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A review by goatsinspace
Heroes of the Empire Book 1: The Cavalier by Israel Azizi
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.