I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Havenfall by Sara Holland Series: Havenfall #1
Published by Bloomsbury YA on March 3, 2020
Genres: Fantasy, Fiction, Young Adult
Pages: 320
Format: E-Arc
Source: Netgalley
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A safe haven between four realms. The girl sworn to protect it -- at any cost.
Hidden deep in the mountains of Colorado lies the Inn at Havenfall, a sanctuary that connects ancient worlds -- each with their own magic -- together. For generations, the inn has protected all who seek refuge within its walls, and any who disrupt the peace can never return.
For Maddie Morrow, summers at the inn are more than a chance to experience this magic first-hand. Havenfall is an escape from reality, where her mother sits on death row accused of murdering Maddie's brother. It's where Maddie fell in love with handsome Fiorden soldier Brekken. And it's where one day she hopes to inherit the role of Innkeeper from her beloved uncle.
But this summer, the impossible happens--a dead body is found, shattering everything the inn stands for. With Brekken missing, her uncle gravely injured, and a dangerous creature on the loose, Maddie suddenly finds herself responsible for the safety of everyone in Havenfall. She'll do anything to uncover the truth, even if it means working together with an alluring new staffer Taya, who seems to know more than she's letting on. As dark secrets are revealed about the inn itself, one thing becomes clear to Maddie--no one can be trusted, and no one is safe...
When I first started to read, Havenfall I wasn’t sure whether I would like it. It felt so different to Everless and Evermore. Whereas before I felt that I had eased into the series, this was a struggle. Perhaps because there was so much world building to do and the terminology was hard to get my head around.
But once I go over that little pickle, Havenfall was a joy to read. My heart went out to Maddie as she has to make some difficult decisions to keep the inn running smoothly. Because this is a story that throws event after event at you. You don’t really have to wonder about who all the characters are and how they are coping. You just have to keep up with all the events happening.
And Maddie, while she is a strong and determined person is young. and she is still dealing with the death of her brother ten years ago. This impact her decision making and influence what decisions she make. But she learns from her errors. And it is this which shows how strong a leader she can be.
There are a couple of points that I guessed slightly earlier in the story. But some of the reveals are pretty huge. And when I got to the ending I was slightly disappointed. However there is another book in the series to come and I cannot wait to see what Maddie will do.
Also there are a few secondary characters who I loved. However there was so many amazing character, that they all could not have the page time that they deserved. I really hope that we get to see more of them in book two!
If you are after a fun light fantasy read. Even with all the murder, then this is definitely the book for you. Havenfall is that surprising twisty turns book that you didn’t quite realise you needed.
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