Book Reviews

Book Review: The Iron King

Media Type: Print Book (Library Binding)

Title: The Iron King

   *Series: The Iron Fey (#1)
Author: Julie Kagawa
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Pages: Paperback; 363
Release Date: February 1, 2010
Source: Library
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Intended Reading Group: Young Adult
Content Screening: Mild Fantasy Violence
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HDB Rating: 5 Keys to My Heart
Recommended to: Readers who enjoy a fantasy read, complete with a kick-ass heroine and a love triangle.
Add it on: Goodreads / Shelfari / Amazon / B&N

Meghan Chase has never fit in at her small-town high school, and now, on the eve of her 16th birthday, she discovers why. When her half brother is kidnapped, Meghan is drawn into a fantastical world she never imagined–the world of Faery, where anything you see may try to eat you, and Meghan is the daughter of the summer faery king. Now she will journey into the depths of Faery to face an unknown enemy . . . and beg the help of a winter prince who might as soon kill her as let her touch his icy heart.
 

The characters in this book literally shine off the page! Meghan and Puck (Robbie) have this easy banter between the two of them that makes the book a delight to read from the very first page. I was reminded of friends that I have the same type of relationship with, and there were times when I giggled out loud! It really made me invest myself in their story, which is so important to my enjoyment of a book. Plus, I must say that Meghan is one fiery heroine! Her courageous “never say die” attitude allows her to take her place in the ranks of my all time favorite female protagonists, and trust me, it’s hard it get in there.
After reading so many different versions of the land of the fey, of the Summer and Winter courts, I was a bit afraid that this book would blend into the others. Faerie books are rather popular, and sometimes they blur at the edges. Can I say, I had absolutely nothing to worry about! Julie Kagawa manages to create a whole new faerie story where nothing is what you expect it to be. She throws new elements into the well worn land of the fey and I cannot say enough how much I loved reading all about NeverNever! Terrifying and beautiful at the same time, I almost wish I could find a portal into this land. Especially if it meant I could have Grimalkin as a guide. Who would have thought I’d ever fall so in love with a cat?
Now, now I know you’re reading this review and wondering out loud “Well where does she stand on the Puck vs. Ash debate?” but hold on, I’m getting to that! It’s just a matter of explaining to you what I love about each of them. Puck is funny, he’s wild and one of those characters who just oozes charisma without even trying. On the opposite side of the spectrum (or love triangle if you will?) is the cold, hard, and yet still deliciously attractive Ash. My final verdict? I can not seem to choose! I love them both equally. I’ll admit I am leaning a bit towards the Team Puck side, but I have yet to read The Iron Daughter so we will see. Oh yes, we will see.
Without a doubt this was one of my favorite reads of this month! Julie Kagawa is an amazing writer, and I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us in the next installment. More Meghan, more Puck and more Ash….what could be better?