The Poppy War by R.F. Kuang

Title: The Poppy War

Author: R.F. Kuang

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Poppy War # 1

Publication: 527 pages, May 1, 2018

Source: Personal Library

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When Rin aced the Keju — the Empire-wide test to find the most talented youth to learn at the Academies — it was a shock to everyone: to the test officials, who couldn’t believe a war orphan from Rooster Province could pass without cheating; to Rin’s guardians, who believed they’d finally be able to marry her off and further their criminal enterprise; and to Rin herself, who realized she was finally free of the servitude and despair that had made up her daily existence. That she got into Sinegard — the most elite military school in Nikan — was even more surprising.

But surprises aren’t always good.

Because being a dark-skinned peasant girl from the south is not an easy thing at Sinegard. Targeted from the outset by rival classmates for her color, poverty, and gender, Rin discovers she possesses a lethal, unearthly power — an aptitude for the nearly-mythical art of shamanism. Exploring the depths of her gift with the help of a seemingly insane teacher and psychoactive substances, Rin learns that gods long thought dead are very much alive — and that mastering control over those powers could mean more than just surviving school.

For while the Nikara Empire is at peace, the Federation of Mugen still lurks across a narrow sea. The militarily advanced Federation occupied Nikan for decades after the First Poppy War, and only barely lost the continent in the Second. And while most of the people are complacent to go about their lives, a few are aware that a Third Poppy War is just a spark away.

Rin’s shamanic powers may be the only way to save her people. But as she finds out more about the god that has chosen her, the vengeful Phoenix, she fears that winning the war may cost her humanity ... and that it may already be too late..

MY THOUGHTS

I’ve had The Poppy War on my TBR for years. All I ever heard were endless praises about how great this book and series were. Having read Kuang’s contemporary work and found it lacking, I had higher hopes for The Poppy War, as it seemed more aligned with my interests: history and fantasy. However, the book ultimately ended up being disappointing and a complete letdown.

First off, I want to say that this book is extremely well-written. I recall hearing that this was Kuang’s debut novel, which she wrote when she was17–19 years old (?). That’s incredible. The research and attention to detail in the characters and the world are evident. I appreciated how Kuang incorporated various branches of philosophy' metaphysics, epistemology, aesthetics, as well as religion and even more obscure or taboo topics like astral travel and psychedelics. It was fascinating to see how these elements shaped the worldbuilding and the characters’ actions.

I enjoyed the first portion of the book, following Rin’s journey from the small village of Tikany to the prestigious militia school in Sinegard. The story spans several years, and from there, we see Rin and her classmates thrust headlong into a brutal war with the Federation. Everyone knows war is gruesome, and Kuang does not hold back in depicting its horrors. The scenes are vividly detailed and graphic, so much so that I found myself questioning whether I could continue reading. At one point, I had to stop and debate whether to continue. I applaud Kuang for her ability to vividly portray the realities of war, but I have to ask: was it necessary? Many authors manage to convey brutality without delving into such explicit, detailed accounts. It felt excessive to me, perhaps intended for shock value but it ultimately made me feel sick rather than engaged.

As for the main character, Rin, I did not like her. At first, I respected her tenacity and her faith to dream big and create a better life for herself. However, as the story progressed, she became someone unrecognizable. Was this change due to the war? Probably. But the transformation wasn’t for the better. Rin has always been selfish, and even by the end, she insists she’s doing everything for her people and for those who suffered during the war but is she really? She condemned the Federation for its atrocities against innocent civilians, yet when faced with a similar choice, she committed the same horrors. What a hypocrite.

In the end, Altan chose Rin as his successor. How that happened is beyond me. She’s an immature child with no qualifications to lead. But apparently, having the power of a god overrides everything else right? This series has a lot of potential and is loved by many, but I, unfortunately, cannot tolerate the unnecessary depictions of senseless death or Rin’s character. For these reasons, I won’t be continuing the series.

The Liar's Knot by M.A. Carrick

Title: The Liar's Knot

Author: M.A. Carrick

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Rook & Rose # 2

Publication: 629 pages, December 9, 2021

Source: Personal Library

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Trust is the thread that binds us . . . and the rope that hangs us.

