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The Nightfall Bazaar #1
These Wicked Stars
Caraval meets Dance of Thieves in the first installment of an electrifying new series!
Remember, if you know what you want, you'll never find it.
Hazel Blackthorn is an outcast, the bastard daughter of a nameless sailor and a disgraced mother. She will do anything to marry her secret fiancé and escape her oppressive life. When her fiancé announces he must marry her cousin in order to save his family's crumbling business, Hazel is heartbroken and her hope for the future crushed. But a kind old man offers her Travel to the mythical Bazaar that visits the island once every thirty years and return before the end of the festival with medicine he needs, and she will have all the riches in the world. Gripped by hope, Hazel accepts.
But in the Bazaar, a place where the gods themselves used to dwell, Hazel can trust nothing. In a world where you can buy time and purchase power, wicked merchants wield cruel magic. As she travels further into the Bazaar, searching for the medicine her benefactor desires, she becomes enmeshed in a game of cat and mouse with the all-powerful King of the Bazaar, a man with a silver-tongue and shadowy past. As time runs out and the Bazaar threatens to trap Hazel forever, she begins to unravel the mystery of the Bazaar and why the King wants her for himself. But Hazel must decide if her desire for her freedom is worth the cost the Bazaar demands--and if the love she thought she needed is the one she truly deserves.
Remember, if you know what you want, you'll never find it.
Hazel Blackthorn is an outcast, the bastard daughter of a nameless sailor and a disgraced mother. She will do anything to marry her secret fiancé and escape her oppressive life. When her fiancé announces he must marry her cousin in order to save his family's crumbling business, Hazel is heartbroken and her hope for the future crushed. But a kind old man offers her Travel to the mythical Bazaar that visits the island once every thirty years and return before the end of the festival with medicine he needs, and she will have all the riches in the world. Gripped by hope, Hazel accepts.
But in the Bazaar, a place where the gods themselves used to dwell, Hazel can trust nothing. In a world where you can buy time and purchase power, wicked merchants wield cruel magic. As she travels further into the Bazaar, searching for the medicine her benefactor desires, she becomes enmeshed in a game of cat and mouse with the all-powerful King of the Bazaar, a man with a silver-tongue and shadowy past. As time runs out and the Bazaar threatens to trap Hazel forever, she begins to unravel the mystery of the Bazaar and why the King wants her for himself. But Hazel must decide if her desire for her freedom is worth the cost the Bazaar demands--and if the love she thought she needed is the one she truly deserves.
286 pages, Hardcover
First published October 31, 2022
32 people are currently reading
1096 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 165 reviews
November 16, 2022
Definitely a 5 star for me! I loved everything in that book : the original story, the writing, the characters, the magical world,... I really appreciated every word of this incredible journey. Well done! Now... I truly hope there will be a sequel to this book as I want to know more about this bazaar and the amazing Hazel ❤
October 28, 2022
Some quick notes before my full review (now posted below)
1. I was hooked in by the bazaar and it’s magic and characters.
2. The main character was too naïve and trusting for me at times.
3. World building was good a brilliant world and lots of great places to explore but the lore was a bit tricky to understand, some more context and understanding would have be good.
4. People say about Caraval feels but tbh it’s only the first part of the book, by the second 1/2 it defiantly takes its own unique angle and ends up a totally different story, more akin to mythology and legends.
5. The beginning of this story, the despair, embarrassment and sadness is written brilliantly, 5 stars for the opening chapters! There is a slight marathon in the middle but I honestly never really wanted to put this book down!
Back to fill in the gaps asap ✌️
FULL REVIEW 15/10/22:
This was a great book, the beginning was so good, the heartbreak and longing to be accepted was so well written, you really feel for the character and her situation and there is such a sense of dread and sadness that I was completely hooked from the first chapter.
The Bazaar is well put together and explored with various creatures, characters, places, sounds and smells but I did find the lore a little under developed. I could really have done with more reasoning and justification behind why people and places were accessible via the bazaar and a better understanding of the whole magic and god system, there is a reveal in this storyline that takes too long to expose and.due to underdeveloped lore is hard to believe or understand.
The romance does develop form hate to love quiet quickly and unlike other enemies to lovers romances, there is a genuine reason these are enemies so if you over think it, you may ask yourself wondering how its even possible for them to fall in love, but I actually love that! I enjoyed some of the betrayal in the storyline and that there are some true villainous acts but I did find the main character to be quite naive at times, too trusting and self deprecating, however as a YA read I do feel it fits the audience, there is a lot of emotion to the characters motives and thoughts.
This is a great read for anyone who loves to really feel some heartbreak and emotion, perhaps the chosen one tropes and wants a mythological, fairytale and magical setting with something to hook you into book two.
I was couldn't put it down for all the best reasons and I cant wait for the next in the series.
Thank you for providing me with a copy for review
1. I was hooked in by the bazaar and it’s magic and characters.
2. The main character was too naïve and trusting for me at times.
3. World building was good a brilliant world and lots of great places to explore but the lore was a bit tricky to understand, some more context and understanding would have be good.
4. People say about Caraval feels but tbh it’s only the first part of the book, by the second 1/2 it defiantly takes its own unique angle and ends up a totally different story, more akin to mythology and legends.
5. The beginning of this story, the despair, embarrassment and sadness is written brilliantly, 5 stars for the opening chapters! There is a slight marathon in the middle but I honestly never really wanted to put this book down!
Back to fill in the gaps asap ✌️
FULL REVIEW 15/10/22:
This was a great book, the beginning was so good, the heartbreak and longing to be accepted was so well written, you really feel for the character and her situation and there is such a sense of dread and sadness that I was completely hooked from the first chapter.
The Bazaar is well put together and explored with various creatures, characters, places, sounds and smells but I did find the lore a little under developed. I could really have done with more reasoning and justification behind why people and places were accessible via the bazaar and a better understanding of the whole magic and god system, there is a reveal in this storyline that takes too long to expose and.due to underdeveloped lore is hard to believe or understand.
The romance does develop form hate to love quiet quickly and unlike other enemies to lovers romances, there is a genuine reason these are enemies so if you over think it, you may ask yourself wondering how its even possible for them to fall in love, but I actually love that! I enjoyed some of the betrayal in the storyline and that there are some true villainous acts but I did find the main character to be quite naive at times, too trusting and self deprecating, however as a YA read I do feel it fits the audience, there is a lot of emotion to the characters motives and thoughts.
