Elizabeth Lim does what she does best, blending Chinese mythology with fairytale feels, high-stakes magic, and a heroine just trying to survive the impossible.

🧑‍🧑‍🧒‍🧒 You can always count on Elizabeth Lim for stories that center around family. It’s a signature in all her books, and it shines here too.
🧜‍♀️ While it’s notably known as a Beauty and the Beast retelling, I couldn’t help but get Little Mermaid vibes, especially with most of the story unfolding in the undersea kingdom of Ai’long.
🎨 Elizabeth’s prose is poetic, enchanting, and immersive. It feels like it’s painted with the same brush as Tru’s gift, full of color, movement, and emotion. That said, I struggled to follow the plot at times, especially during the action-heavy scenes. It was partly due to the descriptions, partly the pacing. But the plot twists? So clever, and I genuinely didn’t see them coming.
💖 The romance isn’t the most overt Elizabeth’s written, but the quiet affection between them crept up on me as the truth slowly unraveled. It’s subtle, slow, and intentional. And listen, get you a man who makes you a dress with pockets.
🥹 And the ending? I’m a sucker for a good HEA, and this one melted me.

Thank you for the arc, NetGallery and Penguin Random House!

Elizabeth Lim's stories always feel like diving into the most immersive fairytale and A Forgery of Fate was no different. Truyan was an easy protagonist to root for and her loyalty to her family keeps her grounded when her world turns upside down. Her bargain with Elang brings her on an underwater adventure that at first seems magical but a deeper look reveals the tyrannical hold the Dragon King wields. As they work together to pull off the impossible task, their relationship begins to blossom and I just love how Elizabeth Lim writes her romances because they're so gentle that you don't even realize you're falling in love with the characters. This had me on the edge of seat and I cannot wait to read more from the author!

I absolutely loved this book! I've always loved the story of Beauty and the Beast, and this was a perfect retelling. I loved the twist of trying to protect two younger sisters and a mother that had stumbled along the way. 5 out of 5 stars.

Received an E-ARC of this from NetGalley.

I thought this was an interesting take on Beauty & the Beast with the artistic take. I enjoyed the dragons, plot twist, & atmosphere.

Reading A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim is an immersive, emotional, and richly imaginative experience.
Emotionally, the journey is powerful. Tru’s longing for her father, her fierce love for her sisters, and her inner conflict between right and wrong are written with real tenderness. You feel her hesitation, her fear, and her quiet hope that maybe—just maybe—she can change her fate. It’s not just a fantasy adventure; it’s a story about grief, responsibility, trust, and self-discovery.
The magic system—painting the future—is incredibly visual and poetic. You feel like you're watching the paintings come to life, and that sensory detail makes the story feel cinematic at times. It’s a book that makes you want to pause, reread a line, and just sit in the atmosphere.Ultimately, the experience of reading A Forgery of Fate is like stepping into a dream where beauty hides danger, art holds power, and fate is something you can rewrite—but only if you’re brave enough to face the truth. It’s absorbing, emotional, and quietly epic.

Oh the depth of love I have for this book ❤️‍🔥 The FMC is clever and sassy and loveable with a big heart for saving everyone. The MMC is broody dragon Lord on a mission. The two of them working together, in a marriage of convenience, brings such great tension. Rules were set for neither of them to fall for the act… but we know how forced proximity works 😁 I love seeing the cultures of this world, the whimsical peoples of this world. The magic is spun straight from a fairytale and the political intrigue is epic. I am so in love with this unique Beauty and the Beast retelling. The story has familiar elements, but I don’t know if I have read a retelling with such depth of story and a really nice spin on the original.

