What do you think?
Rate this book
Kindreds
What do you do when you are faced with the impossible choice between listening to your heart or your head?
Sixteen year old Lilah keeps asking herself this exact question. Newly orphaned and moving into foster care, Lilah’s one saving grace is Joey, her deceased twin brother’s childhood best friend who as luck has it, lives next door to her new foster family.
The problem is, Joey harbors a secret, one Lilah must find out.
When she does, she must decide, will she follow her heart and new found love, Joey, into Nolianna, a secret, mysterious carnival world run only by foster children that is recruiting new members? Or will she listen to her head and follow the clues that Nolianna may not be what is seems. When Sebastian, the future leader of Nolianna sets his sights on having her join, will she even have a choice? With time ticking away, Lilah must decide if love is enough to keep her and Joey together in Nolianna, or if she can rely on what she knows to be true and save them from disappearing for good.
Sixteen year old Lilah keeps asking herself this exact question. Newly orphaned and moving into foster care, Lilah’s one saving grace is Joey, her deceased twin brother’s childhood best friend who as luck has it, lives next door to her new foster family.
The problem is, Joey harbors a secret, one Lilah must find out.
When she does, she must decide, will she follow her heart and new found love, Joey, into Nolianna, a secret, mysterious carnival world run only by foster children that is recruiting new members? Or will she listen to her head and follow the clues that Nolianna may not be what is seems. When Sebastian, the future leader of Nolianna sets his sights on having her join, will she even have a choice? With time ticking away, Lilah must decide if love is enough to keep her and Joey together in Nolianna, or if she can rely on what she knows to be true and save them from disappearing for good.
318 pages, Paperback
First published June 15, 2021
4 people are currently reading
1579 people want to read
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
November 18, 2021
3.5☆ A YA Mystery/Fantasy
For me Kindreds was a book of two halves, the first part I really enjoyed until I got to the fantasy/mystery aspect and then I felt I lost my way with it.
I don't normally read YA Fantasy style books, but this one really intrigued me.
I really enjoyed the Foster care story and getting to know Lilah and Joey, watching their story and potential love blossom.
It was so lovely to see how he wanted to protect her and she felt safe knowing his connection to her belated family.
But it's when the group of friends start to explore the Mystical Carnival that I disconnected.
Although I didn't click with the second half of the book I did carry on reading as I wanted to discover answers. Did I get them...yes!
I would have no problems recommending Kindreds to other readers as this book will definitely appeal to a vast majority of readers.
But for me I would of preferred the story to have continued with Lilah, Joey and Sebastian and left out the Fantasy/Mystery side.
So if you enjoy YA books that have a mix of Fantasy/Mystery, Intrigue, A Dash of Romance and complex Characters then you will really enjoy Kindreds by B.B Russell.
Thank you to Kate Rock Book Tours for my copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/1...
For me Kindreds was a book of two halves, the first part I really enjoyed until I got to the fantasy/mystery aspect and then I felt I lost my way with it.
I don't normally read YA Fantasy style books, but this one really intrigued me.
I really enjoyed the Foster care story and getting to know Lilah and Joey, watching their story and potential love blossom.
It was so lovely to see how he wanted to protect her and she felt safe knowing his connection to her belated family.
But it's when the group of friends start to explore the Mystical Carnival that I disconnected.
Although I didn't click with the second half of the book I did carry on reading as I wanted to discover answers. Did I get them...yes!
I would have no problems recommending Kindreds to other readers as this book will definitely appeal to a vast majority of readers.
But for me I would of preferred the story to have continued with Lilah, Joey and Sebastian and left out the Fantasy/Mystery side.
So if you enjoy YA books that have a mix of Fantasy/Mystery, Intrigue, A Dash of Romance and complex Characters then you will really enjoy Kindreds by B.B Russell.
Thank you to Kate Rock Book Tours for my copy which I reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
You can Find this Review and all my Other Reviews on My Blog :-
https://dashfan81.blogspot.com/2021/1...
March 16, 2021
Dear Reader,
Thank you for taking the time to check out Kindreds. It has been a labor of love for many years!
Inside this book, you will meet Lilah, a headstrong, deep feeling, book-reading girl who is all alone in the world. When all hope is just about lost, she is reunited with a childhood friend and some unlikely allies who remind her that we are never truly alone. Love and connection is all around us if we are open to it.
