Embracing the Enchantment: A Review of Unending (The Unseelie Duology, #2) by Melissa Housman
Three years felt like an eternity as I eagerly awaited the sequel to Unseelie, and let me tell you, Unending was worth every moment of anticipation. Melissa Housman has outdone herself, weaving a tapestry of emotions, adventure, and authenticity that captivated me from the first page. As someone who constantly seeks out stories that reflect neurodiversity, I found myself deeply engrossed in the intricacies of Seelie and Isolde’s journey.
In this second part of the duology, we rejoin twin sisters Seelie, an autistic changeling, and Isolde, a skilled thief, as they navigate the treacherous landscapes of fairy realms. Months have passed since their last adventure, and just in time for the winter solstice, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Alongside allies Raze and Olani, they are determined to rescue the last firedrake from Leira’s castle, but chaos erupts, leading them into a labyrinth of self-discovery and danger.
What intrigued me most was the exceptional representation of neurodiversity woven throughout the narrative. Seelie remains my favorite, beautifully portrayed in her struggles with magic and emotions, reflecting a depth that resonated with my own experiences. The author’s insights into Seelie’s interior thoughts are both poignant and relatable, showcasing the complexities many autistic individuals face. The introduction of ADHD representation through another character added yet another layer of authenticity, making this story a rich tapestry of neurodiverse experiences.
I’ve always felt that sibling dynamics offer a unique lens through which to explore relationships, and Housman’s portrayal of Seelie and Isolde is no exception. As Isolde steps away from her role as Seelie’s protector, she embarks on a personal journey to find her own identity, dealing with her feelings for Olani and redefining her role in a world that expects her to be the steadfast anchor. I found this shift immensely relatable, as it mirrors the real-life struggles faced by many siblings of neurodiverse individuals.
The pacing of Unending was expertly handled, with moments of thrilling action balanced by necessary pauses for emotional processing and bonding. The interactions between characters were genuine and heartwarming; I often caught myself smiling at the romantic tension blossoming between Seelie and Raze, and Isolde and Olani. While the romance was sweet and slow-burning rather than steamy, it felt like a relatable journey through the maze of emotions, thoughtfully filtered through the characters’ perspectives.
Housman’s prose is immersive, painting a vivid picture of this fairy world that pulls readers in with its fairy tale charm. From the intricate details of the various realms to the spellbinding plot twists related to changeling mythology, I felt as if I were there, journeying alongside the sisters.
In conclusion, Unending is a beautifully crafted conclusion to a remarkable duology that I wholeheartedly recommend to readers seeking neurodiverse protagonists and rich, emotional storytelling. Whether you’re drawn to themes of sisterhood, adventure, or nuanced portrayals of love and self-discovery, Melissa Housman’s work is a treasure worth exploring. As for me, I’m eagerly looking forward to what she has in store for us next—if it’s anything like this, I can’t wait to dive into her future worlds!
I received an ARC from the author as part of the Unseelie Court Street Team. All opinions are my own.
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