🥀Reluctant Allies to Lovers
🥀Beauty and the Beast Retelling
🥀Tension
🥀Marriage of Convenience
🥀Whimsical Magic

🫑🫑 Steamy tension, no spice

This was wonderful, and I finally understand all of the hype around Lim and her novels. I've not read any of her previous work, so I can't say anything about any possible easter eggs she's snuck in there, but the world she's created (returned to?) was rich and well-developed. Her characters are also vibrant and fully formed, and they were all so delightful I scarcely know which one was my favorite of the bunch. This is billed as a Beauty and the Beast retelling, and while it is, there are also elements of several other tales woven in (both western and not), so if you think you know where it's going and all the beats its going to follow I promise you you don't. Lim also has gorgeous prose, and her world-building is so lush I might as well have been able to step into the pages into the story itself, which is what every author strives for but few are truly able to achieve. I will happily be adding this to my collection of physical books, and I've already written a shelf-talker for it and talked it up to my coworkers. This is a tale that both teen and adult readers alike are sure to devour, and I'll certainly be on the lookout for upcoming titles from Lim, as well as checking out her backstock.

🤍ARC REVIEW💙

I was very blessed to receive an ARC of A Forgery of Fate by Elizabeth Lim. I absolutely loved her Six Crimson Cranes books so I knew this one would not disappoint.

Inspired by Beauty and the Beast (which is my favorite Disney tale), A Forgery of Fate takes us on an adventure with Tru Saigas as she tries to provide for her family after her father is lost at sea.

After a mishap involving her art forgery business, Tru agrees to a marriage contract with a dragon lord. In exchange for her family’s safety, she follows him to his undersea palace to assist him in overthrowing the Dragon King.

This book was everything I have come to hope and expect from Elizabeth Lim. 5 stars from me.

If you haven’t picked up an Elizabeth Lim book, I highly recommend it. A Forgery of Fate is a standalone and a good place to start.

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The premise, the cover, the author? It sold me immediately. However, I really really wanted to love this, but while I liked it, I didn't love it. For me, while it was well written, it was a tad too slow. I had a hard time believing in Tru and Elang relationship and I would've liked to have seen them spend more time together falling in love. While I understood his feelings (because he had all this history built up with her) we didn't see the same for her. In the end, while the world was beautiful and the story had it's moments, because I had such a hard time falling in love with the characters, this was a bit of a let down for me. That said, I will still read anything Elizabeth Lim writes because I really enjoy her storytelling overall.

First, I am extremely grateful to have received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. Second, I will undoubtedly be purchasing a finished copy to read over and over.

This book is beautiful perfection! This was my first experience with a fantasy book rooted in Chinese lore or mythology, but it will most definitely not be my last. Lim did a marvelous job of weaving a fantastical and mystical world full of sea dragons, talking sea turtles, mermaids, water demons, and so much more. The whimsy and humor melded perfectly with the vivid settings (both on land and underwater), and the story flowed seamlessly. So seamlessly, I managed to read 90% of it in 2 days (which is rare for me) despite being in a bit of a reading slump.

A lot of books claim to be a Beauty and the Beast retelling when in reality they are just stories that involve a pretty girl falling for a beastly man, and maybe there's a deal or kidnapping involved. THIS, however, is a true retelling. There are many similar elements, but the East Asian twist and underwater element gives it new life that I loved.

I loved Tru from the first page! She is spunky, clever, and resilient. And unlike more romantic fantasy standalones (YA or otherwise), the romance in this felt well-developed and believable. There is absolutely no spice, but I never missed it.

This is a must-read! Add it to your priority TBR today. Right now. Go.

I really loved the beginning of the story as it was fast paced and engaging. I also enjoyed Truyan's relationship with her sisters and her willingness to forge art in order to support her family. Once Truyan agreed to marry Elang and temporarily live in his realm, the story slowed and so did my attention. Overall, this was still a good read and I plan to read Lim's other works. Thank you NetGalley for an ARC.

A Forgery in Fate is an enchanting story with magic, dragons, beautiful world-building, a captivating storyline, and a sweet, slow burn romance. It only took a few chapters for me to fall head first into this world and become engrossed in Tru and Elang's story. In my opinion, the writing was exceptional — the main characters were well-developed, the plot was imaginative and engaging, the world was immersive, and the story tugged on my emotions in all the right ways.

While this can absolutely be read as a standalone, the story does take place within the same world as Elizabeth Lim's Six Crimson Cranes duology and Her Radiant Curse.