While there are fantastical elements within Carnival Nolianna, the real story is about the importance of relationships and what it means to be Kindreds. Connection is something we all seek and every once in a while, someone enters our life that we feel immediately drawn to and like we have known them forever. They make us feel seen and known. That is what it means to be Kindreds.
This book is about a girl’s journey within her own self, and the battle that sometimes ensues when we get caught between what our heart wants and our mind fights against. It is about knowing ourselves and trusting where we belong, not just fit in.
For all the Kindreds out there,
B. B. Russell <3
Thank you for taking the time to check out Kindreds. It has been a labor of love for many years!
Inside this book, you will meet Lilah, a headstrong, deep feeling, book-reading girl who is all alone in the world. When all hope is just about lost, she is reunited with a childhood friend and some unlikely allies who remind her that we are never truly alone. Love and connection is all around us if we are open to it.
While there are fantastical elements within Carnival Nolianna, the real story is about the importance of relationships and what it means to be Kindreds. Connection is something we all seek and every once in a while, someone enters our life that we feel immediately drawn to and like we have known them forever. They make us feel seen and known. That is what it means to be Kindreds.
This book is about a girl’s journey within her own self, and the battle that sometimes ensues when we get caught between what our heart wants and our mind fights against. It is about knowing ourselves and trusting where we belong, not just fit in.
For all the Kindreds out there,
B. B. Russell <3
July 26, 2021
I read the book and I read the reviews. I am surprised by the number of low ratings on B.B.’s book, Kindreds and on the one reviewer who DNF. I really don’t see why you wouldn’t finish this great YA book or enjoy it as a book that is geared to the middle grades.
It is a fantastic story that begins with Lilah, who is depressed at the loss of her beloved Grandma P. Lilah is left orphaned and even though she is close to 18; she is launched into foster care. The family that she ends up with is seemingly ineffective, but they do leave Lilah alone for the most part. In her days at her new home, she rekindles a friendship with her neighbor, Joey, who was her deceased brother’s friend. Lilah is pulled to follow Joey, who is a connection of her days when things were happy and her family complete. With Joey’s friendship, she discovers a whole new world of escapism in the magical carnival, Nolianna. At first, the carnival seems extraordinary and fantastic, but something lingers underneath. Lilah is a strong willed young woman who thinks for herself despite those around her telling her otherwise. Strength of self is a common theme in Kindreds and is shown through Lilah’s determination and will as she fights to be an individual and think for herself.
I don’t want to tell you too much about story, but take the journey with Lilah. You will be glad you did and it kept my interest throughout the entire book. I enjoyed Lilah’s scheme in the end that was a surprise given her situation. Like my review or don’t, but remember you are an individual who can think for yourself like Lilah. Give Kindreds a chance. You’ll be glad you did. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. 🔥
It is a fantastic story that begins with Lilah, who is depressed at the loss of her beloved Grandma P. Lilah is left orphaned and even though she is close to 18; she is launched into foster care. The family that she ends up with is seemingly ineffective, but they do leave Lilah alone for the most part. In her days at her new home, she rekindles a friendship with her neighbor, Joey, who was her deceased brother’s friend. Lilah is pulled to follow Joey, who is a connection of her days when things were happy and her family complete. With Joey’s friendship, she discovers a whole new world of escapism in the magical carnival, Nolianna. At first, the carnival seems extraordinary and fantastic, but something lingers underneath. Lilah is a strong willed young woman who thinks for herself despite those around her telling her otherwise. Strength of self is a common theme in Kindreds and is shown through Lilah’s determination and will as she fights to be an individual and think for herself.
I don’t want to tell you too much about story, but take the journey with Lilah. You will be glad you did and it kept my interest throughout the entire book. I enjoyed Lilah’s scheme in the end that was a surprise given her situation. Like my review or don’t, but remember you are an individual who can think for yourself like Lilah. Give Kindreds a chance. You’ll be glad you did. I cannot wait for the next book in this series. 🔥
March 15, 2021
Thanks to the publisher for providing an eARC of Kindreds in exchange for an honest review.
I really like the concept behind Kindreds, but the description and plot really emphasize the character relationships and for me at least, all the main characters were either unlikable (*cough cough every single male character cough cough*) or really bland so it was hard to get invested in anything. The relationships all also move really really quickly which also put a damper on the story.
I really like the concept behind Kindreds, but the description and plot really emphasize the character relationships and for me at least, all the main characters were either unlikable (*cough cough every single male character cough cough*) or really bland so it was hard to get invested in anything. The relationships all also move really really quickly which also put a damper on the story.
