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laurelreads's reviews
112 reviews
Serenade by Morgan Shamy
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
reflective
fast-paced
4.25
*My thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the review copy*
I enjoyed this book a lot! In many ways, Serenade reminded me of RoseBlood by A. G. Howard, which was my favorite read so far this year. Both of them feature musical academies, mysterious murders, and magical musicians/dancers! If you love fantasy and any performance art, I think you would love Serenade! The world-building was absolutely peculiar and unique! I had so much fun reading about the academy and the Huntington manor. The quirkiness of it satisfied my curiosity and fuel my imagination.
Aside from the musical theme, I loved the variety of social representation in Serenade. Featuring LGBTQ+ secret lovers and physically challenged side characters, it felt like everyone could find someone they could relate to in this book. The main character, November Huntington, suffered from bipolar disorder after her parents died a mysterious death. As her mental condition worsened after her breakup, she was brought to St. Paul’s Academy, an unusual musical school with secrets about her parents. As important as mental health is, it is seldom represented in fantasy novels, and I’m so glad Serenade addressed this issue with a wonderful storyline. November’s mental condition played a major role in her decisions, written in a way that felt realistic.
As much as I loved the characters and diverse themes, the execution could have been smoother. It was fast-paced, which I love, but sometimes the scenes jumped around a bit and could have used some more transition. Despite this, I was still able to immerse myself in the plot and enjoyed it!
The ending was quite surprising! It was super creative, though I’m still not sure how I felt about it…it opened up a lot more potential for the next book, so I’m really looking forward to the sequel!
Overall, Serenade is a refreshing YA paranormal fantasy for music and dancing lovers, as well as lonely souls that seek refuge. I liked it a lot and I can’t wait for the sequel, Etude!
My Mechanical Romance by Alexene Farol Follmuth
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
relaxing
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
*My thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the review copy*
As someone who rarely reads contemporary and is often bored to death by rom-coms, I’m surprised that I love this book a lot! It’s well worth the hype!
My Mechanical Romance is rich in content. It’s about getting accepted in a boy-dominant field, making mistakes, and emphasizing with others. It’s about girl power and family issues and self-discovery. Although it’s obviously a rom-com, what I love the most about it isn’t the romance. I love how relatable and realistic Bel’s story is. Her indecision about applying for college reminds me a lot of my own application, of how afraid and stressful I was to make a decision so big when I didn’t even seem to know myself very well. Bel’s story touches my heart in the deepest way possible. Her growth throughout the book gives me so much strength that I wish I could have read this when I was a teen and was most struggling with self-identity.
This book is by no means too serious, though! It’s humorous and fun and light-hearted. The relationship between Bel and Teo is so cute that they just made me smile every time. I also appreciate the steadily paced build-up before their happy ending. Though sometimes the romance could be a bit cheesy, their banter is well-done and entertaining. I love how they bring the best out of each other and grow stronger together.
The plot is well written with excitement interlaced throughout. One of the reasons I usually don’t enjoy rom-com is the lack of adventures. My Mechanical Romance satisfies my thirst for excitement with robot combats. I’ve never seen robot combats in person but after reading this book, I really want to attend one, and maybe try robotics myself! The ending didn’t turn out as I expected but I love it even more because of it!
The only small complaint is that some scenes could be more detailed. Some important events were skipped with just a few descriptions. I wish we get to see these scenes in full. The pacing is not bad though. The book progresses smoothly and I couldn’t put it down.
My Mechanical Romance is definitely my new favorite this year. I would recommend it to teens out there who are uncertain about their future, as well as all girls and women. You’ll be impressed and inspired by these nerdy girl engineers.
We Are the Song by Catherine Bakewell
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
3.5
*My thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the review copy*
12-year-old Elissa was more than a good singer. Her song carried the magic power of the Goddess. As the war raged on, she found herself deep in the center of two power-hungry monarchies…
We Are The Song is a decent middle grade fantasy about trusting your inner voice and doing the right thing. Elissa was told to be a “good girl” and not to question things. Her opinions were ignored because she was young. As readers follow her adventure, they would understand that the opinion of young people are as important as that of adults. I love the strong message conveyed through this simple and quick read.
