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najmanasir's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Overall, 4.5 stars! One thing I really enjoyed was how Aparna described scenes in her book. They were always so detailed and descriptive that I could envision everything happening. I tend to play scenes in my head, and her writing style completely supports that. I also admired the complexity of each character, appreciating how multi-dimensional they were. No character was purely "good," as their moral compasses were constantly challenged. For example, we have Leo Ravence, a father and the King of Ravence, who must balance his decisions between protecting his kingdom and his daughter Elena. We watch as he makes irreversible mistakes throughout his reign, but also moments where he shows his care as a father. There is also Yassen Knight, a man of Ravani and Jantari descent and an assassin for the Arohassin. Struggling against the rejection from both sides of his heritage due to having the blood of the opposing lineage in his veins, Yassen also bears the weight of being labeled a traitor and criminal for his allegiance to the Arohassin. Between balancing the desire to belong and the necessity of survival, Yassen questions where his loyalties lie, ultimately faced with decisions on whom to betray and serve. As the story unfolds, their individual narratives and arcs add depth, revealing perspectives that make each character captivating and prompting my sympathy towards them.
Another aspect I wanted to mention was the romance in the book. I appreciated that the romance was a subplot in the book, focusing mainly on the political issues and specific challenges each character had to face in the story. The romance between Elena and Yassen was a slow burn, matching the pace of their relationship development. While initially, the romance felt abrupt and kind of flat, it became more natural as the plot expanded and they found a deep understanding of one another.
Furthermore, the excerpts at the beginning of each chapter (which were snippets from various documents and books within the story's world), were such a creative addition to the narrative. While it may have been a small detail, it added another layer to the story, which deeply tied into the plot, world-building, and connections to specific characters. Honestly, I wished we had full-length documents of these excerpts. Some of my favorite quotes came from them, showcasing Aparna's attention to detail to vividly bring the world to life.
However, one thing I wish had been explored more was Elena's feelings, especially her rage. We do see her rage towards the middle/end of the book, but I wish it was scattered throughout the story. There were many moments when I felt like Elena was too calm, but I can understand that with her predicaments, she had to suppress her emotions more than she would've liked. However, the shift in her personality and morals towards the end of the book leaves a lot to explore in book two. Elena has so much potential and room for growth, and I can't wait to see her character development in the next two books.
Overall, this was a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed. The bonus chapter at the end emotionally wrecked me, making a particular bond so much more powerful. I will now be counting the days until the release of book 2, anticipating the impending chaos that has yet to unfold.
Another aspect I wanted to mention was the romance in the book. I appreciated that the romance was a subplot in the book, focusing mainly on the political issues and specific challenges each character had to face in the story. The romance between Elena and Yassen was a slow burn, matching the pace of their relationship development. While initially, the romance felt abrupt and kind of flat, it became more natural as the plot expanded and they found a deep understanding of one another.
Furthermore, the excerpts at the beginning of each chapter (which were snippets from various documents and books within the story's world), were such a creative addition to the narrative. While it may have been a small detail, it added another layer to the story, which deeply tied into the plot, world-building, and connections to specific characters. Honestly, I wished we had full-length documents of these excerpts. Some of my favorite quotes came from them, showcasing Aparna's attention to detail to vividly bring the world to life.
However, one thing I wish had been explored more was Elena's feelings, especially her rage. We do see her rage towards the middle/end of the book, but I wish it was scattered throughout the story. There were many moments when I felt like Elena was too calm, but I can understand that with her predicaments, she had to suppress her emotions more than she would've liked. However, the shift in her personality and morals towards the end of the book leaves a lot to explore in book two. Elena has so much potential and room for growth, and I can't wait to see her character development in the next two books.
Overall, this was a great read that I thoroughly enjoyed. The bonus chapter at the end emotionally wrecked me, making a particular bond so much more powerful. I will now be counting the days until the release of book 2, anticipating the impending chaos that has yet to unfold.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Injury/Injury detail, Child death, War, Death of parent, Murder, and Fire/Fire injury
Moderate: Gun violence
gimmiiie's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Colonisation, Blood, Death of parent, Gun violence, Religious bigotry, Police brutality, Murder, Death, War, Xenophobia, Ableism, Injury/Injury detail, Grief, Fire/Fire injury, Emotional abuse, and Violence
shoni's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
It has been well over a day since I finished and I have still not stopped thinking about the characters or the story. Everything about this story made me happy and I wanted the second book as soon as possible. I always wanted more South Asian representation and this book delivered for sure. Inspired by Indian myths and it being a high fantasy is truly combining some of my favorite aspects.
I also really appreciated that we had a POV of the father. Leo's perspective was so refreshing. We saw how he struggle doing what's right for his people but also for his daughter and it was so refreshing. Plus seeing the south asian father daughter struggle from a father's perspective isn't something you see often.
I also really appreciated that we had a POV of the father. Leo's perspective was so refreshing. We saw how he struggle doing what's right for his people but also for his daughter and it was so refreshing. Plus seeing the south asian father daughter struggle from a father's perspective isn't something you see often.
I loved having a strong female lead. Especially in the adult genre! I’m so used to seeing YA characters so I love seeing an older character who isn’t backing down and fights for what she believes in. My favorite is that even though she is a royal, and looks great in a red lehenga, SHE FIGHT BACK AND DOESN’T HESITATE. Like what’s not to love about that. Elena is everyone I've always wanted in a female lead and she's south Asian so it's even better.
On the other hand, Yassen is my boy. I love him. Being of a mixed race constantly not knowing where he belongs and being mistaken and never enough for either is something so personal to me. Aparna did such an amazing job to show the struggle of not knowing where you belong but struggling finding your place. AND THE LONGING BETWEEN YASSEN AND ELENA UGH! I am still not over the iconic dupatta scene. Like the fanart is so beautiful and I think about it constantly. Like that scene was absolutely beautiful and it had so many emotions behind it. And how it the symbolism behind it is so much more than what the surface shows ESPECIALLY WHEN SHES THINKING OF THE PRACTICE WITH YASSEN WHEN ELENA IS DANCING WITH SAMSON. ALSO CAN WE TALK ABOUT HIM SURIVING AND HIM BEING THE PROPHET?!? AND HOW HIM, ELENA, AND YASSEN ARE THE 3 DIFFERENT TIMES OF FIRE BECAUSE I WAS NOT EXPECTING THAT.
The story was also just captivating. From the very first page to the last I could not put it down nor stop thinking about it. I wanted to know what would happen, I wanted to know how everyone's paths would cross and what it would mean in the long scheme of things. The story itself is dark, there is a reason it's an adult and not a YA book. It covers some dark themes and topic and it doesn't shy away from it. It doesn't shy away from discussing what war not only does to a person but what it can push a person to do. It wad do interesting to see and I'm so excited to see more of it!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Grief, Death of parent, and Murder
Moderate: Gun violence
tc_booksandmore's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
Thank you to Orbit and NetGalley for gifting me with an eARC and physical ARC copy. This is my honest opinion.
This is an interesting blend of science fiction and fantasy and Indian mythology. It took me a little bit to get into the book and I was thrown off by the modernistic weaponry and technology because you don't normally see that in fantasy books. But the characters grew on me and I am intrigued by their stories and what is going to happen going forward. I do like knowing that this is the first in a trilogy because there was world and character building but it wasn't overwhelming. The multiple points of view gave insight into what the characters were thinking and a little about what was missing from the narratives.
There is very little in terms of romance and the little that is there grows naturally and doesn't seemed forced between the characters.
The characters are beautifully flawed and the world is crazy. If you like The City of Brass, A Darker Shade of Magic, An Ember in the Ashes, then I recommend this book.
4 out of 5 stars. No spice.
This is an interesting blend of science fiction and fantasy and Indian mythology. It took me a little bit to get into the book and I was thrown off by the modernistic weaponry and technology because you don't normally see that in fantasy books. But the characters grew on me and I am intrigued by their stories and what is going to happen going forward. I do like knowing that this is the first in a trilogy because there was world and character building but it wasn't overwhelming. The multiple points of view gave insight into what the characters were thinking and a little about what was missing from the narratives.
There is very little in terms of romance and the little that is there grows naturally and doesn't seemed forced between the characters.
The characters are beautifully flawed and the world is crazy. If you like The City of Brass, A Darker Shade of Magic, An Ember in the Ashes, then I recommend this book.
4 out of 5 stars. No spice.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Violence, War, Racism, Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail, Murder, and Gun violence
Minor: Blood and Death of parent
aliteraryescape's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
dark
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content, Gun violence, and Fire/Fire injury
Minor: Slavery
inkdrinkers's review against another edition
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
2.0
Told through three point of views, The Phoenix King is a blend of science fiction and fantasy, set in an India-inspired world. Yassen, an assassin turned bodyguard, Elena, heir and future queen, and Leo, the current king, all battle each other as they fight against a prophecy that might end their world as they know it.
The Phoenix King has a highly interesting premise and gorgeous cover.
I had such high expectations for this novel, and unfortunately it met none of them. Going in, I knew it would be a blend of sci-fi and fantasy (or science fantasy), something done rarely, but when done well it's incredible (see: Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao) - this was not done well. I felt so disconnected from the world from the first page, and as I kept reading I just kept feeling more and more confused and like every bit of science was shoehorned into the plot and just left half-wedged in there to "make it fit" since the book was trying to genre blend.
I found it very awkwardly written, from the character perspective changes, to the way the world felt almost like a parody of sci-fi in some moments (the strange new curses, the religious zealots with no purpose). The tone of the entire novel is set forth with a prologue that I absolutely didn't connect with, featuring a bizarre chase (he's a highly trained assassin, why does he suddenly suck at his job?) and throws the reader into a world that doesn't even attempt to ground itself before creating and introducing new ideas.
I know this was the author's debut, and I feel like you can TELL it was their debut, because the writing is so choppy and, on a technical level, seems to be unable to handle the massive task of building an entire world, religion, and plot in 400 pages. I, also, can't help but be a little annoyed that this was published prior in 2021, and this is the updated edition of the book, with apparently edits, more content, and extras. I'm a little shocked that this version of the book is the one that's gone through more editing because I still feel like it's lacking clarity in far too many areas.
I wish I had enjoyed this as much as I hoped I would, but it completely and utterly missed the mark for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for providing me a copy of this book for an honest review.
Content warnings: Grief, Death of parent, Murder, Gun violence, Racism, Violence, Sexual content, Slavery, Xenophobia
The Phoenix King has a highly interesting premise and gorgeous cover.
I had such high expectations for this novel, and unfortunately it met none of them. Going in, I knew it would be a blend of sci-fi and fantasy (or science fantasy), something done rarely, but when done well it's incredible (see: Iron Widow by Xiran Jay Zhao) - this was not done well. I felt so disconnected from the world from the first page, and as I kept reading I just kept feeling more and more confused and like every bit of science was shoehorned into the plot and just left half-wedged in there to "make it fit" since the book was trying to genre blend.
I found it very awkwardly written, from the character perspective changes, to the way the world felt almost like a parody of sci-fi in some moments (the strange new curses, the religious zealots with no purpose). The tone of the entire novel is set forth with a prologue that I absolutely didn't connect with, featuring a bizarre chase (he's a highly trained assassin, why does he suddenly suck at his job?) and throws the reader into a world that doesn't even attempt to ground itself before creating and introducing new ideas.
I know this was the author's debut, and I feel like you can TELL it was their debut, because the writing is so choppy and, on a technical level, seems to be unable to handle the massive task of building an entire world, religion, and plot in 400 pages. I, also, can't help but be a little annoyed that this was published prior in 2021, and this is the updated edition of the book, with apparently edits, more content, and extras. I'm a little shocked that this version of the book is the one that's gone through more editing because I still feel like it's lacking clarity in far too many areas.
I wish I had enjoyed this as much as I hoped I would, but it completely and utterly missed the mark for me.
Thank you to NetGalley and Orbit Books for providing me a copy of this book for an honest review.
Content warnings: Grief, Death of parent, Murder, Gun violence, Racism, Violence, Sexual content, Slavery, Xenophobia
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent, Murder, and Grief
Moderate: Gun violence, Violence, and Racism
Minor: Slavery, Xenophobia, and Sexual content
thereadinghammock's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
I knew going into this book that it was the first in a trilogy. I knew there would be some kind of cliff hanger, adorning to leave us readers wanting more. I thought I knew where Aparna was going to leave it off, but then the story kept going, and I was like "Ok,ok,ok,ok... tell me MORE!" I'm not usually a reader who speculates as they read. I usually prefer to just immerse myself in the story and pick up on the story beats just before the characters do. There were a few moments in the back quarter that I thought I had all figured out, but then there were ✨️plot twists✨️, which I am totally here for. Keep me on my toes as a reader and definitely hooked me for quietly anticipating book 2. There was a lot of world building in the first half or so of this book, but none of it felt too heavy handed. We learned things through explaining traditions to the "outsider" characters, discoveries of information previously withheld from characters, and through general context of the characters moving through the world. I always prefer to be dropped into a bookish world and have an author trust me as a reader to figure things out as we go through the story or give me enough clues to do some googling on my own to figure it out.
I knew Elena and Yassen would end up together in some context. I really thought Yassen was being lined up to be The Prophet, but then the reveal at the end that IT WAS SAMSON THE WHOLE TIME! I was shocked! I liked seeing Yassen and Elena grow closer, especially after their shared losses at the coronation gone awry. I was so glad to see my prediction of the double-double-cross come true on that front. I was a little disappointed in Yassen and Elena finally coming together. It was only like 3 paragraphs! I would have much preferred that be drawn out a little bit more. I'm also holding out hope for a royal throuple (swords crossing please!) With Elena, Yassen, and Samson. I knew since we didn't see a body during the commotion of the ceremony at the temple that Samson didn't die. I just didn't see his role as the Prophet coming. But he clearly cares so deeply for Yassen, and I think to a certain degree Elena too. I don't see why they can't all be happy together!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Fire/Fire injury, Colonisation, and Grief
Moderate: Racism, Gun violence, Violence, Death of parent, Religious bigotry, Injury/Injury detail, and Police brutality
Minor: Xenophobia, Slavery, Mass/school shootings, Sexual content, and War
ddnreads's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
Fiuuuuuhhhhh it was one hell of a book. I have mixed feelings about it. It started with a very great premise and I love the beginning. Halfway through I found it hard to finish the story. It's not like I didn't like them, I just sort of felt flat towards the characters. It doesn't ignite the sparks it initially did.
Let's start with what I love:
- The world building
I love it. It's rich, detailed, diverse, and very atmospheric. The author navigated it well. However, my small brain sometimes find it hard to keep up where or who. All fault on me. Hopefully in the final copy there will huge map detailing the places.
It's a science fiction fantasy where the modern technology was blended into the antique world building.
- The characterization
We're given 3 point of view. Leo, the king, Elena, the Heir, and Yassen, the assassin.
I love seeing how their thoughts woven into the plot. It gave them the depth and well explained their behaviour and decision. None of the characters are insufferable. All of them are strong in their stance. Are capable of fight 👌
- Enemies to lovers are acceptable. It's a slowburn definitely. But the romance is definitely much little. It's a plus point for me. I felt it yet it's not overpowering the whole story. It's just enough.
- The writing style is beautiful 🫶🏽😭 I love when the authors create their own phrases and it becomes iconic 👌♥️ I can see the research and mastery it put through to create such a world.
What I have mixed feelings for:
- The palace and political instrigue
The conflicts were overlapping one another.
The international affair conflicts and war felt too rushed and cramped at the end of the book.
- The twist didn't work for me. Including the epilogue. It didn't make sense?????
- I would love it if the pace is a bit faster.
To conclude, if you're into adult SFF, slowburn enemies to lover, political + religion + international war conflicts, badass FMC, twist and turn with a detailed explanation and lengthy actions to get there, give this book a go.
I would definitely read the sequel!!!
Let's start with what I love:
- The world building
I love it. It's rich, detailed, diverse, and very atmospheric. The author navigated it well. However, my small brain sometimes find it hard to keep up where or who. All fault on me. Hopefully in the final copy there will huge map detailing the places.
It's a science fiction fantasy where the modern technology was blended into the antique world building.
- The characterization
We're given 3 point of view. Leo, the king, Elena, the Heir, and Yassen, the assassin.
I love seeing how their thoughts woven into the plot. It gave them the depth and well explained their behaviour and decision. None of the characters are insufferable. All of them are strong in their stance. Are capable of fight 👌
- Enemies to lovers are acceptable. It's a slowburn definitely. But the romance is definitely much little. It's a plus point for me. I felt it yet it's not overpowering the whole story. It's just enough.
- The writing style is beautiful 🫶🏽😭 I love when the authors create their own phrases and it becomes iconic 👌♥️ I can see the research and mastery it put through to create such a world.
What I have mixed feelings for:
- The palace and political instrigue
The conflicts were overlapping one another.
The international affair conflicts and war felt too rushed and cramped at the end of the book.
- The twist didn't work for me. Including the epilogue. It didn't make sense?????
- I would love it if the pace is a bit faster.
To conclude, if you're into adult SFF, slowburn enemies to lover, political + religion + international war conflicts, badass FMC, twist and turn with a detailed explanation and lengthy actions to get there, give this book a go.
I would definitely read the sequel!!!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Religious bigotry, Blood, Body horror, Death of parent, Fire/Fire injury, Genocide, Grief, Gun violence, Injury/Injury detail, Murder, Violence, and War
sydapel's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
Boy did this pick up like wildfire (hehehe like the title) at about the 65% mark. Which, objectively is about 30% past when it should have, but I can tell this is on its way to being a long form fantasy series so we can forgive it. I think the world the author has established here is incredibly interesting, with a focus on the burden of revenge and grief and loneliness and rage. However, I felt the world building and establishment of the world was really difficult to intake, and there's a huge focus on that instead of action in the first two thirds, which made it incredibly hard to get into. Cannot wait to see what's next in the series!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Murder, Blood, Body horror, Fire/Fire injury, Gore, Death, and Gun violence
Moderate: Religious bigotry
otiliasae's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood, Child death, Chronic illness, Death of parent, Death, Fire/Fire injury, Gore, Grief, Gun violence, Injury/Injury detail, Medical content, Medical trauma, Murder, and War