Growing up, Autumn and Finny were like peas in a pod despite their differences: Autumn is “quirky and odd,” while Finny is “sweet and shy and everyone like him.” But in eighth grade, Autumn and Finny stop being friends due to an unexpected kiss. They drift apart and find new friends, but their friendship keeps asserting itself at parties, shared holiday gatherings and random encounters. The finely drawn characters capture readers’ attention in this debut.Īutumn and Phineas, nicknamed Finny, were born a week apart their mothers are still best friends. This nuanced sequel offers new perspectives and emphasizes the value and complexity of both sibling and romantic relationships. Apart from Harper’s brother’s boyfriend, who is black, the majority of characters appear to be white Harper has cerebral palsy. This sweeping, romantic epic repeatedly turns the tables on the fantasy tropes that readers might be expecting. Like Harper in A Curse So Dark and Lonely (2019), Lia Mara proves herself the undisputed hero right up to the stunning conclusion. Their journey, told through alternating first-person perspectives, provides a Cook’s tour of both countries, prompting thoughtful consideration of their distinct social and cultural traditions-and just enough time for romance to blossom. When Rhen’s conditioned fear of magic leads him to do the unthinkable, Lia Mara helps Grey escape. Meanwhile, Rhen’s former guard commander, Grey, has been captured and questioned about his knowledge of the mysterious heir.

While the queen of Syhl Shallow regroups after a failed invasion, her elder daughter, 18-year-old Lia Mara, makes a doomed attempt to negotiate peace with Rhen. The enchantress’s curse has been broken, but no happily-ever-after awaits Princess Harper and Prince Rhen Rhen struggles with severe PTSD while rumors spread of an heir with magical abilities, weakening his claim to the throne.

A group of young people forge unexpected bonds that are tested when they must choose between love and duty.

A heart fierce and broken