Scan barcode
A review by farairytale
The Sacrifice of Aeros by Willow Asteria
adventurous
lighthearted
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.75
Willow Asteria's The Sacrifice of Aeros is a novella and standalone in her Realms Of Elswyth series that transports readers to the same enchanting realms of its namesake: Elswyth. Set against the backdrop of floating islands and ancient prophecies, the story follows Oriana, a young woman raised in the Sanctuary of The Mother, who discovers her true heritage and a destiny intertwined with the fae prince, Malachi.
Asteria weaves tropes such as arranged marriage, hidden magic, and the grumpy/sunshine dynamic into a fast-paced narrative. The chemistry between Oriana and Malachi is palpable, and their journey from reluctant partners to a united front against looming calamity is both heartwarming and thrilling.
Some elements of the novella definitely take the reader out of the fantasy worldbuilding - for example, the fae prince wearing jeans or utilizing modern slang. Further, despite this being a novella, The Sacrifice of Aeros could have been flushed out much more in both detail and characterization. Things felt rushed and there were multiple places where a proper build up would have increased intrigue and engagement within the novella, rather than openly stating emotions and events too soon. Significant moments ranging from romantic elements to action sequences could have benefited from heavier description and anticipatory build up.
At approximately 95 pages, The Sacrifice of Aeros is a quick yet immersive read for fans of romantic fantasy. Whether you're new to the Realms of Elswyth or a returning reader, this standalone novella offers an escape into a world of magic, love, and destiny.
Asteria weaves tropes such as arranged marriage, hidden magic, and the grumpy/sunshine dynamic into a fast-paced narrative. The chemistry between Oriana and Malachi is palpable, and their journey from reluctant partners to a united front against looming calamity is both heartwarming and thrilling.
Some elements of the novella definitely take the reader out of the fantasy worldbuilding - for example, the fae prince wearing jeans or utilizing modern slang. Further, despite this being a novella, The Sacrifice of Aeros could have been flushed out much more in both detail and characterization. Things felt rushed and there were multiple places where a proper build up would have increased intrigue and engagement within the novella, rather than openly stating emotions and events too soon. Significant moments ranging from romantic elements to action sequences could have benefited from heavier description and anticipatory build up.
At approximately 95 pages, The Sacrifice of Aeros is a quick yet immersive read for fans of romantic fantasy. Whether you're new to the Realms of Elswyth or a returning reader, this standalone novella offers an escape into a world of magic, love, and destiny.