By Nicole Jamison
Star Rating: 5
Blurb:
Niya’s entire life has been a fight to survive. As a slave, she earns coins for her master in the fighting pits. But fate has bigger plans for her, and it all begins with uncovering the truth about her past.
As her lineage is revealed, will she answer the call of destiny? Or run from it?
Marcus prides himself on being a dutiful prince. Yet he has yet to do the one thing to secure his throne: find a suitable wife. With war looming on the horizon, and his father deathly ill, finding a bride seems an impossible task.
Can he find a princess who will help him save his kingdom? Or will he be forced to watch his realm fall into the clutches of his enemies?
When Marcus and Niya cross paths, will they find the answers to their future? Or will they be each other’s ruin?
Possible spoilers below this line
Genre: Dark Fantasy
POV: Dual between Marcus and Niya
Intended audience: 18+
Should there be trigger warnings?
There is a lot of violence in this book, but I didn’t think it was anything outside of typical fantasy novels. However, I always recommend checking for trigger warnings yourself before diving into any book.
Writing Style
The writing style reminds me of SJM in a way that doesn’t make her seem like a knock off but inspired by the author. The plotline is nothing like ACOTAR, TOG, or CC. The writing style isn’t the only thing that makes this story interesting. it’s the extensive world building and how Jamison reveals it to her readers. The world is reminiscent of Avatar the last airbender’s world but that’s as far as the similarities go. The plot is character driven, which I really enjoyed. I also enjoyed the fact that the author doesn’t give much away before her plot twists.
The story is told in the POV of our main characters Niya and Marcus. I really enjoyed being able to see both sides of the story, and getting to meet so many side characters during the adventure.
This book does leave off on a cliff hanger but it made me want to jump up and read the next book. I actually started the second book right after finishing this one.
Character Information
FMC is Niya, a fighter if I ever did meet one, and also a slave. She makes her owner money by fighting in a fighting ring. She is 7 year undefeated. She’s strong and longs to be free. What happens when she finally gets the opportunity?
MMC is Marcus, a prince, and heir of Azzaria. Forced to look for a princess to marry or he will be unable to claim his birth right as heir.
My Opinions
This book was fantastic. I was sucked into the story immediately and the author kept my attention with every mystery, and plot twist she revealed. I was take surprise by a couple of things, and I was on the edge of my seat until the very end. If you love dark fantasy, Avatar the Last Airbender, and time travelling. You should check this series out!