Book Review: The Girl of Fire and Thorns by Rea Carson

Author: Rae Carson
Release Date: September 20th, 2011
Publisher: Greenwillow Books
5 Stars - A TRULY AMAZING READ!

Synopsis:
Once a century, one person is chosen for greatness.
Elisa is the chosen one.
But she is also the younger of two princesses, the one who has never done anything remarkable. She can’t see how she ever will.
Now, on her sixteenth birthday, she has become the secret wife of a handsome and worldly king—a king whose country is in turmoil. A king who needs the chosen one, not a failure of a princess.
And he’s not the only one who needs her. Savage enemies seething with dark magic are hunting her. A daring, determined revolutionary thinks she could be his people’s savior. And he looks at her in a way that no man has ever looked at her before. Soon it is not just her life, but her very heart that is at stake.
Elisa could be everything to those who need her most. If the prophecy is fulfilled. If she finds the power deep within herself. If she doesn’t die young.
Most of the chosen do.

I have to say I was pleasantly surprised by this book.  I do not hand out five stars lightly! I had no idea what is was about when I first picked it up.  What a fresh new read! I absolutely adored this book.  It was so different to be reading a true YA fantasy novel. Considering the complete engrossment I have had to the Game of Thrones series, this book stood right up there with them. 

I was a little thrown back in the beginning with a "plump" seemingly cowardice heroine.  Normally YA books have this kick-butt skinny brave chick as the main character.  Elise, did not start off as one.  It was wonderful to read her transformation into a strong leader, and feel every bit of her story unfold.  The book is beautifully written and enchanting down to the last bit.  There are twists, turns, intrigue, and betrayals.  My second favorite character was Cosme.  She was harsh and untrusted to Elise, but in the end you understand why and her true character comes out.  

 

It is a true epic fantasy read (the only thing missing was a dragon.) =0)                 

photo and synopsis courtesy of Goodreads