Highland Court Chronicles: Almendra's Quest
by Farida Mestek
Find out more here: Farida Mestek's webpage.
Whimsical and imaginative with a vast world of magic and a quest to find one’s bravery and self.
This was a delightful read! The world is deep and fascinating and Mestek’s writing holds a lovely edge of humor.
The story is a twist on the classic 'princess waiting in the tower to be rescued by her prince' except this princess (or High Lady) is kinda sick of waiting and would rather go find him herself. When her fated prince falls ill, she has no choice but to come to his rescue while trying to save her own kingdom in the process.
Almendra is a sweet MC and her naive character is well portrayed and fitting for her story. Together with her newly-acquainted friend, Joanna, there doesn't seem to be an obstacle they can't overcome together. I was entertained and engrossed in their adventure throughout!
Where this story truly stands out, is the depth and detail of the world that has lots of layers of lore. The various magical objects, from shawls to tents and knives, keeps a fun fairytale vibe that’s challenged with occasional dark twists.
I really liked the evilness of the Shawlweavers who through it all just got worse and worse. Their origin as spiders was eerie and their hideout really horrifying! Though I had hoped for a different fate for them in the end. Perhaps I had a bit of sympathy for their cause... (I do tend to root for the villains).
The ending did come up a little fast to my liking and I'd hoped for a bit more closure, particularly between Almendra and Joanna. After all they'd been through together, they deserved it before parting ways.
The story lands somewhere in the young end of YA with a great coming-of-age or maybe more accurate 'finding-your-courage' story line that holds excitement, adventure, loads of magic, and even a little horror on the way.
Definitely recommend this for fans of the classic fairytale but would like a new, fresh world to get lost in.
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