A review by kendranh
A Flame Forged in Mist by Samara Saward

adventurous reflective 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

4.0

Thank you to the author for providing an ARC in exchange for an honest review!

I was so surprised by how much I enjoyed this book! Samara Saward has created a unique magical world that immediately sucks you in. I can’t wait to see what happens in the next book!

Loved:
  • The trials including people of all different ages, genders, sexuality and background. It’s so refreshing for it not to just be oddly talented 18 year olds competing!
  • The magic system outlined in the book is unique and allows for so many cool developments
  • The themes of forgiveness and revenge being so tied together. With Ever learning to forgive herself
    (and Abrams)
    for the attack on her and her brother
  • The friendship/found family themes both between Ever and Erryn and the other recruits

Meh
  • I’m normally a huge fan of dual POV, but this time it felt like it was just repeating chapters instead of giving insight into Calyx
  • Why were some recruits killed for leaving while others could just choose to go? It felt like it should go one way or the other.
  • Ever was WAY too forgiving of her father for keeping that secret.
    Like you’re telling me he lied to you your whole life, kept in close communication with the men who murdered his own son and raped you, but it’s fine because of reasons??
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