Summary: Debut novelist Kiki Hamilton takes readers from the gritty slums and glittering ballrooms of Victorian London to the beguiling but menacing Otherworld of the Fey in this spellbinding tale of romance, suspense, and danger.
The year is 1871, and Tiki has been making a home for herself and her family of orphans in a deserted hideaway adjoining Charing Cross Station in central London. Their only means of survival is by picking pockets. One December night, Tiki steals a ring, and sets off a chain of events that could lead to all-out war with the Fey. For the ring belongs to Queen Victoria, and it binds the rulers of England and the realm of Faerie to peace. With the ring missing, a rebel group of faeries hopes to break the treaty with dark magic and blood—Tiki’s blood.
Unbeknownst to Tiki, she is being watched—and protected—by Rieker, a fellow thief who suspects she is involved in the disappearance of the ring. Rieker has secrets of his own, and Tiki is not all that she appears to be. Her very existence haunts Prince Leopold, the Queen’s son, who is driven to know more about the mysterious mark that encircles her wrist.
Prince, pauper, and thief—all must work together to secure the treaty…
My review: I went into this book expecting it to a be a good read, but nothing special. I was however pleasantly surprised!
I thought the settings were the driving part of this novel. When Hamilton described them I felt like I was there, in 1871, whether the scene took place in the luxurious ballrooms or the chaotic, dirty streets. The settings were so good, and it felt like I was watching an HBO or BBC film in my mind. Few authors can paint such a lush picture in my head. I actually liked hearing about the historical parts better, but they were both really good.
I really enjoyed hearing about Tiki and her family. Their loyalty to each other was admirable. And they were the coolest pickpockets ever! It made me want to walk outside and grab something from the nearest person.
If there was one flaw to highlight though, it would have to be how the book seemed to drag on a bit. They spent so much time worrying and plotting that it just got boring and dull. It helped build the suspense, but it also helped put me to sleep. Other then that, this book was a joyride!
The Faerie Ring is The Infernal Devices meets The Iron Fey. Admit it, you love it already.
4.5/5
Cover Comments: The ring is cool, but I don't like the blurry face.
Source: Bought from Amazon.
This book counts in the following challenges:
111 in 2011: 95.
