Legend of the White Snake

What happens when you don't read the blurb of a book but choose to read it based solely on the cover?

Well, let me tell you what happens.

You are pleasantly surprised by it! It is well known I am a suck for beautiful covers, and Legend of the White Snake was no exception for me. And as the story started, I thought to myself, what is this book even about?

Luckily, it wasn't a heavy fantasy read and great for any young adult age. The story and plot were very simple without too much depth. This creates a very cozy fantasy read, rather than deep world building. Honestly, the only fantasy aspect of this book is that it doesn't take place in the "real" world (even though it could very easily do so) and there are spirits. So, if any young adult reader wants to venture into a new genre - this would definitely be a book to do so.

The plot moves very fast, and I mean very fast. It was definitely an easy book to read but that hindered some of the character arcs story for me. Everything was very insta-happening, including the romance. There was never a real build up towards it, but instead is the insta-love trope. This works for some people, but I've never been a huge fan of the trope. However, for this book - it's exactly what was expected to happen.

Overall, Legend of the White Snake by Sher Lee was a great introductory fantasy read. This book creates a more cozy fantasy read than a in-depth world building. The plot itself was interesting and definitely kept my attention. This is a retelling of a story that I wasn't familiar with but makes me want to learn more. I enjoyed the dual point of view as well, even though there was the insta-love trope which I'm usually not a fan of. I highly recommend this book for any who are looking for a lighter fantasy read.

Cute retelling of a traditional Chinese folktale. Prince Xian travels to find a cure for his mother’s ailment, and crosses paths with Zhen, a snake spirit in disguise. The two share an instant connection, and thanks to Xian’s meddling, Zhen is assigned as his personal servant. However, secrets soon come between them, as Zhen realizes he is the snake who took the pearl that would’ve cured Xian’s mother, and Xian won’t rest until he’s found.

This is my first time reading this particular folktale, and I enjoyed getting to know the story as well as the pseudo-historical setting and cultural details. There’s super clear visuals of the clothing, hairstyles, and customs in the royal entourage. Xian’s characterization is also interesting - he’s a little mischievous, and unafraid to use his position as prince to get what he wants, without being malevolent. Zhen, on the other hand, is a soft child, and it hurts me whenever he gets tossed around by the plot (protect at all costs). I was charmed by the straightforward way their feelings developed, but a little confused later on when they seemed to change their minds without a clear reason.

Overall, it’s very character and romance driven. Aside from a spurt of action in the second half, most of the events revolve around Xian and Zhen’s casual interactions or court intrigue dynamics. I think the story could have benefited from some additional conflict to build up the plot, but I’m more drawn to action-adventure than romantic drama genres.