Book Review: Of Wolves and Stags
As a fantasy enthusiast, I’m always on the lookout for fresh narratives that twist familiar tropes into something captivatingly unique. When I stumbled upon Of Wolves and Stags by Ria Parisi, I was intrigued—particularly by the promise of a treasure hunt amidst a backdrop of high stakes and the struggle for freedom against cruel fae rulers. These themes pulled me in, and I eagerly dove into the world graced by crystalline magic and resilient characters.
Diving deep into the plot, I found it both refreshing and complex, earning a solid 8/10 in my book. Rather than falling into the usual fae tropes, the author dexterously weaves in elements that spark intrigue, such as the origin story of the crystalline and their unexpected role in the unfolding narrative. Parisi successfully breathes life into the age-old battle between humans and fae, challenged not just by power dynamics but also by the haunting specter of trauma—an important note for readers: the suggested age rating is 13+, factoring in themes like PTSD and medical experimentation.
Moving beyond the grand plot, the characters truly capture the heart of the story. The protagonist is relatable and flawed, making her journey that much more engaging. I appreciated that she wasn’t depicted as an unstoppable hero, but as someone grappling with her own past. This depth resonates, especially in fantasy where perfection often reigns. However, I must confess my struggle to warm up to the male main character, Glenn. For reasons that baffle even me, I found myself just not vibing with him. While he does evolve over the course of the story, his name alone elicited an immediate visceral reaction—definitely one of those personal quirks that impacted my reading experience more than I anticipated!
Notable quotes from the book resonate long after you’re done reading, like, “I am her because I dream of a future where we can all be free. Elves. Humans. All of us. That is why I choose to fight.” This encapsulates the essence of not just the struggle at hand, but the underlying hope that binds the story together. Another gem, “He didn’t look at her like everyone else did,” showcases the deeper dynamics of perception and worth, which permeate the narrative.
While some side characters felt a tad generic—almost like they were painted with the same brush—this didn’t detract significantly from the narrative. There were definitely enough engaging personalities to keep me invested in the journey, even if some felt a bit like I’d read them before.
So, would I recommend Of Wolves and Stags? Absolutely! Despite my annoyance with Glenn and the occasional flat character, this book presents a vibrant story that I believe many will thoroughly enjoy. It’s a tale of resilience, the quest for truth, and the powerful bond of found family—all wrapped up in a thrilling treasure hunt.
In essence, if you’re a fan of fantastical realms laden with politics, rebellion, and characters who aren’t perfect heroes, this book deserves a spot on your TBR. It’s an engaging read that, despite my unique quirks, left me reflecting on the complexities of choice and freedom in a beautifully imagined world. Thanks to NetGalley and Ria Parisi for providing me with this opportunity to explore such a compelling narrative, even if it was somewhat marred by a name.