February 23, 2021
Had me hooked from the beginning. Loved the characters. Nicely written. Didn't want to put down it once I started reading. I really liked the romance and lived for the drama. It was so well written I could imagine the carnival, and picture myself at the caravel with the characters.
November 6, 2021
This is a charming ya read. At first I was not sure where this story was leading but I had some idea. I was not wrong and figured it out fairly quickly, yet I still was intrigued. Although, I have to be honest that other than Lilah and Joey I was not much of a fan of the rest of the characters. This is especially true of Sebastian. He thought he was being charming with his cocky attitude but instead he came off as annoying and a bit of a bully.
The appeal of Nolianna is any teenager's dream come true. Thus I could see why Joey and Lilah were drawn to the idea of staying in Nolianna. Which, speaking of Joey and Lilah; they did share romantic feelings but it was mild. A few kisses shared. I liked that the romance was subtle. I was engaged in the story and read this book in one day. Overall, I liked this book and do look forward to seeing what author, B.B. Russell writes next.
The appeal of Nolianna is any teenager's dream come true. Thus I could see why Joey and Lilah were drawn to the idea of staying in Nolianna. Which, speaking of Joey and Lilah; they did share romantic feelings but it was mild. A few kisses shared. I liked that the romance was subtle. I was engaged in the story and read this book in one day. Overall, I liked this book and do look forward to seeing what author, B.B. Russell writes next.
July 29, 2021
I picked up Kindreds because of a podcast (This Podcast will Change Your Life--Ben Tanzer), thought it sounded interesting, and kept it on my shelf for a few weeks (as my TBR pile is 200 deep).
It kept calling me, and once I started it, I read it through in just a few nights.
This YA book is a first for the author, but reads like she's had a lot of practice. It was compelling and I worried all the way through that it would turn out wrong. It does seem to hint at a possible sequel.
I would read more books by this author, just because I enjoyed Kindreds so much.
Now for the story--Lilah is a young woman who has suffered and is now alone, facing an uncertain future until she graduates high school and ages out of foster care. When she's able to run her own life, she has deep and important goals, but for the next two years, she will have to do as she is told.
Her foster home is bleak, but she soon meets with an old friend from her childhood, who is also in foster care. They become fast friends, but he disappears mysteriously every night when a strange whistle blows. At school, he sometimes ditches her to do mysterious things, leaving her with an arrogant but popular, slightly creepy friend.
One night she decides to see where they go...and life becomes surreal.
Highly recommended.
It kept calling me, and once I started it, I read it through in just a few nights.
This YA book is a first for the author, but reads like she's had a lot of practice. It was compelling and I worried all the way through that it would turn out wrong. It does seem to hint at a possible sequel.
I would read more books by this author, just because I enjoyed Kindreds so much.
Now for the story--Lilah is a young woman who has suffered and is now alone, facing an uncertain future until she graduates high school and ages out of foster care. When she's able to run her own life, she has deep and important goals, but for the next two years, she will have to do as she is told.
Her foster home is bleak, but she soon meets with an old friend from her childhood, who is also in foster care. They become fast friends, but he disappears mysteriously every night when a strange whistle blows. At school, he sometimes ditches her to do mysterious things, leaving her with an arrogant but popular, slightly creepy friend.
One night she decides to see where they go...and life becomes surreal.
Highly recommended.
October 21, 2021
3 stars= liked it
Kindreds is a contemporary YA fantasy novel with mystery and romance mixed in. Our main character is Lilah who has lost her entire family but is reunited with her brother’s childhood best friend, Joey, when they land in neighboring foster homes. She falls fast and hard for Joey. Unfortunately he is keeping a secret from her, and its a big one: he hopes to join Nolianna, a highly secretive carnival run for and by foster children. There are many ominous signs that Nolianna is much darker than it seems but only Lilah seems to notice. Will she trust her head or follow her love interest into Nolianna?
I can’t say too much more without major spoilers, which would ruin the experience. I can say that I wish the novel was longer or that the entire trilogy were already published as I was left with many unresolved questions. I will be sure to pick up book two as it will be set in Olympia, WA, but I also want to see how this interesting premise advances.
