Six Crimson Cranes
books by Elizabeth Lim
New York Times Best Seller A princess in exile, a shapeshifting dragon, six enchanted cranes, and an unspeakable curse.... Drawing from fairy tales and East Asian folklore, this original fantasy from the author of Spin the Dawn is perfect for fans of Shadow and Bone. "A dazzling fairytale full of breathtaking storytelling." (Stephanie Garber, New York Times best-selling author of Caraval) Shiori'anma, the only princess of Kiata, has a secret. Forbidden magic runs through her veins. Normally she conceals it well, but on the morning of her betrothal ceremony, Shiori loses control. At first, her mistake seems like a stroke of luck, forestalling the wedding she never wanted. But it also catches the attention of Raikama, her stepmother. A sorceress in her own right, Raikama banishes the... The book maintains interest through subtle variation rather than dramatic shifts. Changes in pace and focus are introduced gradually, keeping the story engaging without disrupting coherence. This measured approach supports a smooth reading experience. The author’s approach to storytelling highlights the importance of context and buildup. Key moments feel impactful because they are supported by prior development rather than sudden shifts.