year, this cover is my favorite. The colors, the layout, the mystery...I absolutely judged this book by its cover and wanted to pick it up immediately. Speaking of favorites, the setting is one of my favorite parts of this book. It begins in a quaint town that reminds me of what a stereotypical Swiss village must be like, although I've never been to Switzerland. The main character works for her family's bakery, and although you don't quite know at first, it becomes apparent that the story takes place either in the past, where there's no technology like guns or electricity, or in a future where those things have been eradicated. Until the monsters showed up (which, admittedly, was pretty soon) the whole setup reminded me of Kiki's Delivery Service.
Once things get tense and the protagonist, Octavia, has to leave the town, the atmosphere changes from relaxing and whimsical to dark and lush. Wallace describes the monster-filled forest with such detail that I was legitimately unsettled while reading the book in broad daylight. Having lived in Vermont for a time, I also enjoyed the descriptions of the first snow of winter, and the gorgeous morning after a snowfall when the sunlight makes the tree branches glow and everything is quiet.
Hopefully without giving anything away, I also wanted to highlight that several different locations come into the story, and they are all unique and fully, richly imagined.
🏹 Worlduilding 🏹
Similarly to setting, worldbuilding is a strength of this book. Early on, the reader is introduced to the rules of Octavia's town, Vittoria. A brutal illustration of why the townspeople aren't allowed to be outside the gates after dark is thrown in our faces when the townspeople find the dead body of a shepherd who stayed out too late. I wondered if this was too dark for middle grade, but quickly realized I don't care, as it fit the story perfectly.
I don't typically enjoy high fantasy as much as other subgenres of fantasy, but Hunters of the Lost City explained the world and magic system without going into pages of backstory. It moved at a good pace while making sure the reader understood what was going on and why certain moments were significant. I loved the chill going down my spine when I read a scene in which Octavia comes face to face with a monster by herself for the first time. These monsters are created out of small animal bones and flesh, as well as wood and metal waste. They sound absolutely horrifying, and only get worse when you remember that they speak with human voices. Shudder. Wallace explained their contents, and how an old war led to their creation, without boring me at all.
🏹 Character 🏹
When I think back to Just Be Cool, Jenna Sakai or The Best Liars in Riverview, I reflect that character was one of my favorite things about each of those books. The emotional arcs in each are momentous, and heartbreaking, and beautiful. I did not get the sense that the emotional arc of Hunters of the Lost City was the main event, but Octavia certainly didn't bother me. Sure, she had an emotional wound (the death of her sister), but the flashy plot and fantasy elements sort of overshadowed Octavia. At the end, I felt like her character could have been different in any number of ways and the book would have had the same effect.
Seeing Octavia juxtaposed with Sima, a mysterious girl Octavia meets in the forest, was enjoyable throughout the book. The arc of Octavia and Sima's friendship (which was maybe more than just a platonic friendship?) was my favorite character arc in the story. At first both girls are suspicious of and snippy with each other, and then they develop such a close, mutually beneficial friendship. This felt like the closest bond in the story, and raised the stakes when Sima's life was in danger.
🏹 Plot 🏹
The plot twists more in this story than the winding path twists through the forest outside the city. I simply gasped at certain points and lowered the book so I could fully appreciate what just happened. I don't want to give away too much here, because the plot twists will hopefully throw anyone for a loop, but there are at least three major reveals that left me breathless. I would suggest reading and finding out for yourself!
As always, this is just one English teacher's opinion!
April 18, 2022
Monsters, magic and rich world building create a fantastical setting with more than a surprise or two.
From the very first page, the world building draws in with an intricate weaving, which is well-laid out and offers few holes or stumbling blocks. It is an original magical system, which creates a lovely background for all of the twists and turns along the way. The heroine, Octavia, is one to root for as she does her best to discover the truth of her world, and she faces more than a few, small dangers. She's determined, makes mistakes, and has a good moral compass.
There is quite a bit of imagination involved, although there are just as many familiar aspects in the fantastical end of things. It makes it an easy read to sink into and a fun world to discover right along with the heroine. To say that this is action-packed and quick-paced, though, isn't quite correct. The entire thing slowly begins, letting the world-building deepen, but I found myself skipping over more than a few paragraphs along the way. The middle didn't step-up on this end, either, although the ending does hold tension and grabs more than the rest of the tale.
