A huge thank-you to NetGalley and Random House Children's for this e-arc of Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim.

She's done it again, friends! Elizabeth Lim never ceases to amaze me with her brilliant storytelling and phenomenal imagination. This reimagining of The Wild Swans by Hans Christian Andersen, mixed with Chinese dragon folklore and Japanese legend is a beautiful blend of cultures and fairytales. From the moment I first began reading, I was totally mesmerized. I couldn't stop - and truthfully, I didn't want to! I was hanging on to every word. In this book, you'll find darkness and hope, adventure and romance, and so many jaw-dropping moments.

Shiori is such a strong protagonist who finds true power in her silence (listening and learning from those around her and utilizing her other senses) and ingenuity (coming up with creative ways to accomplish tasks and communicate) - rather than just relying on others. She's the literal definition of a badass leading lady. She doesn’t need Takkan or her adorable origami sidekick, Kiki, but they provide excellent supporting roles and bring life and laughter to the story when it's needed most. Shiori wants to see past what other people see and tries to think the best of even the worst characters. She's someone that I could learn a thing or two from, that's for sure.

One of the things that I liked the very most about Six Crimson Cranes was that no one is who they appear to be - but they’re also not who you might suspect they are. I kept thinking I had sorted out the truth behind a character and it was honestly thrilling to be proven wrong. As someone who is often disappointed by the predictability of some "plot twists," reading this book was incredibly satisfying.

For those who read the Spin the Dawn duology, you're in for a treat! A few familiar names, places, and items are mentioned throughout this book and it felt like discovering little easter eggs along the way. It also made me want to reread Spin the Dawn... especially when I reached the ending. (Dun dun DUN).

I was so lucky to have the opportunity to receive the ARC of this book and I'm anxiously anticipating its release... along with the announcement for the next book - because I'm impatient and absolutely dying to learn what happens next. What a wild ride! This is a story I will continue to recommend for a long, long time!