Kindreds is a contemporary YA fantasy novel with mystery and romance mixed in. Our main character is Lilah who has lost her entire family but is reunited with her brother’s childhood best friend, Joey, when they land in neighboring foster homes. She falls fast and hard for Joey. Unfortunately he is keeping a secret from her, and its a big one: he hopes to join Nolianna, a highly secretive carnival run for and by foster children. There are many ominous signs that Nolianna is much darker than it seems but only Lilah seems to notice. Will she trust her head or follow her love interest into Nolianna?
I can’t say too much more without major spoilers, which would ruin the experience. I can say that I wish the novel was longer or that the entire trilogy were already published as I was left with many unresolved questions. I will be sure to pick up book two as it will be set in Olympia, WA, but I also want to see how this interesting premise advances.
October 14, 2021
I got to be a part of a book tour for this one and am grateful for the gifted copy!
This book was a pleasant surprise for me. It started off fairly tame and then began to get more and more intense, ending with a crazy plot twist and a cliffhanger!
It starts off with Lilah, a 17 year old girl who has just been put into the foster care system after the death of her grandma, who raised her after her parents and twin brother died. It’s there that she reconnects with Joey, her twin brother’s best friend who is also now in foster care, and meets Sebastian, a rough around the edges kinda guy. Through Joey and Sebastian, Lilah learns about a mysterious carnival that only opens a few nights a year and disappears without a trace. The boys want to join this carnival, and they want Lilah to join them too. But she’s got other plans for her life…not to mention there’s something unsettling going on within the canopies of this carnival. It’s up to Lilah to decide where her future lies and how far she’s willing to go for love.
This was such a great YA read and I loved the magical intrigue of the carnival! It really does transport the reader to another world. When things started to get dark, I was hooked and got so wrapped up in what Lilah would do next.
My biggest complaint is that Sebastian drove me craazzzyy! He was definitely one of those characters that you love to hate.
I would recommend this for anyone who loves a YA romantic adventure with a twist of magic!
This book was a pleasant surprise for me. It started off fairly tame and then began to get more and more intense, ending with a crazy plot twist and a cliffhanger!
It starts off with Lilah, a 17 year old girl who has just been put into the foster care system after the death of her grandma, who raised her after her parents and twin brother died. It’s there that she reconnects with Joey, her twin brother’s best friend who is also now in foster care, and meets Sebastian, a rough around the edges kinda guy. Through Joey and Sebastian, Lilah learns about a mysterious carnival that only opens a few nights a year and disappears without a trace. The boys want to join this carnival, and they want Lilah to join them too. But she’s got other plans for her life…not to mention there’s something unsettling going on within the canopies of this carnival. It’s up to Lilah to decide where her future lies and how far she’s willing to go for love.
This was such a great YA read and I loved the magical intrigue of the carnival! It really does transport the reader to another world. When things started to get dark, I was hooked and got so wrapped up in what Lilah would do next.
My biggest complaint is that Sebastian drove me craazzzyy! He was definitely one of those characters that you love to hate.
I would recommend this for anyone who loves a YA romantic adventure with a twist of magic!
October 18, 2021
Well, I cannot wait until the next book. I loved this book but it ended with so many questions left unanswered. I loved the story so much! I loved the magic of the carnival. The author has a fantastic imagination and I was easily able to imagine everything as it was happening. It is a great YA read!
October 17, 2021
Edited review (4 full stars now):
This book is book 1 of a 3 part series. Thus changes my review as those holes will hopefully be cleared up as we proceed. Looking at this book as part 1 of a fantasy type trilogy makes it all make more sense. This book is simply the set up. I will pick up book two as I'm very curious to see where the story goes.
3.5 stars rounded up.
This book had a good story but I felt like I was left scratching my head at a few plot lines (holes?). It is definitely a suspend belief and don't think too hard about it sort of book.
That being said I am intrigued by the overall story arc and if there is a book 2 I would probably pick it up to see if some of my questions are answered
This book is book 1 of a 3 part series. Thus changes my review as those holes will hopefully be cleared up as we proceed. Looking at this book as part 1 of a fantasy type trilogy makes it all make more sense. This book is simply the set up. I will pick up book two as I'm very curious to see where the story goes.
3.5 stars rounded up.
This book had a good story but I felt like I was left scratching my head at a few plot lines (holes?). It is definitely a suspend belief and don't think too hard about it sort of book.
