A Robin McKinley Collection: Spindle's End, The Hero and the Crown and The Blue Sword (Folktales #1-3) : Book Review

The "A Robin McKinley Collection" is an enthralling book that brings together some of the most captivating works by the talented author Robin McKinley. This collection includes three of McKinley's most cherished novels: "Beauty," "The Blue Sword," and "The Hero and the Crown."

In "Beauty," McKinley puts a fresh spin on the classic tale of "Beauty and the Beast." The story revolves around Beauty, a young woman who selflessly sacrifices her freedom to save her father, only to find herself held captive by a mysterious beast. As Beauty gets to know the beast, she uncovers the hidden depths of his character, realizing that there is more to him than meets the eye. McKinley's retelling adds layers of depth and complexity to the familiar fairytale, resulting in a truly enchanting read.

"The Blue Sword" transports readers to the enchanting land of Damar, taking them on a thrilling adventure. The story centers around Harry Crewe, a young woman who becomes entangled in a war between ancient powers. Armed with a magical sword, Harry must summon her inner strength and bravery to save the people of Damar. McKinley's world-building skills shine in this novel, immersing readers in a vibrant and richly imagined fantasy realm.

"The Hero and the Crown" serves as a prequel to "The Blue Sword," and delves into the captivating story of Aerin, a princess who embarks on a quest to prove herself by defeating the menacing dragons that threaten her kingdom. McKinley's masterful storytelling and compelling characters create a captivating narrative that seamlessly blends elements of fantasy, adventure, and romance.

Overall, "A Robin McKinley Collection" is an absolute must-read for fans of fantasy and fairytale retellings. McKinley's imaginative storytelling, well-crafted characters, and unique twists on classic tales make this collection an absolute delight to read. Whether you are familiar with McKinley's works or discovering them for the first time, this collection promises to leave you spellbound and eager for more.

What are readers saying?

"A Robin McKinley Collection" is a compilation of three books penned by the talented author Robin McKinley. The reception among readers has been a mix of positive and negative reviews.

Numerous readers have commended the collection for its captivating and imaginative storytelling. McKinley's ability to construct intricate and distinct worlds that immediately captivate readers has garnered much praise. The vivid descriptions and well-rounded characters have been particularly applauded, with readers expressing their deep connection to the protagonists.

Additionally, the author's writing style has been highly regarded by readers. Many have described McKinley's prose as exquisitely crafted, often comparing it to poetry. The book's pacing has also been recognized, as McKinley successfully maintains a steady tempo throughout the stories, ensuring readers remain engrossed and invested in the narrative.

However, some readers have voiced a common complaint regarding the lack of cohesion between the stories featured in the collection. They felt that there was a absence of continuity or a common theme, which hindered their overall enjoyment. Moreover, a few readers found the pacing of certain stories to be sluggish, resulting in a less engaging reading experience for them.

Another aspect that divided readers was the character development. While many praised McKinley's ability to fashion complex and relatable characters, others felt that some of the characters lacked depth and growth, making it challenging for them to form a connection or root for them.

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