In Kyle Joseph's Kestrel, Princess Mira Aberdeen of Engla rebels against her royal destiny, fleeing to the industrially booming Scotia. Seeking freedom from her suffocating family legacy, Mira's journey takes an unexpected turn when she encounters a kind banker who offers her refuge. Their newfound alliance throws them into the crosshairs of a vengeful vigilante plotting brutal retribution. This thrilling tale of rebellion, unexpected alliances, and a fight for survival unfolds against the backdrop of a rapidly changing world. Prepare for a gripping story filled with action and intrigue, though be warned: Kestrel contains graphic violence and depictions of child abuse.
Review Kestrel
Oh my goodness, Kestrel by Kyle Joseph completely blew me away! I wasn't sure what to expect going in – a princess fleeing her kingdom during an industrial revolution? Intriguing premise, but the execution was even better. The world-building is phenomenal; Joseph masterfully blends a classic medieval fantasy setting with the nascent pangs of industrialization, creating a truly unique atmosphere. Scotia, with its burgeoning factories and clash of old and new, felt incredibly real, almost tangible. I could practically smell the coal smoke and hear the clang of machinery.
The plot itself is a whirlwind of twists and turns. Princess Mira's rebellion against her mother and her subsequent entanglement with a mysterious banker and a vengeful vigilante kept me utterly captivated. I found myself constantly guessing, never quite sure where the story would lead next. Joseph’s pacing is superb; the tension ratchets up steadily, culminating in a truly powerful and satisfying ending. I loved the way he layered the intrigue, revealing clues gradually without ever feeling like information was being withheld unfairly. There's a real sense of mystery that persists throughout, pulling you deeper and deeper into Mira's world.
The characters are equally compelling. Mira herself is a fantastic protagonist – strong-willed, independent, and flawed in a way that makes her relatable. She’s not your typical damsel in distress; she actively fights for her own destiny, even when the odds are stacked against her. The supporting cast is equally well-developed, each character possessing their own motivations and secrets that add to the complexity of the narrative. I particularly appreciated the nuance in the relationships – there’s a real sense of depth and connection that transcends simple plot devices.
The audiobook narration by Claire Glover and Jack Jacobs deserves a special mention. Their performances were absolutely superb; they captured the essence of each character perfectly, bringing a vibrant energy to the already rich storytelling. The subtle shifts in tone and pacing added extra layers of suspense and emotion, making the listening experience truly immersive.
Now, it's important to mention the trigger warnings: the book does contain graphic violence and depictions of child abuse. While these elements are handled with a degree of sensitivity, they are undeniably present and could be deeply upsetting for some readers/listeners. It’s something to be aware of before diving in.
Despite this, Kestrel is an exceptional read (or listen!). It's a thrilling adventure, a compelling character study, and a beautifully crafted piece of fantasy. I wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking for a captivating story with complex characters, intriguing mysteries, and a genuinely unique setting. I eagerly await the next installment to see what adventures await Princess Mira!
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 1.31 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 523
- Publication date: 2024
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