Review: How to Love Your Elf by Kerrelyn Sparks

Sorcha knew the mission was dangerous. Leaving the safe grounds of her brother’s kingdom and parlaying with the elves across their border . . . well, treachery seemed at least as likely as true peace. But to support her sister, Sorcha would brave far more than the underhanded ways of the elves. Or so she thought before she was taken, hostage.

Of course, her captors didn’t count on her particular abilities—or on the help of the Woodsman, the mysterious thief who made his home in the forest. He saw the battle from the trees, saw the soldier attacking against incredible odds to save a comrade—and then saw the valiant fighter revealed as Princess Sorcha of Norveshka. He can’t tell if he wants to kidnap her or kiss her. But despite Sorcha’s stubbornness, his inconvenient honor, and a rebellion on the cusp of full war, something burns between them that neither can let go . . .

Let start off with this wonderful title. I just love it. It really draws the eye to this book. If you hadn't yet read any of the books yet you'd think about it after this title. 

I'm so happy that we finally got another book in this series. Or I should say The Embraced series. That's the series that started it all. When the author changed publishers she also changed the name of the series. It is now Embraced by Magic. Only a little change but one none the less. 

I was really worried we'd never get Sorcha's story and I'm so happy that here it is. In the prior books, I really liked her. She really stood out to me. She wasn't always as likable in her story. It was hard to put my finger on why. I think it was just the way the author wrote her. I enjoyed the woodsmen he shined for me 

I liked their relationship for the most part. I got why Sorcha held her independence so close to herself. When you are left on your own at such a young age with no one but your "sisters" to be there for you it molds a person and their thinking. 

There are many parts of this story that I really enjoyed and I am glad that I read it but I'm not so sure it's my favorite of the two series. I don't feel it was as well written as the other books. Usually, with a Sparks book, I find more humor and fun in them while the suspense is happing. Something I really enjoyed about her. I just didn't find that here. 

I'm not saying that I couldn't read the book because I could. It just felt different for this author. Unfortunately, I can't give it more than 3 stars. It's good, but not great. I would also check out the other series first before reading this one. It will help you get to know Sorcha and her sisters. 

Even though I was a little disappointed I will be reading the next book in the series with hopes it's more to my liking. You do learn the woodsman's name at the end of the book but I decided not to share it with you in my book info because I think it's fun to learn it on your own. Have any of you read her before? 

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