‘UNRAVELING’: Solid Sequel Follows up YA Fantasy Debut, ‘Unblemished’
STORY: In the aftermath of her life forever changing, Eliyana Ember is about to be crowned queen of her new realm (aka the place she’s meant to now call home). Growing up in contemporary New York, El is thrust into a world of fantasy and unexpected dangers. Being queen of this realm means she must prove wrong the deflated expectations her subjects have of her reign.
To further complicate things is the Kiss of Infinity she shares with a boy gone physically, but never far from her mind. Their bond won’t be denied despite the efforts of her fiancé, Joshua. The boy El once thought she loved without reservations. Now she questions everything. Is Joshua still the boy she loves? Why does she have this unexplained connection to Ky? And who or what is behind the Callings failure?
Unraveling, by Sara Ella | Book Review
Same as is the story with Unblemished, this follow up novel is a kind of magical experience. Booktuber Sara Ella wrote an emotionally complex YA novel with her debut and her sequel keeps that same powerful storytelling. Book two picks up where its prequel leaves off, and delves into more emotionally intriguing and complex mind-bending queries.
“Because true beauty comes from within, from the person you are.” – Sara Ella
What I love most about this series (one of the things I love best) is that this is more about the emotional cliffhangers than edge-of-your-seat thrills. Sometimes it’s nice to read something that’s about character rather than events driving everything. This helps the reader learn more about these characters and helps “ground” us in their version of reality.
In conclusion, Unraveling is a solid, intriguing and breathtaking adventure that follows up its predecessor in a memorable fashion. Every part of this novel is unique. It’s these elements that blend fantasy (a world that feels a little bit like The Mortal Instruments) with a strong fairytale “voice.” This series doesn’t fall prey to the same-old, same-old mantra so many of its peers do. Sara keeps the voices fresh, engaging and pressing towards more secrets that help the reader better grasp the story and its inhabitants.
‘UNRAVELING’: Solid Sequel Follows up YA Fantasy Debut, ‘Unblemished’ #bookarchives #YALit #FantasyFiction Share on XOne thing those of us who love romance will love is the “resolution” of the romantic entanglement. Saying more about this is sure to go into spoilers which makes me hesitant to continue, but I will say that (for me) there’s answers. It’s not the kind of answer that means there won’t be complications in book three, but it’s a decisive choice that gives me a sense the back-and-forth will be in the right frame of mind. Unraveling easily outwits the competition with its smart narrative and equally interesting protagonists.
Romantic, adventurous and fulfilling, Unraveling soars above the competitive fray with its poignant themes of true beauty and true love. It challenges its readers in the best ways and makes us pause while still giving its readers an adventure not to be missed. ♥
A B O U T THE B O O K
Author: Sara Ella
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Source: Publisher Provided – thank you, TNZ Fiction!
Publication Date: 2017
Find the Review elsewhere: Goodreads
E L S E W H E R E: Goodreads
Genre: Fiction; Fantasy, Young Adult Contemporary
Series: Unblemished, Book 2
Rating: ★★★★½
Sincere thanks to TNZ Fiction (the publisher) for providing a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
I have so many things to say, where do I start?! I've had this book preordered for months and now that I have it, I still haven't read it! Ahhh! But your review definitely makes me want to, since it is totally amazing.
"Romantic, adventurous and fulfilling, Unraveling soars above the competitive fray with its poignant themes of true beauty and true love." THIS LINE IS PERFECTION. How do you always manage to wrap everything you need to know in one sentence?! That is talent!!
Um, and is that really the cover for the next book?! I feel faint, it's GORGEOUS.
On a side note, your new header!!! It's absolutely stunning! You always manage to amaze me with your skills, girl. :)
Ok, I need to stop writing or else this comment will end up a mile long. Too late, maybe? Sorry!!
Bekah, you haven't read this one yet?? Girl, make it next on your TBR. :) It's so much good wrapped inside this pretty package.
(Thank you. As always, I appreciate your kind words and all the encouragement for Finding Wonderland. Thanks!)
I'm not sure! I haven't seen an "official" reveal, but that one did pop up on Goodreads??? Either way, it goes really well with the series!
Thanks! I had lots of fun with this header. But then, do I say that with each one?? ;)
(You know I like any and all comments! Mine long ones are most welcome.)
I haven't read any of Sara Ella. This sounds like an entertaining book for sure. I'm stopping by from the Saturday Situation. Hope you'll stop by my Descendants book review.
It most definitely is an entertaining read, Kelly. If you ever have a chance to read Sara's books, I do hope you enjoy them. So nice to have you stop by – and I most certainly will stop by your blog. :)
I really like the structure of your reviews, and your thoughts are explained perfectly. I am thinking on reading Sara Ella's first book soon because I've heard very good things about it. I think I might enjoy this series. Great post!
Thank you, Sophie. I appreciate the kind words; it's always nice to know what I write makes sense. :)
I hope you enjoy Sara's book if you read it. Her novels are so much fun. I adore the fairytale vibes and the overall "feel" of these books. Happy read.
Thanks so much for stopping by.