This is a great read for anyone who loves to really feel some heartbreak and emotion, perhaps the chosen one tropes and wants a mythological, fairytale and magical setting with something to hook you into book two.
I was couldn't put it down for all the best reasons and I cant wait for the next in the series.
Thank you for providing me with a copy for review
October 13, 2022
These Wicked Stars had potential but sadly, it didn't met them for me.
I didn't like or connect with any of the characters. I found the FMC, Hazel, frustrating and too naïve for my liking even when everything was laid out before her eyes. Cassian, MMC, was more tolerable but not by much.
Their relationship didn't make sense to me since she spent more than half of the book "hating" him and then suddenly she was in love with him(?)
The rhythm was off, slow towards the beginning, action out of nowhere in the middle( I did enjoy that a lot tho), slow again and then some more action at the end.
In top of that, the mystery about Hazel's identity was more annoying than anything, they gave you all this signs that say she's not human but nothing about what she could possibly be and at some point I was just rolling my eyes with how "special" she is. When her identity was finally revealed my reaction was flat and straight out skeptical.
What I did like was The Bazaar, this magical world with strange creatures and a mind of its own.
Thank you to Netgallery and the author for the eARC. These thoughts are my own.
I didn't like or connect with any of the characters. I found the FMC, Hazel, frustrating and too naïve for my liking even when everything was laid out before her eyes. Cassian, MMC, was more tolerable but not by much.
Their relationship didn't make sense to me since she spent more than half of the book "hating" him and then suddenly she was in love with him(?)
The rhythm was off, slow towards the beginning, action out of nowhere in the middle( I did enjoy that a lot tho), slow again and then some more action at the end.
In top of that, the mystery about Hazel's identity was more annoying than anything, they gave you all this signs that say she's not human but nothing about what she could possibly be and at some point I was just rolling my eyes with how "special" she is. When her identity was finally revealed my reaction was flat and straight out skeptical.
What I did like was The Bazaar, this magical world with strange creatures and a mind of its own.
Thank you to Netgallery and the author for the eARC. These thoughts are my own.
February 17, 2023
This was an okay read for me. Since im not a fantasy reader, it does take times for me to grasp the worldbuilding. The pacing is slow so not very much intrigued or attached to the characters. All in all, this fell flat
October 26, 2022
This was a really fun read! I think it hovers near 3.5 stars for me; while I read through it extremely quickly (a one day read!) there's something about it that just skipped ahead really quickly but felt as though I was missing details. I think if this was more of an adult book it would have lent itself better to the plot and character development that I was missing. That being said, I love the premise of this book- definitely similar to the Caraval series what with the Bazaar being magical, and there being a boy familiar with it to help her navigate its confusion- and I think Hazel and Cassian are an amazing couple that I want to see more of. I think book 2 of this series will be superb as a continuation of this story! Thanks to NetGalley and the author for the chance to read this eARC!!
November 29, 2022
These Wicked Stars
by Catelyn Wilson (@catelyn_writes)
This was a. page. turner. I wanted to figure out just what in tf was going on so bad. It took me a couple days- trying not to ignore my responsibilities and all- but I slammed through this book. Come to find out, it’s the first book in The Nightfall Bazaar series. Great news, it does not end on a cliffhanger.
This book was chock full of intrigue.
I had so many questions.
What’s up with her fiancé?
Who is the mysterious guy following her?
Who is her real father?
Why did her mom step outside of her marriage?
Is the man in the tavern being honest? what is his real identity? does his comment on her locket mean anything? who is his wife?
Wtf even is going on in this Bazaar?
What are the king of the Bazaar’s motives and intentions?
Why is Hazel less affected than most?
Almost all my questions and more were answered.
This book had great world building and kept me guessing. It’s unlike any of the other books I’ve read lately, and I would highly recommend it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
✨ I received an eARC of this book
this is my honest review ✨
by Catelyn Wilson (@catelyn_writes)
This was a. page. turner. I wanted to figure out just what in tf was going on so bad. It took me a couple days- trying not to ignore my responsibilities and all- but I slammed through this book. Come to find out, it’s the first book in The Nightfall Bazaar series. Great news, it does not end on a cliffhanger.
This book was chock full of intrigue.
I had so many questions.
What’s up with her fiancé?
Who is the mysterious guy following her?
Who is her real father?
Why did her mom step outside of her marriage?
Is the man in the tavern being honest? what is his real identity? does his comment on her locket mean anything? who is his wife?
Wtf even is going on in this Bazaar?
What are the king of the Bazaar’s motives and intentions?
Why is Hazel less affected than most?
Almost all my questions and more were answered.
This book had great world building and kept me guessing. It’s unlike any of the other books I’ve read lately, and I would highly recommend it.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
✨ I received an eARC of this book
this is my honest review ✨
October 1, 2022
Hazel is an outcast in her small island town. Infamous for the affair her mother had, she wanted nothing more than to escape. When her fiancé decides to marry her wicked cousin, Hazel is heartbroken and decides to travel to the mythical bazaar for an old man who needs help. She soon realizes that nothing is as it seems, and it will be a lot more challenging than she anticipated.
I really loved this. The mystery of the bazaar really intrigued me. I really didn't know who to trust or what was real. It definitely had some fairytale elements that I loved. I found this packed full of action and mystery. I really did not see some of the plot twists coming. Overall, I loved this, and I cannot wait for a second book. Thank you NetGalley for this early release copy!
I really loved this. The mystery of the bazaar really intrigued me. I really didn't know who to trust or what was real. It definitely had some fairytale elements that I loved. I found this packed full of action and mystery. I really did not see some of the plot twists coming. Overall, I loved this, and I cannot wait for a second book. Thank you NetGalley for this early release copy!
October 3, 2022
3.5 stars
That was quite a nice surprise because at first I’ve found it too similar to Caraval which was kind of annoying but at the same time I was still really into it.
The plot is good, the cliffhangers not surprising but well done. I liked the characters even though maybe they’re all a bit cliche. I felt like the love story was a bit too rushed but why not. Overall my reason was like : it’s cliche but my hearts was like : i’m really into it !
That was quite a nice surprise because at first I’ve found it too similar to Caraval which was kind of annoying but at the same time I was still really into it.
The plot is good, the cliffhangers not surprising but well done. I liked the characters even though maybe they’re all a bit cliche. I felt like the love story was a bit too rushed but why not. Overall my reason was like : it’s cliche but my hearts was like : i’m really into it !
