It is time. Adrienne Young's duology, Fable, is about to conclude in Namesake. It is time to see how Fable's story wraps up, don't you think?

Last we saw, Fable has been ripped away from her hopes, and her home, all of which could be found on the Marigold. Now she's been sent off on another adventure – this one she is much less willing to take part in.

Yet it all ties back to her past. And her family. It always does. In some ways, it feels like she will never be free of the world that she was born from. But Fable is a driven woman, and she will fight to the end to have a choice for her path in life.

“I was the Saint's daughter. And before I left the Luna, every bastard on this crew was going to know it.”

I'm not entirely certain what I expected, when thinking about how this duology would end. I can tell you that no matter what I was thinking, Namesake surpassed any hopes I had on the matter. It did justice to the tale that Fable started, and kept me reading right up until the end.

No really, I read Namesake all in one go. I couldn't bring myself to put it down, not even for a snack break. The new antagonists, revelations, and emotional turmoils kept me fully invested, and even left me just a little bit sad, when it was time to say goodbye to it all.

That's the sign of a good story though, so I won't complain about it ending. Not much, at least. I promise. All good things must come to an end, and that includes our time in this world that Young has created.

On that note, I really did enjoy the world itself. The concept of living on the ocean, of diving for treasures. All of it, even (perhaps especially) the less glamorous parts. It all felt so alive here, especially when Fable's story got brought into the fold.

Namesake did a fantastic job of wrapping up all of the plot arcs already started, while creating a few more to make us all the more invested. It brought Fable's conclusion to the perfect point, and really did justice for all of those fans out there. Of which I know that there are many.

Honestly, I feel like duologies are underrated these days. I love book series, don't get me wrong. However, I do enjoy a shorter series that knows exactly what it wants to do. Perhaps that is one of the reasons why I loved Fable so much. Adrienne Young set out to tell us a story, and she did exactly that. I know that this is one that I won't be forgetting anytime soon.

Loved this sequel! I so enjoyed being back in Fable's world and seeing old and new(er) characters. I definitely love the family aspect that the crew has and I wish there was more books in this duology. I won't say too much to avoid spoilers, but if you enjoyed the first book and love pirates, I highly recommend picking this one up!

I love when authors not only expand on the characters during a sequel but also expands on the world they have built. I highly recommend this novel to anyone who enjoyed the first. Fable is a well-liked, strong female protagonist who has struggled, but found her way in the world-- I root for her!

This was the perfect conclusion!

Can I say that I love Saint? I won't give you more, I don't want to spoil it for you.

Before you read this book you have to know this is a duology and you must read Fable to understand Namesake.

At the end of Fable, our heroine was in dire straits, Wasn't she?

Onboard in the Luna, Fable doesn't have a friend. The crew wants to kill her and the man she thought was a friend has betrayed her and Saint. Worse, she has no clue if West knows what happened to her.

Fable is given an ultimatum. She must dredge for her freedom. Then, things get worse, Koy is in the same boat and the last time they parted ways, he promised to kill her 🗡.

Worse, a new adversary will give them all a run for their money.

~~

I'm really glad about how the story developed. I loved how the narrative just flowed. Fable remains an interesting character throughout, same with West and the rest of the crew. Koy was an unexpected addition but one that was welcome.

I'm sad this story is over. It was an interesting world. Cutthroat to say the least. Would I join them? Hmm, not sure if I can live in a boat despite the hammock sounding very appealing.

Lastly, I want to say how lucky is Adrienne Young with her covers. This one is gorgeous!

Cliffhanger: No

4/5 Fangs

A complimentary copy was provided by Wednesday Books via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

This was even better than book 1, Fable! There's more reveals and deals, as Fable has to navigate new challenges.

This novel starts right after the cliffhanger of book one and is full of suspense and danger (it almost felt like a heist novel). And there's a lot of plots and secrets about (some of which involve Fable's deceased mother). Will Fable be able to outsmart these news plots or will betrayal cause her to lose her freedom?

My only complaint is that I wanted more of the side characters! (Some of them almost felt a little on the flat side at parts, but overall I enjoyed them and their character arcs.)

All in all, this was a great end to a solid duology. Adrienne Young's prose and storytelling makes this definitely worth the read!

Special thanks to NetGalley and St. Martin's Press / Wednesday Books for this e-ARC. I really appreciated the opportunity to read this wonderful finale!

I can't believe I'm done with this breathtaking, YA Fantasy. The world building was phenomenal, the plot was fast-paced and exciting, and while the romance did take a backseat, it fit the story.

To me, West and Fable had a deep love but it wasn't romantic because they both would (and did) do whatever they could for the other. That meant throughout both books, but especially this one, they didn't tell each other things and made decisions apart. That grew tiresome, but I understand that was just the way life was for them.