Another thing I liked about the book was the magic. As a lover of music, the idea of human songs being magical was very appealing to me. I also liked how the author played with the notion that the line between good and bad wasn’t as clear as we think, and that some powers, when used in the wrong way, might become a deadly weapon.
As much as I liked the themes, I found this book a bit hard to get into. The premise about magical songs was what drew me in, yet the fantasy aspect felt a bit flat. I wish there was a more complex magical system, but as this was meant to be a middle grade novel, I did understand why things were kept simple. Another thing was that I didn’t feel attached to the characters, partly because of the long monologue of Elissa. I know the monologue showed her struggle and self-doubt, but it could feel slow and dull at times. It did pick up at the last 30%, though, at which point I really enjoyed.
Overall, I like We Are The Song but didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. I do believe it would be an inspiring standalone fantasy for younger readers.
12-year-old Elissa was more than a good singer. Her song carried the magic power of the Goddess. As the war raged on, she found herself deep in the center of two power-hungry monarchies…
We Are The Song is a decent middle grade fantasy about trusting your inner voice and doing the right thing. Elissa was told to be a “good girl” and not to question things. Her opinions were ignored because she was young. As readers follow her adventure, they would understand that the opinion of young people are as important as that of adults. I love the strong message conveyed through this simple and quick read.
Another thing I liked about the book was the magic. As a lover of music, the idea of human songs being magical was very appealing to me. I also liked how the author played with the notion that the line between good and bad wasn’t as clear as we think, and that some powers, when used in the wrong way, might become a deadly weapon.
As much as I liked the themes, I found this book a bit hard to get into. The premise about magical songs was what drew me in, yet the fantasy aspect felt a bit flat. I wish there was a more complex magical system, but as this was meant to be a middle grade novel, I did understand why things were kept simple. Another thing was that I didn’t feel attached to the characters, partly because of the long monologue of Elissa. I know the monologue showed her struggle and self-doubt, but it could feel slow and dull at times. It did pick up at the last 30%, though, at which point I really enjoyed.
Overall, I like We Are The Song but didn’t enjoy it as much as I thought I would. I do believe it would be an inspiring standalone fantasy for younger readers.
Content Warnings
Minor: Child abuse
Star Father by Charlie N. Holmberg
*My thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the review copy*
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
When Aija found a man lying unconscious by the river, she had no idea how much this chance encounter would change her life forever.
Star Father is an adult fantasy novel and a companion to Star Mother . I hadn’t read Star Mother before I read this book, but I can totally understand the plot and can’t help fall in love with the celestial world Holmberg created. Both books can be read as a standalone, though I would still suggest reading Star Mother first (I think there are some minor spoilers!)
If you are as mesmerized by that cover as I was, I’m happy to tell you that the story inside is equally, if not even more, beautiful. Expect to read about re-discovered passion, sweet romance, strong family bond, adorable sidekicks, and misunderstood souls! Really, what more could I ask from such a good book?
I took a liking to Aija and Saiyon, the main characters, pretty early on, and only grew to love them more and more. Aija’s determination is inspiring yet relatable. I also love how much her passion for art plays an equal part as her love for Saiyon. Their story reminded me so much of An Enchantment of Ravens and Reawakened , both of which I enjoyed a lot.
The plot is medium-paced yet not without twists and turns, adventures, and romantic moments. I love how some scenes are told retrospectively while fitting right into the natural flow of the plot.
I’m still in awe and thinking about the world-building in this book long after I finished Star Father. I love the wide variety of magical beings that stir my imagination. It feels as if there is infinity to explore in this amazing world, and I’m craving more and more from it. I will definitely read Star Mother as well. I would be elastic if there are more books to come in this universe!
This is my first time reading Holmberg’s work and I can’t believe I’ve waited until now. The writing is beautiful and soothing, the plot is well crafted, and the characters are lovable. I would recommend Star Father to fantasy lovers, especially if you like reading about gods, godlings, celestial beings, and the feeling of discovering and being involved in something far greater than yourself. Go check out Star Mother first if you haven’t read it yet.
Star Father is an adult fantasy novel and a companion to Star Mother . I hadn’t read Star Mother before I read this book, but I can totally understand the plot and can’t help fall in love with the celestial world Holmberg created. Both books can be read as a standalone, though I would still suggest reading Star Mother first (I think there are some minor spoilers!)
