The Beast Player (The Beast Player, Books 1-2)

by Nahoko Uehashi

Cathy Hirano (Translator)

Elin's family have an important responsibility: caring for the fearsome water serpents that form the core of their kingdom's army. So when some of the beasts mysteriously die, Elin's mother is sentenced to death as punishment. With her last breath she manages to send her daughter to safety.

Alone, far from home, Elin soon discovers that she can talk to both the terrifying water serpents and the majestic flying beasts that guard her queen. This skill gives her great powers, but it also involves her in deadly plots that could cost her life. Can she save herself and prevent her beloved beasts from being used as tools of war? Or must she face the terrible battles to come?

• ISBN10: 1250307465
• ISBN13: 9781250307460
• Publish Date: 26 March 2019 (first published 1 March 2018)
• Publish Status: Active
• Imprint: Henry Holt & Company
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 352
• Language: English

Reviews

[alindstadtcorbeax]

Star Rating: —> 4.5 Stars

So, basically, I am a sucker for everything this novel is. The last page or two, I was absolutely bawling my eyes out.

This is a truly unique and must read for all.

I am in awe of this book. True awe. I love the main character, Elin;
her Beast, Leelan (in truth, I am enamored with her);
& their relationship, their bond
,with all of my heart.

What an INCREDIBLE story. It had it all, for me.

RTC

[Beth C.]

I picked up this book on a whim, thinking the cover art was INCREDIBLE, and being fascinated with the synopsis and the fact that is translated from Japanese. I figured I'd give it a shot, and decide whether to continue. I am SO GLAD I did...it's such a beautiful, fascinating, amazing story. I love the characters - and that includes the Royal Beasts - and Elin feels like an actual human. Her attempts to do the right thing, her confusion at whether she really is, her strength and weaknesses by turns - I admired her, frankly. This is a fairy tale, wrapped up in strange and beautiful creatures, and packaged with the best and worst of humanity. It's a book I would read again, and it's one I highly recommend.