It's an easy read with a fun fantasy world and interesting characters. Fantasy fans, who appreciate a well-rounded world, and don't mind the slower pacing, will enjoy it. I received an ARC through Netgalley and am giving this one a 3.5 while rounding up.
From the very first page, the world building draws in with an intricate weaving, which is well-laid out and offers few holes or stumbling blocks. It is an original magical system, which creates a lovely background for all of the twists and turns along the way. The heroine, Octavia, is one to root for as she does her best to discover the truth of her world, and she faces more than a few, small dangers. She's determined, makes mistakes, and has a good moral compass.
There is quite a bit of imagination involved, although there are just as many familiar aspects in the fantastical end of things. It makes it an easy read to sink into and a fun world to discover right along with the heroine. To say that this is action-packed and quick-paced, though, isn't quite correct. The entire thing slowly begins, letting the world-building deepen, but I found myself skipping over more than a few paragraphs along the way. The middle didn't step-up on this end, either, although the ending does hold tension and grabs more than the rest of the tale.
It's an easy read with a fun fantasy world and interesting characters. Fantasy fans, who appreciate a well-rounded world, and don't mind the slower pacing, will enjoy it. I received an ARC through Netgalley and am giving this one a 3.5 while rounding up.
November 8, 2022
4.5 stars.
Incredibly clever and fun middle grade fantasy adventure. The world-building was interesting and I loved the atmosphere that was created here. I'm actually surprised I haven't heard more about this book and definitely recommend that others check it out. It's a very entertaining read.
The plot is unique and adventurous with a good female protagonist. There is a lot of the world that still could have used some exploration, but I think there are some good foundations in place and the general principles of the story were well-developed. The character interactions are fun and, for the most part, realistic.
The writing gets more relaxed and mature as the story evolves, making this a story that took a little bit to get into but one that really hooked me once I got going. I wound up staying up late in order to finish. The ending was very solid and I think some of the more difficult & mature situations were handled quite well for middle grade readers. There are some great lessons about personal strength and believing in yourself. I also appreciated that there is a strong focus on the importance of verifying information and not just believing everything that you are told. The journey is one that developed a strong character and sets a good example for young readers.
Incredibly clever and fun middle grade fantasy adventure. The world-building was interesting and I loved the atmosphere that was created here. I'm actually surprised I haven't heard more about this book and definitely recommend that others check it out. It's a very entertaining read.
The plot is unique and adventurous with a good female protagonist. There is a lot of the world that still could have used some exploration, but I think there are some good foundations in place and the general principles of the story were well-developed. The character interactions are fun and, for the most part, realistic.
The writing gets more relaxed and mature as the story evolves, making this a story that took a little bit to get into but one that really hooked me once I got going. I wound up staying up late in order to finish. The ending was very solid and I think some of the more difficult & mature situations were handled quite well for middle grade readers. There are some great lessons about personal strength and believing in yourself. I also appreciated that there is a strong focus on the importance of verifying information and not just believing everything that you are told. The journey is one that developed a strong character and sets a good example for young readers.
April 11, 2022
Hunters of the Lost City was a fun book with a great premise. The overall plot was really fun, I loved the idea of the only city left after a war finding out that maybe that isn't the truth. The journey that Octavia takes really had my attention for the most part. I was happy to see her leave her town despite the fact that it isn't allowed because of the monsters. It was a little bit predictable but I still enjoyed my time with this book.
The characters were ok, I didn't really connect with any of them immediately, but they were all still great in their roles and necessary for the story. I really appreciated Octavia's desire to get to the bottom of things I will not spoil. The adults though just seemed totally blinded by -everything- that kind of seemed obvious to me while I was reading. This though may have been the desired affect since it was a middle grade book.
The writing style had me able to either fly through parts, or almost dread the pages full of dense description. There were pages where there were no dialogue and the paragraphs were so long, it just felt like it would take me forever to get through them. I was really able to get into the story for most of it though.
I was actually hoping this was going to be a series, but right now it only looks like a standalone. I would love to read more about these characters!