October 11, 2022
THESE WICKED STARS was a genuinely pleasant surprise of a book. A Cinderella story in the vein of Caraval and ACOTAR, I was fascinated by the glittering dark world of the mythical Bazaar that Hazel enters in a quest to give herself the standing to marry her fiancé. I loved the lyrical quality to Wilson’s writing and thought that Hazel was a really endearing main character. Honestly, I liked the villain (The King of the Bazaar) more than the main male love interest. Give me a good and compelling villain with a silver tongue and you got me hooked. But the slow burn romance between Hazel and Cassian was well worth watching. This entire book has a dreamlike atmosphere to it that I savored every moment of, and I’m intrigued by that ending and can’t wait to see what happens in future books
September 24, 2022
I really liked the beginning, then it got boring in the middle, and there was too much happening at the end. I liked the main character and the love interest as separate characters, but I didn't care about their relationship. Overall, this was an ok start to a series.
November 3, 2022
I really enjoyed this read.
It was a fast paced story with some great characters.
>> Enemies to Lovers
>> Fantasy World
>> Cinderella Vibes
>> Secret Carnival with ambiguous rules
>> Terrible Families
>> Elusive King
>> Lies, Deceit and Action
The beginning did have me hooked; I was feeling really bad for the FMC but there were times where I felt annoyed by her. I also thought the ending was a bit rushed but overall I would recommend this to my fantasy loving friends!
Thank you to the author for an early ecopy!
It was a fast paced story with some great characters.
>> Enemies to Lovers
>> Fantasy World
>> Cinderella Vibes
>> Secret Carnival with ambiguous rules
>> Terrible Families
>> Elusive King
>> Lies, Deceit and Action
The beginning did have me hooked; I was feeling really bad for the FMC but there were times where I felt annoyed by her. I also thought the ending was a bit rushed but overall I would recommend this to my fantasy loving friends!
Thank you to the author for an early ecopy!
December 1, 2022
First, I would like to thank Netgalley for reading this book for free for an honest review and that it contains a small spoiler.
It took some time to make me get into the book but if I did, I flew through the rest. On some occasions, I felt that our main character Hazel was a bit naive and reluctant to realize things, but she mentions that herself and therefore does not become as much of a minus.
The relationship between Hazel and Cassian is exactly what you are looking for in this type of book, but I wished it had pulled out a little more at the time before they became so terribly dear, but I also understand that it may not be really possible with how the book's timeline is structured.
If you could give half stars on Goodreads it would have been a 3.5 but it could be rounded up to a four.
It took some time to make me get into the book but if I did, I flew through the rest. On some occasions, I felt that our main character Hazel was a bit naive and reluctant to realize things, but she mentions that herself and therefore does not become as much of a minus.
The relationship between Hazel and Cassian is exactly what you are looking for in this type of book, but I wished it had pulled out a little more at the time before they became so terribly dear, but I also understand that it may not be really possible with how the book's timeline is structured.
If you could give half stars on Goodreads it would have been a 3.5 but it could be rounded up to a four.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 31, 2022
*Received an ARC as part of the blog tour via BOMM Tours in exchange for an honest review! Thank you!*
RTC
RTC
September 26, 2022
What once was reality fled. In its place was a world of myth and legend that reeked of magic, secrets, and sin. And I realized the truth. I had stumbled into the Bazaar."
Can't wait to the next book. I really hope there is one. I loved it all. The world, the gods, the magic, the mystic creatures, the romanceeeeeeee. I got hooked from the beginning and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Hazel was amazing and so strong, so selfless. I really like reading through her. The secrets and the mistery, let's say that I was not expecting most of it. I'm going to love to see where hazels life will go after that ending. So ready for the next.
“What do you know about love?” I turned to him suddenly, and he nearly ran me over. “You live in a world full of lies, deceit, and selfishness. You’ve never loved anyone. You’re as old as Zaire and just as cruel.”
Can't wait to the next book. I really hope there is one. I loved it all. The world, the gods, the magic, the mystic creatures, the romanceeeeeeee. I got hooked from the beginning and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. Hazel was amazing and so strong, so selfless. I really like reading through her. The secrets and the mistery, let's say that I was not expecting most of it. I'm going to love to see where hazels life will go after that ending. So ready for the next.
“What do you know about love?” I turned to him suddenly, and he nearly ran me over. “You live in a world full of lies, deceit, and selfishness. You’ve never loved anyone. You’re as old as Zaire and just as cruel.”
December 3, 2022
ARC from NetGalley
I really hoped to like this more. That cover... The insides did not live up.
Hazel is so naive and just such a dipshit. I wanted to hit her constantly. I couldn't root for her because I didn't like her because she is stupid.
The romance was crap. There's absolutely nothing to it. The love interest falls for her for no reason. They barely interact. There's no chemistry, and the whole thing just fell really flat for me.
The concept of the bizarre was really interesting. The story has potential, but the writing needs work.
I really hoped to like this more. That cover... The insides did not live up.
Hazel is so naive and just such a dipshit. I wanted to hit her constantly. I couldn't root for her because I didn't like her because she is stupid.
The romance was crap. There's absolutely nothing to it. The love interest falls for her for no reason. They barely interact. There's no chemistry, and the whole thing just fell really flat for me.
The concept of the bizarre was really interesting. The story has potential, but the writing needs work.
October 7, 2022
Thank you Book of Matches Media for an e-arc of this book, all opinions are my own
This was a fun, fast paced adventure! I knew it was compared to Caraval, and I can definitely see the influences. This book is basically Caraval.... if Caraval was out to kill you. But fear not, this is not a carbon copy of the other book. These Wicked Stars deals with Fates, Gods, and immortality, yes, but there is also mythological creatures, soul stealing, and a whole lot more magic.
The characters were all well written and unique too. In the beginning I thought there might be a love triangle of sorts, but I loved seeing the romance bloom between two of the characters (the third, well, he only wanted her for nefarious reasons). These characters literally traveled to the underworld and back, and I was always wondering what would happen next on this adventure. There is magic through the Bazaar, but also in objects such as pomegranate seeds or water from a specific pond. I can just feel the magic in the atmosphere throughout the book, and I loved it.
I would have loved to see more magical items in this, or even more backstory on how exactly the Gods got trapped and stayed gone for so long. I was able to guess a couple plot points (just from paying attention to what was happening), but I wish the main character had more power or even tried to explore what she could do. Granted, she did not know much about herself, but she stayed pretty blind and ignorant to what she could do pretty much throughout the whole book. Plus, the whole pomegranate seeds thing felt....a bit underwhelming, and I thought they would play a larger part than they did.
