Book Review: Lightlark  

By Alex Aster 

3 Stars 

Lightlark is a YA fantasy novel that follows Isla Crown, the young ruler of the cursed Wildling realm. She's summoned to the deadly Centennial, a once-a-century game of survival and sacrifice. To break her people's curse, she must navigate a treacherous game of deception and love, risking her life and heart.  

While the plot twists are certainly surprising, the pacing can be inconsistent. The first half of the novel struggles to maintain momentum, with long stretches of exposition and slow-paced character development. The second half, however, picks up the pace and delivers a series of thrilling twists and turns.  

One of the novel's strengths lies in its complex and multifaceted characters. Isla Crown, the protagonist, is a compelling figure whose journey is marked by growth, loss, and sacrifice. Her resilience and determination make her a relatable and admirable character. However, the romantic relationships, particularly the one between Isla and Oro, often feel underdeveloped and lack the emotional depth necessary to truly resonate with readers.  

While the book's premise is promising, the execution falls short in certain areas. Its strengths, such as its unique world-building and complex characters, are overshadowed by its weaknesses, including its uneven pacing and underdeveloped romantic relationships. While it may not be a perfect read, it still offers a somewhat interesting experience for fans of fantasy and romance.   

Reviewed by Joni

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