Review of 'Havenfall'

Synopsis

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 . . .

Review

What a fascinating novel. Havenfall is a novel for readers interested in contemporary fantasy, wonderfully blending in fantasy and realism. It follows Maddie, a girl on her way to her Uncle’s Inn, a place that serves as a bridge between realms, a haven for all. However, when a mysterious attack sends her uncle in a coma and leaves others wounded, Maddie is left in charge.

Smooth Pace

It moves at a slow pace, in the beginning, building up the history of the realms, the history of the inn, and the history of the people in the novel. It does come off a little boring, making it a novel the reader can easily put down.

However, the intrigue between the characters, the tension, and the dynamics unfolding keep the reader engaged. It does make the story intriguing as the events continue to unfold at a smooth pace, lulling the reader into a sense of comfort.

It is easy to get lost in the story and the magic as it unfolds, exploring the dark history of the inn. However, the real magic of the novel is in exploring the realms the magic within them. There is such richness in exploring the realms, with taking elements of fantasy and giving then a fresh new outlook, a connection to the folklore and mythology.

Characterization

Maddie is a good character but not overly compelling. There are times when her narrative falls flat because her voice lacks spirit; it lacks emotion. So at times, it is hard to connect to her and be pulled in by her voice.

Nevertheless, she doe go on a fantastic journey of self-discovery, of growing an finding her strength. Maddie does grow, and by the end, she is compelling because her voice finds the reader, making her worth reading.

Taya also seems more like a background character, a plot device to encourage Maddie to think and question the world around her. Taya is easy to visualize, but there is something in her that lacks engagement with the reader. While the LGBTQ representation in the novel is excellent, the characters just do not jump off the pages.

Final Thoughts

Havenfall is worth reading because the mystery, the intrigue, and the magic surrounding this inn and the realms it is connected to make it worth reading. The fantasy and magic make it exciting and the eventual growth in characterization makes it worthwhile.

Like this review?

Don’t forget to follow Cyn’s Workshop on Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Tumblr | Spotify | YouTube | BookBub | Goodreads | LinkedIn to stay tuned for future reviews.

About the Author

Cynthia Bujnicki graduated from Emerson College with a BA in Writing, Literature and Publishing. She has always loved to read since she was a child. A contributing writer for YA Fantasy Addicts, she is also the Editor-in-Chief for Cyn's Workshop. She lives in sunny South Florida with her husband and son and their two cats, Mr. J the Kitten and Nyx.