Overall, I did enjoy this book and it was a pretty quick read. There are not any spots where it really lagged, and I was kept on my toes from the magical creatures that kept getting introduced. I am interested in seeing where the story goes from here, and I hope that all the characters end up getting the endings they deserve (both good and bad). If you are a fan of magical events that show up only a few times in history, then I recommend this to you!
Content warnings: loss of a parent, abandonment, violence, blood, animal death, infidelity, abuse, slavery, death
This was a fun, fast paced adventure! I knew it was compared to Caraval, and I can definitely see the influences. This book is basically Caraval.... if Caraval was out to kill you. But fear not, this is not a carbon copy of the other book. These Wicked Stars deals with Fates, Gods, and immortality, yes, but there is also mythological creatures, soul stealing, and a whole lot more magic.
The characters were all well written and unique too. In the beginning I thought there might be a love triangle of sorts, but I loved seeing the romance bloom between two of the characters (the third, well, he only wanted her for nefarious reasons). These characters literally traveled to the underworld and back, and I was always wondering what would happen next on this adventure. There is magic through the Bazaar, but also in objects such as pomegranate seeds or water from a specific pond. I can just feel the magic in the atmosphere throughout the book, and I loved it.
I would have loved to see more magical items in this, or even more backstory on how exactly the Gods got trapped and stayed gone for so long. I was able to guess a couple plot points (just from paying attention to what was happening), but I wish the main character had more power or even tried to explore what she could do. Granted, she did not know much about herself, but she stayed pretty blind and ignorant to what she could do pretty much throughout the whole book. Plus, the whole pomegranate seeds thing felt....a bit underwhelming, and I thought they would play a larger part than they did.
Overall, I did enjoy this book and it was a pretty quick read. There are not any spots where it really lagged, and I was kept on my toes from the magical creatures that kept getting introduced. I am interested in seeing where the story goes from here, and I hope that all the characters end up getting the endings they deserve (both good and bad). If you are a fan of magical events that show up only a few times in history, then I recommend this to you!
Content warnings: loss of a parent, abandonment, violence, blood, animal death, infidelity, abuse, slavery, death
October 10, 2022
These Wicked Stars is a hidden gem! I had never heard of the novel or the author, so this book was a pleasant surprise! I couldn't put it down, which may or may not have impacted my schoolwork.
Hazel hasn't had the easiest life; an outcast in her small town, she feels everything will turn around when her betrothed, Linus, returns home. Unfortunately, Linus' return only sparks a downward spiral for Hazel as she becomes even more isolated. These unfortunate events lead Hazel to help a mysterious stranger, and she enters the Bazaar. This darkly marvellous place pops up every 30 years when the planets align. Hazel faces fantastic mythical creatures, heroes, villains and learns her true identity in this world.
I was immediately intrigued by the drama between Hazel and Linus and felt that the book's pacing was quite fast. It made me nervous that the heightened beginning would lead to a slow middle, but that wasn't the case. The novel has twists and turns and engaging, relevant plot points throughout.
Hazel viscerally enters the Bazaar, eliciting a physical reaction from the reader. Once in the Bazaar, my interest heightened further. We see both classical mythical beings and some new creatures of the dark as Hazel explores, trying to understand the strange new place. As she investigates, we meet a unique and varied cast of creative side characters that help Hazel learn through the Bazaar and aid in the character's immense personal growth. I wasn't sure of any of the characters' true intentions, other than Hazel which didn't feel gimmicky; it added the right amount of mystery and intrigue.
I disliked a few things about the story. In parts, I felt Hazel's clumsiness was repetitive, and I was afraid it would act as a bit of a plot device. While it didn't serve this purpose, it continued to stick out to me. A few grammatical errors jumped off the page to me, although I feel most people would oversee it. And the last thing I didn't like was the decision to skip over a few nights in the Bazaar. Because I was so enthralled with this world, I wanted all the content I could get.
Overall, this was a great read. It wraps up nicely, answering enough questions but leaving some unanswered for future novels in this series. I highly recommend it to fans of young-adult fantasy. These Wicked Stars is an exciting page-turner filled with love, loss and the perfect amount of mythical creatures.
Thank you to NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours for an ARC copy of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
October 27, 2022
"Love is not a weakness, Hazel. If I have to spend the next thousand years proving that you're enough, for me, for yourself, then I'll gladly do so."
A mysterious and alluring setting in a magical Bazaar certainly gives me the Caraval vibes!
Definitely recommended for fantasy lovers🙌
I really like the writing style, how it describes the world building - the Bazaar itself feels alive which makes it even more fascinating.
The concept might feel similar to Caraval, but it also feels like a different and unique story on its own.
The pacing is also good, not too fast and not too slow, it keeps me interested until the end.
The characters are pretty good, I hope they'll be more developed as the story goes.
To be honest, I feel more interested to know about the villain characters🤣
I got mix feeling with the FMC-Hazel. At first, Hazel is just too naive which annoyed me a bit but eventually she grow on me.
As for the love interest- Cassian, he remains a mysterious guy and I'm hoping there'll be a POV of his on the next book to get to know him better.
Moreover, Cassian relationship with Hazel changes from hate to love too fast for my liking but I'm still rooting for them.
The ending is full of twist and turns and finish it with a cliffhanger!😲
Overall, this is a good start for a fantasy series! There's still a lot of things to be discovered and I have so many questions that'll hopefully be answered in the next book.
I'm interested to know what happen next and will keep an eye out for the next book!💕
A huge thank you to Catelyn Wilson and BOMM Tours for giving me this e-ARC and allowing me to be a part of the book tour!
All thoughts are my own.
A mysterious and alluring setting in a magical Bazaar certainly gives me the Caraval vibes!
Definitely recommended for fantasy lovers🙌
I really like the writing style, how it describes the world building - the Bazaar itself feels alive which makes it even more fascinating.
The concept might feel similar to Caraval, but it also feels like a different and unique story on its own.
The pacing is also good, not too fast and not too slow, it keeps me interested until the end.
The characters are pretty good, I hope they'll be more developed as the story goes.
To be honest, I feel more interested to know about the villain characters🤣
I got mix feeling with the FMC-Hazel. At first, Hazel is just too naive which annoyed me a bit but eventually she grow on me.
