Between Worlds (Faery Realm Book 1) by A.S. Ridge: A Journey Worth Taking
In a world where reality often overshadows the magic of our dreams, Between Worlds caught my attention with its promise of faeries, adventure, and a quest for friendship. As a lover of fantasy, the book’s intriguing premise of a missing friend and a daring journey into the Faery Realm immediately drew me in. A.S. Ridge expertly crafts a universe that blends the ordinary with the extraordinary, and I couldn’t resist exploring the depths of this enchanting tale.
At its core, Between Worlds follows Alexis, a down-to-earth girl who embarks on a perilous mission to uncover the truth behind her best friend Molly’s mysterious disappearance. What I found most engaging was Alexis’s relatability. She isn’t the typical brave heroine; instead, she grapples with self-doubt and a desire for logical explanations. This authenticity made her journey even more compelling. When faced with faeries and a world governed by unpredictability, Alexis grows from a hesitant girl into a determined adventurer, and it was thrilling to accompany her on that transformation.
Ridge’s writing style is wonderfully immersive, painting vivid pictures of the contrasting realms through rich descriptions and dynamic character interactions. The pacing flows beautifully, balancing moments of tension and revelation with softer, more reflective passages. When Alexis encounters the mischievous faery shapeshifters, Jynx and Jaxith, their bickering and chemistry not only provide comic relief but also underscore the underlying theme of trust and loyalty. Jynx, in particular, became one of my favorite characters — her unpredictability kept me guessing, and her growth throughout the narrative was an unexpected delight.
One memorable aspect was how Ridge weaves intricate relationships against the backdrop of a fantastical setting. The exploration of mother-daughter dynamics, portrayed through the lens of Alexis’s relationship with her own mom, added depth to the story. This grounds the otherworldly adventure in relatable emotional experiences, making the faery realm feel not so far off after all. A line that struck me was when Alexis reflects on loyalty: "True friends are found in the most unexpected places." It resonated deeply, embodying the heart of the story and reminding readers of the bonds that can transcend realms.
As I turned the last pages, I felt a mix of exhilaration and longing. The adventure concluded, but I was hungry for more. Between Worlds is the first book in the Faery Realm series, and I can’t wait to dive into the upcoming installments. I wholeheartedly recommend this novel to fans of young adult fantasy, especially those who enjoyed A Court of Thorns and Roses or other magical tales that blend adventure with romance. It’s an enchanting experience that successfully bridges the gap between reality and the realm of faery, leaving readers eagerly awaiting what lies next.
In the end, A.S. Ridge has crafted a delightful escape that not only entertains but also invites us to ponder our own perceptions of friendship, courage, and the magic hidden within the mundane. I found a bit of myself in Alexis’s struggle and triumphs, and I believe many readers will too. Grab your fairy wings and get ready for an enchanting ride!