But the heart of this story, the plot, was what made this a 5 freaking star duet. Everything from dredging, to ship life, to betrayals, adventures...it was so beautifully and carefully written. It felt like an epic rollercoaster and while fantasy usually drags a bit for me, I devoured this book (both books lol). I'm so happy I took a chance with this story and it gave me back the deep desire to devour more ya-ish fantasy romances.

Through so many actions and consequences, lies and truths, and finally a revelation that made me SO happy, I enjoyed every second of Fable's journey. She went through so much. I always viewed her as a silent strength with just enough love and vulnerability to make her trustworthy to even the least trusting people. She demonstrated that over and over and we were just along for the wildly addicting ride.

4.5 stars

Perseverance. Sacrifice. Vengeance.
The stakes are higher than ever for Fable, in book two of this duet, as she fight for herself, for West and his crew, and for her dad, Saint.

As much as I loved book one, this release, in my opinion, was even better. The direction of the story was clearer, and I was more invested in the characters. Fable, as the sole narrator, remains the star of the show, and she is manipulated throughout by others for their personal goals. This manipulation doesn't make her weak, in fact, it highlights her strength, meeting each challenge head on and knowing that her time will come for payback. I applauded her tenacity under the toughest of conditions.

What surprised me in this installment was the alliances formed along the way. It is obvious that West still cares a great deal about her, but some unexpected players in the game stepped up as well. Up against some worthy opponents, I liked Fable and West's dedication to saving one another, and their clever approach to turning the odds in their favor (yes, I'm trying to be vague here to avoid spoilers).

If you enjoyed the adventure on the high seas in book one, then this follow up is sure to entertain you.

Thank you to the publisher, Wednesday Books, and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.

The Marigold is out of Saint’s control at last, but before Fable could enjoy her success with the crew, she has been kidnapped by Zola as a part of some scheme. To her surprise, she finds a familiar face on board Zola’s ship: Clove, who used to be a part of Saint’s crew and saved her life in the storm that the Lark went down in – and who was there when she was abandoned on Jeval. Fable is unsure about exactly what Zola’s goal is, but she is determined to get back to West and the crew, so she plays along, agreeing to dredge for gems as he asks and once in Bastian, help him secure a deal with the famous gem-trader Holland. But Holland has a surprising connection to her, and as she begins to learn more about her mother’s past, and what the events that are unfolding could mean for those she cares about, Fable will have to decide where her loyalty lies.

It’s been a few months since I read Fable, but Namesake picks up almost immediately after it and I found it very easy to follow even though I’d forgotten a few finer details of the story. Fable was a good read for the most part, and though I had a few issues with it, I mostly liked it. Namesake however, was so much better! A large part of that is due to the narration style – the way things are described makes it so easy to visualize, particularly the segments when Fable is on a ship or out dredging. There was also a lot more going on in this book, and being just as fast-paced as the first book, it was impossible to put down.

The cliffhanger Fable left us on was quite abrupt, but I really appreciated how this book didn’t rush to reveal everything all at once, and even when things did start to become clearer, there were still plot twists left in store. One aspect I wanted to see more of from the first book was fulfilled – Fable using her gem sage abilities. Though it wasn’t much of a central point in the story, it was cool to see. It was also great to learn more about Isolde, Fable’s mother, and her backstory, along with Holland’s actions, mostly drive the events of this book. Fable and Saint’s relationship is a complicated one and it continued to be a major plot point that was very well portrayed.

I was annoyed with West for a large part of this book but it’s hard to explain why without giving away spoilers. As for Fable and West’s romance, it was better than in book one, but I honestly felt it took up too much time in this book, and between that and Holland’s schemes, there was not enough page time given to the other characters, namely, the crew of the Marigold. They arguably, were even more affected than Fable and West by the events that occurred in this book and their reactions were entirely appropriate. It was lovely how they supported the two of them even though they were so mad at them. I just wish there had been a more proper resolution for this part of the story. A large part of all these issues would have easily been solved if West had a POV.

I loved how this book ended – I didn’t really expect Saint to come through in such a spectacular fashion, nor his actions after it. The scenes at the end, both in Fable’s Skerry and Jeval were wonderful additions and a great way to tie off this duology. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and would definitely recommend this series.

A wonderful follow up to Fable and dare I say I enjoyed Namesake even more than I enjoyed Fable! Namesake definitely shows us more sides and background of the Marigold crew and we explore much more of the world especially the Unnamed Sea. I loved the relationships established between Fable and Saint but especially between Fable and West! The plot can be a bit predictable at some points but the overall story is quite good and its a fun read!

Thank you Wednesday Books and NetGalley for this gifted copy. All opinions are my own.