As for the love interest- Cassian, he remains a mysterious guy and I'm hoping there'll be a POV of his on the next book to get to know him better.
Moreover, Cassian relationship with Hazel changes from hate to love too fast for my liking but I'm still rooting for them.
The ending is full of twist and turns and finish it with a cliffhanger!😲
Overall, this is a good start for a fantasy series! There's still a lot of things to be discovered and I have so many questions that'll hopefully be answered in the next book.
I'm interested to know what happen next and will keep an eye out for the next book!💕
A huge thank you to Catelyn Wilson and BOMM Tours for giving me this e-ARC and allowing me to be a part of the book tour!
All thoughts are my own.
September 24, 2022
3.5 - ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
"'All you truly need to know is this: find the palace of the King of the Bazaar on the highest hill."
These Wicked Stars is the first novel in a Young Adult Fantasy Romance series, following the character Hazel Blackthorn, a young women who has spent her life as an outcast because she is the product of adultery. When faced with the loss of her beloved because he must wed to save his family's wealth, Hazel takes on entering the infamous Bazaar, a place of power and temptation that once held the gods. She needs to find a mysterious medicine for her benefactor and, during her first day, draws the interest of the King of the Bazaar. She will need all her wits about her to uncover the mysteries behind this magic place and return to her world before she becomes trapped by the king and his silver-tongued lies.
Hazel is a young and, initially, naive girl. She idolizes her fiance and fails to see the writing on the walls. Her entering the Bazaar and seeing it for what it truly was was an eye-opening moment. I enjoyed seeing her gain knowledge and become strong. This was a truly character's journey for her and the story isn't even done yet.
Linus, her fiance, is a very one dimensional character and he felt predictable. Now, Cassian was a fascinating male character that I wish we could have dug deeper into as he balances between wanting to help Hazel but also be subservient to the King of the Bazaar. This is a low steam, no spice book but I saw glimpse of something blossoming - time will tell if it expands into the next book. Cassian contrasts the King of Bazaar really well and their story stuck with me. Overall, I felt the characters, separately, were interesting but their relationships weren't as well articulated so I couldn't invest in them like I usually do.
"'Anyone who comes to the Bazaar is searching for something for themselves. Usually, they find it...By the time travellers reach my tavern, they are usually missing at least half their soul. You are the only one I have met that is still whole.'"
In terms of plot, I felt some pacing was a little off as we moved into the middle of the book - I kind of felt lost on what was happening. The ending really ramped up towards the end I really enjoyed the twists that were there. I also felt some of the side characters did a great job pushing along the story, especially when we consider the Hazel begins this journey rather clueless. She needed people to start her journey and the interactions that progressed the story made sense to me.
Overall, I found These Wicked Stars to be a good YA fantasy book that reminded me of fairy tales and Stardust . The romance is low but there is a fascinating world opening up and the ending makes me curious to see how the conflict will continue moving forward.
This review is based off an ARC received from Netgalley.
"'All you truly need to know is this: find the palace of the King of the Bazaar on the highest hill."
These Wicked Stars is the first novel in a Young Adult Fantasy Romance series, following the character Hazel Blackthorn, a young women who has spent her life as an outcast because she is the product of adultery. When faced with the loss of her beloved because he must wed to save his family's wealth, Hazel takes on entering the infamous Bazaar, a place of power and temptation that once held the gods. She needs to find a mysterious medicine for her benefactor and, during her first day, draws the interest of the King of the Bazaar. She will need all her wits about her to uncover the mysteries behind this magic place and return to her world before she becomes trapped by the king and his silver-tongued lies.
Hazel is a young and, initially, naive girl. She idolizes her fiance and fails to see the writing on the walls. Her entering the Bazaar and seeing it for what it truly was was an eye-opening moment. I enjoyed seeing her gain knowledge and become strong. This was a truly character's journey for her and the story isn't even done yet.
Linus, her fiance, is a very one dimensional character and he felt predictable. Now, Cassian was a fascinating male character that I wish we could have dug deeper into as he balances between wanting to help Hazel but also be subservient to the King of the Bazaar. This is a low steam, no spice book but I saw glimpse of something blossoming - time will tell if it expands into the next book. Cassian contrasts the King of Bazaar really well and their story stuck with me. Overall, I felt the characters, separately, were interesting but their relationships weren't as well articulated so I couldn't invest in them like I usually do.
"'Anyone who comes to the Bazaar is searching for something for themselves. Usually, they find it...By the time travellers reach my tavern, they are usually missing at least half their soul. You are the only one I have met that is still whole.'"
In terms of plot, I felt some pacing was a little off as we moved into the middle of the book - I kind of felt lost on what was happening. The ending really ramped up towards the end I really enjoyed the twists that were there. I also felt some of the side characters did a great job pushing along the story, especially when we consider the Hazel begins this journey rather clueless. She needed people to start her journey and the interactions that progressed the story made sense to me.
Overall, I found These Wicked Stars to be a good YA fantasy book that reminded me of fairy tales and Stardust . The romance is low but there is a fascinating world opening up and the ending makes me curious to see how the conflict will continue moving forward.
This review is based off an ARC received from Netgalley.
October 15, 2022
I received this book as en eARC through NetGalley
Every 30 years a passage to a magical bazaar opens for those looking to find what they desire. When Hazel’s engagement is threatened, she’ll do whatever it takes to save her engagement and live her life free of her family shame. Even when it means entering the Bazaar and facing creatures that would like nothing more than to claim her soul.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are compelling, and any romance with a little forced proximity and enemies to lovers is always a plus. It’s a mythological inspired fantasy with a female protagonist who is more than she may seem.
Our main character Hazel is fantastic, she has a strong moral compass, despite her troubled past and as she discovers things about herself and the world she’s entered, she faces these challenges head on. The villain of the story, a lethal king with a masked interest in our protagonist and a hidden rage will entice readers like myself, who love to see villains with a personal preoccupation with the main character. While the morally grey love interest with a certain devotion to the main character will endear everybody.
I find that some books struggle with characters and motivations when creating a world such as this with specific rules and this book did a great job of creating fully developed characters while also including twists you may not see coming. I did find that the pacing ebbed and flowed in terms of intrigue, but I’m still really excited to see where this story goes.
Every 30 years a passage to a magical bazaar opens for those looking to find what they desire. When Hazel’s engagement is threatened, she’ll do whatever it takes to save her engagement and live her life free of her family shame. Even when it means entering the Bazaar and facing creatures that would like nothing more than to claim her soul.
