I don’t understand why this book hasn’t been picked up more widely, as it’s so lovely!

Elin’s story is so rich and wonderful. She is a girl who just wants to do her best for those around her and learn about the creatures she shares the world with. The Royal Beasts in particular were amazing. I love how it showed their softer side but still kept them as a fierce and terrifying creature. But I also love her relationship with the bees, and with the people she comes into contact with.

It many ways it doesn’t read like a YA book - for a start while it follows Elin from 10 to 18, it has two 4 year jumps that are a little jarring. My favourite sections are definitely while she’s beekeeping lol, it’s just really beautiful in that bit and we get to know her so much better.

It also jumps around with perspective when we start seeing bits about the Yojeh. I enjoyed these, but it was a little confusing to follow in places.

All that said, it is really worth it to get a story with a different history and mythology, and for something so well written and translated. I defy anyone to read this and not fall at least a little in love