After that cliffhanger ending to Fable I had to immediately dive into Namesake to find out what happens to Fable and West along with the rest of the crew. While this follow up doesn't feature much of the crew, it is action packed and contains some good twists that I didn't see coming. For the most part everything wraps up nicely and as predicted. Overall, it's a fun duology that's got a different theme than the usual fantasy I normally read.

I had high hopes for this sequel after devouring the first book in the series, and this installment did not disappoint. Full of answers to the mysteries that were hinted at in the first book, this novel didn’t slow down for a second and was chock full of action. The setting(The ocean, mostly)is absolutely delicious in the way the author describes it-with painstaking and amazing detail. The characters are well drawn, and Fable, our heroine, is definitely one to root for: strong, beautiful, and determined above all. I would recommend this book and this series to literally anyone—I LOVED it. 4 ⭐️!

Many thanks to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for an e-arc of Namesake by Adrienne Young! All opinions are my own.

Namesake picks up right where the cliffhanger of Fable ended. I won't say anything more about the summary that would spoil Fable for those who haven't read it yet.

I really loved Namesake, almost as much as Fable. The level of adventure and sea-faring was exactly the same. There was a considerable amount of character growth throughout the novel and the plot moves fast(to keep you interested!). I don't think there was a more perfect way for Young to end the Fable duology than with Namesake. A+ work on her part! I'm excited to read more of her work.

After reading FABLE in the one sitting (yes, one sitting), you could say that my expectations for NAMESAKE were relatively high. I loved the fast-paced plot, intricate characters, and smoldering romance of the first book—and I have to say that the sequel delivered a satisfying ending in flying colors. Picking up right about where FABLE ended, NAMESAKE is action-packed and explosive, wasting little time re-introducing readers to the world before launching into deliciously intriguing conflict and character development.

Perfect for fans of high seas adventure, found family, and just all around fun, the Fable duology cannot be missed.

(Pine Reads Review would like to thank NetGalley and the Publisher for sending us an ARC in exchange for an honest review.)

Let me start this off by saying I absolutely loved 'Fable" the first book in this two book series but this one did not live up to the hype I created in my head for it. I loved the crew as family from the first book and in this one we don't even see the crew until 50% through the book and then they are just mad at each other for what feels like the whole time. I also felt like the romance flopped in book two as well. Fable just keeps make mistake after mistake after mistake and it's just so repetitive that I could have done without most of the first half o f the book, harsh I know, but after loving the first one so much this sequel just didn't do it for me. 2.5 stars

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC to read for a an honest review.

I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. In Namesake, we once again follow Fable on her adventure through the Narrows... and beyond. Adrienne Young does a fantastic job of making the reader question whether Fable should trust those she encounters - both the old friends and newfound acquaintances she makes. The "found family" element is heart-warming, especially as we learn more about some of the Marigold's crew members. There are a few twists and turns that at times felt a little bit predictable, but satisfying nonetheless. At the end, readers will no doubt be wishing for the next installment!

Not too long ago, I was blown away when I read Fable, by Adrienne Young. Namesake, the conclusion to the adventure/romance/seafaring duology, had a lot to live up to- and amazingly, it raised the bar! Starting with Fable's kidnapping, the action never lets up!
I highly recommend both books!

~Special thanks to Netgalley and Wednesday Books for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!~

Actual rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟⭐ 4.0

*looks at camera*
*clears throat*
*places hands in an evil person pyramid*

See, this wasn't bad. But it wasn't GREAT. And that hurts my heart. What's left of it, anyways.

It had pirates, a strong female main character, and treason. Still, it didn't like... hm... it didn't leave me absolutely devastated and unable to continue life because SURPRISE, I couldn't find the will to move on with my frivolous reading existence. Which we alllll know, is the best thing that could happen in a book. #whyarereaderssuchmasochists

Y'all see why I concern myself? Okay, now that we got that out of the way (we literally got nothing out of the way, unless you count me explaining why I'm like I am), let's dive in headfirst into an ocean (hehe, get it? Dive, ocean, pirates? Hehehe) of mini spoiler-free rants that my 3:00 am self thought would be a good idea to write. And yes, I do have multiple self's, each one for a different time of day. The dawn self is the most... how shall I say it? Oh yes, mentally and emotionally unstable. *smiles for the camera*

Since it is physically demanding for me to write a spoiler- free review (as many of you know, but since I have the attention span of a blade of grass (blade? Piece? Strand?) I shall repeat so because OBVIOUSLY, it needs to be repeated. For myself, I mean. Like a mantra) I shall divide this as follows.


*adjusting lighting*


Hello, and welcome to Booksy Rants, at this moment we will be touching on the topic of the writing in this novel. Okay, I will admit that Adrienne Young is an amazing writer, periodt. The way she describes things is not overly detailed, but it doesn't leave you hoping for more, it's there. And it is MAJESTIC. I enjoyed it, very much so. Unsurprising, since you know, one of the loves of my life is Sky In The Deep which halloooo, the sequel was a parody, and I'm over here waiting for the real thing. Will any future books of this author ever compare to that previous masterpiece? Not yet, no. It is not to mean her books since then have been BAD, per se, they just haven't been as GOOD as my bookish soul would've dreamed of.
Overall? Writing gets an 8.5 out of the scale of greatness.