I really enjoyed this book. The characters are compelling, and any romance with a little forced proximity and enemies to lovers is always a plus. It’s a mythological inspired fantasy with a female protagonist who is more than she may seem.
Our main character Hazel is fantastic, she has a strong moral compass, despite her troubled past and as she discovers things about herself and the world she’s entered, she faces these challenges head on. The villain of the story, a lethal king with a masked interest in our protagonist and a hidden rage will entice readers like myself, who love to see villains with a personal preoccupation with the main character. While the morally grey love interest with a certain devotion to the main character will endear everybody.
I find that some books struggle with characters and motivations when creating a world such as this with specific rules and this book did a great job of creating fully developed characters while also including twists you may not see coming. I did find that the pacing ebbed and flowed in terms of intrigue, but I’m still really excited to see where this story goes.
October 18, 2022
3.5 stars
A magical bazaar run by the old gods appears every 30 years. It usually attracts the wayward and the misfit. Within, a person may acquire their hearts desire for a price.
After her fiance is forced into an arranged engagement, Hazel makes a bargain with a stranger to get him back. Now she must brave the bazaar to aquire something in exchange for a life with the man she loves.
When I began the book I got extremely excited. It contained very specific things I love about fantasy - bargains, a quest, and forbidden fruit/wine. Then a little ways in I thought I came to a love triangle similar, if not identical to that of ACOTAR, which I hate. Then halfway in, I realized I was mistaken and I was feeling like I was getting a more sinister Caraval vibe. But really really I was wrong. All of the prejudices and past reading experience we're being assumed before I really gave it a chance. The second half showed how much of its own story it really was.
The almost-but-not-quite insta romance could have been drawn out a touch more in the beginning for the more slow burn, the middle was a bit shaky, and I totally guessed who the stranger was at the get-go so it was a belabored plot point that wasn't a surprise at all. However, I enjoyed this book despite my early judgements. I don't think it was the pinnacle of my reading experience by any stretch, but it was a fun read. I look forward to the sequel!
Thank you to Netgalley for sending this eArc in exchange for an honest review.
A magical bazaar run by the old gods appears every 30 years. It usually attracts the wayward and the misfit. Within, a person may acquire their hearts desire for a price.
After her fiance is forced into an arranged engagement, Hazel makes a bargain with a stranger to get him back. Now she must brave the bazaar to aquire something in exchange for a life with the man she loves.
When I began the book I got extremely excited. It contained very specific things I love about fantasy - bargains, a quest, and forbidden fruit/wine. Then a little ways in I thought I came to a love triangle similar, if not identical to that of ACOTAR, which I hate. Then halfway in, I realized I was mistaken and I was feeling like I was getting a more sinister Caraval vibe. But really really I was wrong. All of the prejudices and past reading experience we're being assumed before I really gave it a chance. The second half showed how much of its own story it really was.
The almost-but-not-quite insta romance could have been drawn out a touch more in the beginning for the more slow burn, the middle was a bit shaky, and I totally guessed who the stranger was at the get-go so it was a belabored plot point that wasn't a surprise at all. However, I enjoyed this book despite my early judgements. I don't think it was the pinnacle of my reading experience by any stretch, but it was a fun read. I look forward to the sequel!
Thank you to Netgalley for sending this eArc in exchange for an honest review.
February 20, 2023
My rating: 2.5 stars
I’m going to be so real right now, I just didn’t feel it with this book. These Wicked Stars is a YA fantasy “romance” novel. I don’t REALLY want to call it a romance book because there is like three kissing scenes and that’s it (I wouldn’t expect there to be much since it’s a YA anyways!).
I really wanted to like this book, I really did. The Bazaar concept was so cool and it intrigued me reading the blurb, but it turned out to be… meh. The pacing of the book is a little weird too. It kind of shifts back and forth from slow to fast. This book really didn’t deliver.
Hazel is so naive it pisses me off LOL, I get it, it’s a YA, but damn it was laid right in front of her and she didn’t think about it until the END? 😭
Another thing to add, the author skips like three days worth of information? There are 7 or 8 days of the Alignment, and the author skips days 5 and 6 for some reason? Idk I think that could be something valuable if you make it to be, but oh well.
I think this book is definitely suited for younger readers, other than the violence, death, blood, etc. Sadly, this book just not my cup of tea.
I’m going to be so real right now, I just didn’t feel it with this book. These Wicked Stars is a YA fantasy “romance” novel. I don’t REALLY want to call it a romance book because there is like three kissing scenes and that’s it (I wouldn’t expect there to be much since it’s a YA anyways!).
I really wanted to like this book, I really did. The Bazaar concept was so cool and it intrigued me reading the blurb, but it turned out to be… meh. The pacing of the book is a little weird too. It kind of shifts back and forth from slow to fast. This book really didn’t deliver.
Hazel is so naive it pisses me off LOL, I get it, it’s a YA, but damn it was laid right in front of her and she didn’t think about it until the END? 😭
Another thing to add, the author skips like three days worth of information? There are 7 or 8 days of the Alignment, and the author skips days 5 and 6 for some reason? Idk I think that could be something valuable if you make it to be, but oh well.
I think this book is definitely suited for younger readers, other than the violence, death, blood, etc. Sadly, this book just not my cup of tea.
October 2, 2022
"Love is not a weakness, Hazel. If I have to spend the next thousand years proving that you are enough, for me, for yourself, then I'll gladly do so."
Hazel is the bastard daughter of a nameless sailor, she has no status and no station. So when her fiance is taken by her cousin, Hazel has had enough and will do anything to gather enough money to free her fiance from the need to marry her cousin. Even if that means travelling to the mysterious, mythical and sinful Bazaar. But with secrets threatening to unravel and destroy everything she's worked for and feelings for a mysterious shadow man wavering her belief in love, Hazel must remember that if you know what you want, you'll never find it...
This richly imaginative world of magic and sin will draw you in and trap you; while you try to navigate the web of secrets that is expertly weaved throughout a tale packed full of mystery, romance and action.
✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨
I'll try to keep this review short because I cannot think right now after reading that book! It was just better than I could've ever imagined. I was drawn in by the cover, I was curious after the blurb and I could not get enough after finishing. Seriously! I need the next book, like now!! I loved everything about this book! It did get frustrating at times but I just loved the mystery and while I did guess the big plot twist it didn't make it obvious from the start but just enough that I had to make up a few other theories along the way.
