- If you love Fable and Namesake, you should read Saint.
- the world-building is immensely captivating, cinematic and exciting!
- here we get to know the background workings of people of the sea, the workings of trades.. It was charismatic and beautifully described... the scenery, the sea, the vibes, everything is so wonderful that I cant stop reading.
- We also got to meet the characters in Fable when they were younger, like Clove, Zola, and others who werent introduced in Fable. That's exciting to read cause we learnt more about how Saint relates to these characters back then.
- got to dive more into Saint's personality and history, as well as Isolde. Their romance ia very natural, without putting sexual scenes like those smut novels did, this book is safe to read. You can feel the tension between Saint and Isolde, and despite that, I feel nostalgic to finish this as I already know what will happen after this book ends.
- Saint is very mysterious and piqued my curiosity the most during Fable, so this book is like gift to me. We got to see more about who Saint was, why he is the way he is, and I think it made me understand him even more.. Why he did things he did in Fable, I got it know.
- In terms of the writing, Adrienne Young is a really skillful writer. The well-written plot and characters made the book so much more lively, colourful and adventurous. I enjoyed the writing and my reading experience in this prequel.

If you read and loved Fable and were among the people who cried for a Saint book, this is obviously for you. This is a cool prequel for the world of Fable and I loved every second of it!

This book is everything that I wanted for the prequel of one of my favourite duologies!

It gives you a better inside on the man that is Saint, how he became the man we met in Fable. It makes you understand his actions and decisions better.

Isolde is such a lovely character, she is the strong woman I aspire to be. To have the courage to get out of a toxic mother-daughter relationship.

The loyalty between Clove and Saint is so endearing but inspiring, to know that there is someone that always has your back no matter what!

This book was a solid intro to the characters appearing in Fable.

Saint was a ruthless father in Fable. He abandoned his kid and was harsh on her. He didn’t seem different here but more young, establishing his trade in the Narrows.

He was ambitious and wanted to leave a legacy behind. The only glitch to his plans was getting the trading license to make everything he did legal. I was impressed with how he used illegal means to make everything legal. Brilliant move there.

Enter Isolde, Fable’s mom. She was a runway daughter trying to put distance between her and her mother who ruled the Unnamed Sea. The moment Isolde stepped on the docks of Bastian she got into a tricky situation but the odds turn out in her favour, thanks to Saint.

Though her mother is feared by many we never showed up once in the book.

As for the plot, I appreciated the idea of gem sages in this book. It was still used to track and feel precious gems in the vicinity, but the plot gave more clarity why gem sages were rare.

Mostly, this book was focused on Saint acquiring his trading license. The remaining was on helping Isolde get a safe passage to Ceros. There wasn’t much besides that.

With Isolde desperate to reach Ceros I was expecting her to have solid plans to overtake her mom or something, but her plans was lacking, to put it simply. She hadn’t thought it through and it was showing in the plot.

In all, this was a good companion to Fable’s world. You can read this book without having read Fable or Namesake to get a good hold on those who rule the Narrows and the Unnamed Sea.


Thanks to Titan Books and Netgalley for the free DRC!

Being a big fan of the Fable series I was so happy to receive an ARC of Saint by Adrienne Young. Saint is a prequel novel to the Fable series and I know so many are going to love this. But you can read this without reading the Fable series as it works on its own so well too , but if you have read them it definitely adds to the enjoyment. I would love for Adrienne Young todo more prequel tales, but that’s me being greedy, if this is all I get it’s definitely enough for me (I guess)it’s so brilliant 🤩

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest opinion

Another great story in the Fable world, I’m so glad we got to have Saints story told. Adrienne always has a way with words that bring this world to life.

There are a few authors that I've discovered over the last few years whose work is so fantastic that I will pick up any book with their name on it, without even needing to read what it's about. Adrienne Young is one of these writers. From her first book, Sky in the Deep, and it's sequel The Girl the Sea Gave Back, I knew she was a writer that I needed to keep her eye on, and with the Fable universe, Fable, Nanesake,and The Last Legacy, she's created a series of books that never fails to disappoint. Saint is the latest entry in that series, and takes readers backwards in time to witness the origin of one of the more important characters that exists within it; as well as showing us how many of the plots and characters started off.