You know what wasn't great? The secondary characters. I know, I know, nowadays, authors focus so much on the main tea that they forget to add the sugar (a LOT, if I may say so myself. Enough to give me a threat of Sugar crash porfavor) to it, and it ends being bittersweet. Which of course, is not the worst. Still, I want my tea to taste SWWEEEETTTT. You know? The fact that I only cared about oh, about... hm... four people in this book is a lot to say. Like, seriously, I needed FOUNDATION, needed someone to tear my soul out of its rusty hinges and stomp on it repeatedly in hopes of feeling SOMETHING.

Alas, two of those people were (I say two because if I say more I may spoil something and the only thing I want to 'spoil' is the romance in this book, teehee):


The MC, Fable, which again, was gorgeous and amazing, and astounding, and so many more GOOD things. Until, you know, she would get together with the love interest. Interesting MC? Yes, absolutely. A little forgettable? That too, yes. And that's slightly depressing. Like, she was very much a kick-butt female protagonist, she just lacked... personality. A concrete personality, I mean. Only thing I know? She had a mother, who died. (Which she let us know about in every page) and her love for the sea was insurmountable, immeasurable, in- introverted? The fuel to my boat of synonyms has depleted itself, forgive me (the number of puns I'll subtly throw here will make waves across my sanity).


Which brings me unto the NEXT character, dear love interest. West, y'all! *Automated applause with shrieks added for emphasis*

He was quite the specimen *giggle giggle* Also? He was too protective, and felt the need to save everyone, go figure! Any time the MC tried to do something on her own, he would stop her and force her to accept help. Like, BRUH, I believe the chick can hold a napkin to clean the tea spilled by moi. You don't have to get the mop. And geez Louise, did he make me angry when he made a certain decision like oh, (and this is not a spoiler, it legit happens in every book) SACRIFICE EVERYTHING FOR HER. I wouldn't sacrifice a french fry unless, UNLESS, someone was in peril of starvation. And even that depends.

(I was low-key jealous, but we won't talk about that). His personality only got better because he was a 'pirate', with a 'conscience'. Ew.


The romance~ *nod* *stares at camera* It was there. I appreciated that it tried. It was just... there.

The world-building was absolutely pretty good (between decent and AMAZING), the way things worked, and THE DREDGERS???? I need a moment.

I also needed a moment with the 'plot twists', so okay, I wasn't exactly in the state of mind to want to unravel anything so yes, they mildly took me by surprise. My eyes widened slightly (kind of like that fish who messed up the fish formation and all of them got caught in the net because that puny little fish couldn't contain its craving of 'UP THERE ON LAND, THEY UNDERSTAAANNDDD, AND THEY DON'T REPRIMAND THEIR DAUGHTER-' I'll stop now) and I became a squealing mess. Once. I repeat, ONCE.

The plot was okay, I enjoyed it. It didn't blow my socks out of the water *smirk*, but it left me satisfied in how it all came together at the end. (Ugh, such a basic description, alas, my brain cannot do spoiler-free mode anymore)

On a closing note, multiple someone's should've died (not because they were villains just because of convenience and like, time), the plot could've been a little more... intense. And the MC should've punched West in his face and make his ego go South real fast. With Hades, if you will. Ooo! How about you eliminate the whole romance??? See, that is a very nice idea.

I would recommend this to people who have obviously read book one and know where the deepest end of the pond is (at this point, I'm throwing random water related things out there. I'm so sorry), to readers who want a strong female character and a love interest that is swoony once in a while. Oh! And those other two characters I didn't mention back there? You should just read it for them. And the ship related puns. Those are a definite must.

*shuts down camera*
Oh crap, GUYS I DON'T THINK I RECORDED ALL THAT.
GRRRRRR

( I have actually been practicing my growl because somehow, all these characters know how to growl. I want to growl tooooo)


P.S: Please ignore those last few sentences. 3:00 am self took the reins again.

WOW WOW WOW WOW WOW
so epicly phenomenal, series recommend this series to everyone, fantastic world building, I adored Fable.

Looking for an outstanding fantasy duology filled with plenty of slow-burning romance that will make you swoon, fast-paced action that will have you on the edge of your seat, and phenomenal world-building that will pull you into this story unable to let you go. I truly cannot recommend the Fable duology enough. This was a fantastic ending to the story. Highly recommended!!

Yes. Yes. Yes. Adrienne Young is such an incredible writer and I love these books so much. Fable is the female heroine we need.