Book Review: “You Are Mine” (Mine #1) by Janeal Falor

You are Mine (Mine #1) by Janeal Falor (2013)

Genre: Fantasy, Fiction, Romance, Paranormal

Page Length: 372 pages (electronic edition)

Synopsis:

Serena knows a few simple things. She will always be owned by a warlock. She will never have freedom. She will always do what her warlock wishes, regardless of how inane, frivolous, or cruel it is. And if she doesn’t follow the rules, she will be tarnished. Spelled to be bald, inked, and barren for the rest of her life—worth less than the shadow she casts.

Then her ownership is won by a barbarian from another country. With the uncertainty that comes from belonging to a new warlock, Serena questions if being tarnished is really worse than being owned by a barbarian, and tempts fate by breaking the rules. When he looks the other way instead of punishing her, she discovers a new world. The more she ventures into the forbidden, the more she learns of love and a freedom just out of reach. Serena longs for both. But in a society where women are only ever property, hoping for more could be deadly.

Review:

You Are Mine is a truly different kind of dystopian story, unlike nothing I’ve ever read before. In the novel, women are a source of magic power, but warlocks are the only ones who have the ability to wield magic while reigning over women. It’s such a restrictive society where women face constant scrutiny and the brunt of harsh punishments. Basically, if you’re a woman, it’s a terrifying place to live.

Despite everything that has happened in Serena’s past and in her current situation she refuses to be broken down or silenced like other women in society. She speaks up for others, fiercely protects the ones she loves, she’s outspoken, and wants to be educated about the society she lives in. She knows that there has to be a better life than the one she’s living.

As far as the romance goes, I appreciated that there was a slow build-up between the romance/companionship between Zane & Serena. She has to learn to let him in because she’s not used to trusting others besides her sisters and soon learns that he’s not like the other terrible warlocks she’s previously encountered.

Overall I enjoyed the writing and plot of the novel. The characters are likable and have great depth, and the detail to world building is amazing. This book definitely sets itself apart from other fantasy/dystopian-like novels I read before. There are many great action scenes of the magic battles that take place, the drama that surrounds the politics in Serena’s society, and the plot progression is very smooth.

Final Verdict:

Looking forward to reading the next installment in the series!