The Bazaar was such a fantastical place and it was written beautifully! I loved all the wonderful descriptions and new experiences that were discovered! The characters stole my heart. Cassian stole my heart. I loved him and his fierce protectiveness! Like UUGHHH give me someone like that in real life! Hazel was such a great character to follow, she didn't come across as annoying or over-bearing but just someone who was trying to get some love, trying to reach for the life that has been dangling in front of her, so close, but just out of reach. I loved her journey and her trip through the Bazaar there weren't many other characters, so in that sense it was a bit lacking. But I can look over that because I thought that each character that was introduced, while could've been fleshed out a bit more, fit into the story perfectly.
I just loved this book. Especially Cassian... I can't stop thinking about what is going to happen next!! Like seriously! ahem... sorry... I don't know if that is a spoiler but oh well... All I have to say is you should definately go and preorder this book. Like right now. It releases on October 31 so go and get your copy! You'd be doing yourself a big favour!
Thanks to BOMM tours and the author for an arc copy in exchange for my honest review.
Hazel is the bastard daughter of a nameless sailor, she has no status and no station. So when her fiance is taken by her cousin, Hazel has had enough and will do anything to gather enough money to free her fiance from the need to marry her cousin. Even if that means travelling to the mysterious, mythical and sinful Bazaar. But with secrets threatening to unravel and destroy everything she's worked for and feelings for a mysterious shadow man wavering her belief in love, Hazel must remember that if you know what you want, you'll never find it...
This richly imaginative world of magic and sin will draw you in and trap you; while you try to navigate the web of secrets that is expertly weaved throughout a tale packed full of mystery, romance and action.
✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨ ✨
I'll try to keep this review short because I cannot think right now after reading that book! It was just better than I could've ever imagined. I was drawn in by the cover, I was curious after the blurb and I could not get enough after finishing. Seriously! I need the next book, like now!! I loved everything about this book! It did get frustrating at times but I just loved the mystery and while I did guess the big plot twist it didn't make it obvious from the start but just enough that I had to make up a few other theories along the way.
The Bazaar was such a fantastical place and it was written beautifully! I loved all the wonderful descriptions and new experiences that were discovered! The characters stole my heart. Cassian stole my heart. I loved him and his fierce protectiveness! Like UUGHHH give me someone like that in real life! Hazel was such a great character to follow, she didn't come across as annoying or over-bearing but just someone who was trying to get some love, trying to reach for the life that has been dangling in front of her, so close, but just out of reach. I loved her journey and her trip through the Bazaar there weren't many other characters, so in that sense it was a bit lacking. But I can look over that because I thought that each character that was introduced, while could've been fleshed out a bit more, fit into the story perfectly.
I just loved this book. Especially Cassian... I can't stop thinking about what is going to happen next!! Like seriously! ahem... sorry... I don't know if that is a spoiler but oh well... All I have to say is you should definately go and preorder this book. Like right now. It releases on October 31 so go and get your copy! You'd be doing yourself a big favour!
Thanks to BOMM tours and the author for an arc copy in exchange for my honest review.
October 25, 2022
I really liked this one! It definitely reminded me of Caraval, but i liked it so much more.
First off, the setting. It was my favorite setting in ages. Everything about it was whimsical and magical. I could picture everything about it in my mind. It was beautifully built, and I loved it. Carnival settings are some of my favorites, so I knew I'd love this, but I had no idea how much.
I also really liked our main character, Hazel. I do wish we'd gotten to explore her powers and bloodline a bit more, but I expect that to come in the next book. She was a great mix of kind and determined, and I loved how different she felt from other YA heroines.
Although I expected to enjoy this, I'm surprised by how much I did! It was a super magical read in a world I loved escaping into!
Thanks to Book of Matches Media for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
First off, the setting. It was my favorite setting in ages. Everything about it was whimsical and magical. I could picture everything about it in my mind. It was beautifully built, and I loved it. Carnival settings are some of my favorites, so I knew I'd love this, but I had no idea how much.
I also really liked our main character, Hazel. I do wish we'd gotten to explore her powers and bloodline a bit more, but I expect that to come in the next book. She was a great mix of kind and determined, and I loved how different she felt from other YA heroines.
Although I expected to enjoy this, I'm surprised by how much I did! It was a super magical read in a world I loved escaping into!
Thanks to Book of Matches Media for providing a free copy in exchange for an honest review!
November 7, 2022
These Wicked Stars was an incredible concept that ultimately left me wanting a bit more.
Readers follow Hazel Blackthorn, a bastard and outcast, as she fights to wed her secret fiance at any cost. As her circumstances deteriorate Hazel is approached by a mysterious stranger and made an offer that could solve all her problems. The only catch....Hazel must enter a mysterious and otherworldly Bazaar and complete a task thats both shrouded in mystery and time sensitive.
There are so many reasons why this should of worked for me. The concept is amazing, the possibilities for atmosphere and beautiful prose while one explores a mythical Bazaar are ripe for the picking! I loved the classic quest premises too. Unfortunately this story felt rushed and oddly paced for me. I couldn't shake the thought of how badly I wanted this story woven by another writer. I wanted lush atmosphere and lyrical writing paired with this story and that isn't what we got.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the review copy.
Readers follow Hazel Blackthorn, a bastard and outcast, as she fights to wed her secret fiance at any cost. As her circumstances deteriorate Hazel is approached by a mysterious stranger and made an offer that could solve all her problems. The only catch....Hazel must enter a mysterious and otherworldly Bazaar and complete a task thats both shrouded in mystery and time sensitive.
There are so many reasons why this should of worked for me. The concept is amazing, the possibilities for atmosphere and beautiful prose while one explores a mythical Bazaar are ripe for the picking! I loved the classic quest premises too. Unfortunately this story felt rushed and oddly paced for me. I couldn't shake the thought of how badly I wanted this story woven by another writer. I wanted lush atmosphere and lyrical writing paired with this story and that isn't what we got.
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for the review copy.
October 25, 2022
This book had a great, intriguing concept, but, for me, it didn't deliver.
The main problem for me was the main character, Hazel, who felt naive and dramatic. She threw screaming fits and tried to hurt Cassian, her mysterious guide, for anything that upset her whether it was his fault or not. I had a hard time connecting with her. She also seemed to lack any growth as she still believed every negative thing about herself she'd started the book believing.
