Reviews

The Iron Phoenix by Rebecca Harwell

bolynne's review

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4.0

I really enjoyed this book as it was a mix of fantasy and superhero novels (without the superhero tights and other things I despise about superheros).

The world-building was very well done, honestly it seemed to be not much different from our own the way the populist/nationalist sentiments are continuing to grow. Basically Erevan -> Americans/Brits/(insert country who has inhabitants that hate immigrants here) and Nomori -> Immigrants. I'm fairly certain this was intentional and I liked the way it was done. The Nomori bring incredibly useful talents (such as the women's various psychic abilities and being a huge part of the guard because of the men's fighting prowess). The only big difference here being one of the zealots isn't in power currently in Erevan.

The actions scenes were great, even the ones that were completely out of control because they had purpose. It didn't shy away from horrendous scenes to real nail in the struggles of the characters, mostly Nadya.

One of the main reasons I looked into this book/series was because I am a lesbian and I want to read books with relationships that I can relate to. I really like the chemistry between Nadya and Kesali, but god damn I hate that there always has to be SOMETHING getting in the way. In this case, Marko. Not a bad dude, but ugh. I just hope either Nadya gets another love interest or circumstances change because Kesali cannot expect Nadya to be "the other person" because damn she's already angsty enough.

I have an arc of book two from NetGalley and will be diving into that one next!

eatreadbreathe's review against another edition

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5.0

Rebecca Harwell has created such a vivid and captivating world full of rich details, interesting characters, and realistic political and social issues. I was continuously kept in anticipation throughout this thrilling story.
In the following novels, I greatly look forward to seeing how (and if) Storm's Quarry recovers from the tragedy of the Blood Sun Solstice, as well as the progression of the Nadya and her friends and family as they learn to cope with her powers. I would also love to learn more about not only the Nomori's beliefs (as another reviewer mentioned) but some more background on the Erevan people and their feelings for the Nomori as well.
This was a truly great read and one that I definitely recommend.

amandamarie's review against another edition

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5.0

Rebecca Harwell is an amazing writer. She's created a fascinating world and deep and unforgettable characters. I love this book with all my heart and I hope everyone reading this review gets a chance to check it out.

spacearcheologist's review against another edition

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Giving up on this book for now, just couldn't get into it at all unfortunately.

will2988's review

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Giving up on this book for now, just couldn't get into it at all unfortunately.

amandamarie's review

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5.0

Rebecca Harwell is an amazing writer. She's created a fascinating world and deep and unforgettable characters. I love this book with all my heart and I hope everyone reading this review gets a chance to check it out.
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