Keeper of Scarlet Petals
"Keeper of Scarlet Petals" invites readers into the intriguing world of Sanctuary, a college for Keepers and Starveins, where duty and destiny collide amidst the backdrop of magic and mystery.
Jasmine's journey from a life of thievery in the slums to her training at Sanctuary sets the stage for an adventurous tale of transformation and discovery. Her dynamic with Asher, the young nobleman she's tasked with protecting, adds a layer of tension and intrigue to the narrative. Her best friend, Lydia, adds some much-needed vibrant energy and quirkiness into the story, providing moments of levity amidst the looming danger.
What I loved:
The premise
Jasmine and Asher's relationship
Lydia
However, the story suffers from a lack of depth and development, particularly in its exploration of the overarching plot. While the school setting and magical elements offer an enticing backdrop, they fail to be fully integrated into the narrative, leaving the world-building feeling incomplete.
Additionally, the dialogue and characters lean heavily into YA tropes, which is great, but combined with unnecessary spice, detracts from the overall coherence of the plot. The romantic subplot, while present, feels rushed and underdeveloped, lacking the emotional depth needed to truly captivate readers.
"Keeper of Scarlet Petals" has the potential to be a compelling fantasy read, but it falls short of delivering a fully immersive experience. Despite its flaws, it offers moments of entertainment and intrigue for readers seeking a quick escape into a world of magic and mystery.
