Legendborn

Bookseller recommendation

“Tracy Deonn expertly takes Arthurian myth and weaves them into the modern day in Legendborn with magic, secret societies, and high stakes action. Whether you are familiar with those myths or not doesn't even matter. Either way you'll quickly be captivated by her writing, world building, and compelling characters - all paired with an excellent narrator. But this isn't just an addictingly good fantasy. It's also a commentary on the systemic racism in this country, and how colonial practices directly influence oppression faced by Black people in the United States today. The end result is a must listen that will leave you hungry for the story to continue and rooting for Bree to come out on top. ”

— Dany • Rediscovered Books

Bookseller recommendation

“This YA series is one of my absolute favorites! Tracy’s ability to capture the rawness of grief and the journey of discovering the world is perfection. The details and rollercoaster of emotions you experience with this book will have you eagerly going through the entire series begging Tracy for the final installment. ”

— Anaika (Anya) • Mis Amores Bookshop Cafe

Bookseller recommendation

“I listened to this audiobook almost entirely it one sitting. It was utterly enthralling.”

— Rosie • One More Page

Bookseller recommendation

“If you’ve been thinking about trying audiobooks, I recommend LEGENDBORN by Tracy Deonn as a great starting point! The reader, Joniece Abbott-Pratt, completely transported me to the Southern Gothic world of a secret society on the campus of UNC-Chapel Hill (down to the hot sauce on hash browns). With a complex magic system intricately tied to ancestry and world history, Arthurian legend, demon battles, and just enough romance, this was one of those books that I thought about when I couldn’t have it playing in my headphones! Deonn is a master, bringing Brianna, the main character, to name and disrupt white male supremacy while working through the grief of her own story and that of her mothers before her. I also loved the queer representation in secondary characters, including a squire with they/them pronouns. I can't wait for the sequel and to follow Deonn's career!”

— Kim • Lark & Owl

Bookseller recommendation

“A young black girl saving the day, sign me up! Bree’s journey to find out more about her family history and find her place in the world kept me engaged throughout. Loved the Arthurian legend tie-in. Secret societies always bring so much drama (in a gossip-y way).”

— Alecia • Wallflower Bookshop

Bookseller recommendation

“Legendborn is perfect for fantasy fans that want deep lore, a unique magic system, and a love triangle that has you on all sides! ”

— Ashley • Schuler Books

Bookseller recommendation

“If you haven't picked this up yet—this is your sign to do so NOW! Bree Matthews, the main female character, is one of the best fantasy protagonists of all time. You will love her with your entire heart after finishing this—as well as other characters in the series. While it's a fantasy, there's mysteries littered throughout the novel and plot twists that will leave you clutching your headphones! The writing style is easy for the topics touched upon (read TWs), and the world building is excellent. Seriously, get it. ”

— Jenna • Steamy Lit

Bookseller recommendation

“Everything has two histories. Especially the South. In "Legendborn," we discover at least one more history to learn about - that of the Arthurian Legend. A fantasy/mystery mashup set on a southern college campus would have easily drew me in on its own. Add in the premise that Arthur and the Knights of the Round Table has secretly existed for the last 15 generations as a secret society to fight demons made it even more enticing. What made this truly magical is how Deonn gives us even greater depth with her #ownvoices authorship by also deftly highlighting how the modern day Black experience is still haunted by the lingering legacy of slavery in the South. She gives this experience voice through Breonna’s experiences of microagressions and blatant racism and more poignant observations such as the contrast of how easily the Southern whites can proudly trace their roots and family tree instead of the disruption and loss of lineage created by slavery for Black families. Grief tied more immediately to the recent death of her mother as well as these encounters of inter-generational trauma are addressed well throughout the story lines. A stellar sense of place exists with rich descriptions of southern culture, North Carolina and UNC Chapel Hill that could have only been created through deep personal experience...I immensely enjoyed the audiobook narration as it pulled the emotion and tension directly off the page in a wonderfully immersive way.”

— Cori • Bright Side Bookshop

Bookseller recommendation

“Prepare for a gripping listen. Join Bree as she infiltrates a secret southern society of the descendants of King Arthur and his knights of the Round Table to find out the truth about her mother's death. I couldn't praise this series enough if I tried. It's my all-time favorite book!”

— Gabrielle • Page 1 Books

Bookseller recommendation

“Imagine a world where the enchanting magic of Harry Potter collides with the vibrant life of college campuses. Picture young witches and wizards navigating the trials of academia, forging friendships, and discovering their true identities while mastering spells and brewing potions. Join them on an adventure filled with late-night study sessions, spirited debates in the great hall, and the thrill of rivalry as they juggle exams and magical duels. This is not just a journey through spells and incantations; it's a captivating tale of growth, camaraderie, and the unforgettable experiences that come with the college experience.”

— The Story Room Collective • The Story Room Collective