Awkward! 😬 No spice swoony romantasy
📚The Concealed, SK Horton
👑 Princess Diaries meets Alice in Wonderland
When Cate travels from Oregon to university in England, she expects her gravest dilemma to be finding coffee instead of tea, but she’s got bigger problems—much bigger. At Staton University, nothing is quite what it seems.
Even her own identity.
Unbeknownst to Cate, a prophecy deems her as destined to defeat a ruthless enemy in a magical land, placing a target squarely on her back. Now someone on campus is stalking her, and a narrow escape sends her through a mysterious portal, assisted by two irresistible boys.
Yet the fantastical new world is even more treacherous with rival kingdoms and imminent war.
Falling in love wasn’t part of the plan, but what’s a girl to do? A fresh start was all she wanted—a few new friends in the dorms with a trusty latte in hand—not war, an estranged biological father who is king, or a star-crossed love straight out of Romeo and Juliet (hopefully without the dying part).
As the battle looms, Cate must solve the mystery of the prophecy and decide who in her circle is trustworthy before the place she now calls home is destroyed.
For fans of Lauren Roberts' Powerless and Melissa Albert's The Hazel Wood
Reading The Concealed was a captivating experience that seamlessly blends elements of college life with magical fantasy and romance. What struck me most was the relatability of Cate’s initial challenges — from cultural adjustments like choosing coffee over tea, to deeper identity questions — which grounds the fantastical plot in reality. The prophecy that marks Cate as a target adds a compelling layer of suspense and urgency. It’s intriguing how the story explores themes of trust and betrayal amid looming war, making every interaction pulse with tension. The mysterious portal that transports her to a magical kingdom reminds me of classic fantasy adventures but with a fresh, modern twist. I really enjoyed the romantic tension woven through the narrative, especially with the two charming boys who help Cate. Their flirtatious dialogue and awkward moments felt genuine, capturing the complexities of teenage relationships perfectly. The star-crossed romance theme, reminiscent of Romeo and Juliet but with hope for a different ending, adds emotional depth without overshadowing the larger conflicts. The author's style—merging the whimsical charm of Alice in Wonderland with the intrigue of a royal prophecy—creates a unique atmosphere that keeps readers hooked. It’s also interesting to see a university setting in England portrayed with magical realism, creating a believable yet enchanting backdrop. Overall, The Concealed offers a rich blend of fantasy, romance, and coming-of-age themes that young adult readers and romantasy enthusiasts will love. It’s a story about self-discovery, courage, and finding your place in both the magical and real worlds—a perfect read to lose yourself in and relate to at the same time.