The Bazaar itself was interesting, and I liked how it came to life. The magic of the setting was my favorite part.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
The main problem for me was the main character, Hazel, who felt naive and dramatic. She threw screaming fits and tried to hurt Cassian, her mysterious guide, for anything that upset her whether it was his fault or not. I had a hard time connecting with her. She also seemed to lack any growth as she still believed every negative thing about herself she'd started the book believing.
The Bazaar itself was interesting, and I liked how it came to life. The magic of the setting was my favorite part.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours in exchange for an honest review.
October 7, 2022
I’m not going to bother with a synopsis for this one because I just don’t care enough.
This book read like a knock-off Caraval and utilizes practically every YA stereotype in the book: main character being The Chosen One and magically knowing how to use powers they didn’t know they had, thousand-year-old immortal in the body of a young hot guy falling for the very young female protagonist, etc. I could go on, but I won’t.
The mythology of the world is never clear; the lack of explanation could add to the sense of mystery it seems the author was trying to create but instead just frustrates and confuses. The characters all read as two-dimensional archetypes with little to no depth. For example, wicked stepmother and stepsister are evil just because; hot immortal is interested in the main character for no reason other than she’s “special”; and the protagonist is naive to the point of agony, ignoring all rules of sense as she progresses.
The premise is promising, intriguing even with its similarities to the bestselling series mentioned above. But its failure to craft a well-rounded story only makes its lack of originality all the more evident.
The ending is left open enough that it seems a sequel is in the works. I will not be reading it.
2 stars for hints of potential.
Content warning: blood, death, violence.
*Special thanks to the author and NetGalley for providing an e-arc in exchange for a fair and honest review!*
This book read like a knock-off Caraval and utilizes practically every YA stereotype in the book: main character being The Chosen One and magically knowing how to use powers they didn’t know they had, thousand-year-old immortal in the body of a young hot guy falling for the very young female protagonist, etc. I could go on, but I won’t.
The mythology of the world is never clear; the lack of explanation could add to the sense of mystery it seems the author was trying to create but instead just frustrates and confuses. The characters all read as two-dimensional archetypes with little to no depth. For example, wicked stepmother and stepsister are evil just because; hot immortal is interested in the main character for no reason other than she’s “special”; and the protagonist is naive to the point of agony, ignoring all rules of sense as she progresses.
The premise is promising, intriguing even with its similarities to the bestselling series mentioned above. But its failure to craft a well-rounded story only makes its lack of originality all the more evident.
The ending is left open enough that it seems a sequel is in the works. I will not be reading it.
2 stars for hints of potential.
Content warning: blood, death, violence.
*Special thanks to the author and NetGalley for providing an e-arc in exchange for a fair and honest review!*
September 29, 2022
Hazel is an outcast, a bastard child of her disgraced dead mother and a no name sailor. She plans to marry her secret fiance but finds out that he has to marry her cousin instead because of her family money. When she believes all hope is lost, she meets a man who offers her riches in exchange for visiting the mythical Bazaar and bringing him medicine for his wife. Hazel agrees and enters the Bazaar only to find out nothing is as it seems. Hazel finds herself in the sights of the King of the Bazaar and races against time to find out what the king wants and make it out of the Bazaar before it's too late.
My thoughts:
I was so excited to read this ARC and couldn't wait to share my feedback!
This is a fantastic fantasy/mythical read with twists and turns all around. In the Bazaar, anything is possible...for a price.
The magical Bazaar is mysterious and full of tricks and monsters that challenge Hazel while on her mission. I was sucked in rooting for her and wondering what she could possibly encounter next. A fun and enchanting work of fiction filled with mystery, a desperate race against time, and a dash of romance. The writing is very well done and the descriptions are captivating.
Already looking forward to book 2!
Thank you NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours for the chance to read this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
My thoughts:
I was so excited to read this ARC and couldn't wait to share my feedback!
This is a fantastic fantasy/mythical read with twists and turns all around. In the Bazaar, anything is possible...for a price.
The magical Bazaar is mysterious and full of tricks and monsters that challenge Hazel while on her mission. I was sucked in rooting for her and wondering what she could possibly encounter next. A fun and enchanting work of fiction filled with mystery, a desperate race against time, and a dash of romance. The writing is very well done and the descriptions are captivating.
Already looking forward to book 2!
Thank you NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours for the chance to read this eARC in exchange for my honest review!
October 17, 2022
These Wicked Stars is a YA fantasy that follows Hazel, an unwanted bastard child who has been punished for her mothers adultery from birth. After loosing her fiancé, she Embarks on a quest to the Bazaar, a magical land filled with temptations and your hearts greatest desires, for a price.
I’m going to start by saying this was a quick read for me (I finished it in a few hours). I enjoyed the basis of the plot and Wilson’s writing definitely books you in at the beginning. That being said I definitely think that this book was on the younger side of ya and so not for me. The plot was easy to read through which made the plot twists easy to spot. I will say all in all this was a nice pallet cleanser between heavy fantasy series (for now - I know this is going to be a continuing series in the future).
~ NetGalley arc ~
I’m going to start by saying this was a quick read for me (I finished it in a few hours). I enjoyed the basis of the plot and Wilson’s writing definitely books you in at the beginning. That being said I definitely think that this book was on the younger side of ya and so not for me. The plot was easy to read through which made the plot twists easy to spot. I will say all in all this was a nice pallet cleanser between heavy fantasy series (for now - I know this is going to be a continuing series in the future).
~ NetGalley arc ~
December 15, 2022
4.5 Stars
If you like Caraval I think you'll like this! The writing is brilliant! So descriptive and lyrical! It's got a smooth pace that keeps you entertained the whole time! The world building is lush and the Bazaar is like a world unto itself!
I started out with high hopes for Hazel our FMC but by 60% she was annoying the heck out of me - she was super naive and made only stupid choices! I honestly have no idea what Cassian sees in her but he's a fantastic mysterious MMC. Here's hoping in the next book her character grows a lot....
If you like Caraval I think you'll like this! The writing is brilliant! So descriptive and lyrical! It's got a smooth pace that keeps you entertained the whole time! The world building is lush and the Bazaar is like a world unto itself!
I started out with high hopes for Hazel our FMC but by 60% she was annoying the heck out of me - she was super naive and made only stupid choices! I honestly have no idea what Cassian sees in her but he's a fantastic mysterious MMC. Here's hoping in the next book her character grows a lot....
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