We're immediately thrown into action with the main character, MJ, who's on the run from magical hunters who want the throne of the encanto for themselves and see MJ as an obstacle even though she's "half-encanto". The story lacks internal conflict of the main character or something to have us connect with MJ. All we get are back-to-back action sequences as questions upon questions mount, which will deter many readers.
Also, even though it's YA (for teens), it reads like MG (tweens/early teens). some readers may be put off by it, but I like this start to the main character's younger and more juvenile approach and how it ties in with her being on the run from magical folk most of her life, and looking forward to her growth over the course of the story and hoping she accepts her name and not shortened to "MJ" (you were thinking of Michael Jackson, too, don't lie! xD). It's also portal fantasy, so I'm definitely looking forward to reading more!
The cover is decent (yay, no people!), but I wish it were more fantastical in line with the Filipino culture since the crown looks more European.
Also, even though it's YA (for teens), it reads like MG (tweens/early teens). some readers may be put off by it, but I like this start to the main character's younger and more juvenile approach and how it ties in with her being on the run from magical folk most of her life, and looking forward to her growth over the course of the story and hoping she accepts her name and not shortened to "MJ" (you were thinking of Michael Jackson, too, don't lie! xD). It's also portal fantasy, so I'm definitely looking forward to reading more!
The cover is decent (yay, no people!), but I wish it were more fantastical in line with the Filipino culture since the crown looks more European.