Despite having his name on the cover, this book isn't just about Saint, and the book begins by introducing us to another character that fans will instantly be familiar with, Isolde. Having fled from her mother, with one of the rarest and most expensive jewels in the world in her possession, she seeks to get away from her mother's reach and heads for Narrows. However, the captain of the ship she's on, Zola, has plans for her that could lead her into even more danger. But when she crosses paths with the dashing young helmsman, Saint, who's secretly smuggling fake gems in order to raise the money he needs for a traders license and a new ship, Isolde thinks that she might have found her way to freedom. But as Saint and Isolde's fates intertwine it brings them both into danger.

This being a prequel novel there's a lot here that fans of the series are going to love. From the first few pages it's clear that the events of this book are going to be referencing important people, places, and events. And whilst the book absolutely works on its own, and you don't need to know who everyone is or the importance of the things that are happening for future events, it definitely adds to the enjoyment. Those coming to this universe fresh will understand that Isolde has an expensive jewel in her possession, but for those that have read the other three books, as soon as the midnight is mentioned there'll be a moment of 'oh shit!' as you realise the implications of that and how important a thing it is.

And this is something that happens multiple times across the course of the book. It relies on you having read the other books to go from enjoying the novel to loving it on another level. And it's honestly a really great experience. Another thing in the book that instantly feels like it means more is the relationship between Saint and his best friend, Clove. Coming to this without any other knowledge they're two friends whose lives are so intertwined, so tied together they seem more like brothers. But those who've read the other books will know where their stories will ultimately end up, and so seeing them here in this way changes it from a good background relationship into one of the better parts of the book. I wanted to see more of them together, I needed to see what they were like at this stage of their life because it gives what comes after so much more impact and importance.

I'm making it sound like Saint plays upon fan service, and that you need to have read three other novels to get something from this, but that's not the case. The book absolutely does stand on its own. It has its own story that works within the confines of its book and doesn't rely on anything else to reach a satisfactory conclusion. The world is clear enough, and it makes sense and feels interesting without any knowledge of things beyond this story. And that feels like a very impressive line for Adrienne Young to have walked. It could have been easy to make this purely for the fans of the other books, and she certainly goes include a ton of stuff for those readers, but she doesn't forget that this could be someone's introduction to this series, and makes sure that that's taken into account.

The one thing about this book that does give me some slight pause, that leaves me unsure how I feel, is the ending. This book ends in a great way, the story it wants to tell her gets told and the characters end up in a good position for this to be it. And if this is the only time that Young goes backwards in time to play with these characters then it's absolutely fine. But I do also kind of want more. I want there to be another prequel. I want more from these characters. And yes, I know that that's nothing to do with the book or the author and is all down to me, but now that I've finished it I'm just left yearning for more of it. Though that does speak to the quality of the writing that even when its come to a satisfying conclusion my reaction is to turn around and demand more.

Whether this is the only time that we'll get to go back in time and play in this era or not, and whether this is your first introduction to the Fable universe, Saint is an incredibly addictive and engrossing novel filled with interesting and engaging characters, and a world that's incredibly well realised. Young continues to be one of my favourite authors thanks to this book; and I can't wait to see what she does next.

I absolutely loved everything about this book! Saint completely captured the hearts of readers in the Fable duology and I’m so happy that he and Isolde received their own book! I desperately needed Isolde and Saint together and their story was perfection.

Fable and Namesake was brilliant, Saint was even better mainly because of the main character Saint. I loved him in the previous books but he took me by surprise with his intensity and swoon worthy insanity in this one!
The plot, the immersive world, the dazzling characters came together wonderfully! The book had me completely enraptured. Highly recommend.

4.5 stars from me!

If you like quick easy reads involving adventure, rogues, pirates, family strife and found family then here it is!

I absolutely loved Fable and Namesake (go read those if you haven't already) so when I saw Saint was getting his own book I was on the edge of my seat with impatience and it did not disappoint!

I couldn't put this book down, the story was interesting, the characters endearing and overall it just gets all the love. I'm not sure what I was expecting when I went into this one, I was nervous because of my adoration for Fable but I really didn't have to be.