That being said I am intrigued by the overall story arc and if there is a book 2 I would probably pick it up to see if some of my questions are answered
October 11, 2021
Oh man, what an interesting start to what I am hoping is going to be a series 😉
Lilah is alone. Her parents and twin brother died when she was young. She has lived in her loving grandmother’s home until her recent death. With Lilah just being sixteen she must go into the foster system since she has no other family to take her in. She’s overwhelmed, grieving, and alone until an unexpected twist of fate brings her together with her brother’s childhood best friend who just happens to be living with a foster family next door. What she soon learns is her beloved Joey has a secret, a big secret that once Lilah finds out about it, is not so sure it’s all Joey believes it is. Now she must chose, will she follow her new love Into Nolianna, a secret, mysterious carnival world run only by foster children that is recruiting new members? Or will she listen to her head and follow the clues that Nolianna and it’s mysterious new leader to be, Sebastian, may not be what is seems.
This book was a fast and easy read with so many weaving themes that I really did enjoy! I thought the magic of the Nolianna world to be very Intriguing. I also enjoyed following Lilah as she asked questions no one else asked, searched for the truth, and also navigated her feelings of grief and new love. I will say I think this book raises more questions then gave answers BUT I am definitely intrigued enough to read the next one to follow up on all my questions (and hopefully get some answers to that crazy cliffhanger 🤯🤯)
Thank you so much to @letstalkbookspromo and @bbrussellauthor for this #gifted ebook in exchange for an honest review!
Lilah is alone. Her parents and twin brother died when she was young. She has lived in her loving grandmother’s home until her recent death. With Lilah just being sixteen she must go into the foster system since she has no other family to take her in. She’s overwhelmed, grieving, and alone until an unexpected twist of fate brings her together with her brother’s childhood best friend who just happens to be living with a foster family next door. What she soon learns is her beloved Joey has a secret, a big secret that once Lilah finds out about it, is not so sure it’s all Joey believes it is. Now she must chose, will she follow her new love Into Nolianna, a secret, mysterious carnival world run only by foster children that is recruiting new members? Or will she listen to her head and follow the clues that Nolianna and it’s mysterious new leader to be, Sebastian, may not be what is seems.
This book was a fast and easy read with so many weaving themes that I really did enjoy! I thought the magic of the Nolianna world to be very Intriguing. I also enjoyed following Lilah as she asked questions no one else asked, searched for the truth, and also navigated her feelings of grief and new love. I will say I think this book raises more questions then gave answers BUT I am definitely intrigued enough to read the next one to follow up on all my questions (and hopefully get some answers to that crazy cliffhanger 🤯🤯)
Thank you so much to @letstalkbookspromo and @bbrussellauthor for this #gifted ebook in exchange for an honest review!
July 25, 2021
A fun book about friendship. I liked Lilah's spunk and determination. I look forward to the next book.
November 8, 2021
Kindreds was phenomenal! After her grandmother and only remaining living relative passes away, Lilah is placed into foster care. While there she meets her late brother Aiden’s best friend Joey again after many years of being apart. She soon finds out that Joey has been going with other foster kids to a secret carnival at night called Nolianna. Joey is enamored with officially joining the group but Lilah isn’t sold. Is the carnival really what it seems to be?
B.B. Russell does such a great job setting the scene of Lilah’s life in Ithaca NY. I could picture Lilah’s life there, the carnival and all of the aspects of the world. Kindreds was a love story, fantasy, and suspense all mixed into one genre. Lilah was an amazing character and I loved seeing her thoughts play out during the book. There was a huge reveal at the end and I am stoked for the next book. I simply just couldn’t put this one down!
B.B. Russell does such a great job setting the scene of Lilah’s life in Ithaca NY. I could picture Lilah’s life there, the carnival and all of the aspects of the world. Kindreds was a love story, fantasy, and suspense all mixed into one genre. Lilah was an amazing character and I loved seeing her thoughts play out during the book. There was a huge reveal at the end and I am stoked for the next book. I simply just couldn’t put this one down!
November 5, 2021
This magical, fantastical story will stir up love in your heart.
We follow Lilah, who lived with and now has lost her Grandmother (after having lost her dad, mom, and brother Aiden in an accident). Though she's almost 18, she goes to live with a foster family (who let Lilah do her thing and don't bother her) until she ages out.
Next door, is her brother's childhood friend Joey. They immediately feel very connected to each other and start to see each other.
Then she follows Joey into a magical carnival that only is around for 9 nights every year. There she finds the sense of family that she hasn't felt for awhile.
