As YA fantasy books go, Lonely Castle in the Mirror takes a Murakami-esque approach to narrative and world-building. Through notes left behind by previous girls, Agnieszka gathers that her role mostly involves performing household domestic duties for the Dragon. He decides however to go to the Polnya court in the city of Kralia to help free it of the corrupting influences that have taken root there – though Agnieszka suspects him of running from his feelings for her.

UPROOTED by Naomi Novik ★★★ | Kara.Reviews UPROOTED by Naomi Novik ★★★ | Kara.Reviews

A magical take on a traditional Polish fairytale, Uprooted was listed as one of the best books of the year by publications such as NPR, Buzzfeed, Publishers Weekly, and Library Journal. The difference between the two is that where The Wood is a dark, twisted creation that speaks only lies, this book delivers on its promises.Just because a book is listed on Bookshelves, does not mean it is available through the Review Team. It’s a charming YA fantasy novel that really stands out thanks to its gorgeous writing and intriguing unfolding of plot. What she would never imagine was that everything she thought of him was a lie based on fear and prejudice. Set in a dark, dystopian future North America, in which the continent has been sliced into thirteen districts — each with its own responsibility to the capital.

Uprooted | Uprooted Wiki | Fandom Uprooted | Uprooted Wiki | Fandom

Laini Taylor’s writing style is refined and beautiful, especially in the book’s opening chapters, which really serves to hypnotise the reader into compulsively turning the pages. In her view Uprooted is "a triumph on several fronts", including its pace, setting, escalating tension, and especially the strong friendship between the "uncouth, coltish" Agnieszka and her opposite, the "gorgeous, skillful, brave" Kasia. Novik has studied the symphony of a fairy tale so thoroughly she can reproduce it yet subtly adjust the notes to achieve new and superior harmonies. Despite being born in a tribute year, Agnieszka does not fear being taken, as the Dragon only chooses the best and brightest girls and she is clumsy and slovenly – unlike her beautiful friend Kasia, who has been groomed to be selected.Lazlo wrangles his way into the party when he impresses the emissary by speaking their language fluently.