Fans of the Fable books will find it easy to slip back in to this world, like a warm blanket and a cup of hot chocolate, it's like a hug in a book but with adventure :) I enjoyed how well developed the characters became in such a short book, Isolde had a bumpy start for me but it didn't take me long to warm to her and the relationship that builds with Saint was great albeit a little rushed, another book would be great to round that off.

Headlines:
Stil read after Fable/Namesake
Quietly brooding Saint

As a self confessed fan of the Fable series, the addition of Saint's book just brings a 360 degree feeling to the series. I have come away from this feeling that even though its a prequel, it's best read after Fable and Namesake. I think going into this book with the whole history of Saint good and bad is great, but more importantly, how you perceive Saint in the next books would be skewed if read first.

Saint was dark, brooding, quiet and contemplative. He was a fierce figure, quite severe in some ways but there was a slightly softer centred that slowly revealed itself. I enjoyed seeing the start of his and Clove's sketchy sea life, the rye trade and that family. In addition, seeing Holland in earlier days sealed my negative thoughts of her. Isolde was a understandably secretive but she was honest and open in other ways.

The connection between these two I would describe as gentle, bourne of distrust but building into more. I wanted to see a bit more of that on the page but that's probably just my love of the series and characters coming through.

I just loved this reading journey, being back in the world, the peril, adventures, allegiances and enemies. The series truly feels complete now.

Thank you to Titan Books for the review copy.

when the opportunity came up to take part in the prequel to Fable: Saint, I couldn’t pass it up!

Adrienne Young has done it again! I read half of this in one sitting. It just had me completely enthralled. It’s so easy to read but it’s also intense and keeps you on the edge of your seat. I’m so glad we got to see Saint’s story and it’s making me want to read Fable all over again and see if I picture things differently. Adrienne Young’s writing style is quickly becoming one of my favourites and the world of the Narrows is one I’ll return to again and again! I really need everyone to read and appreciate these books!

❝ That look on his face was as beautiful as it was cold, and I didn’t like that I’d had to force myself to tear my eyes from his. ❞

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5

It's no secret that Adrienne Young is one of my favourite authors. I absolutely adored fable and namesake, so when I heard that we were going to get a story based on Saint, I was beyond excited.

Saint is so beautifully written. There's just something about Adrienne's writing that just keeps you hooked and asking for more, more from every character and every story. And she gives you just that with Saint.

Saint tells the story of Fable's father, the man who was mysterious and cruel, but here jumping between Saint's and Isolde's pov, we see a whole different side of him. we see him fall in love with Isolde, fight for what is his, and build his reputation. And I honestly loved reading it all. Saint is a great addition to this series.

There are so many good parts in Saint, but I will be honest when I say I got a very teary-eyed, goofy smile when Saint first meets Isolde. It was very bittersweet reading this and knowing what happens

If I had my way, I would really have loved to have seen further into his life what happened after his darkest moments. What choices did he make? Why does he do the things he did in Fable but I am also glad this is it's own story, it stands on it's own and it's not just retelling the orginal books, it's adding to it and if we are able to have more from the narrows in the future I am 100% down for that.

If you have read Fable and Namesake, and even if you haven't, I highly recommend Saint to you all 💜

Thank you so much @titanbooks for gifting me this copy and for including me on the #saintinstagramtour

4 stars

Beautifully written.
It gives us depth to Saint and Isolde's story and... I can't love them more.
I smiled and teared up and I was honestly at the edge of my seat at times.
It was full of action.
Romance was there tho it was slowburn, it was worth it.
This book is the perfect complement to Fable duology.

Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the chance to read this book in exchange for an honest review.

4.5★⠀
⠀
Thank you to Netgalley and Titan Books for the eARC; I've been looking forward to it since the author announced a book about Saint. I loved Fable, and Saint, along with West, is one of my favorite characters! ⠀

It made me want to read Fable again; I thoroughly enjoyed it from beginning to end. I learned about Saint and how he met Isolde, but what I like best is the author's writing style, which draws me into the story as it always does and makes me feel like I'm meeting old friends because almost all of the characters here are also told in Fable.⠀

It tells the story of Fable’s father, Saint and his rise to prominence as a trader. In Fable, Saint is described as cold-hearted and cruel; in this book, you will see a different side of him, especially when he is with Isolde; told from multiple perspectives, alternating between Isolde and Saint, it has a solid structure, the characters' personalities are strong enough to leave an impression on me, and there are no dull parts.⠀

The problem is that the chapters are short and end abruptly. Well, I have no issue with the story of another gem sage. I will undoubtedly read it ;) If you enjoyed Fable, I recommend Saint. There is a backstory of West that isn’t told in Fable, which surprised me. Saint (UK version) is out today, and I can't wait for you to return to the Narrows World and meet Saint again 🙌⠀

Thank you to netgalley for an advanced copy of this book!