I love Lilah. She's smart and kind. I love the connection between her and Joey, they just seem to be so right together! I was a little surprised at how it ended but it's the perfect set up for another book and that makes me so happy!
We follow Lilah, who lived with and now has lost her Grandmother (after having lost her dad, mom, and brother Aiden in an accident). Though she's almost 18, she goes to live with a foster family (who let Lilah do her thing and don't bother her) until she ages out.
Next door, is her brother's childhood friend Joey. They immediately feel very connected to each other and start to see each other.
Then she follows Joey into a magical carnival that only is around for 9 nights every year. There she finds the sense of family that she hasn't felt for awhile.
I love Lilah. She's smart and kind. I love the connection between her and Joey, they just seem to be so right together! I was a little surprised at how it ended but it's the perfect set up for another book and that makes me so happy!
May 1, 2022
A very interesting and unique premise in this YA mix of romance, mystery and sci-fi. I was definitely invested in finding out what was going one in this one but struggled a bit with the stilted dialogue and lack of character development. Overall, a fun story based on a very original idea.
Thanks to Kate Rock Book Tours and B.B. Russell for a gifted copy of this book. My thoughts are my own.
My reviews can also be seen at www.instagram.com/justonemoorebook.
Thanks to Kate Rock Book Tours and B.B. Russell for a gifted copy of this book. My thoughts are my own.
My reviews can also be seen at www.instagram.com/justonemoorebook.
November 4, 2021
This is a fantasy YA book, which is not a typical genre for me. There are parts I really liked and parts that were confusing to me. I loved that the fantasy land was an escape for foster kids. I just wish it would have been for good and not a place of ill intent. It didn’t match up for me with the beginning of the book, but I can definitely see the ending was set up for a sequel. I think YA fantasy lovers will enjoy this book! Thanks to Kate Rock Book Tours for a gifted copy!
November 15, 2021
"Kindreds" is a magical young adult story about finding a family or others to call a family. It was so heartwarming to find that even though Lilah had no one else in her family, she had a childhood friend living nearby. The descriptions in this story were so detailed, I felt swept away with Lilah and her nightly adventures in Nolianna. Carnivals have always been full of wonder and awe for me, which B.B. Russell portrays so well across the pages of the story. I found myself unable to put this story down so that I could continue to find out more about the mysteries of Nolianna and about what choices Lilah would make! Thank you to B.B. Russell and Kate Rock Book Tours for a gifted copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
November 12, 2021
I really enjoyed this YA fantasy! Lilah is so strong and intelligent. She’s had a very tough life, but she is a kind and compassionate teenager. The romance between Lilah and Joey was really sweet and subtle, which I appreciated due to their age. I felt for these poor kids who thought no one wanted or loved them, and I could understand why they desperately wanted to belong somewhere. The magical carnival added a unique and fun aspect, and I felt like I was there thanks to the vivid descriptions. I could almost taste that deep fried Oreo, though like Lilah, I’m not sure I’d want to eat it! Smart girl! The mystery kept me intrigued and wondering what was going on throughout the book. I really want to see where this story goes because I have so many questions, so I can’t wait to read the next book in the Nolianna series!
*I received a gifted copy of Kindreds from B.B. Russell and Green Writers Press through Kate Rock Book Tours. All opinions are my own.
*I received a gifted copy of Kindreds from B.B. Russell and Green Writers Press through Kate Rock Book Tours. All opinions are my own.
November 9, 2021
In Kindreds by B.B. Russell, Lilah finds her self in foster care after her grandmother recently passed away.
Everything is a bit of a mystery, the new family she’s living with, the kids at school and even her neighbor Joey.
Lilah is trying to figure out if this is just because she’s in a new place or if something strange is going on.
She follows Joey into a magical circus and realizes things are not what they seem! The more she tries to figure out what is going on with this strange circus the more she gets wrapped up in with it. She is being heavily recruited to join and isn’t sure if this is the place for her.
I love that this is the first book in the Nolianna series, I’m looking forward to the next one!
Thank you @katerockbooktours for this gifted copy!
You can find Kindreds to purchase on our Amazon Storefront!🧜🏼♀️🌺
Everything is a bit of a mystery, the new family she’s living with, the kids at school and even her neighbor Joey.
Lilah is trying to figure out if this is just because she’s in a new place or if something strange is going on.
She follows Joey into a magical circus and realizes things are not what they seem! The more she tries to figure out what is going on with this strange circus the more she gets wrapped up in with it. She is being heavily recruited to join and isn’t sure if this is the place for her.
