Why I Absolutely Loved The Trials of Morrigan Crow

Title: The Trials of Morrigan Crow

Series: Nevermoor #1
Author: Jessica Townsend
Publication Date: October 31st, 2017
Add to Goodreads | Buy from The Book Depository

Morrigan Crow is cursed. Having been born on Eventide, the unluckiest day for any child to be born, she's blamed for all local misfortunes, from hailstorms to heart attacks--and, worst of all, the curse means that Morrigan is doomed to die at midnight on her eleventh birthday.

But as Morrigan awaits her fate, a strange and remarkable man named Jupiter North appears. Chased by black-smoke hounds and shadowy hunters on horseback, he whisks her away into the safety of a secret, magical city called Nevermoor.

It's then that Morrigan discovers Jupiter has chosen her to contend for a place in the city's most prestigious organization: the Wundrous Society. In order to join, she must compete in four difficult and dangerous trials against hundreds of other children, each boasting an extraordinary talent that sets them apart--an extraordinary talent that Morrigan insists she does not have. To stay in the safety of Nevermoor for good, Morrigan will need to find a way to pass the tests--or she'll have to leave the city to confront her deadly fate.

Review

If you want to read any Middle Grade novel this year, (before the year comes to an end eeeppp), The Trials of Morrigan Crow is the one to dive into. 

1. The world is spectacular 

Any fantasy novel that draws me in, is one with a vivid and expansive world, that encompasses various elements to make it believable. I felt like I was transported into The Trials of Morrigan Crow with Morrigan and really, truly wanted to be there. There is a magic in it that escapes from the pages purely just by reading about Nevermoor and its history and the city’s make up. Townsend has created a intricate and exciting world that, much like Narnia and Hogwarts/Hogsmeade, you can’t help but want these places to exist so that you can be there as well. 

2. It's perfect for all ages

The Trials of Morrigan Crow carries the tone of a Middle Grade novel but has layers that have built a strong story line. It was straightforward enough to understand for any reader, but kept up the suspense and plot twists to keep me entertained and engaged. It was quite exciting really, between the trials and Morrigan’s integration into Nevermoor. I liked the pacing and am really glad that this is pretty much an all-age read.

3. Townsend was made to be a writer

This is Jessica Townsend’s debut novel and already her first piece has been such a strong and admirable read. Townsend’s writing delivers a strong world and solid plot that has me anticipating not only the sequel to Nevermoor, but her future works. She’s made me remember why I absolutely love reading Middle Grade to this day. There’s a kind of emotion attached to it, like I’m reliving my childhood, going through the kiddish excitement from reading about a magical adventure and experiencing the feeling of really being there. 

The Trials of Morrigan Crow is a win for all ages and I cannot wait to continue this adventure with Morrigan.