Fable

By Adrienne Young,

Book cover of Fable

Book description

Seventeen-year-old Fable is a dredger-a freediver who excavates rare gemstones from the coral reefs that fill The Narrows. For the last four years, she's been trying to get off the island of Jeval, find the father who abandoned her there, and claim her mother's place on his trading crew. But…

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Why read it?

6 authors picked Fable as one of their favorite books. Why do they recommend it?

I loved the high-seas, pirate vibe of this incredible book. The heroine's story starts in a harsh and tragic setting that I couldn’t help but get sucked into. And it was impossible for me not to admire Fable’s backbone, perseverance, and determination. She was so impressive!

I was immediately sucked into this story and rooting so hard for Fable. And the romantic tension that builds between her and one of the ship captains puts a perfect cherry on top of this lovely tale. 

One of my favourite things about Fable is it’s immersive setting.

When you’re reading this book, you can feel the sand beneath your toes, the wind on your cheeks, and the sea spray in your hair.

Admittedly, the action in this book is a little slower than the other’s I’ve recommended, but of course there’s still a broody pirate love interest (are you seeing a pattern yet?) unique magic that I’ve never come across before, and a heroine you can’t help but root for.

This book is also about yearning for somewhere to belong, and I think we can all…

This book absolutely blew me away and completely redefined great storytelling! My editor recommended it when we were talking about great new young adult fantasy books, and I will be forever in her debt for introducing me to Adrienne Young’s work. I love this world and heroine so much—Fable is scrappy, raw, vulnerable, clever, and immensely strong with just the right touch of magic. I recommend this book to everyone I know!

From Anne's list on YA fantasy with magical heroines.

This is Adrienne Young’s best book so far — atmospheric and lyrical and hearty. As a lover of all things ocean, Fable really delivered with its high-seas sailing and dredging the bottom of the seas. But it is also a slow-burn, character-driven story that explores love, family, and the meaning of home. And Fable, the character, is smart, resourceful, and struggling with being abandoned by her father. Her internal struggle and coming to terms with herself make for a very satisfying read. She’s determined to find her rightful place next to her father—and at the same time, she’s a person…

From Tanvi's list on oceanic YA fantasy.

This story is full of tons of heart and even more adventure. Another sea-faring tale, this book takes the reader on a ride to remember, all while making them feel. I absolutely fell in love with the cast of characters, and the writing itself is stunning. The sequel is just as captivating! 

Abandoned by her father on an island filled with thieves and little food, young Fable figures out how to survive and get herself off the island to find her father and demand answers. She discovers that the world of gem trade is more dangerous than she thought as she tries to navigate her new life and build a relationship with her estranged father. This book takes you to the seas and vividly describes life as a crew member on a ship with all the pirate vibes you could want. Adrienne Young is a master at keeping you turning the pages…

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