Six Crimson Cranes by Elizabeth Lim: a Review

Happy summer guys, this week I'm looking at the book 'Six Crimson Cranes' by Elizabeth Lim. The book was released in 2021 and its sequel is due to be published later this month.  

This book is set in the same universe as her other 'Blood of The Stars' duology, which I am yet to read so I am very excited about that. But now that I have read this I can confirm that there are absolutely no words in the English dictionary to describe how much I LOVED THIS BOOK.

When I initially bought this book I didn't even look at the synopsis, I picked it up purely for the cover art (which I know I shouldn't have). I liked the look of the dust jacket and it was quickly left to gather dust in TBR. I finally got around to reading it this week and was enchanted by its beautiful world-building. 

Here is the plot breakdown: The only princess of Kiata, Shiori'anma, harbours a secret. Magic, long forgotten and forbidden, runs through her veins. But, as the morning of her betrothal ceremony approaches, Shiori loses control. Despite her mistake forestalling the wedding it also attracts the attention of her stepmother, Raikama. Raikama banishes Shiori and transforms her brothers into cranes, warning Shiori that she must not speak of it to anyone as for every noise she makes, one of her brothers will die. With no money, voice, or company Shiori is forced to place her trust in a paper crane, a mystic dragon, and the very boy she was fighting so hard not to marry, all while trying to embrace the magic she has been taught to contain.

This book is amazing in that it draws from so many cultural myths and legends. It has elements from the german fairy tale 'The Six Swans' with some traditional Chinese and Japanese myths woven in. Elizabeth Lim has worked previously on writing the twisted tales series and her take on old stories is so refreshing!

For me, this book was a lovely lighthearted read that took me about 4 to 5 hours to finish. The language used is elegant yet simple allowing for a lot of imaginative freedom. Sometimes I struggle with excessive wordiness, so this was a brilliant thing for me.

 I loved watching Shiori's journey and was wholly invested in her character. Unlike other authors, Lim made me fall in love with the main character for 3 main reasons:

1. Shiori is not not like other girls, which I am so thankful for!

2. Kiki. Just Kiki. I love their interactions.

3. She has a relatable family, is not picture-perfect and is not overly detrimental.

Next, I think it is only right to talk about the dragon himself, Seryu. I found his character so funny and lovable and the way he cared for Shiori was too much for my floppy little heart... I wish we had seen more of him but the way things stand, it seems we will see more of him in the sequel.

And finally, Prince Takken. I love Shiori and all but the girl thought that this guy was all mean and broody but turns out he is the loveliest person on the whole flipping planet. He was just such a sweet character and I really do hope that we see more of him!

The sequel 'The Dragons Promise' is to be published on 30.8.22, and I have managed to get an ARC so that one is next on my list!

Happy Reading,

-Mei