Review: The Beasts We Bury (The Broken Citadel #1) by D.L. Taylor
When I first stumbled across The Beasts We Bury by D.L. Taylor, I was immediately drawn in by its enchanting premise: a young girl tasked with harboring the souls of animals after battling them to the death. It promised a dark yet compelling fantasy world, and boy, did it deliver a mix of thrills, desperation, and emotional insight!
At the heart of this tale is sixteen-year-old Mancella, who carries the heavy burden of her father’s ruthless expectations. To say that Mancella’s father is villainous would be an understatement! He’s a character that incites visceral anger, and I found my heart racing in outrage with every page he graced. The way Mancella endures his tyranny and struggles against him is nothing short of heartbreaking. I found myself rooting for her resilience, especially when she declares, “And that, just like he can never stomp the flowers out fully, I won’t let that spark of goodness in me die completely either.” This quote encapsulates the central dichotomy of her character—the struggle between the beasts she must bury and her inherent goodness.
Taylor weaves an intricate web of themes throughout the narrative. The clash of survival instincts against inherent compassion creates a coming-of-age tale laced with emotional depth. Amidst the political intrigue and fantastical elements, Mancella’s internal struggle resonates; she is a beautifully flawed character navigating a brutal reality, wrestling with her need for survival while grappling with guilt over the lives she’s forced to take. The narrative pulls you in and won’t let go, as Mancella’s journey propels you through moments of rage, tenderness, and even budding romance with Silver, her ally who adds a layer of complexity to her fight.
Speaking of Silver, I wished for a bit more depth in his character development. Although their romance has its sweet moments, it felt somewhat instantaneous. A little extra "oomph" could elevate both his character and their relationship. Yet I couldn’t help but smile at their shared scenes, and they certainly shine in their most poignant moments together.
I also appreciated how Taylor’s writing style creates an atmosphere that alternates between darkness and light. However, there were times when I felt the tone wavered, perhaps due to the sensitivity of the YA genre. The world-building here could have been richer; I found myself wishing for more detail about the realms surrounding Mancella. Still, when the tension ramps up, it resonates deeply.
The plot twists were a rollercoaster of emotions—some predictable, others genuinely surprising. The climax was brilliantly executed, leaving me eager for the sequel. I simply must know how Mancella evolves in her new role. Plus, can we take a moment to appreciate that cover? It’s stunning, showcasing the essence of the story beautifully.
Overall, The Beasts We Bury is an engaging read that balances dark themes with the light of hope and resilience. Those who enjoy YA fantasy teeming with heartfelt struggles, moral dilemmas, and a hint of romance will find much to love here. D.L. Taylor’s debut is captivating, if not without its flaws, making me curious to see where Mancella’s journey leads next. As I close this first chapter of her tale, I’m left with a lingering hope that her story is just beginning.
If you’re looking for a book that offers both adventure and introspection, this one is worth diving into. I can’t wait for the sequel!
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