Warbringer by Leigh Bardugo
Publication Date: August 29th, 2017
Genre: Fantasy
Publisher: Random House Books For Young Readers
Source: ARC from Yallwest
Link to the author:
http://www.leighbardugo.com/m/
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Book Depository
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RATING: 4 Stars
FAVOURITE QUOTE:
“Sister in battle, I am shield and blade to you. As I breathe, your enemies will know no sanctuary. While I live, your cause is mine.” (Pg.180)
THOUGHTS:
Despite having a movie come out this year based on the same main character, Leigh Bardugo’s Diana stands on her own. Bardugo crafted a tale with all the parts of the Wonder Woman we know and love: a girl born to the island Themscrya, wielding a truth enforcing whip and looking incredible while she does it. While also breathing new life into the story, weaving in Greek mythology; Helena of Troy and characters like the Goddess Eris.
What I liked:
Holy feminism batman! So much girl power I couldn’t help walking around with my head held higher the entire time I read this beauty. I expected no less from Bardugo ❤
Greek mythology!! Seriously the easiest way to the heart of this bookworm is to include any kind of mythology. I haven’t read a lot of other Wonder Woman material but to my knowledge (please correct me if I am mistaken), this is the first time Helena of Troy has been included in Diana’s tale. Trust Bardugo to make an often retold story original as heck.
Incredible female friendships. Alia’s and Nim’s tightness is #goals. These girls are fierce and there is no question that they have each other’s backs, in the ballroom and on the battlefield. I also enjoyed the connection that grew between Diana and Alia, from mistrust to a sisterhood. Bardugo is the queen of writing inspiring females…
AND banter!
Seriously, how does Leigh keep writing such hilarious dialogue between her characters? The chemistry feels so organic between the group of five and Theo is such a cinnamon roll (not only because he shares a name with my son)
I should also mention this book is incredibly DIVERSE! (POC & LGBTQ)
What I Disliked:
Usually, I enjoy a twist that I don’t see coming but this one felt shocking because it didn’t feel right? Almost jarring or forced because everything leading up to this didn’t even hint at his deceitfulness? It just didn’t sit right with me.
I found the pace to be slow in a lot of places, and more description than I needed at times, usually when they were traveling.
While I enjoyed the diversity of the cast, the fantastic banter, and strong female friendships, sometimes it felt like these friends were trying too hard to be like another band of misfits we all love.
Thank you for reading this review of Warbringer by Leigh Bardugo, I hope you enjoyed my insights and look forward to more reviews from me in the future.
NOVELcravings 