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A review by kezmarie36
Serenade of Kings by Christine E. Schulze
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This is a prequel story to Prelude of Fire, and explores not only an intriguing villain origin story, but learning about unique powers, hidden identities and dangerous political and royal scheming.
I really enjoyed how it followed multiple characters and you get insight into their abilities, flaws and motivations, and they all have the potential to be a villain, but it isn't unveiled till the end who the true enemies are.
This keeps you guessing throughout, and shows how manipulation, dire stakes, choices and a need for power played into the character's darkness and influenced their fate.
I loved the worldbuilding and variety of magic with songspells, elemental and mental magic, and I enjoyed seeing how Gailea pushes to discover her magic abilities but battles with the need to remain hidden, and not reveal her true skills to the King.
There is a good balance of action, mystery, political intrigue and building romance that it's easy to get swept into the story, especially with the bonds of found family and friendships.
There are also dark themes of sacrifice, brewing rebellions, corruption, manipulation and betrayals. It's a gripping and powerful story showing a descent into madness, and the dangers of power.
I really enjoyed how it followed multiple characters and you get insight into their abilities, flaws and motivations, and they all have the potential to be a villain, but it isn't unveiled till the end who the true enemies are.
This keeps you guessing throughout, and shows how manipulation, dire stakes, choices and a need for power played into the character's darkness and influenced their fate.
I loved the worldbuilding and variety of magic with songspells, elemental and mental magic, and I enjoyed seeing how Gailea pushes to discover her magic abilities but battles with the need to remain hidden, and not reveal her true skills to the King.
There is a good balance of action, mystery, political intrigue and building romance that it's easy to get swept into the story, especially with the bonds of found family and friendships.
There are also dark themes of sacrifice, brewing rebellions, corruption, manipulation and betrayals. It's a gripping and powerful story showing a descent into madness, and the dangers of power.