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Legendborn

The Legendborn Cycle #1 / 4
by Tracy Deonn
Legendborn (The Legendborn Cycle #1) by Tracy Deonn
★ 8.86 / 7
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Filled with mystery and an intriguingly rich magic system, Tracy Deonn’s YA contemporary fantasy Legendborn offers the dark allure of City of Bones with a modern-day twist on a classic legend and a lot of Southern Black Girl Magic.

After her mother dies in an accident, sixteen-year-old Bree Matthews wants nothing to do with her previous life, family memories, or her childhood home. A residential program for bright high schoolers at a local university seems like the perfect escape — until Bree witnesses a magical attack her very first night on campus.

A flying demon feeding on human energies.

A secret society of so called “Legendborn” students that hunt the creatures down.

And a teenage mage who calls himself a “Merlin” and who attempts — and fails — to wipe Bree’s memory of everything she saw.

The mage’s failure reveals Bree’s own, unique magic and unlocks a buried memory with a hidden connection: the night her mother died, another Merlin was at the hospital. Now that she knows there’s more to her mother’s death than what’s on the police report, Bree will do whatever it takes to find out the truth, even if that means infiltrating the Legendborn by becoming one of their initiates. But when the Legendborn reveal themselves as the descendants of King Arthur and his knights and explain that a magical war is coming, Bree has to decide how far she’ll go for the truth and whether she should use her magic to take the society down — or join the fight.

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FantasyYoung Adult
Release date: September 15, 2020

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Tracy Deonn

Tracy Deonn

Tracy Deonn is a rising star in the world of young adult fiction, known for her compelling storytelling and unique blend of fantasy, magic, and cultural exploration. Her debut novel, Legendborn, has garnered widespread acclaim for its fresh take on the urban fantasy genre, drawing readers into a world where Arthurian legend collides with the struggles of modern-day life. With a keen focus on identity, heritage, and belonging, Deonn’s writing resonates deeply with readers who crave diverse perspectives and thought-provoking narratives.

Read more ...

Deonn’s writing style is marked by its vivid world-building, complex characters, and seamless integration of social commentary. In Legendborn, she masterfully weaves together themes of grief, race, and personal discovery, all while crafting an action-packed, magical journey. The book is lauded for its nuanced portrayal of its protagonist, Bree, a young Black girl who uncovers a hidden society of magic and confronts the legacies of history. This groundbreaking novel not only captivated fans of the fantasy genre but also earned Deonn numerous accolades, including a place on various "best of" lists and praise from critics for her fresh voice and powerful storytelling.

Born and raised in North Carolina, Tracy Deonn’s personal experiences deeply inform her work. She is passionate about bringing underrepresented voices and stories to the forefront of the literary world, and her writing reflects a commitment to exploring the intersections of race, magic, and personal growth. Deonn's commitment to inclusion and her ability to craft immersive, diverse worlds has made her a standout voice in contemporary fantasy.

With Legendborn quickly becoming a fan-favorite and establishing her as a force in YA fiction, Tracy Deonn is poised to continue captivating audiences with her insightful, imaginative stories. Her ability to blend rich folklore with modern-day struggles makes her work both timeless and highly relevant, ensuring her place as one of the most exciting voices in young adult literature today.

Photo: Kathleen Hampton

The Legendborn Cycle

The Legendborn Cycle is an epic urban fantasy series that seamlessly blends rich mythology, gripping adventure, and deep emotional exploration. Written by Tracy Deonn, the series has quickly become a fan favorite for its unique fusion of Arthurian legend, modern-day struggles, and thought-provoking themes of identity, race, and personal discovery. With its immersive world-building, complex characters, and unflinching look at the legacies of the past, The Legendborn Cycle has earned praise for redefining what a fantasy series can be.

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At the heart of The Legendborn Cycle is Bree Matthews, a young Black girl who, after the tragic death of her mother, stumbles into a hidden society of magic and secret histories. As Bree navigates this new world, she uncovers shocking truths about her own heritage and the powerful, dangerous forces that seek to control her destiny. The series expertly intertwines fast-paced action with deep emotional beats, highlighting Bree’s journey of self-discovery as she confronts the legacies of both her ancestors and the secret society that wields immense power.

One of the standout features of The Legendborn Cycle is its vivid world-building. Deonn masterfully creates a hidden world of magic, steeped in the ancient legends of King Arthur, while grounding it in the complexities of contemporary life. As Bree unravels the mysteries of the magical society she has entered, readers are introduced to a richly layered world filled with danger, betrayal, and unexpected alliances. The series delves into themes of family, belonging, and the personal cost of uncovering hidden truths, all while maintaining an exciting, page-turning narrative.

Critical acclaim for The Legendborn Cycle has highlighted its fresh voice and diverse perspective, with praise for its complex characters and the way it addresses important social issues, including race and systemic inequality. Fans have eagerly embraced the series for its unique approach to magic, its relatable protagonist, and the compelling blend of historical legend and modern-day issues.

For readers looking for a fantasy series that challenges conventions while delivering an unforgettable adventure, The Legendborn Cycle is a must-read. Combining elements of mythology, modern fantasy, and deep social commentary, it stands out as one of the most exciting and impactful series in the genre today.


The Legendborn Cycle consists of three books and series is set to expand with the upcoming release of one more book. The current recommended reading order for the series is provided below.

Legendborn (The Legendborn Cycle #1)
★ 8.86 / 7
Bloodmarked (The Legendborn Cycle #2)
★ 9.72 / 14
Oathbound (The Legendborn Cycle #3)
★ 9.00 / 2
Legendborn Book 4 (The Legendborn Cycle #4)
⧗ 9.42 / 17


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