In Nadezra, peace is as tenuous as a single thread. The ruthless House Indestor has been destroyed, but darkness still weaves through the city’s filthy back alleys and jewel-bright gardens, seen by those who know where to look.

Derossi Vargo has always known. He has sacrificed more than anyone imagines to carve himself a position of power among the nobility, hiding a will of steel behind a velvet smile. He'll be damned if he lets anyone threaten what he's built.

Grey Serrado knows all too well. Bent under the yoke of too many burdens, he fights to protect the city’s most vulnerable. Sooner or later, that fight will demand more than he can give.

And Ren, daughter of no clan, knows best of all. Caught in a knot of lies, torn between her heritage and her aristocratic masquerade, she relies on her gift for reading pattern to survive. And it shows her the web of corruption that traps her city.

But all three have yet to discover just how far that web stretches. And in the end, it will take more than knives to cut themselves free...

MY THOUGHTS

The Liar's Knot picks up a couple of months after the dramatic events of The Mask of Mirrors. The Rook and the Black Rose succeeded in saving their city, rooting out the corruption of Mettore Indestor and the Cinquerat. Renata is now officially inscribed into House Traementis’s register, Vargo has risen to nobility, and finally, we uncover the identity of the Rook! However, peace in Nadežra is fleeting. Unchecked power and unsanctioned numinatria and eisar are wreaking havoc on unsuspecting citizens, leaving them vulnerable to its taint. Once again, Ren, Grey, Vargo, and their allies must set aside their differences to protect their city.

Just when I thought I had a handle on the intricacies of this world and its characters, authors Marie Brennan and Alyc Helms proved me utterly wrong. The duo continues to expand their already rich, multifaceted world, adding more layers to both the characters and the lore. I absolutely adore the chemistry and dynamic between the central trio; Ren, Grey, and Vargo. In this sequel, while the main trio remains front and center, Tess, Giuna, and Alsius (a.k.a. Master Peabody) are given more time to shine. Tess and Giuna, once timid and reserved in the first book, show tremendous growth, evolving into strong, capable women you don't want to mess with.

That said, Master Peabody completely stole the show every time he appeared. His humor and wit had me smiling and laughing throughout, and his scenes are a true highlight. I also appreciated learning more about Vargo and Alsius’s backstory and the bond they share. Honestly, I would love to read an entire book centered on a young Vargo’s rise from runner to Knot Boss to nobleman. Just putting that out there!

This series boasts some of the best characters and world-building I’ve encountered in a long time, and I read a lot. The sheer depth of key players, hierarchies, the city’s history and clans, gods and religion, the magic system, and more is staggering. Yet, at no point did I feel confused or overwhelmed. The authors weave astrology, astronomy, numerology, and tarot seamlessly into the story, creating a world that feels both intricate and alive.

I was completely immersed in this unique world and its complex characters, only to be constantly surprised by twists and turns I never saw coming. It’s rare to find a book that can genuinely keep a reader on their toes, and this series accomplishes it masterfully.

The Liar’s Knot is a phenomenal continuation of an amazing series. It’s just as fantastic as The Mask of Mirrors, and I can’t recommend this one-of-a-kind fantasy enough. If you enjoy hidden identities, political intrigue, morally gray characters, and exceptional world-building, this series deserves a top spot on your TBR. Trust me, you won’t regret it.

I can already tell this will be my 2025 top read and new favorite series!

The Games Gods Play by Abigail Owen

Title: The Games Gods Play

Author: Abigail Owen

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Series:The Crucible # 1

Hardcover, 509 Pages 

Publication: September 3, 2024

Source: Personal Library
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The gods love to toy with us mere mortals. And every hundred years, we let them…

I have never been favored by the gods. Far from it, thanks to Zeus.

Living as a cursed office clerk for the Order of Thieves, I just keep my head down and hope the capricious beings who rule from Olympus won’t notice me. Not an easy feat, given San Francisco is Zeus’ patron city, but I make do. I survive. Until the night I tangle with a different god.

The worst god. Hades.

For the first time ever, the ruthless, mercurial King of the Underworld has entered the Crucible—the deadly contest the gods hold to determine a new ruler to sit on the throne of Olympus. But instead of fighting their own battles, the gods name mortals to compete in their stead.

