Review: Fire & Heist

Author: Sarah Beth Durst

Started reading: April 16th 2022

Finished the book: April 29th 2022

Pages: 290

Genres: YA, Fantasy

Published: December 4th 2018

Source: Fairyloot

Goodreads score: 3.43

My score:

Synopsis

Leading your first heist is a major milestone in Sky Hawkin’s family—even more so than learning to talk, walk, or do long division. It’s a chance to gain power and acceptance within society. But stealing your first treasure can be complicated—especially when you’re a wyvern, a human capable of transforming into a dragon. Embarking on a life of crime is never easy, and Sky’s mission uncovers deep secrets about the mother who recently went missing, the real reason her boyfriend broke up with her, and a valuable jewel that could restore her family’s wealth and rank in their community. With a handpicked crew by her side, Sky knows she has everything she needs to complete her first heist—and get back the people she loves in the process. But instead, she ends up discovering a dark truth about were-dragon society—a truth that is more valuable and dangerous than gold or jewels could ever be.

My thoughts

Thanks to Arjen for reading this book together with me. I know you did NOT like this book, but you stuck with me till the end! And I do agree with Arjen, I did not like this book either. I was so excited to read it, because I had received it in a Fairlyloot box, so I have a signed edition. The blurb didn't initially make me curious or excited, I thought it was kinda vague, and that's what the story felt like too.

Pros

• Quick and adventurous: This book feels like a quick and adventurous story. A lot is happening in the 290 pages, even though it's not that many pages. It also didn't feel like a very long story. I'm sure readers can easily finish this book in a day. It's fast paced and if you're looking for a quick fantasy/adventure book, this is the one to read.

Cons

• Younger audience: I've read a ton of YA books, and a ton of YA Fantasy books and this didn't hit the mark for me. It felt like it was written for a waaaaaay younger audience. I liked the telling voice at times, but I also didn't like it at all at some points, because it felt very childish every now and then.
• Ending: I feel like the ending is supposed to feel thrilling and exciting, and I did not feel anything while reading it. Here comes the age card from me again, but I feel like it would be way more exciting for maybe Middle Graders and not for YA readers.
• Easy to predict: The plot for this book was pretty easy to predict after one of the big revelations came around the corner. Overall the story just fell flat for me.

Overall

I feel like this is a pretty short review, but I also had very little feelings while reading this book. I felt like it didn't hit the mark and overall the story and characters fell flat for me. I feel like this book would be better in the Middle Grade range, and maybe I would have had other expectations if I'd picked it up then. A lot of readers seemed to like this book, but I also see a good amount of 1 and 2 star reviews. I guess it's a hit or miss with this book.

Other opinions on this book

"Durst serves up an intriguing take on dragon mythology with this high-stakes YA adventure featuring a spunky heroine."

- Booklist

"Sky is easy to root for, whether she's going up against nasty fire beasts or power-hungry humans."

- The Bulletin

Thanks for reading!

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