If you are as mesmerized by that cover as I was, I’m happy to tell you that the story inside is equally, if not even more, beautiful. Expect to read about re-discovered passion, sweet romance, strong family bond, adorable sidekicks, and misunderstood souls! Really, what more could I ask from such a good book?
I took a liking to Aija and Saiyon, the main characters, pretty early on, and only grew to love them more and more. Aija’s determination is inspiring yet relatable. I also love how much her passion for art plays an equal part as her love for Saiyon. Their story reminded me so much of An Enchantment of Ravens and Reawakened , both of which I enjoyed a lot.
The plot is medium-paced yet not without twists and turns, adventures, and romantic moments. I love how some scenes are told retrospectively while fitting right into the natural flow of the plot.
I’m still in awe and thinking about the world-building in this book long after I finished Star Father. I love the wide variety of magical beings that stir my imagination. It feels as if there is infinity to explore in this amazing world, and I’m craving more and more from it. I will definitely read Star Mother as well. I would be elastic if there are more books to come in this universe!
This is my first time reading Holmberg’s work and I can’t believe I’ve waited until now. The writing is beautiful and soothing, the plot is well crafted, and the characters are lovable. I would recommend Star Father to fantasy lovers, especially if you like reading about gods, godlings, celestial beings, and the feeling of discovering and being involved in something far greater than yourself. Go check out Star Mother first if you haven’t read it yet.
*My thanks to the author, publisher, and Netgalley for the review copy*
Content Warnings
Minor: War
Frozen Hearts and Death Magic by Day Leitao
adventurous
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
4.0
*I received a digital copy from the author for an honest review*
Trigger/Content warnings: abusive marriage (physically and mentally), mild violence, death of loved ones
Frozen Hearts and Death Magic is the first book in Fire and Magic duology. I’m impressed by Day Leitao’s creativity to write such an enchanting world! Of course, I was expecting magic, given the title, but the verity of magic in this book really surprises me. There are elemental magic and cooler ones like necromancy. Faes have their special abilities as well, and I enjoy how these elements come into play and affect the fate of different kingdoms.
I also like the multi-pov writing style that allows me a glance into some characters’ past. My favorite character is the mysterious fae, River. I love reading about his adventure and his secrets. I can’t wait to read more of him!
Princess Leah is another character that leaves a strong impression. Her story is dramatic and full of hardships that some might find disturbing, but I’m amazed by how much those experiences challenge and change her. Her personality arc is gripping and unconventional. I’m more than ready to see what path she will take next.
The execution could have been better, though, especially in the first half of the book. Some scenes felt too short and could have had better emotional build-up. It’s like touching things with gloves: you know what it’s supposed to be but you couldn’t feel the exact texture. Despite that, I was still able to enjoy the story and I’m glad I read it.
Overall, I enjoy reading Frozen Hearts and Death Magic and I’m looking forward to the sequel! I would recommend it to readers who love magic, fae, adventure, and fast-paced plot.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Physical abuse, Domestic abuse, Torture, Sexual harassment, and Confinement
Moderate: Vomit
Minor: Death
The Bridge Kingdom by Danielle L. Jensen
adventurous
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
A fun and decent enemies-to-lovers but not worth the hype
Trigger/Content warnings: loss of parents, mild violence (breaking vital body parts), one detailed sex scene (not fade to back)
To be honest, I’m disappointed.
I listened to the audiobook on Audible plus after receiving many recommendations from others. I’d heard so much about this duology that I was really looking forward to it. Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy it as much as I’d hoped.
The Bridge Kingdom wasn’t a bad book. It just isn’t exceptional. My favorite part was how Lara had to be creative while being undercover in Ithicana. In a way, she reminded me of Mal from Descendants, and Alessandra from The Shadows Between Us. All of them were capable girls with big ambition and determination, but started questioning their beliefs in the process of spying.
Now comes the part I think could be better. I wish there were more details on world-building other than the bridge. Readers were told about different islands in Ithicana, but few actual descriptions were provided. I also think there were relationships worth exploring other than Lara and Aren’s. For instance, I’d really love to read how Lara and her sisters were trained together and how they bonded. Lara and Aren’s romance could be more naturally done and less predictable as well.