The characters were ok, I didn't really connect with any of them immediately, but they were all still great in their roles and necessary for the story. I really appreciated Octavia's desire to get to the bottom of things I will not spoil. The adults though just seemed totally blinded by -everything- that kind of seemed obvious to me while I was reading. This though may have been the desired affect since it was a middle grade book.
The writing style had me able to either fly through parts, or almost dread the pages full of dense description. There were pages where there were no dialogue and the paragraphs were so long, it just felt like it would take me forever to get through them. I was really able to get into the story for most of it though.
I was actually hoping this was going to be a series, but right now it only looks like a standalone. I would love to read more about these characters!
May 16, 2022
From start to finish this was an absolute page turner!
Octavia was such a headstrong and determined main character that you couldn’t help but to admire throughout the story as she unravelled secrets and lies while seeking to find out the truth regarding Vittoria and its isolation.
I loved watching Octavia and Sima’s friendship develop throughout this story, especially in the face of distrust and fear coming from all angles. The writing itself really pushed this uneasy atmosphere, and I found myself questioning everyone’s motives, which is exactly what I wanted it to do.
At times it was a little confusing to follow, but all in all this was a really great adventure filled with twists and turns throughout.
(Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for proving me with an e-arc of this book in return for an honest review).
Octavia was such a headstrong and determined main character that you couldn’t help but to admire throughout the story as she unravelled secrets and lies while seeking to find out the truth regarding Vittoria and its isolation.
I loved watching Octavia and Sima’s friendship develop throughout this story, especially in the face of distrust and fear coming from all angles. The writing itself really pushed this uneasy atmosphere, and I found myself questioning everyone’s motives, which is exactly what I wanted it to do.
At times it was a little confusing to follow, but all in all this was a really great adventure filled with twists and turns throughout.
(Thank you so much to NetGalley and the publisher for proving me with an e-arc of this book in return for an honest review).
April 18, 2023
Overall Rating - ⭐ ⭐ ⭐ (3/5) or 6.8/10 total
Characters - 6
Interesting enough, but could have had more background and stuff
Atmosphere - 8
I could tell how the world was put together and why it was this way with little effort. It was set up in a way that you knew where everything was in relation to everything else.
Writing - 7
Pretty good writing, a little too much description for my liking at points tho.
Plot - 7
Fairly interesting but some points were too obvious with where the story was leading.
Intrigue - 7
I wanted to know how it was going to end the whole time, so intriguing enough.
Logic - 7
Fairly logical but some blips here or there.
Enjoyment - 6
It was alright but I more wanted to just get to the end rather than be stuck in the story and get every detail.
Characters - 6
Interesting enough, but could have had more background and stuff
Atmosphere - 8
I could tell how the world was put together and why it was this way with little effort. It was set up in a way that you knew where everything was in relation to everything else.
Writing - 7
Pretty good writing, a little too much description for my liking at points tho.
Plot - 7
Fairly interesting but some points were too obvious with where the story was leading.
Intrigue - 7
I wanted to know how it was going to end the whole time, so intriguing enough.
Logic - 7
Fairly logical but some blips here or there.
Enjoyment - 6
It was alright but I more wanted to just get to the end rather than be stuck in the story and get every detail.
June 27, 2022
I'll admit I was captivated. I hope it remains a stand alone!
August 28, 2024
It was a pretty good book, and I love the multiple plot twists
January 1, 2022
Thanks to Quirk books for an ARC. I received a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
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Hunters of the Lost City follows in the footsteps of many great Middle Grade fantasy books out there: The Giver, Percy Jackson , Nevermoor. It’s a coming of age story where growing up comes in waves. The growing up that everyone has to do. Then there’s the growing up that comes from when you learn that adults lie and have lied to you about the world. Then there’s the growing up that comes from embarking on a new uncharted adventure on your own.
Have we heard this story before? Of course but that doesn’t make it any less interesting. Hunters of the Lost City keeps the tropes that we know and love and Wallace uses her magic touch on the story.
It’s an interesting take to have fantasy book set in a world where magic is used but is largely this other or bad thing.
I love when fantasy books can explore heavy subjects without being too preachy. I’ll try to avoid being too spoilery. Octavia sees the fear and maybe hatred her neighbors have for people not exactly like them. Kids don’t have that hatred without it coming from somewhere. I feel like her journey could lead to some great discussions with younger (and older!) readers.
