THREE WORDS: Enchanting. Fun. Fantastical
MY “I JUST FINISHED THIS BOOK” REACTION: I really wish it wasn’t over! I want some ‘ore please. And I have the strongest urge to call everybody Gov'na.
MY REVIEW: I’ll admit that I wasn’t expecting to fall in love with Kiki Hamilton’s The Faerie Ring as much I did, but now after reading it, I totally get why I did. Hamilton’s stunning debut has everything you could want- mystery, excitement, fantasy, heart, romance *wink wink*, compelling characters, and a completely captivating story.
SUMMARY
In Victorian London, 16 year old Tiki and her family of ragtag orphans survive the only way they know how- thievery. But one night, Tiki steals something she shouldn’t have from the wrong people. The Faerie Ring. A beautiful ring that ensures peace between the rulers of England and the Otherworld realm of the Faeries. Tiki soon finds herself stalked by the dangerous Fae and hunted down by the royal family. Things get even more complicated when little Clara becomes deathly ill and Tiki and her family become desperate for money in order to save the young girl. With the help of the handsome and mysterious Rieker, Tiki uncovers truths about the ring, the Fae, and even herself that she never expected.
STORY
I read The Faerie Ring in one sitting because I simply could not put it down. I was absolutely captivated and enchanted by its magic. Hamilton has created a spellbinding and riveting story that is beautifully executed and masterfully weaved. The fantasy is fun, the characters are engaging, and the writing is superb.
The story is fast paced and exciting, but never feels rushed or overwhelming. The world Hamilton creates in this book is extremely well developed, layered, and vivid. The world of 19th century London simply comes alive within the pages of this book and feels incredibly real. From the gritty slums of the city to the grand ballroom of Buckingham Palace to the otherworldy realm of the Fae, I saw every scene and every aspect of the setting clearly and easily in my head. And I felt like I was a part of it all! The dialogue, clothes, setting, history, etc are so very authentic that I really did feel like I had been swept away to Victorian London for a few hours. Yet, despite the setting and time period of this book, it possesses a great refreshing, modern feel as well.
The fantasy elements in this book are wonderful and delightful! I loved Hamilton’s take on the world of faeries. The faeries in this book aren’t your adorable Tinkerbells. They’re dangerous, powerful, and vengeful, but completely captivating. Hamilton creates a very intricate and complex history surrounding her faeries that really impressed me.
The life of a pickpocket orphan makes for a thrilling story. I really enjoyed stalking the grimy streets of London with Tiki has she followed her marks and deftly stole from them. There’s something so exciting about knowing that what these characters are doing (stealing) is wrong, yet not caring at all and being ready to loyally defend their actions if needed. And there is something so magical and compelling about a ragtag group of orphans who have banded together and formed a surprisingly loving, tight family. The love and compassion between this little group of orphans is so touching and heartwarming.
The last quarter of the book is climactic and gasp-worthy, with unexpected twists, turns, and revelations. The ending made me smile (and maybe even tear up a bit) and left me wanting more.
CHARACTERS
Hamilton’s characters are so awesome! They really make this book spectacular.
I absolutely love Tiki. She’s smart, feisty, brave, loyal, and compassionate. She has such heart and strength, and the way she loves her new family is breathtaking. Tiki is a great example of a female YA protagonist done right! She’s easy to relate to and impossible not to root for.
Rieker *swoons a little*…aww Rieker. This handsome, mysterious fellow is so intriguing. Even from his very first appearance, you get the feeling that there is so much more to him than what he simply lets on. But I love that even though he’s keeping secrets and isn’t always honest with Tiki, he’s always himself. Even when his secrets are revealed, his personality never changes…and thank goodness for that!
Tiki’s orphan siblings are great! Seventeen year old Shamus is such a good guy with a good heart. He’s clever, hardworking, and very protective of his little family. Shamus’ cousin, fifteen year old Fiona is such an endearing girl. She’s sweet, funny, and fanciful. Ten year old Toots is easy to love. He’s sweet and silly, but eager to prove his toughness and worth. Four year old Clara is an adorable sweetheart, who’s quite mature and serious for her age. Along with Tiki, these five orphans make an eclectic and dynamic group.
The Faerie baddies, Marcus and Larkin, are an equal mix of frightening and captivating. I really can’t wait to learn more about the Fae in the next books.
ROMANCE
The romance between Tiki and Rieker is such a fun romance to watch unfold. From the very beginning you can feel the spark between the two and you just know its eventually going to ignite…and when it finally did? Fireworks! I actually hooted when they finally kissed ;)
I’m definitely excited to see where this romance and relationship go.
MY FINAL THOUGHTS: I’ve fallen in love with Kiki Hamilton’s The Faerie Ring! This is an awesomely fantastic debut of what looks to be a phenomenal series. This is most definitely a MUST read!
