Review of The Ordinary
As a dedicated reader who often finds myself drawn to captivating fantasy worlds, I couldn’t resist picking up The Ordinary. The promise of a heart-pounding story surrounding a forbidden romance struck a chord with me, especially after learning it has become a New York Times bestseller! With my penchant for tales featuring rich world-building and strong character dynamics, I was eager to dive into the kingdom of Ilya.
The book centers on Paedyn Gray, an Ordinary in a kingdom that values the Exceptional. Her struggle for survival as she poses as a Psychic in a society where being ordinary is a crime immediately pulled me into her journey. The premise is compelling, and I found myself rooting for Paedyn as she navigates the perilous landscape of Ilya while grappling with her burgeoning feelings for one of the princes. The stakes are high, and the tension is expertly built around the Purging Trials—a brutal competition that sets the stage for both action and emotional turmoil.
One of the standout features of this story is the beautifully crafted setting. The author excels at bringing to life the divide between the Elites and the Ordinaries. I felt Paedyn’s desperation and resilience through her observations and experiences in the slums. The descriptions are vivid, and every time I flipped a page, I felt like I was immersed in the gritty underbelly of Ilya, experiencing the injustices and peril right alongside her.
Moreover, the complexities of the romance between Paedyn and the prince kept me engaged. Their chemistry is palpable, loaded with an intensity that comes from their opposing backgrounds. As they navigate their feelings amidst the looming threats of discovery, I often felt that surge of eagerness to see how their relationship would evolve. In this regard, the book met my expectations as a gripping read.
However, like any good tale, it wasn’t without its drawbacks. Some moments felt a bit predictable, especially regarding the romantic tropes. While I appreciate a good enemies-to-lovers arc, there were times I wished for a more innovative twist on this well-trodden path. Additionally, while the pacing was generally engaging, certain sections dragged slightly—especially in the middle—where the intensity dropped just as I hoped to see more action.
Another point that stood out to me was Paedyn’s constant need to hide her true identity. This element, while integral to the narrative, sometimes felt overwhelming as the plot relied heavily on her maintaining the facade of being supernatural. I found myself yearning for deeper explorations of her character outside of her secret; discovering her thoughts and aspirations beyond survival would have further enriched my reading experience.
That said, the overall narrative arc is strong and satisfying. The bonus content included in this edition, which teases the next installment, left me eagerly anticipating the sequel. I am genuinely invested in Paedyn’s journey and curious to see how her fate unfolds in the subsequent book.
In conclusion, The Ordinary is a captivating fantasy that speaks to the hearts of readers who enjoy epic adventures and forbidden romances, similar to the works of Sarah J. Maas. While it has its predictable moments and a pacing that sometimes falters, the lush world-building and compelling character dynamics far overshadow these minor setbacks. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to those seeking a thrilling escape into a world of power dynamics and heart-wrenching choices. I’m excited to see where the next chapter in this series will take us! 🌟🌟🌟🌟½
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