LEGENDBORN BOOK REVIEW:

After gushing about how much I adored *Legendborn*, I wanted to dive a bit deeper into some of the questions I often see pop up about this incredible YA fantasy novel. If you're wondering if you should pick it up, let me share more of my thoughts! One of the most frequent questions I see circulating on BookTok about Legendborn is regarding its 'spice level' and whether it features a prominent 'love triangle.' From my perspective, while there's definitely romantic tension and some truly swoon-worthy moments, Legendborn isn't what I'd classify as 'spicy' in the way some adult fantasy novels are. It's more of a slow-burn romance, perfect for the young adult genre, focusing heavily on character development and the thrilling plot. As for the love triangle, yes, there are elements that suggest one, and it certainly adds a layer of emotional complexity and stakes to Bree's journey. It’s handled in a way that feels organic to the story, rather than just a trope. Speaking of YA, this book truly shines as a contemporary fantasy with deep roots in Arthurian legend. The way Tracy Deonn weaves the ancient myths into a modern setting, specifically within a secret society at a university, is absolutely brilliant. You don't need to be an expert in Arthurian lore to enjoy it; the story explains what you need to know organically. Bree Matthews herself is such a compelling protagonist – a young Black woman dealing with grief, discovering her own power, and navigating a world full of magic and secrets. Her journey of self-discovery and resilience is truly inspiring, and the supporting cast of characters, both allies and rivals, are equally well-developed and engaging. For fellow audiobook lovers, I have to echo my earlier praise. The narration by Joniece Abbott-Pratt is just phenomenal. Her voice brings Bree, Selwyn, Nick, and all the magical elements of the Legendborn world to life in such a vibrant way. If you're looking for one of the 'best fantasy audiobooks' to immerse yourself in, this is definitely a top contender. Her performance truly elevates the reading experience, capturing every nuance of emotion and action. Before I even started reading, the Legendborn book cover immediately caught my eye. It features a striking young Black woman with curly hair, her hands glowing red and blue, hinting at the magic within. It's truly iconic! This book's aesthetic is a blend of dark academia, secret societies, and powerful magic, all with a contemporary Southern Gothic feel. It's no surprise that it's a New York Times Bestseller and a *Coretta Scott King Award winner*. Seeing the quote from Dhonielle Clayton on the cover also solidified my excitement, knowing it came highly recommended by another fantastic author. The collector's edition, with its beautiful design, only further celebrates its impact and popularity. It's easy to see why Legendborn has become such a sensation on BookTok. It offers everything fantasy readers crave: an intricate magic system, high stakes, memorable characters, a dash of romance, and a fresh take on classic myths. Whether you're searching for 'booktok fantasy books' or 'good Arthurian legend books,' this series delivers on all fronts and more. If you're like me and were utterly captivated, you'll be eagerly awaiting the next installment, ready to dive back into Bree's incredible world. It’s truly a standout read that I can’t recommend enough!