I love that this is the first book in the Nolianna series, I’m looking forward to the next one!
Thank you @katerockbooktours for this gifted copy!
You can find Kindreds to purchase on our Amazon Storefront!🧜🏼♀️🌺
October 4, 2021
Imagine discovering a hidden carnival that feels like stepping into an alternate universe.
Fantasy is not a genre I ever read, but I must say I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was like an escape to a different reality and I could picture what I was reading so vividly in my mind. I loved the elements of suspense and mystery. The mysterious carnival realm will really capture your attention as you try to figure out what it’s all about. Get ready for the adventure as you follow along with Lilah and Joey.
Fantasy is not a genre I ever read, but I must say I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was like an escape to a different reality and I could picture what I was reading so vividly in my mind. I loved the elements of suspense and mystery. The mysterious carnival realm will really capture your attention as you try to figure out what it’s all about. Get ready for the adventure as you follow along with Lilah and Joey.
November 7, 2021
Teen Lilah finds herself in foster care after her grandmother passes away. The only silver lining to living with her weird new family is Joey lives next door. Joey, her deceased twin brother’s childhood best friend, is harboring a secret that threatens to separate the two with one lifelong decision.
I loved the mystery and intrigue of the Noliana carnival and how intertwined all the main characters were in the fabric of this fantasy world. From the spooky 🕷 symbols throughout and the motto of weaving our own destiny, I found myself needed to read more to figure out what all the clues meant. I also loved the inclusion of the tarot card readings and thrill-seeking rides.
Both Lilah and Joey share a traumatic past and their shared experiences help catapult them into a quick relationship. The book delves into themes of foster care and abandonment with care. Ending on a cliffhanger, I definitely want to continue to with the series to find out what happens next.
I loved the mystery and intrigue of the Noliana carnival and how intertwined all the main characters were in the fabric of this fantasy world. From the spooky 🕷 symbols throughout and the motto of weaving our own destiny, I found myself needed to read more to figure out what all the clues meant. I also loved the inclusion of the tarot card readings and thrill-seeking rides.
Both Lilah and Joey share a traumatic past and their shared experiences help catapult them into a quick relationship. The book delves into themes of foster care and abandonment with care. Ending on a cliffhanger, I definitely want to continue to with the series to find out what happens next.
November 9, 2021
I've always had a soft spot for kids in foster care after serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate for several years and this book was really intriguing to me. The magical aspects of the carnival appealed to me and I loved the concept of Noliana providing a family for so many young people who lost their families through circumstances outside of their control. Lilah was such a thoughtful and reflective character and I hope there is a sequel so we can learn more about her next chapter and see how the major cliffhanger at the end turns out. I don't read much fantasy but I really enjoyed this YA read!
October 19, 2021
Kindreds is the first book in this fantasy series so readers might have a lot of unanswered questions. Nolianna seems to be the perfect solution for those seeking to escape their problems. It looks promising but I just can’t imagine living in a carnival and eating fried foods for months, let alone for years! But I did enjoy getting to know Lilah and Joey and their budding romance, as well as the characters inside Nolianna. It was a quick read for me and I’d be interested to find out what happens to the characters in the next book. Read this if you like YA fantasy with mystery and romance.💖
July 25, 2021
Kindreds is a great book to get completely lost in! This enthralling adventure of love, danger, and mystery will have readers on the edge of their seats. Written for the young women of today, join Lilah as she navigates a mysterious world appearing before her while taking charge over her own destiny and that of her long-lost love, Joey. This adventure will stay with you long after the carnival leaves town!
August 21, 2021
This book was so good! At times it was funny, at other times I was reading with tears in my eyes. It was a wild rollercoaster, and I couldn't get enough of it. The plot was well-written, the characters likeable and the romance was positively swoon-worthy! And did I mention all the Anne references? This book had everything I love in a book. Can highly recommend!
July 21, 2022
Kindreds is the impassioned story of a girl who has experienced tragedy. When trying to adapt and make something of herself, a boy from her past comes back into her life. Together they experience the magic of Carnival Nolianna.
Lilah lost her parents and her twin brother, Aiden, in an accident when she was younger. She lived with her Grandma Pea until recently, when she passed away. Lilah was placed in a home with only 22 months left until she aged out of the foster care system.
