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eclecticbychoicereads 's review for:

Null and Void by R. Moody
5.0

Let me start my review by asking: how is this a debut novel? Honestly, I am flabbergasted. Null And Void, Book 1 in the Patrons of the Divine series by R. Moody, is the book that introduces us to Mika, a retired assassin and her rather colourful found family while we embark on a mission to save a missing princess. Simple enough? I'd say anything but. The layers, the plot, the lore, and the intricate world-building mixed with masterfully crafted characters offer such a deep and meaningful fantasy story; a story I have fully immersed myself in, made it a part of my personality, and now I am here, sitting and waiting for the sequel. Null And Void is being released to the world on August 15th, so mark your calendars and be ready for this adventure!

If I could compare this story to others I love, the first one that comes to mind is the Bornbane series by I. A. Takerian. There is something about the found family trope, one elevated to a higher level. A found family that is so imperfect yet perfect at the same time. Everyone carries something within themselves and fights their battles, but they come together as one. They laugh, banter, and joke but deeply care for each other and will do anything for one another, even when someone strays. Mika had never imagined finding herself surrounded by such love and devotion, yet here she is, learning to deal with it and slowly accepting and admitting her worth.

The central part of the story involves the group travelling and planning to find and rescue the missing princess. Will they succeed? Once you get to know all of them, I am sure you will love them and root for them as much as I do. Mika, the retired assassin, a character so broken and filled with rage, unaccustomed to feeling worthy and accepted. Her story is forever changed when she bands with the group, and I loved seeing her walls slowly crumble, especially where Riley is concerned. Oh, Riley... Numbing his days away with alcohol while trying to process his grief and deal with his inner demons. Well, his world will also be shaken to the core once a fiery assassin joins their mission. The angst and the banter between the two of them were so swoony and heartwrenching at the same time. Still, they are not alone. There is Beans, a warrior, a giant of man, and a character with a heart made of gold. His fatherly figure was just what the others needed. Bitty, the perfect addition to the rescue party and a character you can't but fall in love with and want to cherish and protect him at all costs. And finally, Tova... Chased by her own demons and heartbreaking past.

They will face so many difficulties and obstacles, as well as horrifying and life-threatening situations on the road. But they will face them together and will do all that it takes to find the missing princess and bring her home.

Null And Void is a fantasy story you must experience; I loved being Rae's ARC reader and can only hope I will continue being part of her story, too.

Null And Void will gift you
- deep world-building and lore
- powerplay and political intrigue
- unique magic system
- exploitation of those having magical abilities
- female rage
- morally grey characters
- found family
- rescue party
- perfect banter
- slow-burn
- trauma and trauma healing
- one bed / one horse
and so, so, so much more!