Once agai Adrienne Young drags us into the world of the Narrows! Having loved the fable duology I have been so excited for this book and it doesn’t disappoint. It’s so atmospheric and makes you feel like you’re part of the story.

Saint is such an interesting character and I was really looking forward to finding out more about him. I loved the growing romance between him & Isolde and didnt feel like it was forced or rushed. I loved going through his trade route and wondering what would happen with all the ties he has.

I would recommend this to anyone as it’s such a great read.

I really enjoyed the world of the Narrows and the Unnamed Sea in Fable and Namesake, so Saint was high on my list of anticipated releases.

Saint is a prequel to the Fable duology chronologically, but I would recommend reading it afterwards as it reveals some information that would spoil elements of the plot of the duology.

I absolutely loved Saint as a character and learning about his origins and his friendship with Clove. There are a lot of morally grey actions and clever schemes required for the protagonists to best Zola, evade Holland and establish themselves as traders in the Narrows.
For me, the love story between Saint and Isolde took a bit of a back seat in comparison - I didn't mind this, as the majority of the plot is set over a relatively short period of time, and I'd imagine both of them would take time to trust and open up.

*Thank you to NetGalley and Titan Books for providing me this book in exchange for an honest review*

I haven't read Fable duology but now that we learn about Saint it will be my next reads. I really loved this book. Saint was a very interesting character and I really loved it. Ok see you later, I have to read Fable and Namesake. Now!

Saint is probably the most interesting character Adrienne Young has ever written. I really enjoyed being back in this world, and this book really fits in with the style of the previous books. I also loved finally getting to meet Isolde.

This book sort of brings together everything that was good about the previous three. You have the magic and seafaring of Fable, but you also have the politics and scheming of The last legacy. It's a perfect blend of the two but still stands on it its own as a fun adventure novel.

I'm going to be totally honest though:

I totally understand why this was a YA novel and why it centered on Saint and Isolde's, being in their late teens/early twenties and their love story (the kind of story AY is known for.) It suits the series. But if I had my way the book we would have had would have been probably double the length, adult, and would have covered most of Saint's life. I liked seeing Saint gain his reputation, but part of what makes Saint interesting is the choices he makes later in life, especially in regards to Fable. To have his pov of those moments, some of the darkest moments of the series, would have been so interesting to read. But that's a different book for a different series.

I absolutely loved fable and namesake so I was over the moon to be back in this world and Saint did not disappoint. I loved getting the back story of one of the most serious pirates in the fable universe and read through this in just two sittings.

The only reason this is 4 not 5 is that I wanted more information about what happened to Isolde!!!

Companion books are usually hit or miss for me. When done right they add something extra to a world that I already love, but when they’re done wrong they just feel like a quick cash-grab. Saint is in the first category, as I feel that it has a purpose as well as delivering a story that's on par with the main duology. The writing and plot is just solid in my opinion.

It’s a dual POV story from Isolde and Saint, Fable from the main duology parents. It’s focused on how they’re meeting each other, going on adventure and trying to stick it to their enemies. I really liked the story, and found both the main characters really interesting. My attention never waved, and I was thoroughly invested the whole way through the book. Which is impressive, since it has been ages since I read Fable and Namesake - and has basically no memory of most of the plot of them anymore - didn’t hinder my enjoyment of this story. One thing I want to point out is the fact that the romance has a long build up, which ends up in almost a speedrun at the end.

So if you’re looking for a romance heavy book, this isn’t thar. But if you like slow-burn friends to lovers and love adventure on the sea, then you should check out this one. Especially if you loved Fable and Namesake, and want more from that world.