All in all a great fantasy read. Highly recommend for those who can’t get enough Middle Grade fantasy.
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Hunters of the Lost City follows in the footsteps of many great Middle Grade fantasy books out there: The Giver, Percy Jackson , Nevermoor. It’s a coming of age story where growing up comes in waves. The growing up that everyone has to do. Then there’s the growing up that comes from when you learn that adults lie and have lied to you about the world. Then there’s the growing up that comes from embarking on a new uncharted adventure on your own.
Have we heard this story before? Of course but that doesn’t make it any less interesting. Hunters of the Lost City keeps the tropes that we know and love and Wallace uses her magic touch on the story.
It’s an interesting take to have fantasy book set in a world where magic is used but is largely this other or bad thing.
I love when fantasy books can explore heavy subjects without being too preachy. I’ll try to avoid being too spoilery. Octavia sees the fear and maybe hatred her neighbors have for people not exactly like them. Kids don’t have that hatred without it coming from somewhere. I feel like her journey could lead to some great discussions with younger (and older!) readers.
All in all a great fantasy read. Highly recommend for those who can’t get enough Middle Grade fantasy.
March 20, 2022
I loved some elements of the premise of Hunters of the Lost City, and the first quarter definitely had me completely hooked. However, I thought it slowed down a little too much in the middle, and it lost my attention a little more than I had expected.
October 23, 2021
This was a fast-paced magical adventure! Although there are hundreds of stories about a "last city" after some disaster, the plot didn't seem forced or trite and the characters were well-developed enough to carry the story. I was a little confused about how the magic works in their world (why can't they make magic? how do they make objects with "distilled" magic? is everyone born with the ability to use the magic goo to make magical objects?) and also really interested in the history of the world (how did the sorcerers get to be the ones in power? why? why did people rebel against them?). Overall, definitely something I'd recommend to my middle schoolers and will add to my classroom library. My only complaint is that the copy of the ARC from NetGalley had the TINIEST font and I couldn't enlarge it on my Nook 😑.
November 4, 2021
Vittoria has been shut off from the rest of the world for over 50 years, since the great Sorcerer's Battle, In fact, their citizens have been led to believe there is nothing beyond their walls but monsters - they are the last humans left alive. Hunters venture outside the city to gather resources and fight these sorcerer-created monsters, the Ferox. Octavia wants to be a Hunter, like her now injured mother and her older sister who died facing one of the Ferox, but her mother will not let her as she doesn't want to lose her also.
I thought most of this novel would be about Octavia's journey to becoming a Hunter anyway, but instead this is just a device to get her outside the city walls, where she meets another human! This starts to open her eyes to her world not being as she thought. What else has she been lied to about?
This was a very interesting story, and I am intrigued to know how it may be developed from here. Some elements of this fantasy novel were quite unique. I liked the way the leaders were significantly older than usual, and also that nearly all the main characters were women. I presume these were concious choices to redress the imbalance that often occurs in fanatsy writing. I also liked that the "villains" were multi-faceted and ambiguous for much of the story.
The weakest element for me was the motivation and big confrontation between two of the major characters. Other than their desire for personal power, it was very unclear why this confrontation was happening now, after fifty years, or why no other avenues were explored. Still a highly enjoyable read. 3.5 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.
I thought most of this novel would be about Octavia's journey to becoming a Hunter anyway, but instead this is just a device to get her outside the city walls, where she meets another human! This starts to open her eyes to her world not being as she thought. What else has she been lied to about?
This was a very interesting story, and I am intrigued to know how it may be developed from here. Some elements of this fantasy novel were quite unique. I liked the way the leaders were significantly older than usual, and also that nearly all the main characters were women. I presume these were concious choices to redress the imbalance that often occurs in fanatsy writing. I also liked that the "villains" were multi-faceted and ambiguous for much of the story.
The weakest element for me was the motivation and big confrontation between two of the major characters. Other than their desire for personal power, it was very unclear why this confrontation was happening now, after fifty years, or why no other avenues were explored. Still a highly enjoyable read. 3.5 stars. Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for this eARC.