I would highly recommend this to anyone who enjoys a sweet, fairytale-esque story.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children's Books for providing me an e-ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

I feel so lucky to have received an ARC from one of my favorite authors to date! It was so wonderful to be back in Lim's fantastical worldbuilding. Tru had my heart captured from the beginning, and there's nothing I love more than a character willing to do anything for her loved ones. She has spine, wit and character I won't soon forget! Elang also had me gripped in his dark talons; the twists and turns he takes us on emotionally alone are half of my gasps in this book! I found myself close to tears in the end, and just really think everyone should grab a copy of A Forgery of Fate, out today!

Fans of the Six Crimson Cranes books will be elated to return to Lim's fantastical world in Forgery of Fate!

Truyan Saigas is a painter with the Sight- when her brush touches paper, enigmatic visions of the future unfold. But dire straits pushed her to a life of selling forgeries to make ends meet for her mother and sisters, after her father went missing at sea years ago. When she becomes entangled in a deal with the half-dragon Lord of the Westerly Seas that involves a marriage contract and a plot against the terrifying Dragon King, Tru finds herself overwhelmed by the task ahead. But with the possibility of a new future for her family and answers about her father's disappearance at stake, she has no other choice but to fulfill her end of the bargain.

Pitched as a Beauty and the Beast inspired romance fantasy feels more accurate than a retelling. The themes are there, but instead of Gaston and grand library scenes, there's water demons and extra spicy noodles. Elang definitely embodies the 'Beast' character well, what with his actual heart (aka dragon pearl) being missing, but Truyan is not your typical Belle. This gives them a dynamic that's much more acidic in the banter, but making the emotional moments all the sweeter.

I don't want to say too much more, because I think this story is best experienced without knowing too much going in. It's an entertaining and fast read, great for YA audiences and fans of Lim's other work!

I always love Elizabeth Lim books and I was especially excited for A Forgery of Fate because it’s a really unique Beauty and a Beast retelling. And what can I say it was absolutely amazing.
 
This story is about Truyan who does everything to keep her family afloat after her father goes missing at sea. She is an artist and very good at forgery and that was amazing to see, and her paintings are also slightly magical which was really cool. She takes on quite a few powerful and dangerous clients and that leads her to Elang. I loved how fierce and brave Truyan was and she fights for her loved ones. Her journey is just magnificent, and I loved following along.
 
Elang is a dragon lord who is very elusive and feared by all. I loved learning about his story and the dragons, and it was done in such a unique way. The more I saw of him, the more I loved him. Also, this book has a fated mates’ aspect and it was bittersweet but also really romantic. In addition, the marriage of convenience and fake dating aspect was just incredible, and I loved their banter and chemistry.
 
The whole story was very character driven and I loved it. At the same time, I was so invested in the plot and was so curious where this story was going and omg, I totally didn’t expect a lot of things that happened. And that in combination with the author’s beautiful writing style took it to the next level. The title of the book is also very fitting and the whole underwater world was just fascinating and stunning.
 
A Forgery of Fate is unlike any retelling I’ve ever read and it’s such a beautiful story and I’m just obsessed with it. 5 stars.
 
(Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for providing me with an arc.)

I'm not sure about you, but I can usually tell when a book I'm reading is going to be five stars. It begins with the opening chapter, which I typically read and then set the book aside for a few hours. If I finish the chapter and want to read more, it's a good sign. If I keep thinking about that chapter in between reading sessions, it's another good sign. More than that, though, a five-star book gives you a little frisson of something. I don't know if it is joy, excitement, or anticipation, but it is a feeling that stays with you after finishing a reading session. It makes it difficult to fall asleep and distracts you from other tasks if you read during the day. It's not tangible, but it is there all the same.

A FORGERY OF FATE by Elizabeth Lim met all of these criteria and had me doing what I haven't done in a long time, which is read well past my normal bedtime. It wasn't a conscious decision. I literally lost track of time while reading it. I love it when that happens!

Ms. Lim talks about her inspiration for A FORGERY OF FATE being the fairy tale Beauty and the Beast, and yes, there are the generic similarities to call it a retelling. However, I never felt like I was reading a retelling of that classic tale. The mystical world of Ai'long and even the crowded city of Gangsun are as different from medieval France as you can get. Truyan Saigas is no victim, and she certainly holds her own in any situation. She is no damsel in distress and finds herself in the role of protector. As for Alung, he is less beast than some heroes and more focused on protecting his people than wooing the girl.

