#BookReview: Given by Nandi Taylor

Synopsis: As a princess of the Yirba, Yenni is all-but-engaged to the prince of a neighboring tribe. She knows it's her duty to ensure peace for her people, but as her father's stubborn illness steadily worsens, she sets out on a sacred journey to the empire of Cresh, determined to find a way to save him at any cost, even though failure could mean the wrath of her gods and ruin for her people. One further complication? On the day she arrives at the Prevan Academy for Battle and Magical Arts, she meets an arrogant dragon-shifter named Weysh who claims she's his "Given", or destined mate. Muscular, beautiful (and completely infuriating), he's exactly the kind of distraction Yenni can't afford while her father's life hangs in the balance.

But while Yenni would like nothing more than to toss Weysh the man into the nearest river, Weysh the dragon quickly becomes a much-needed friend in the confusing northern empire. Yet when her affection for the dragon starts to transfer to the man, Yenni must decide what is more important: her duty to her tribe, or the call of her own heart.



Goodreads | Amazon

Rating: 3 Stars
My Review: "Given" by Nandi Taylor is a compelling young adult fantasy novel that brings a fresh perspective with its diverse characters and rich cultural backdrop. The story follows Yenni, a strong-willed princess from Yirba, who embarks on a journey to the magical kingdom of Cresh to find a cure for her father's mysterious illness. Yenni's character is well-developed, showcasing her determination and growth throughout the novel.

One of the novel's strengths is its world-building. Taylor does an excellent job of creating two distinct and vibrant worlds. The contrasting cultures of Yirba and Cresh are detailed and immersive, adding depth to the narrative. The magic system is intriguing, though at times it feels underexplored.

The romance between Yenni and Weysh is a central element of the story, but it has its ups and downs. While their relationship adds an interesting dynamic, it occasionally feels forced and rushed. Some of their interactions lack the depth needed to make the romance fully convincing.

The pacing of the novel is uneven. The beginning and end are engaging, but the middle section drags with repetitive scenes and less plot development. Additionally, some of the secondary characters, while interesting, could have been fleshed out more to enhance the story.

Overall, "Given" is a solid debut with a unique premise and strong cultural representation. It’s a good read for fans of young adult fantasy looking for something new, but it falls short in a few areas that could have made it truly outstanding.

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Posted in: 3 Stars, Edelweiss, LarkP., Review, WattpadBooks, Young Adult