Carry On
8.3 / 10 340K ratings
- Language
- English
- Published
- 2021
- Publisher
- Pan Macmillan Childrens
- Pages
- 517
- ISBN
- 9781529095227
Simon Snow is the worst Chosen One who's ever been chosen. That's what his roommate, Baz, says, and Baz might be evil and a vampire and a complete git, but he's probably right. Half the time, Simon can't even make his magic work, and the other half, he sets something on fire. For his final year at Watford School of Magicks, all he wants is to relax, but a magic-eating monster is on the loose wearing Simon's face, his girlfriend has broken up with him, and his mentor is avoiding him.
To make matters worse, his infuriating nemesis, Baz, hasn't even bothered to show up. Simon can't stop worrying about the evil git, and he can't understand why. When a ghost delivers a cryptic warning, Simon realizes he can't face the darkness alone. This story of a reluctant hero and his missing adversary is a ghost story, a love story, and a mystery that explores what it means to be the one who is supposed to save the day, even if you feel like you are the greatest danger of all.
To make matters worse, his infuriating nemesis, Baz, hasn't even bothered to show up. Simon can't stop worrying about the evil git, and he can't understand why. When a ghost delivers a cryptic warning, Simon realizes he can't face the darkness alone. This story of a reluctant hero and his missing adversary is a ghost story, a love story, and a mystery that explores what it means to be the one who is supposed to save the day, even if you feel like you are the greatest danger of all.
Subjects
- Literature & Fiction
- Literary
- Fantasy
- Science Fiction & Fantasy
- Fiction
- Children's Books
- Romance
- Vampires
- Family
- Contemporary
- Teen & Young Adult
- Juvenile Fiction
- Fantasy & Magic
- Magic
- Curiosities and wonders
- School & Education
- Juvenile Nonfiction
- Social Topics
- Genres & Styles
- Young Adult Fiction
- Love & Romance
- Girls & Women
- Wizards & Witches
- Dark Fantasy
- Dating & Relationships
- Lgbt
- Science Fiction
- Paranormal
- History and Criticism
- Lgbtq+
- New Adult
- Queer
- Young Adult Fantasy
Original edition
Carry OnOriginally published in 2014 English St. Martin's Griffin
Other editions (69)
No summary for this edition yet.
What other readers say
Liked
Reviews for "Carry On" highlight its compelling character relationships and unique approach to fantasy. Many readers lauded the book for its captivating and deeply emotional queer romance, often described as swoon-worthy and an excellent example of the "enemies-to-lovers" trope. The protagonists, Simon and Baz, along with supporting characters like Penny, were frequently praised as three-dimensional, flawed, and highly lovable, fostering strong reader attachment and eliciting powerful emotional responses, from laughter to tears. The writing style was consistently appreciated for its wit, humor, and readability, with reviewers noting clever dialogue and a refreshing, often satirical, take on classic fantasy themes and the "chosen one" narrative.
Disliked
However, the book also drew significant criticism, particularly regarding its meta-fictional nature and perceived over-reliance on parallels to another well-known magical school series. Some readers felt this approach hindered its originality and prevented it from standing on its own. Pacing issues were frequently cited, with many finding the initial chapters slow or confusing, and some reviewers felt the overall plot was flimsy, predictable, or underdeveloped, leading to disengagement. While the romance was a highlight for many, a few found the chemistry between the main characters to diminish after their initial connection, or felt certain aspects of their relationship development were unnatural. Additionally, some critiques mentioned a lack of depth in world-building, uninteresting magic, and minor technical issues like redundant punctuation, with a minority of reviews expressing discomfort with the queer representation.
In short
Ultimately, "Carry On" emerges as a polarizing read, capable of inspiring intense devotion and strong criticism in equal measure. Its core appeal lies in its character-driven narrative and a celebrated queer romance that many found incredibly impactful and well-executed, alongside a humorous and self-aware engagement with fantasy tropes. This book would likely resonate most with readers who prioritize compelling character relationships and an "enemies-to-lovers" dynamic over intricate plot mechanics or extensive world-building. It is particularly suited for those who enjoy meta-fictional elements and a fresh, often satirical, perspective on familiar magical school narratives, especially if they are open to a story that deconstructs rather than merely replicates.
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