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A review by elisa_menz
Realm of Darkness by J.A. Culican
adventurous
inspiring
fast-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
Splitting Dawn This novel was a great example of what "fast-paced" means. Kierra is either jumping or being violently tossed from one dangerous situation to another one. There's not a moment of rest for this princess. There is a wonderfully magical world-building around this story. The many glimpses of different cultures and fantasy tropes leave your head spinning, trying to catch up to the narrative that relies heavily on foreshadowing and fragmented memories. I particularly loved that not one of her possible love interests are "the good guy". They all have flaws and they all lie, and because of this, Kierra goes from damsel in distress to "I'll lead from here, gentlemen". Wonderful! Also, Team Draco Forever!!
Eighteen Wishes This is my first time reading about genies and wishes. I'll avoid comparing it to Aladin because that wouldn't make justice to the beautiful complexity of this story and its characters. The visual image for Isra is absolutely bewitching. If a world with djinn, magic, and sorcerers is already amazing, the description of this reluctant genie earns all five stars all on its own. I loved the layers of secret and deceit around these characters, and the satisfaction the big reveals brought. Jacoa wins the award for Most Sensitive and Wise Eighteen-Year-Old in literature, that's for sure.
Eighteen Wishes This is my first time reading about genies and wishes. I'll avoid comparing it to Aladin because that wouldn't make justice to the beautiful complexity of this story and its characters. The visual image for Isra is absolutely bewitching. If a world with djinn, magic, and sorcerers is already amazing, the description of this reluctant genie earns all five stars all on its own. I loved the layers of secret and deceit around these characters, and the satisfaction the big reveals brought. Jacoa wins the award for Most Sensitive and Wise Eighteen-Year-Old in literature, that's for sure.