September 19, 2021
** I read an advance reader copy of this book that I won through a Goodreads giveaway. **
This was a fun, fast-paced middle grade novel with enough action and character development to keep the story flowing well and the reader engaged. I do wish there was a better explanation for the magical system of the world but the story and characters are well done enough that this didn't bother me too much. I definitely wouldn't mind reading more about this world but the book is a solid stand alone and while I would like to know more about what happens to the characters next, there's no real reason for a follow-up. Definitely recommended!
This was a fun, fast-paced middle grade novel with enough action and character development to keep the story flowing well and the reader engaged. I do wish there was a better explanation for the magical system of the world but the story and characters are well done enough that this didn't bother me too much. I definitely wouldn't mind reading more about this world but the book is a solid stand alone and while I would like to know more about what happens to the characters next, there's no real reason for a follow-up. Definitely recommended!
January 28, 2022
RTC
Thank you to Quirk Books for sending me a review copy.
Thank you to Quirk Books for sending me a review copy.
December 4, 2021
A huge thank you to Quirk Books for an early copy of Hunters of the Lost City!
I was excited about this because I've heard really good things about other books by Kali Wallace, and I have another of her books on my TBR. So, I had some pretty high hopes for this book. Also, this book arrived at the perfect time because I'd been reading some intense books before this. Nothing like a wholesome novel to clean your pallet after books that have messed with your sleep schedule.
Due to the fact this book isn't set to be released until April 2022, this will be a spoil-free review.
A hundred percent this is a trope I've read before in Middle-Grade Fantasy novels, and will definitely read again. It's one of those tried and true tropes, and I really liked the spin that Kali Wallace put on it. While I know this trope well, the world and characters that were crafted within this trope kept me turning pages. Also, the fact it's a well-used trope made it easy for me as an adult reader to slip into the story. It's a comfortable read, one where I know what's going to happen and kind of know who was going to be our villain.
I will say that I was so focused on that main villain that I didn't see the smaller villain sort of sneaking up on me until they were introduced. So that was nice, even though looking back I can see the foreshadowing put into their arrival.
Even though the story was easy for me to read and sort out what was going to happen early on in the book. I think younger readers, they'll have to put a little bit of work into it, but Wallace does an amazing job of foreshadowing. As well as giving just information to start forming ideas along the way as the story unfold. I will also say while I figured out who was controlling the Ferox fairly early, I didn't figure out the why. Another piece I should have caught early on because the answer to that question was also foreshadowed.
Wallace's world-building was also really great. As readers, we get a small look at two of the communities set in this world that were vivid and amazing, and we get a thorough look at Vittoria. Which later makes it easy to follow the end of the book as everything happens rather quickly. My only complaint really about this book as a whole needed a map would have made everything a little easier. I love a map in fantasy books to give me a sense of distance and even a city layout. I just really love a good visual aid.
The upside is, I saw that the finished copy will have two maps. So I can't complain too hard.
Hands down my favorite thing about Hunters of the Lost City is that it's not a "chosen one" story. Octavia sort of stumbles into the hero role more than anything. She tries to do a nice thing, and in the process uncovers what is really happening behind Vittoria's walls and gets thrust into this adventure. However, I love that Octavia just sort of accepts that this is what she needs to do, and that the people of Vittoria need to know the truth of what's really outside their walls.
I also really like that not only does Octavia make mistakes throughout this entire book, but she learns from them. She listens to the people around, she doesn't fly off and think she knows what's best, and both of those things are refreshing in any fantasy novel. There is a decent amount of communication from those helping Octavia, and no one is keeping her in the dark on purpose. The latter annoys me in fantasy because how can they be chosen if they are also clueless?
So this book hit a lot of positives for me from start to finish. This is definitely more of a quest book than anything. The battle portion of this book is small and over very quickly. This is more about Octavia growing up than saving her people. With that, I think the ending is fitting and I'm happy it was more of an open ending. Yes, the main plot points had a solid ending but we don't know what the future holds for Vittoria.
There were other little things that annoyed me about this book, but as a whole, they are things that annoy about a lot of Middle Grade and Young Adult fantasy books. Most of them center around Octavia's parents. Nothing worth a deep dive into. This book was adorable and a lot of fun to read. Great for both Middle-Grade readers and adults who enjoy Middle Grade reads themselves. Because sometimes it's nice to read a book with a guaranteed happy ending.