I think I might like it better if I’d read the book instead of the audiobook. The narrators were good, yet I got lost in all the names and countries and couldn’t follow up when they were strategizing. It didn’t help that the male voices all sounded the same to me, so I didn’t know who was talking. I also had a hard time visualizing the bridge in my head, and I think the map in a physical book would help.
The Bridge Kingdom is your typical enemies-to-lovers romance, with political intrigue and a badass fighter girl. While it has its flaws, and may be overly hyped up, it was still fun to read and brought me joy. I’m interested to see how things all tie up and I’m reading the second book already, but I probably won’t reread the series.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Death of parent and Violence
The Shattered Castle by Jennifer A. Nielsen
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
5.0
*I received an eARC of this book through Edelweiss+ in exchange for an honest review*
The Shattered Castle is the fifth and final book in Ascendance series, which starts with The False Prince. This series should be read in order, if you haven’t read it yet I highly recommend doing so.
With the fast pace of The Captive Kingdom, epic battles reminiscent of The Shadow Throne, funny moments comparable to The Runaway King, and the heartbreaking backstory of The False Prince, The Shattered Castle is the perfect ending to Jaron’s impossibly epic journey. Once again, Jennifer A. Nielsen delivers a gripping coming-of-age story about courage, friendship, and love.
Six months after the battle in Belland, Jaron is back in Drylliad and ready to marry Imogen. Yet things aren’t as peaceful as it seems. Enemies coming from everywhere—both the expected and the unexpected—threaten the very existence of everything he holds dear. As he loses connection to his friends and knows nothing of their whereabouts, Jaron must fully trust his companions to make the right decisions. As impossible as it seems, Jaron gets himself in the worst situation he’s ever faced.
Readers will learn more about Jaron’s past, explore several parts of the castle, and see his biggest nightmares come to reality. Some of the most beloved characters, including those we didn’t see in book 4, also make a comeback. Get ready to meet and fall in love with new characters as well. Friend or foe, you ask? Again, for Jaron, the line between the two is always ambiguous.
The Shattered Castle is not merely a continuation of the storyline, though. I’ve always loved the consistent theme of growing up in this series, and this book is no exception. It’s amazing how it adds so much depth to the character development. Jaron stays true to his character throughout the story, but that doesn’t mean he never changes. Every time I thought I already know Jaron, he didn’t hesitate to prove me wrong. Even after four books, he manages to surprise me, and this time I finally fully see him—his secrets, his fears, his delicate heart. It’s so inspiring to see him grow tougher through all those battles, confront his past and guilt, and become an even better person in the process.
The character development is not limited to Jaron. I love how his friends grow stronger with him and how they show their courage and loyalty in this book. Through the interaction between them, the author captured the strength and preciousness of the purest friendship. I’d thought the original trilogy was perfect. It was not until I read this book that I realized how much was missing for these side characters, and I’m glad to see them live up to their potential.
With four previous books, Carthya was already a familiar land to readers. However, the author didn’t neglect world-building because of that. The Shattered Castle sheds new light on Carthyan history, as well as explores deeper into Jaron’s Castle. We even get maps of the castle ground and Drylliad!
Though I love this series so much and would never complain about more books, The Shattered Castle serves as a good closure to the whole series. The ending is simple and satisfactory, but I do wish we could have seen what happened to some side characters afterward. I was also able to predict some of the plots, but there were still lots of brilliant twists that left me pleasantly surprised. (OK, maybe not always pleasant. I shouted out of excitement and dismay several times.)
The Shattered Castle is the epic conclusion to Jaron’s story. If you already love book 4, I guaranteed you will also love this book. Even if you didn’t enjoy book 4, I believe you will be blown away by the development of the story. For those who have only read the original trilogy, I urge you to read on. You won’t want to miss Jaron struggling in his shattered castle.
The Water Catcher's Rise: The Kyprian Prophecy Book 2 by Kylie Fennell
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
fast-paced
5.0
*I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
The Water Catcher’s Rise is the second book in The Kyprian series. The series needs to be read in order. (The first book is The Firemaster's Legacy)
With increasing political intrigue and romantic moments,The Water Catcher’s Rise is a great continuation of Arisa and Takai’s story! A solid five-stars!
