BOOKS

Spring break boredom? Not this year: We're diving into a new fantasy read. (After all, this is the ultimate szn to live out your whimsical, fairycore dreams.)

If you're new to the genre of magic, mischief and epic worlds, our March Bestie Book Club pick, The Encanto's Daughter by Melissa de la Cruz, is the perfect soft fantasy intro.

Inspired by Filipino mythology, this YA romantasy (that's romance + fantasy) follows 17 year-old MJ as she discovers that she must claim her long-lost father's throne and rule over a dazzling court of magic. Oh, and there's a handsome knight she has to reluctantly ally with, too. 👀💕

Grab your copy of The Encanto's Daughter and read along with our Bestie Book Club (we're chatting all things fairycore on Instagram @glbestiebookclub and TikTok @glbestiebookclub) then scroll on to get the deets of this enchanting tale... 

MJ Rodriguez is a hapcanto, aka half-human, half-fairy. She's spent her entire life hiding in the human world, hoping to conceal her magical heritage—and the huge secret that she's the only daughter of King Vivencio, ruler of the fairy realm of Biringan.

After her estranged father's unexpected death, MJ is whisked away to assume her spot as the rightful heir to the throne. 

But claiming her new royal role isn't exactly a piece of cake. MJ faces a growing threat from rebels who seek to overthrow the monarchy, tricky classes to help her harness her long-lost magic and a budding romance with the mysterious (but equally dashing) Sir Lucas.

With a ruthless sorceress on the loose and the future of Biringan on the line, MJ will need wayyy more than a little magic to secure the crown...

Our March book besties are in their fairy magic eras as they dish about The Encanto's Daughter. Meet Lulu, Lorelei, Alexis, Andrea & Selena, Ashley & Kelly and Paizley.

Most relatable moment: "Even though MJ is royalty, she still has insecurities. She feels alone and self-conscious at school, and *everyone* has those thoughts sometimes."
Biggest lesson you learned from The Encanto's Daughter? "It's so important to move forward despite setbacks. I've felt this a lot working in the music industry—and just like MJ, I'll come out stronger after every challenge I face."

Fave character? "Nix, MJ's BFF. She's the ultimate inspo for finding your own path and staying true to your heart."
Your dream encanto power is... "Flying, like the winged batallion. I totally belong in the Lambana Court."

Fave spot to turn pages? "Curled up in my bean bag or outside on the porch. It helps me really escape into the story I'm reading."
What's your next read now that you've finished The Encanto's Daughter? "I love Melissa de la Cruz's writing style and relatable characters—so I'm checking out her Never After series. And of course, since this book is the first in a duology, I can't wait for the next installment!"

Your experience reading The Encanto's Daughter: "It's the perfect blend of fantasy, thriller and mystery. We seriously couldn't put it down!"
Describe the book in five words: "Adventurous, magical, captivating, suspenseful and empowering."

You *so* belong in this court: "The Sirena Court, with powers of the mountains and seas. It'd be amazing to control water."
You'd recommend The Encanto's Daughter to... "Literally all our friends at school. Biringan is so pretty and cool!"

Would Biringan be on your travel bucket list? "It's so enchanting and mythical. It kind of reminds me of Neverland from Peter Pan. Not sure I'd want to live there permanently, especially as a human, but I'd love to check it out and visit."
MJ faces a ton of challenges on her journey to the throne. What advice would you give to girls facing something big in their lives rn? "Having someone there to support and guide you makes all the difference."

Ready to start your enchanting adventure with The Encanto's Daughter? We thought so. Peep our quick tips for slaying your fantasy reading experience, then snap a pic of you with the book and tag us on IG @glbestiebookclub!

Find the perfect reading spot. To totally transport yourself into Biringan, you're gonna need a nook with as few distractions as possible. Put your phone on silent, cozy up in your comfiest chair and pop in your headphones (this fairy playlist is the ultimate ethereal vibe).

Take notes. Break out your cutest journal and gel pens, then jot down any info you want to remember about the plot or setting (think: the breakdown of all four Biringan courts, character names and MJ's backstory). It'll be a fab reference point later on.

Buddy up with a book bestie. What do we heart most about reading over spring break? Your BFFs are free to read with you! Send this post to your #1 girl, then plan to read five chapters at a time before you meet up to chat about the book (discussions about plot twists, MJ's Filipino-inspired culture and the swoon-worthy Sir Lucas are v. much encouraged).

by GL | 3/6/2024