I was excited about this because I've heard really good things about other books by Kali Wallace, and I have another of her books on my TBR. So, I had some pretty high hopes for this book. Also, this book arrived at the perfect time because I'd been reading some intense books before this. Nothing like a wholesome novel to clean your pallet after books that have messed with your sleep schedule.
Due to the fact this book isn't set to be released until April 2022, this will be a spoil-free review.
A hundred percent this is a trope I've read before in Middle-Grade Fantasy novels, and will definitely read again. It's one of those tried and true tropes, and I really liked the spin that Kali Wallace put on it. While I know this trope well, the world and characters that were crafted within this trope kept me turning pages. Also, the fact it's a well-used trope made it easy for me as an adult reader to slip into the story. It's a comfortable read, one where I know what's going to happen and kind of know who was going to be our villain.
I will say that I was so focused on that main villain that I didn't see the smaller villain sort of sneaking up on me until they were introduced. So that was nice, even though looking back I can see the foreshadowing put into their arrival.
Even though the story was easy for me to read and sort out what was going to happen early on in the book. I think younger readers, they'll have to put a little bit of work into it, but Wallace does an amazing job of foreshadowing. As well as giving just information to start forming ideas along the way as the story unfold. I will also say while I figured out who was controlling the Ferox fairly early, I didn't figure out the why. Another piece I should have caught early on because the answer to that question was also foreshadowed.
Wallace's world-building was also really great. As readers, we get a small look at two of the communities set in this world that were vivid and amazing, and we get a thorough look at Vittoria. Which later makes it easy to follow the end of the book as everything happens rather quickly. My only complaint really about this book as a whole needed a map would have made everything a little easier. I love a map in fantasy books to give me a sense of distance and even a city layout. I just really love a good visual aid.
The upside is, I saw that the finished copy will have two maps. So I can't complain too hard.
Hands down my favorite thing about Hunters of the Lost City is that it's not a "chosen one" story. Octavia sort of stumbles into the hero role more than anything. She tries to do a nice thing, and in the process uncovers what is really happening behind Vittoria's walls and gets thrust into this adventure. However, I love that Octavia just sort of accepts that this is what she needs to do, and that the people of Vittoria need to know the truth of what's really outside their walls.
I also really like that not only does Octavia make mistakes throughout this entire book, but she learns from them. She listens to the people around, she doesn't fly off and think she knows what's best, and both of those things are refreshing in any fantasy novel. There is a decent amount of communication from those helping Octavia, and no one is keeping her in the dark on purpose. The latter annoys me in fantasy because how can they be chosen if they are also clueless?
So this book hit a lot of positives for me from start to finish. This is definitely more of a quest book than anything. The battle portion of this book is small and over very quickly. This is more about Octavia growing up than saving her people. With that, I think the ending is fitting and I'm happy it was more of an open ending. Yes, the main plot points had a solid ending but we don't know what the future holds for Vittoria.
There were other little things that annoyed me about this book, but as a whole, they are things that annoy about a lot of Middle Grade and Young Adult fantasy books. Most of them center around Octavia's parents. Nothing worth a deep dive into. This book was adorable and a lot of fun to read. Great for both Middle-Grade readers and adults who enjoy Middle Grade reads themselves. Because sometimes it's nice to read a book with a guaranteed happy ending.
October 24, 2022
2.5 🌟
Sigh. Sometimes I think I should just stop reading this kind of fantasy alltogether, because I really don’t seem to enjoy any of them anymore. Maybe I shoudln’t have read it in October, when I am in the mood for mystery and thriller books even more than usual, but I hoped that the fact that this is a middle grade would have changed things and that I could actually like it, if not love it. I have been known to love middle grade fantasy more than YA or adult.
Unfortunately, my main issue with the book was exactly that it didn’t really feel like a middle grade. I guess it’s upper middle grade, but it read as a YA with younger characters, in the sense that the plot was that of any basic YA fantasy dealing with magic.
There was not one bit of this book that felt original to me, it was a mix of tons of things I’d already read elsewhere, even in middle grades. I didn’t care for the plot and the fact that the characters were also forgettable did not help this book’s case.
