A review by iamnotacentipede
Ogre Enchanted by Gail Carson Levine

4.0

This book is slightly Princess & The  Frog meets Shrek while still being it's own story and not leaning too much on either one of those tales and giving a very unique plot.

I will say that I enjoyed Ella as an antagonist more than Evie, I kept finding her one note while Ella seemed more dynamic in her personality.

I do applaud this book for showcasing different kinds of love and as corny as it sounds, the power of friendship. Never once did I feel like the story was going to be too chaotic with the cast and all the interchangeable people and how they moved in Evie's life.

I do have a few complaints other than Evie's personality though, mostly in regards to the romance. First I didn't really like that the story kinda looped back into itself and  I personally feel like how it only took course over 2(ish) months felt a little rushed. I know it's a children's book and things tend to move faster so I'm willing to forgive that. But I also felt like there were some moments that kinda dragged out in the story or felt a little filler.

Overall, this is still an enjoyable read no matter the age of the reader, and I really do believe there is something in here for everyone. I'm sure someone much more educated than I can piece more out of this story and talk about the racism, and the change of society once you break down walls dividing class or gender or ethnic background. There is also the theme of sticking with your promises and not taking the easy way out that is present in both the books I've read from this author which is commendable.