I enjoyed this book more than the first. It only got better and better! After the event in book 1, Arisa was hopeful that things would change for the better, so she decided to stay at the castle to help whenever she could. Takai, finally able to understand her beliefs, decided to befriend her and tried hard to find common ground. But there were sinister plans to bring Arisa and Erin down inside the castle wall, as well as terrible threats to Lamore from the Northemers.
Generally speaking, this book had a somewhat different feel than the first. In The Firemaster’s Legacy, Arisa spent more time in Obira so readers witnessed the people suffering first hand, shaping a griever tone for the book. In The Water Catcher’s Rise, as Arisa stayed more in the castle, we got to see Obira from the perspective of the castle. I would say this book was the calm before the storm—everything was quite nice and beautiful, but you could feel the tension lurking around, ready to strike at any moment. Also, one of my main complaints of book 1 was that it felt a bit too slow for me, but The Water Catcher’s Rise totally picked up the pace and I love it! I read this book chapter after chapter. It was not too fast nor too slow. When things started getting slow, some emergency would occur and made me nervous!
The Water Catcher’s Rise also gave more depth to the characters. I love how they all had distinct personalities and beliefs and that they didn’t change easily. Both Arisa and Takai were willing to change after what happened at the end of book 1, but they still had a long way to go. If book 1 was for Arisa to learn her lesson, then book 2 was for Takai. He had the most hardship throwing his way—who to trust, what to do, and what of his feelings toward Arisa—and he’d grown so much through these events. The character growth was slow and subtle, but that was what made it so realistic. After reading this book, I found myself so emotionally invested in the MCs and side characters that I’m dying to know what would happen to them next! Also, a great part of the plot was driven by the past and secrets of some characters, and I love the idea of the past catching up to the present.
The other aspects of The Water Catcher’s Rise were also phenomenal! For one, romance took a greater part of this book while not overshadowing the main plot. The effect was much like the first book, only their interaction was a lot sweeter! Their relationship was slow-burn, beautiful, and undoubtedly romantic! It entwined perfectly with the politics, and these two elements drove the plot perfectly.
Another thing I really enjoyed was the magic! We finally get to see elemental magic at play! It was more magnificent and amazing than I’d expected. I’m totally in love with the magical scene. The description was also beautifully written that I can totally immerse myself in the magic. Though I would like even more magical scenes (I know I’m greedy), yet I guess it was saved for book 3!
Though the plot was a bit predictable (I’d more or less guessed the ending at the end of book 1), it didn’t diminish the joy this book brought me. The Water Catcher’s Rise was political, emotional, and magical. Very interesting and enjoyable. I can’t wait for book 3, The Air King’s Return (especially when it ended at that cliffhanger! Arhhh!!!!)
The Water Catcher’s Rise is the second book in The Kyprian series. The series needs to be read in order. (The first book is The Firemaster's Legacy)
With increasing political intrigue and romantic moments,The Water Catcher’s Rise is a great continuation of Arisa and Takai’s story! A solid five-stars!
I enjoyed this book more than the first. It only got better and better! After the event in book 1, Arisa was hopeful that things would change for the better, so she decided to stay at the castle to help whenever she could. Takai, finally able to understand her beliefs, decided to befriend her and tried hard to find common ground. But there were sinister plans to bring Arisa and Erin down inside the castle wall, as well as terrible threats to Lamore from the Northemers.
Generally speaking, this book had a somewhat different feel than the first. In The Firemaster’s Legacy, Arisa spent more time in Obira so readers witnessed the people suffering first hand, shaping a griever tone for the book. In The Water Catcher’s Rise, as Arisa stayed more in the castle, we got to see Obira from the perspective of the castle. I would say this book was the calm before the storm—everything was quite nice and beautiful, but you could feel the tension lurking around, ready to strike at any moment. Also, one of my main complaints of book 1 was that it felt a bit too slow for me, but The Water Catcher’s Rise totally picked up the pace and I love it! I read this book chapter after chapter. It was not too fast nor too slow. When things started getting slow, some emergency would occur and made me nervous!