You may be wondering, then, why did I give the book 2.5 stars, which for me is a neutral rating, if I did not like it? There are two main reasons: the first one is that, for its audience, this can be a nice book, not the book of their lives, but there’s nothing inherently wrong about it. The second reason is that at least the violence depicted in the book was stronger than usual, which you may argue is wrong for a middle grade, but I would argue back that kids know there’s violence in the real world, so to show it to them how some things are wrong through a fantasy story is not bad nor inappropriate. I have seen many readers complain, but I don’t agree with them: the violence in this story was well written and it was balanced, I don’t believe it was too hard to handle for kids, who read and watch way worse things. In this, the book was original, if you will.
Aside from this, I cannot really say anything good about the book, because the characters — as I was saying — were really devoid of any personality and they didn’t feel like real people. The main character, Octavia, in particular didn’t have a distinct voice or anything really going for her, so it became boring really quick and I just wanted to be done with this book.
I am also still wondering whether Octavia and Sima were being portrayed as a couple to be or even in love, but I don’t have an answer for this particular question. In my eyes, Octavia was clearly falling for Sima and her love was requited, but it was never explicitly stated so either I imagined it, or the author didn’t have the courage to go quite there, and that bothers me in any case. One person shelved this as LGBT+ on Goodreads, but it does not appear on the “official” Goodreads tags or on Storygraph. I am going to have to do some googling, but I will be pissed either way, so maybe it’s better to live in blissful ignorance.
Overall, it was just a bit of a boring and plain book, nothing really wrong with it, and at least is a standalone and it’s not overly long, so if you want to give it a try, you still can without wasting too much time. However, I believe there are better middle grades out there and there’s no real reason to be bothered to read this one instead.
Sigh. Sometimes I think I should just stop reading this kind of fantasy alltogether, because I really don’t seem to enjoy any of them anymore. Maybe I shoudln’t have read it in October, when I am in the mood for mystery and thriller books even more than usual, but I hoped that the fact that this is a middle grade would have changed things and that I could actually like it, if not love it. I have been known to love middle grade fantasy more than YA or adult.
Unfortunately, my main issue with the book was exactly that it didn’t really feel like a middle grade. I guess it’s upper middle grade, but it read as a YA with younger characters, in the sense that the plot was that of any basic YA fantasy dealing with magic.
There was not one bit of this book that felt original to me, it was a mix of tons of things I’d already read elsewhere, even in middle grades. I didn’t care for the plot and the fact that the characters were also forgettable did not help this book’s case.
You may be wondering, then, why did I give the book 2.5 stars, which for me is a neutral rating, if I did not like it? There are two main reasons: the first one is that, for its audience, this can be a nice book, not the book of their lives, but there’s nothing inherently wrong about it. The second reason is that at least the violence depicted in the book was stronger than usual, which you may argue is wrong for a middle grade, but I would argue back that kids know there’s violence in the real world, so to show it to them how some things are wrong through a fantasy story is not bad nor inappropriate. I have seen many readers complain, but I don’t agree with them: the violence in this story was well written and it was balanced, I don’t believe it was too hard to handle for kids, who read and watch way worse things. In this, the book was original, if you will.
Aside from this, I cannot really say anything good about the book, because the characters — as I was saying — were really devoid of any personality and they didn’t feel like real people. The main character, Octavia, in particular didn’t have a distinct voice or anything really going for her, so it became boring really quick and I just wanted to be done with this book.
I am also still wondering whether Octavia and Sima were being portrayed as a couple to be or even in love, but I don’t have an answer for this particular question. In my eyes, Octavia was clearly falling for Sima and her love was requited, but it was never explicitly stated so either I imagined it, or the author didn’t have the courage to go quite there, and that bothers me in any case. One person shelved this as LGBT+ on Goodreads, but it does not appear on the “official” Goodreads tags or on Storygraph. I am going to have to do some googling, but I will be pissed either way, so maybe it’s better to live in blissful ignorance.
Overall, it was just a bit of a boring and plain book, nothing really wrong with it, and at least is a standalone and it’s not overly long, so if you want to give it a try, you still can without wasting too much time. However, I believe there are better middle grades out there and there’s no real reason to be bothered to read this one instead.
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