Should you read this popular fantasy series

Should you read this popular fantasy series?

Emma Aviv '24

Website Designer

As someone who thoroughly enjoys books, I often see other readers raving about different novels and series on social media, especially regarding the fantasy genre. From Young Adult (YA) to Adult Fantasy, I see the same few series being praised and reviewed nearly every day. We are going to decide whether these series are worth reading based on the first book.

1.“A Court of Thorns and Roses” by Sarah J. Maas

This novel follows a girl, Feyre, as she faces the consequences of killing a faerie as a mortal. She goes from being the sole provider of her family after they lose their fortune to living lavishly in a magical land.

The book is the first in what may be considered the token fantasy romance series. The novel is also known as the entry ticket to the series, as it is notably the worst of the current five books. While only being 416 pages long, it felt nearly impossible to get through. In all honesty, this took me over a year to read (without the help of a reading slump).

Based solely on the first novel, I would not recommend the series. The characters are flat, the plot is mostly boring, and the main character is nothing short of the “I’m not like other girls” archetype. The first 75 percent of the novel is full of seemingly unimportant events and descriptions that do not add to the plot of this individual book in the series. It is only in the last 25 percent that a real plot ensues and action begins to take place.

2. “The Cruel Prince” by Holly Black

This novel centers around a girl named Jude who, by unfortunate circumstances, was abducted by a war general from an unknown faerie land along with her twin sister Taryn. She soon realizes there is a plan being hatched to kill the king as one of his successors plans to take over.

Based on this book alone, I would absolutely recommend the series. Upon finishing this book, I immediately made a trip to Barnes & Noble to pick up the rest of the trilogy. The main character is the perfect representation of what it means to be unapologetically powerful and clever, while not being the standard “pick me” archetype that is so prevalent in Young Adult novels.

Considering it is a fast paced medium length novel (370 pages), it was extremely immersive and captivating. I don’t give out five star ratings too often, but this book exceeded my expectations and got an easy five stars. I don’t want to overhype this novel, but if you like YA fantasy, I would recommend looking into this series.

3. “Six of Crows” by Leigh Bardugo

This novel follows a group of six “misfits” as they execute a heist with the purpose of capturing a valued scientist to ensure the safety of both the world and powerful individuals referred to as Grisha.

The “Six of Crows” duology follows the popular Young Adult fantasy trilogy “Shadow and Bone.” The first issue to address is whether the preceding trilogy, “Shadow and Bone,” is worth reading for the sake of worldbuilding. In my clearly professional opinion, no. While it is not bad, it is completely outshined by “Six of Crows.” This novel is beyond amazing, as it includes a tense plot full of action, top tier character dynamics and personality, and much more diversity than the original trilogy.

This book is great whether you are new to the fantasy genre or a seasoned veteran. The flow is great, as you switch between multiple perspectives throughout the novel. The story also starts really strong, with a jarring first chapter that’s sure to keep you hooked. This novel is a bit on the longer side, being 480 pages long. However, it was an absolute page turner and nearly impossible to put down.

Brooke Freyer '24 posing with her favorite book "Six of Crows."

There are plenty of great novels and series out there that receive a lot of love on social media. While not all are absolutely worthwhile, many are definitely worth the read. Keep in mind that every novel and series has its own special qualities. Even though I may not be the biggest fan of one of these particular series, it may just become your favorite.