So why in the Underworld did Hades choose me—a sarcastic nobody with a curse on her shoulders—as his champion? And why does my heart trip every time he says I’m his?

I don’t know if I’m a pawn, bait, or something else entirely to this dangerously tempting god. How can I, when he has more secrets than stars in the sky?

Because Hades is playing by his own rules…and Death will win at any cost.

MY THOUGHTS

The Games Gods Play has been all over social media lately, with raving reviews and the promise of Greek gods drawing me in. However, I’m now wondering if I read the same book as everyone else because there was absolutely nothing worth raving about.

The story begins at the start of the Gods' Crucible Tournament, where Lyra and her gang of thieves are working a job. Our protagonist, Lyra, is in the process of walking away because her team is mocking her for having a crush on Boone, another teammate. That’s when she runs into Hades, the God of the Underworld. For reasons that are never explained other than she could win, Hades chooses Lyra as his champion in the Crucible, promising to lift her curse of being "unlovable" if she wins. The rest of the book follows Lyra and the other contestants as they navigate the 12 trials.

I have never been so bored in my entire life. By the time I reached the 30% mark, I was hoping the story would pick up or at least get interesting. It never did. Not at 50%, not at 80%, nothing. The trials, which were based on the gods themselves, were unimaginative and dull. I never connected with any of the characters and couldn’t bring myself to care about their fates. Even when some players didn’t make it, I couldn’t muster an ounce of concern.

Lyra, in particular, was insufferable. She tried to be a savior to everyone, repeatedly throwing challenges to help others even though most of them were against her from the start. Her constant humming was another source of irritation, especially since the author never explained its purpose. Was it meant to be an endearing quirk? Because it wasn’t. Lyra’s progress in the trials wasn’t due to skill but sheer luck, stupidity, or Hades cheating on her behalf.

Speaking of Hades, dear lord, he was as dull as a cardboard box. You’d think the Lord of the Underworld would be brooding and mysterious, but he was neither. The author kept telling us how feared and powerful Hades was, but there was no actual evidence to support this claim. Even the "telling" failed to make him remotely convincing as a fearsome deity.

The relationship between Lyra and Hades was as tiresome as the characters themselves. There was zero chemistry between them, and I never understood Hades’ obsession with Lyra, who had no redeeming qualities in my opinion. She's worse than those 'snowflake heroines' we read in most books. His nickname for her, “my star,” made me roll my eyes every time it appeared. Boone’s nickname for Lyra, “Lyra Loo Hoo” was also atrocious. Talk about cringy. 

The gods in The Games Gods Play weren’t the iconic figures from Greek mythology that people know and love. They were immature, bored immortals acting like spoiled children who meddled with mortals for entertainment. I don’t know why I expected anything different.

Ultimately, this book was poorly written, far too long, and entirely overhyped. I don’t recommend it. Please don’t make the same mistake I did by being fooled by a pretty cover and rave reviews. I’m starting to believe the Red Tower rumors...all they are, are pretty books that hide lackluster stories. 

The Heart of the World by Amie Kaufman

Title: The Heart of the World

Author: Amie Kaufman

Genre: YA Fantasy

Series: Isles of the Gods # 2

Hardcover, 432 pages 

Publication: September 17, 2024

Source: I received a review copy in exchange for a honest review.
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When Selly and Leander began their treacherous voyage to the Isles of the Gods, the captain’s daughter and the playboy prince were strangers. But amid talk of war and a deadly attack on their ship, the unthinkable happened.

They fell in love.

Leander’s ritual at the island temple was meant to prevent a war between the gods. Instead, it nearly cost him his life, and drew the goddess Barrica back from exile. Now, as her Messenger, Leander is imbued with her deadly magic, and only Selly’s presence can stop it from consuming him.

But Barrica wasn’t the only immortal roused from sleep. The God of Risk, Macean, was awakened by an enemy all thought dead, and across the sea he’s calling for war.

The fight to save their world will take Selly and Leander from the gilded ballroom of the royal palace to the hallowed halls of an ancient library. Battle lines will be drawn, and bonds will break.

With the wrath of gods and the machinations of power-hungry rulers straining their loyalties, can their love withstand the trials that await them?

