Caelania
Thank you to the author for providing me with an eARC of this release! - Fantasy lovers: I gather you here with me today to tell you that this book is your new obsession. I’m completely convinced that this book will absolutely blow up - as it should! And you know what the best thing is? It releases on the 22nd of February - just a few days before you can get your hands on it! You definitely should preorder, too. Alright, here are my thoughts… Summary 19-year-old mage Lady Lyriana Batavia is third in line to the Seat of Power in Bamaria: a position of wealth and privilege, but not safety. Bamaria falls under the rule of the Lumerian Empire, survivors of a celestial war whose island sank in the Drowning. Now all Lumerians submit to the Emperor and his strict laws about magic. He decides what magic can be practiced and what powers remain forbidden. He decides who will die for possession of forbidden magic. When Lyr must participate in the ceremony that reveals her power, she uncovers something else entirely. Something that means banishment from the Empire. Faced with death in exile, and leaving her sisters behind, Lyr has no choice but to accept a deadly contract. She has seven months to train as a warrior and pass the Emperor's brutal test of strength-all without magic. But when she's forced to train with Lord Rhyan Hart, the man she's secretly loved since she was a girl-a feared warrior in exile himself, forbidden to her in every way-she's in danger of losing far more than her family, life, and country. Rebel forces, and an invading army, are destabilizing Bamaria, just as her family's secrets threaten to reveal themselves. Surviving the training, and saving her sisters may mean sacrificing her own heart. /End of summary/ Firstly, this is the first book in a high fantasy series, so there is a LOT of worldbuilding. I found it difficult to keep up with at times, but this isn’t a criticism because that is to be expected. If I had rated this book more upon my personal enjoyment, I think it would come to three stars. But looking at this objectively, it is at least a four. It has good writing, a fast-paced plot, a thoroughly developed and immersive world, and good characters (Rhyan will definitely be a favourite!). For me, it was a little too steamy, but some people will find it just the right amount! Likewise, I found the worldbuilding a bit overwhelming, but plenty of people will love that. I really recommend this one to any fantasy lover. If you’re not into fantasy, it probably isn’t going to be your favourite, but if you’re interested in it then 100% give it a go!!
Sandra Glazebrook
I have had a hard time lately finding a book that I couldn't put down but this one consumed me! Lady Lyriana is extremely well written to be inspirational and relatable. Her world is beautiful and the love triangle between duty and heart draws the reader in. I am eagerly awaiting the next book! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Allison Houston
This book was amazing! It had such an incredibly raw main character. All too often main characters are unnaturally strong, agile, and overall powerful, overnight, more than others, even in their magical lands. This main character’s story was full of grit, hard lessons, and yet determination and compassion never left her. Mallis created an incredible world. This fantasy land was filled with magic, and creatures that made me want to buy a ticket to this land. The dynamics of the land have you questioning everyone’s intentions, and we learn more as we navigate how their young adults grow and learn their roles in this society. I’d recommend this book to anyone that liked Harry Potter, Hunger Games, From Blood and Ash, or A Court of Thorns and Roses series.
