I started The Iron King today and just wanted to jot off some initial thoughts of this new YA novel by Harlequin Teen. Before Harlequin came to class, I didn’t really know they did YA, but this is one of their new and emerging titles. Here’s a synopsis, via Goodreads.
Meghan Chase has a secret destiny; one she could never have imagined. Something has always felt slightly off in Meghan’s life, ever since her father disappeared before her eyes when she was six. She has never quite fit in at school or at home.
When a dark stranger begins watching her from afar, and her prankster best friend becomes strangely protective of her, Meghan senses that everything she’s known is about to change.
But she could never have guessed the truth – that she is the daughter of a mythical faery king and is a pawn in a deadly war. Now Meghan will learn just how far she’ll go to save someone she cares about, to stop a mysterious evil no faery creature dare face; and to find love with a young prince who might rather see her dead than let her touch his icy heart.
So far, this book reads very much closer to the 12/13 age range. YA is a large market and so this feels like it leans over closer to the younger side of things than older (so far). Meghan, the protagonist, is 16 years old and sounds just like it. Her voice is child-like right now, which indicates to me that she might just be on the verge of losing her innocence, a la traditional growing up stories.
The writing is clear with beautiful descriptions of Nevernever. One of the things that struck me in the first 100 pages or so is the transition of Meghan from regular life to faery life. Kagawa didn’t give any sense of confusion or feelings of helplessness from Meghan, which may be seen as a good thing and also a bad. For me, it just seems like Meghan accepts everything a little bit too readily and isn’t as confused as she ought to be.
Won’t say too much right now, since I’m sure my first impressions are about to change. Just wanted to write down some initial reactions.
Thanks for reading,
Ikhlas
all your posts make me want to read more! let me know how this book turns out
What I really like about this book is the fact that it draws elements and characters from A Midsummer Night’s Dream, one of my favourite Shakespearean plays. The thing that bothers me about this book or other books in the YA genre is the use of an overused topic ( a teenager whose problems revolve around school and friends). I would to love to hear after reading this book,your thoughts on the originality of the book and character development. I can say for sure though this book is not like a disney fairytale (or is it “faerie”, haha). Keep doing what your doing, its really great to see someone so enthusiastic with a fresh view on things and I can see a bright future ahead for you.
Thanks for replying!
Yes, the elements of Midsummer Night’s Dream were unexpected but a pleasant surprise, nonetheless. I read the play awhile ago, so it took me awhile to keep track of who was who.
I’m a big fan of YA, but I understand what you mean about the overused themes and topics, which I find annoying as well. With those book, I’m more forgiving because the protagonist is younger, which comes across in her words and actions. But you’re right, its not a Disney story either!
And thank you about the general comments about my blog. I don’t know if anyone’s reading or following it, but its fun to write 🙂 Thanks for your encouragement!