A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim
A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim
A Beauty and the Beast inspired fantasy where “Beauty” is an art forger and there is a vicious underwater Dragon King? Sign me up! I love that Elizabeth Lim is writing books inspired by Disney Princesses and classic fairytales within such creative magical worlds. A Forgery of Fate did not disappoint, and is definitely a book I’d recommend.
The book started off a bit concerning, as I didn’t really like Truyan “Tru” Saigas, the main female character. She was a bit whiney and entitled even though her family was poor and in a bad situation. She made it seem as someone should help her just because even though she was technically in the wrong, and she was so indignant that they didn’t cave to her request. However, I am a bit glad Tru was so frustrating in the beginning as you then see her growth throughout the book.
I really like the underwater world and all the sea creatures that Tru meets. However, I do wish there had been a bit more world building or explanation of certain scenes, because at times it was hard for me to fully visualize what Lim was describing. There were action-packed scenes and some creative twists that kept me engaged and eager to learn what was going to happen with the fight against the Dragon King.
The romance was also a good slow-burn that was well developed throughout the storyline, which I appreciated. The ending, while heartwarming, did feel a bit rushed. I would have loved even a few more pages with another scene or some descriptions so it didn’t seem quite as vague. However, it was still a good way for the book to end.
Overall, this was a refreshing and engaging romantasy read that I would recommend, especially if someone is looking for a strong standalone.
Thank you to NetGalley for this ARC.
Synopsis: Truyan Saigas didn't choose to become a con artist, but after her father is lost at sea, it’s up to her to support her mother and two younger sisters. A gifted art forger, Tru has the unique ability to paint the future, but even such magic is not enough to put her family back together again, or stave off the gangsters demanding payment in blood for her mother’s gambling debts.
Left with few options, Tru agrees to a marriage contract with a mysterious dragon lord. He offers a fresh start for her mother and sisters and elusive answers about her father's disappearance, but in exchange, she must join him in his desolate undersea palace. And she must assist him in a plot to infiltrate the tyrannical Dragon King's inner circle, painting a future so treasonous, it could upend both the mortal and immortal realms. . . .