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A review by vickysbooklove1
Azzaria: The Shadow of the Flames by Nicole Jamison
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
sad
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
"The Shadow of the Flames" is the first installment in the "Azzaria" series written by Nicole Jamison. It's a fascinating fantasy novel that features elements of dark fantasy and coming-of-age themes, set in a world on the brink of war where characters uncover hidden truths about their pasts.
The protagonist is Niya who is a slave in Azzaria, one of the four remaining kingdoms of Tileon. Undergoing a rough childhood in the hands of Tyrone, her owner, thanks to her resilience and unique skills she grew up to become his best weapon crafter and fighter. Simultaneously, Prince Marcus, heir to the throne of Azzaria, due to his false priorities, offers nothing but disappointment to King Bernard, his father, and Theo, his preceptor and the king's closest advisor tasked with ensuring the prince received a well-rounded education, including academic, moral, and military training, to prepare him for his future role as king. Admits the shattering peace in a world brimming with secrets, evil and good forces, and mythical creatures, Niya's and Marcus's paths cross and chaos erupts leading them to their destined role, and the readers to an unforgettable adventure.
In "The Shadow of the Flames", Nicole Jamison 's debut novel, the author' s writing skills seem very promising. As the world-building and the character arcs unfold gradually the readers get more and more engaged in the intriguing storyline. Although the transition of the narrative from one person's perspective to the other isn't always successful, the thrilling and fast-paced plot more than compensate the readers. What's quite striking is the lack of emotional depth in the parts presented from Marcus's point of view. However, as the story develops, so does the author's writing talent ensuring an even more captivating sequel.
If you're an avid fantasy reader and you favour coming of age tales weaven with legends, magic, romance and epic adventures, "The Shadow of the Flames" is absolutely cut out for you!
I extend my sincere appreciation to BookSirens and the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.
The protagonist is Niya who is a slave in Azzaria, one of the four remaining kingdoms of Tileon. Undergoing a rough childhood in the hands of Tyrone, her owner, thanks to her resilience and unique skills she grew up to become his best weapon crafter and fighter. Simultaneously, Prince Marcus, heir to the throne of Azzaria, due to his false priorities, offers nothing but disappointment to King Bernard, his father, and Theo, his preceptor and the king's closest advisor tasked with ensuring the prince received a well-rounded education, including academic, moral, and military training, to prepare him for his future role as king. Admits the shattering peace in a world brimming with secrets, evil and good forces, and mythical creatures, Niya's and Marcus's paths cross and chaos erupts leading them to their destined role, and the readers to an unforgettable adventure.
In "The Shadow of the Flames", Nicole Jamison 's debut novel, the author' s writing skills seem very promising. As the world-building and the character arcs unfold gradually the readers get more and more engaged in the intriguing storyline. Although the transition of the narrative from one person's perspective to the other isn't always successful, the thrilling and fast-paced plot more than compensate the readers. What's quite striking is the lack of emotional depth in the parts presented from Marcus's point of view. However, as the story develops, so does the author's writing talent ensuring an even more captivating sequel.
If you're an avid fantasy reader and you favour coming of age tales weaven with legends, magic, romance and epic adventures, "The Shadow of the Flames" is absolutely cut out for you!
I extend my sincere appreciation to BookSirens and the author for granting me access to the eARC—I was thoroughly enchanted by the story.