Disclaimer: I received an early access audiobook from the publisher. Thanks! All opinions are my own.
Book: My Contrary Mary
Author: Cynthia Hand, Brodi Ashton, Jodi Meadows
Book Series: Mary Book 1
Rating: 5/5
Diversity: Sapphic romance with one of the MCs, Ace side character
Recommended For…: historical fiction, young adult readers, The Lady Janies lovers
Publication Date: June 22, 2021
Genre: YA Historical Fiction
Recommended Age: 13+ (some violence, some language, death, misogyny)
Explanation of CWs: There is some slight violence in this book and the book does have the occasional curse. The book also has some death involved with the plot and because it’s from the Renaissance Period there are some misogynistic views on our MCs and the side characters which reduce them, even a powerful queen, to just a womb on legs. This is quickly thwarted by the kickass MCs though.
Publisher: HarperTeen
Pages: 512
Synopsis: Welcome to Renaissance France, a place of poison and plots, of beauties and beasts, of mice and . . . queens?⠀
⠀
Mary is the queen of Scotland and the jewel of the French court. Except when she’s a mouse. Yes, reader, Mary is an Eðian (shapeshifter) in a kingdom where Verities rule. It’s a secret that could cost her a head—or a tail.⠀
⠀
Luckily, Mary has a confidant in her betrothed, Francis. But after the king meets a suspicious end, things at the gilded court take a treacherous turn. Thrust onto the throne, Mary and Francis are forced to navigate a viper’s nest of conspiracies, traps, and treason. And if Mary’s secret is revealed, heads are bound to roll.
Review: As my first book into The Lady Janies universe I am absolutely floored at how great this book is! I immediately loved this book from the first chapter. The book is well done, it’s funny, and it’s the right kind of historical fiction for me. It doesn’t take history too seriously and really shows that those of the past were just like us. I really liked the character and how well done they were. I also really liked the world building and the pacing was on par as well. The book’s plot was well written and I was immediately invested in this read. I also thought the romance was well done.
The only issue I really had with this book is that the ending leaves me wanting more and the finale was a bit too quick in my opinion.
Verdict: Highly recommend!
PopTheButterfly Reads 