The Water Catcher’s Rise also gave more depth to the characters. I love how they all had distinct personalities and beliefs and that they didn’t change easily. Both Arisa and Takai were willing to change after what happened at the end of book 1, but they still had a long way to go. If book 1 was for Arisa to learn her lesson, then book 2 was for Takai. He had the most hardship throwing his way—who to trust, what to do, and what of his feelings toward Arisa—and he’d grown so much through these events. The character growth was slow and subtle, but that was what made it so realistic. After reading this book, I found myself so emotionally invested in the MCs and side characters that I’m dying to know what would happen to them next! Also, a great part of the plot was driven by the past and secrets of some characters, and I love the idea of the past catching up to the present.
The other aspects of The Water Catcher’s Rise were also phenomenal! For one, romance took a greater part of this book while not overshadowing the main plot. The effect was much like the first book, only their interaction was a lot sweeter! Their relationship was slow-burn, beautiful, and undoubtedly romantic! It entwined perfectly with the politics, and these two elements drove the plot perfectly.
Another thing I really enjoyed was the magic! We finally get to see elemental magic at play! It was more magnificent and amazing than I’d expected. I’m totally in love with the magical scene. The description was also beautifully written that I can totally immerse myself in the magic. Though I would like even more magical scenes (I know I’m greedy), yet I guess it was saved for book 3!
Though the plot was a bit predictable (I’d more or less guessed the ending at the end of book 1), it didn’t diminish the joy this book brought me. The Water Catcher’s Rise was political, emotional, and magical. Very interesting and enjoyable. I can’t wait for book 3, The Air King’s Return (especially when it ended at that cliffhanger! Arhhh!!!!)
When Breath Becomes Air by Paul Kalanithi
challenging
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-paced
5.0
As someone who mostly reads fiction, I couldn’t find the right words to say how great this book is. So I’ll keep my review short.
When Breath Becomes Air tells the tragic yet vivid account of the life of Dr. Paul Kalanithi, who was once a promising great neurosurgeon, then, a victim of cancer.
This book is not just about a young man’s journey in battling cancer, though. This is a book that explores the meaning of life and death. I was moved beyond words and thought so much about my own life. How lucky I’m and how much there is still to chase. Yet the most important thing is to love the ones around you.
Though there were some literary references and medical terms that I didn’t fully understand, they didn’t stop me from understanding and enjoying this book. Dr. Kalanithi wrote beautifully, and his experiences in the hospital—both as a doctor and as a patient—were as thrilling and unexpected as some well-crafted novels. I had mixed emotions when reading, but I was never bored. I believed When Breath Becomes Air is a book that you have to read at least once in a lifetime.
When Breath Becomes Air tells the tragic yet vivid account of the life of Dr. Paul Kalanithi, who was once a promising great neurosurgeon, then, a victim of cancer.
This book is not just about a young man’s journey in battling cancer, though. This is a book that explores the meaning of life and death. I was moved beyond words and thought so much about my own life. How lucky I’m and how much there is still to chase. Yet the most important thing is to love the ones around you.
Though there were some literary references and medical terms that I didn’t fully understand, they didn’t stop me from understanding and enjoying this book. Dr. Kalanithi wrote beautifully, and his experiences in the hospital—both as a doctor and as a patient—were as thrilling and unexpected as some well-crafted novels. I had mixed emotions when reading, but I was never bored. I believed When Breath Becomes Air is a book that you have to read at least once in a lifetime.
The Firemaster's Legacy: The Kyprian Prophecy Book 1 by Kylie Fennell, Kylie Fennell
I enjoyed this book way more than I expected. The Firamaster’s Legacy is the first installment in the Kyprian series. As I followed Arisa, a Kengian girl who lost her father in a big massacre and thus had to keep her identity a secret, and Takai, a prince who was struggling to figure out his role and his belief, I fell deeper and deeper into this world. It was a story about so many things: race and prejudice, revenge and justice, trust and hope. I loved the complexity of it and I’m so looking forward to how the series unfolds.
The world-building was detailed and nicely done. It even had a system for Kengia language, which made everything so believable. I could see the scenes clearly in my head and be totally immersed in the story. Though we didn’t get to see much of the magic in the works in this book, it was clear that it was elemental magic. I’m intrigued by the magic and I’d love to read more about it in the next book.