A FORGERY OF FATE is a magical story. I don't say that because it contains magic, which it does. I say that because it is the type of novel that makes you feel young again. It reminds you of what it feels like to fall in love the first time, especially if you don't expect it. You feel all the hope and possibility of youth. If you are young and reading it, I imagine it gives you the motivation you need to keep hoping and believing in all the possibilities ahead of you. When the real world feels like it is burning down around you, A FORGERY OF FATE is a welcome respite, one that gives you a little extra zest for life to allow you to face that real world again as well as the strength to keep on trying to make it a better place.

I loved this book! I sped through Elizabeth Lim's other books that take place in this world, but it is not necessary to read them first, though I would recommend it if you have the time.

Fake dating/marriage is such a fun trope, and I really liked it in this book. Elang is probably one of my favorite love interests now. I almost cried at two different parts, and I am not normally a crier. I highly recommend this book!

I really love the idea of behind this story and was so excited to read it. The magic and the world was so interesting! Unfortunately I had to DNF at the 40% mark because the writing wasn't enjoyable to me. The characters also felt a bit 2D and a bit cheesy even.

Thank you so much for the opportunity to read and review this early!

There’s something about fated ones that reunite after years apart and a slight case of amnesia that just gets to me for some reason. Matched with a Beauty and the Beast like tale and it’s bound to be a new favorite of mine; this book hit all of those points and more and I couldn’t be happier with how it ended. 🥰

The story follows Truyan, a young woman who has resorted to art forgery in order to keep her family off the streets. I liked how spunky she was and loyal she was to her family even though they drove her up the wall at times. I especially liked the sisterly bond she had with her middle sister, Falina, who might not see eye to eye all the time, but still remained loving towards each other no matter what. 🫂

Tru’s interactions with Elang, the Dragon Prince and main love interest were something of a giggle fest for me here and there because the reader can tell that Elang is clearly struggling. While yes it was a little frustrating that they were back and forth in terms of friendship/warmness to each other, I still liked how riled up Tru would get around Elang. 😂

My only “issue” with this would have to be that we didn’t have more time in the world. I would’ve liked more time in Gangsun and Yonsar and how Tru’s family would interact with these differing worlds. I guess that’s the downside of most standalones even when they are done very well. 🥲

HUGE thank you goes out to Knopf Books for Young Readers and NetGalley for accepting my request to read this in exchange for an honest review; and to the author, Lim, for writing such a wonderful sea set Beauty and the Beast tale full of Chinese folklore tales. ❤️

Publication date: June 3, so go take a look at it now!!

Overall: 4.5/5 ⭐️

This was my first Elizabeth Lim book and actually my first Chinese mythology inspired fantasy, and I really liked it! A Forgery of Fate is a Beauty and the Beast retelling with a marriage of convenience and a slow burn romance with dragons and a variety of other magical undersea creatures. I really liked Tru as a main character - she was quirky and strong and brave and had so much love for her family (and Elang). And I felt like the author was good with her descriptions - I could see the settings vividly in my mind.

There were a couple things I didn’t care for. 1) There are talking turtles and that was hard for me to imagine without them seeming very cartoon-y. 2) The slow burn was SO slow, and while I understand why Elang pushed Tru away from him for so long, I wished he wasn’t so mean and rude to her🫠 3) There is a “water demon” character, and there was discussion about demons being misunderstood and not as evil as everyone thinks they are. As a Christian who believes that demons are indeed real and are, in fact, evil, I didn’t love that thread.

So while there were a few things I didn’t like, I did enjoy the story overall and am interested in checking out what else Elizabeth Lin has written!🐉

Content Notes: No spice (beyond kissing). Little to no language. One prominent side character is described as a demon. The main character engages in an activity that allows her to see the future.

Thank you to NetGalley and Random House Children’s for sending me an eARC of this book! All thoughts and opinions above are my own.