This is a spoiler-free review!
I loved An Enchantment of Ravens, and was so excited to finally dive into this book. The premise really drew me in - sorcerers, magic libraries, and grimoires are just the beginning of the world that Rogerson creates for this story. Elisabeth has basically been raised by books, and in her training to become a warden, she is thrown into unprecedented times as she is tied to various crimes she was not involved in.
As a young adult fantasy, I always expect the protagonist to still be growing into themselves, and I try to give them a little grace when it comes to their common sense. While Elisabeth is certainly excelling in the book smart department, she definitely could use some smarting up in street smarts - I fear she is too easy to kidnap and just a second behind and piecing things together when not presented in a grimoire.
Nathaniel Thorn... my oh my... he easily bewitched me in such a short amount of time, it was honestly impressive. He is incredibly cocky and has an excellent sense of humor, even when he is not trying to be funny. The dynamic that he and Elisabeth have reflects a wisp of enemies to lovers, but in the sense that they are not true rivals, but more so agitated with one another that leads to something more than either expected. His past is slowly revealed throughout the story, and the more that he and Elisabeth work together, the more her world is turned upside down.
The world building comes in hot and fast, and I had a bit of whiplash trying to keep track of the basics as we were thrown right into conflict. Getting used to the system and terms took a few chapters to really understand the pillars of the story, but once you get into the groove of it, it becomes much easier to follow. The combination of a slow burn relationship between Elisabeth and Nathaniel, and the journey they go on to unveil the truth behind a number of lies created such a rich story.
Demons and sorcerers are only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the intricacies in this world, and Elisabeth's own self discovery and growth as she seeks to prove her innocence shows a great balance between plot and development. The side characters, while a touch sparse in some chapters, added solid relationships for Nathaniel and Elisabeth as they embarked on their quest. The friendships made along the way and the sense of family, especially for Elisabeth, was heartwarming and endearing to watch come together.
For fans of The Kiss of Deception by Mary E. Pearson, this young adult fantasy will transport you to a world of magical books and an enchanting world filled with discovery and adventure.
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