My favorite thing about this book was the personality arc of Arisa. Hurt by her childhood experience, she was an angry and girl who sought revenge and darkness. I loved how she made friends and realized what justice truly means. There were several great quotes in the book that could well be mottos for life.
I also loved the super slow-burned romance in this book. The romantic relationship was far from love at first sight. (I’m not gonna say who here to avoid spoiler) To be honest, I can’t say there was anything real happening between them yet, but there was the potential their relationship would further develop in the second book. I loved that romance was not a major plot so it didn’t overshadow the important point, which cannot be said about other fantasy books nowadays. The attraction they felt for each other came naturally and gradually, making it realistic yet beautiful.
The only thing I didn’t like about this book was the pacing. The first few chapters were a bit slow and I could only read a few pages a day. (This was probably due to my reading slump earlier though—and let me tell you, that reading slump went away once Arisa entered the castle!) But in hindsight, these chapters were so important for later events and were parts of the world-building. Although the first few chapters were slow and a bit dark to read, it sped up quickly. The ending was so powerful and inspiring that I’m moved. The ending also has a bit of cliffhanger that made me want to read the next book like, right now!
If you love YA fantasy with elemental magic, a complicated world worth exploring, a realistic political crisis, a slow-burned romance and strong personality arcs, The Firemaster’s Legacy is the perfect next book for you.
dark
emotional
inspiring
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
4.0
*I received an eARC from the author in exchange for an honest review*
This epic fantasy series starter promises a perfect blend of friendship, challenges, and a hint of romance.
This epic fantasy series starter promises a perfect blend of friendship, challenges, and a hint of romance.
“Hope will be tested; some will be betrayed
Fire or water—the choice must be made.”
I enjoyed this book way more than I expected. The Firamaster’s Legacy is the first installment in the Kyprian series. As I followed Arisa, a Kengian girl who lost her father in a big massacre and thus had to keep her identity a secret, and Takai, a prince who was struggling to figure out his role and his belief, I fell deeper and deeper into this world. It was a story about so many things: race and prejudice, revenge and justice, trust and hope. I loved the complexity of it and I’m so looking forward to how the series unfolds.
“It was the fleeting time of day when dusk and twilight met. When the silvery hues of the afternoon sun gave way to pearly roses and purples, and the first evening stars pierced their way through the sky’s blanket.”
The world-building was detailed and nicely done. It even had a system for Kengia language, which made everything so believable. I could see the scenes clearly in my head and be totally immersed in the story. Though we didn’t get to see much of the magic in the works in this book, it was clear that it was elemental magic. I’m intrigued by the magic and I’d love to read more about it in the next book.
“Peace cannot be kept by brute strength or force. It takes greater courage to seek peace than to fight.”
My favorite thing about this book was the personality arc of Arisa. Hurt by her childhood experience, she was an angry and girl who sought revenge and darkness. I loved how she made friends and realized what justice truly means. There were several great quotes in the book that could well be mottos for life.
“She laughed and closed her eyes, as if to feel the music better… At this moment, their differences didn’t matter.”
I also loved the super slow-burned romance in this book. The romantic relationship was far from love at first sight. (I’m not gonna say who here to avoid spoiler) To be honest, I can’t say there was anything real happening between them yet, but there was the potential their relationship would further develop in the second book. I loved that romance was not a major plot so it didn’t overshadow the important point, which cannot be said about other fantasy books nowadays. The attraction they felt for each other came naturally and gradually, making it realistic yet beautiful.
The only thing I didn’t like about this book was the pacing. The first few chapters were a bit slow and I could only read a few pages a day. (This was probably due to my reading slump earlier though—and let me tell you, that reading slump went away once Arisa entered the castle!) But in hindsight, these chapters were so important for later events and were parts of the world-building. Although the first few chapters were slow and a bit dark to read, it sped up quickly. The ending was so powerful and inspiring that I’m moved. The ending also has a bit of cliffhanger that made me want to read the next book like, right now!
If you love YA fantasy with elemental magic, a complicated world worth exploring, a realistic political crisis, a slow-burned romance and strong personality arcs, The Firemaster’s Legacy is the perfect next book for you.