Every year, Blue Sargent stands next to her clairvoyant mother as the soon-to-be dead walk past. Blue herself never sees them—not until this year, when a boy emerges from the dark and speaks directly to her.

REVIEW

This series has always intrigued me - with all the amazing reviews available online, how could it not? It sat on my bookshelf for years, collecting dust and eyeing me disapprovingly. On the day I finally sat down to read it, I was thrilled to be taken by surprise. I knew Maggie was an outstanding writer with an extraordinary imagination but I was still shocked by the direction of this series. It took me on a ride I never expected with twists and turns around each corner - coming together to form one great labyrinth.

I loved that we got to explore and learn alongside our leads, who were unknowingly meant to form this sometimes rocky and loving friendship. This book is undoubtedly about friendship and all its ups and downs. Add in some mythical creatures, romance, legends, and you've got yourself an intriguing plotline. It was slow to catch on at first - something that made me put the book down a few times - but it eventually drew me in. It wasn't my favorite Raven Cycle book but it set the foundation and as soon as I was done, I rushed to the bookstore to learn more.

The best part about this book (and series) are the characters. I have to admit, at some point, I wasn't really following this series because I wanted to learn about the Raven King. Instead, I wanted to know more about the characters. These are some of the most diverse and multilayered characters I have ever read about - especially when it comes to Adam and Gansey. Beneath the anger and the betrayal and the myths, there is this group of teenagers who battle insecurities, fears and themselves in the most honest way.

“She wondered what it would’ve been like to kiss this hungry, desolate boy.”

I don't look at this book as a love story despite its marketing direction. Don't expect instant sparks right away - Maggie made sure we meet our characters before adding the love story, which ultimately complicates everything. In this book, you will meet the Raven Boys and Blue, who will stay with you long after the book and series are finished. You will see glimmers or hints of romance, parts that need to be elaborated or explored eventually but for now - here are the raven boys and this is their story.

Maggie's style of writing, poetic and dark, has always been a special trait of the writer. She can be funny, dark and relatable - while mesmerizing you with vivid descriptions and details. She built this world with small details, pulling together a story that has the potential to grow so much bigger. I loved that Maggie made sure the character and reader became involved in the hunt as well. Depending on how you feel about folklore, this book is great for people that love pulling clues together. 

I sped through the first book because I wanted to find out MORE. More about Gansey, about that forbidden kiss, the forest, and of course, Ronan. But you'll have to brace yourself if you're new to the series. Maggie brings these characters to life before you but in order to do that, you'll have to sit through long chapters that seem to add nothing to the overall plot. Instead, sit back and simply meet the characters. Push through and eventually, you'll see why the characters are so important.

Who was your favourite character?