While staying with this family, she is introduced to Joey, who is being fostered next door. Joey was Aiden’s best friend growing up and recognized Lilah as soon as they were introduced. Being reconnected has brought up painful feelings from the past and has formed a deep bond between them. This emotional turmoil is explored in deep and meaningful ways throughout the story and I really enjoyed it because B.B. Russell uses it to establish characters, motivations and connections seamlessly. Lilah is introduced to many other kids in the system at her new school. Sebastian, one of Joey’s friends, quickly takes a liking to Lilah and is always trying to provoke her. The three of them form a friendship with both boys trying to get Lilah’s attention. Each of them is unique and intriguing and readers will enjoy seeing their characters evolve as the story progresses.
One night Lilah follows Joey to a hangout she wasn’t invited to. Sebastian notices her following and invites her to join them. Lilah then finds herself looking at a full-blown carnival. Carnival Nolianna only exists for a select number of nights out of the year and only those who are invited can come. This feels so magical and exotic and I was excited when I learned about the carnival. On the last night, ten selected participants will become members of the carnival “Nolies” and live there until a certain age. Each person chosen has a unique set of skills that will benefit the community and the person they are matched with. Joey has always wanted to join and is enjoying every moment spent in Nolianna. Lilah on the other hand is curious as to how everything works and doesn’t quite believe everything she is being told. This helps to ground the story. The dynamic between Lilah, Joey, and Sebastian shifts as she uncovers the truth behind Nolianna. This situation created a lot of intrigue and was one of the reasons I kept coming back to this book.
The writing style in this enchanting young adult romance novel is engaging and fluid throughout. The plot moves quickly, maybe because I was more than willing to follow the intriguing characters. The relationships between characters were interesting, especially the love triangle with the three main characters. The layering of storylines added surprising depth to the book.
B.B. Russell has written a heartfelt story in a creative world with compelling characters. I enjoyed this magical teen mystery story and I can’t wait for more stories in this world because I feel like there is so much more left to explore.
Lilah lost her parents and her twin brother, Aiden, in an accident when she was younger. She lived with her Grandma Pea until recently, when she passed away. Lilah was placed in a home with only 22 months left until she aged out of the foster care system.
While staying with this family, she is introduced to Joey, who is being fostered next door. Joey was Aiden’s best friend growing up and recognized Lilah as soon as they were introduced. Being reconnected has brought up painful feelings from the past and has formed a deep bond between them. This emotional turmoil is explored in deep and meaningful ways throughout the story and I really enjoyed it because B.B. Russell uses it to establish characters, motivations and connections seamlessly. Lilah is introduced to many other kids in the system at her new school. Sebastian, one of Joey’s friends, quickly takes a liking to Lilah and is always trying to provoke her. The three of them form a friendship with both boys trying to get Lilah’s attention. Each of them is unique and intriguing and readers will enjoy seeing their characters evolve as the story progresses.
One night Lilah follows Joey to a hangout she wasn’t invited to. Sebastian notices her following and invites her to join them. Lilah then finds herself looking at a full-blown carnival. Carnival Nolianna only exists for a select number of nights out of the year and only those who are invited can come. This feels so magical and exotic and I was excited when I learned about the carnival. On the last night, ten selected participants will become members of the carnival “Nolies” and live there until a certain age. Each person chosen has a unique set of skills that will benefit the community and the person they are matched with. Joey has always wanted to join and is enjoying every moment spent in Nolianna. Lilah on the other hand is curious as to how everything works and doesn’t quite believe everything she is being told. This helps to ground the story. The dynamic between Lilah, Joey, and Sebastian shifts as she uncovers the truth behind Nolianna. This situation created a lot of intrigue and was one of the reasons I kept coming back to this book.
The writing style in this enchanting young adult romance novel is engaging and fluid throughout. The plot moves quickly, maybe because I was more than willing to follow the intriguing characters. The relationships between characters were interesting, especially the love triangle with the three main characters. The layering of storylines added surprising depth to the book.
B.B. Russell has written a heartfelt story in a creative world with compelling characters. I enjoyed this magical teen mystery story and I can’t wait for more stories in this world because I feel like there is so much more left to explore.
September 7, 2024
This well written book has an interesting and unique premise. I loved the whole idea of the mystical carnival providing a family for orphans and foster children. Unfortunately the pacing was slow, while the relationships moved too quickly for me to really feel invested. There are a lot of unanswered questions, so I’m guessing there might be a sequel coming out at some point.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews