Scan barcode
goatsinspace's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
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
4.5
This is a story about war, destiny, and the intertwining paths of two people navigating the turmoil of a brutal conflict. And it is daaaark.
Velamir, a cadet in the soldiering academy, was adopted by an invading General. As war rages around him, he finds himself on a mission that takes him back to the Empire of his birth. His journey unveils a personal connection to his past, adding layers of complexity to his mission. Struggling with his choices , Velamir is faced with a decision that could alter the entire course of his life. Meanwhile, Natassa, the intelligent but seemingly obedient princess shackled by the oppressive rule of her father and his Empire, conceals a spark of rebellion beneath her outward façade. When confronted with an arranged marriage to a loathsome suitor, Natassa devises a risky plan that carries the potential for dangerous consequences. Her journey becomes a quest for self-discovery and defiance against the oppressive forces governing her life. Velamir must confront his past, and Natassa must find the strength to challenge her predetermined destiny.
Wow - this book was exceptional. LOVE upper YA books that don't shy away from the dark corners. This is an intensely character-driven story, which will always be something I love. Each of these characters have nuances and layers of complexity that made me bond with them so incredibly quickly. The backdrops to their childhoods are death, the weight of expectations of others, and violence and they struggle to survive within its clutches. I loved how they were given room to grow and heal from their obvious trauma and how many battles they fought on so many fronts. This world-building was phenomenal and I am absolutely going to run to order the next one. If you love diverse and gritty upper YA fantasy, pick. this. up. now.
Thanks to R&R Booktours and the author for this copy. This is an honest review.
Velamir, a cadet in the soldiering academy, was adopted by an invading General. As war rages around him, he finds himself on a mission that takes him back to the Empire of his birth. His journey unveils a personal connection to his past, adding layers of complexity to his mission. Struggling with his choices , Velamir is faced with a decision that could alter the entire course of his life. Meanwhile, Natassa, the intelligent but seemingly obedient princess shackled by the oppressive rule of her father and his Empire, conceals a spark of rebellion beneath her outward façade. When confronted with an arranged marriage to a loathsome suitor, Natassa devises a risky plan that carries the potential for dangerous consequences. Her journey becomes a quest for self-discovery and defiance against the oppressive forces governing her life. Velamir must confront his past, and Natassa must find the strength to challenge her predetermined destiny.
Wow - this book was exceptional. LOVE upper YA books that don't shy away from the dark corners. This is an intensely character-driven story, which will always be something I love. Each of these characters have nuances and layers of complexity that made me bond with them so incredibly quickly. The backdrops to their childhoods are death, the weight of expectations of others, and violence and they struggle to survive within its clutches. I loved how they were given room to grow and heal from their obvious trauma and how many battles they fought on so many fronts. This world-building was phenomenal and I am absolutely going to run to order the next one. If you love diverse and gritty upper YA fantasy, pick. this. up. now.
Thanks to R&R Booktours and the author for this copy. This is an honest review.
sallyreads_'s review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
The Cavalier is an adventurous fantasy debut featuring an empire, a warrior academy, magic, politics, jousting, and so much more in a medieval atmosphere. The world building was so detailed, and the book was such a fun read overall. The interactions between characters, both ‘good’ and ‘bad’ intrigued me, and I had to know more. The multiple points of view were not confusing, and I enjoyed reading about the characters engaging in matters of politics, love, friendship, and betrayal.
This story beautifully illustrates the corruption and greed that circulates the Karalik Empire of Emperor Malus and Lord Prolus of Tariqi, enemy of the empire as their power relies on the corruption of their followers; the kings, the generals, the soldiers and the lengths they go to for their own gain, some relish in the bloodlust that accompanies war, others in cutthroat tactics and lies. Peace is not an option in war, and soon Velamir, the main male character,orphaned at a young age and raised to be a Chishman at the academy after being adopted by General Winston, would realize that the side he fights for is as corrupted as the enemy side.
Natassa, a helpless princess in her home as the daughter of Emperor Malus tries to do right by helping the poor Savorian folk, could never gain her father’s acceptance as she is a representation of his true bloodline- a magic in her veins to which he despises. Soon she learns those close to her do not hold have her best interests at heart and after the death of her brother and her betrothal to a greedy prince, she begins to run out of options, even as her power begins to awaken. She is forced to embark on a journey with a risky plan where she eventually meets Velamir on a quest to save the enemy. Galvasir Mordon shares a similar fate of not being accepted by his father, General Boltrex, whose only motivation is for his son to become king of Verin after marrying Princess Coarlie, despite their growing affection for each other.
This story beautifully illustrates the corruption and greed that circulates the Karalik Empire of Emperor Malus and Lord Prolus of Tariqi, enemy of the empire as their power relies on the corruption of their followers; the kings, the generals, the soldiers and the lengths they go to for their own gain, some relish in the bloodlust that accompanies war, others in cutthroat tactics and lies. Peace is not an option in war, and soon Velamir, the main male character,orphaned at a young age and raised to be a Chishman at the academy after being adopted by General Winston, would realize that the side he fights for is as corrupted as the enemy side.
Natassa, a helpless princess in her home as the daughter of Emperor Malus tries to do right by helping the poor Savorian folk, could never gain her father’s acceptance as she is a representation of his true bloodline- a magic in her veins to which he despises. Soon she learns those close to her do not hold have her best interests at heart and after the death of her brother and her betrothal to a greedy prince, she begins to run out of options, even as her power begins to awaken. She is forced to embark on a journey with a risky plan where she eventually meets Velamir on a quest to save the enemy. Galvasir Mordon shares a similar fate of not being accepted by his father, General Boltrex, whose only motivation is for his son to become king of Verin after marrying Princess Coarlie, despite their growing affection for each other.
growmealibrary's review
adventurous
dark
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
This was such a fun read! I was kept on the edge of my seat the entire time. I loved the multiple perspectives and how the story lines all came together. I need book two pronto because this one ended on quite the cliffhanger!!
caitthebookworm's review
adventurous
funny
lighthearted
fast-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? It's complicated
4.5
alice_w_greenfield's review
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.5
Heroes of the Empire is the first book in a fantasy series with Multiple POV's and ends with a cliffhanger.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a read and review.
I really enjoyed this book. It was really well developed and set up in my opinion. The world was once detailed and I hope to learn more in the future books. There were plot twist’s everywhere as well as some predictable turn of events which I enjoyed. The characters were well developed and had a lot of depth.
It was a very action packed book and I liked it a lot!
The only reason I give this four stars instead of five is because it was really hard for me to keep track of the characters and all of the details surrounding them.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for a read and review.
I really enjoyed this book. It was really well developed and set up in my opinion. The world was once detailed and I hope to learn more in the future books. There were plot twist’s everywhere as well as some predictable turn of events which I enjoyed. The characters were well developed and had a lot of depth.
It was a very action packed book and I liked it a lot!
The only reason I give this four stars instead of five is because it was really hard for me to keep track of the characters and all of the details surrounding them.
rissreviews_xx's review
4.25
I grew up reading YA books, and it has forever stuck with me to read one when I see it is about fantasy. Heroes of the Empire is filled with adventure and a war that the two main characters cannot escape. This was a fast-paced read for me because I loved all of the details that the author included. Velamir and Natassa are two new characters that I enjoyed getting to know. Readers will be pulled in from the very beginning. I cannot wait to see what the author writes next!
rozanne_visagie's review
adventurous
challenging
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.0
The Cavalier is the first book in the Heroes of the Empire series and it's action-packed, filled with the sounds of weapons clashing and characters who face their fears.
A list of characters is included at the beginning of the book and to be honest, I was quite intimidated by the length of the list and was worried that I'll get lost between the characters, but a few chapters in, everyone fell into their place. This book is 500 pages plus, but the moment you start reading, you quickly forget the length and become so absorbed in the story.
I enjoy multiple POVs and got excited about the different POVs. I loved seeing glimpses into the different characters' lives. Even though there are multiple POVs, the focus is still on Natassa and Velamir. The story is detailed and complex, every connection and action is well planned and the way Natassa and Velamir's paths crossed was interesting. I found the premise of the story intriguing and with the rich descriptions, I felt as if I was walking alongside the characters. A fantasy is well written when you are transported to the world described. Azizi did a wonderful job creating a world where weapons, magic and loyalty play an integral role in the success of an empire.
I'm trying to keep it spoiler free but there were plot twists which had me turning the pages and I found the ending unpredictable. There is something unique about the story that captured my attention; I feel it gives Throne of Glass meets Game of Thrones vibes, but a lot less violent. Natassa and Velamir developed throughout the story and a new strength awoke in both of them. I was fascinated by Krea and Kasdeya, they are decoys at their best! With the threat of an empire brought to its knees, the tension is palpable and the stakes are high - anything can happen!
If you enjoy medieval castles, the sounds of weapons clashing, knights, magic or the epic fight between kingdoms, this book is for you.
- Different orders of soldiers
- Secrets & betrayal
- Healers and seers
- Bows, swords, daggers
- Multiple POVs
I received this book for free from MTMC Tours and the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
A list of characters is included at the beginning of the book and to be honest, I was quite intimidated by the length of the list and was worried that I'll get lost between the characters, but a few chapters in, everyone fell into their place. This book is 500 pages plus, but the moment you start reading, you quickly forget the length and become so absorbed in the story.
I enjoy multiple POVs and got excited about the different POVs. I loved seeing glimpses into the different characters' lives. Even though there are multiple POVs, the focus is still on Natassa and Velamir. The story is detailed and complex, every connection and action is well planned and the way Natassa and Velamir's paths crossed was interesting. I found the premise of the story intriguing and with the rich descriptions, I felt as if I was walking alongside the characters. A fantasy is well written when you are transported to the world described. Azizi did a wonderful job creating a world where weapons, magic and loyalty play an integral role in the success of an empire.
I'm trying to keep it spoiler free but there were plot twists which had me turning the pages and I found the ending unpredictable. There is something unique about the story that captured my attention; I feel it gives Throne of Glass meets Game of Thrones vibes, but a lot less violent. Natassa and Velamir developed throughout the story and a new strength awoke in both of them. I was fascinated by Krea and Kasdeya, they are decoys at their best! With the threat of an empire brought to its knees, the tension is palpable and the stakes are high - anything can happen!
If you enjoy medieval castles, the sounds of weapons clashing, knights, magic or the epic fight between kingdoms, this book is for you.
- Different orders of soldiers
- Secrets & betrayal
- Healers and seers
- Bows, swords, daggers
- Multiple POVs
I received this book for free from MTMC Tours and the author in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
ellensbookishcollection's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
mysterious
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? It's complicated
4.5
𝐓𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐠𝐫𝐨𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐤, 𝐜𝐥𝐨𝐮𝐝𝐬 𝐠𝐚𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝, 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐫𝐚𝐢𝐧 𝐟𝐞𝐥𝐥. 𝐃𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐬 𝐥𝐚𝐧𝐝𝐞𝐝 𝐨𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐟𝐚𝐜𝐞, 𝐫𝐨𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐝𝐨𝐰𝐧 𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐞𝐤𝐬, 𝐚𝐬 𝐢𝐟 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐤𝐲 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐦𝐨𝐮𝐫𝐧𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐞𝐚𝐝.
Heros Of The Empire has action, magic, gore, blood, quests, and morally grey characters. The story was fun, I was engaged and enjoyed the whole story. What more could you ask for in a fantasy?! I was pleasantly surprised with this one! It is a bit of a slower start, but it picks up quickly. If you like multiple POVs, this books has it!
"𝐌𝐲 𝐥𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐬𝐨𝐥𝐝 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐝𝐚𝐲 𝐈 𝐰𝐚𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐫𝐧. 𝐀𝐬 𝐚 𝐩𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐜𝐞, 𝐈'𝐦 𝐛𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐝 𝐭𝐨 𝐧𝐨𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐧𝐠 𝐛𝐞𝐲𝐨𝐧𝐝 𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐬."
As is usual with fantasy, this is heavy world building and a ton of characters. At first it was a bit confusing, but as the story progressed it cleared up. The world building was fun, and we get glimpses into the different kind of magic the Shadow Manos have. We don't get info dumped, and it's all rolled out at a nice pace.
𝐇𝐞'𝐝 𝐝𝐨𝐧𝐞 𝐢𝐭 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐬𝐚𝐤𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐚 𝐟𝐮𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐥𝐝 𝐰𝐡𝐞𝐫𝐞 𝐩𝐞𝐚𝐜𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝. 𝐀𝐧𝐝 𝐡𝐞 𝐫𝐞𝐠𝐫𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐞𝐝 𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐲 𝐦𝐨𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭.
I will caution, that this ends on a major cliffhanger. I don't mind that, but I hope we don't have to wait too long for book 2. Because I am definitely reading it! In many ways, this is a typical fantasy story. But it was fun! And at the end of the day, those are the kind of books I want to read, ones that I'm having fun reading!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 4/5
𝘐 𝘸𝘢𝘴 𝘨𝘳𝘢𝘤𝘪𝘰𝘶𝘴𝘭𝘺 𝘨𝘪𝘷𝘦𝘯 𝘢𝘯 𝘈𝘙𝘊, 𝘣𝘶𝘵 𝘮𝘺 𝘵𝘩𝘰𝘶𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘰𝘱𝘪𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯𝘴 𝘢𝘳𝘦 𝘮𝘺 𝘰𝘸𝘯.
More...