MY THOUGHTS

The Heart of the World was a satisfying conclusion to the Isles of the Gods series. Picking up exactly where Isles of the Gods left off, the sequel begins with Prince Leander, Selly, and Keegan returning to Alinor from the Isles of the Mother, greeted by cheering citizens upon their arrival. Unlike the first book, which focused on foreign lands and high-seas adventure, this installment thrusts readers into a new setting: political intrigue.

While the stakes in The Heart of the World remain high with the looming threat of war, the tone of this book feels distinct from its predecessor. In the first book, tension came from direct conflict, as the trio navigated dangerous waters while being pursued by Laskia and her crew. In the sequel, the tension is more subtle, as Selly, Keegan, and Jude work behind the scenes to research and find a way to prevent war. I appreciated this shift in focus, as it offered a refreshing contrast between the two books. I also enjoyed seeing the interaction between the two kingdoms and their gods and seeing them discover that the gods weren't quite as how they imagined.

As in the previous book, The Heart of the World is narrated by the five main characters, but we also get a brief point of view from Keegan's fiancée, Kiki, whom I absolutely adored. She fit in so well with the group, and her friendship with Selly was particularly sweet. I also loved seeing more of Jude’s perspective—his story was sad and heartbreaking, but I was glad to see him get the happy ending he deserved. Selly’s character growth throughout the duology was the most compelling to me; her transformation felt the most complete and rewarding.

However, I did feel that the two Messengers’ points of view didn’t develop much in this book, and their arcs suffered from stagnation. The resolution for their storylines felt abrupt and somewhat anticlimactic, which was a bit of a letdown after the buildup from the previous book.

Overall, while I preferred the first book, The Heart of the World was still an enjoyable read, and I’m happy with how the series ended. If you haven’t read this duology yet, I highly recommend it!

Monstrous by Nicole M. Rubino

Title: Monstrous

Author: Nicole M. Rubino

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Series: Monstrous # 1

Paperback, 466 pages 

Publication: January 17, 2024

Source: Personal Library
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Monstrous claws weren't the type of gift I’d been expecting for my eighteenth birthday, along with the desire to eat my ex-boyfriend. Yet those beastly traits and carnivorous urges are the exact reason I’m here, at Alystair University.

Alystair University was all I heard about growing up. Its prestige and exclusivity could rival any Ivy League. But that’s not the real reason that sets the school apart from others. Everyone at this school is a monster. Like me.

I should feel safe here. This school will afford me the opportunity to hone my monstrous abilities and curb my carnivorous urges. Not to mention, I have a fierce girl gang by my side, guiding me every step of the way.

But then decapitated bodies start showing up on campus. Someone is killing off students, and in a school full of monsters, everyone is a suspect. Yet all eyes are on Nick Cervallos, a boy whose charm is as deadly as his claws.

And who I can’t seem to stay away from.

Despite danger lurking around every corner, I’m determined to prove Nick’s innocence. But in order to do that, I’ll have to let my monstrous side loose. I just don’t know what I’m more afraid of - coming face to face with a blood-thirsty monster…

Or myself.

MY THOUGHTS

I went into Monstrous completely unaware, and I was pleasantly surprised with what I found. A college full of monsters? But not just any monsters, reborn Greek monsters from myths and legends. How fascinating. To be honest, I haven't read any book yet that has done justice to Greek Mythology and there has been quite a few of them lately (not including Percy Jackson Series). 

Within the first few chapters I was hooked. The author quicky introduced and cemented Rhi and her girl gang. I love seeing the easy-going friendship and sisterhood that developed early on. The girls were closed right from the start to the very end. I haven't read friendships like this for a while in books. It's usually all about the romantic relationships. Which was refreshing. While Rhi and the girls learn about their monster history and abilities; they're also busy trying to find a murderer on campus that's targeting girls. I'm not sure if this series was labeled as 'Horror' but some of the description and scenes were pretty detailed and gruesome. I should have expected that, especially since this was a book about... monsters. 

Rhi wasn't a perfect character, but I still liked her a lot. She was always trying to protect the people she loved, even if she didn't go about, it the right way most of the time. I also liked Nick, the love interest for the most part. He was always an enigma, but the ending had me speechless! I can't wait to see what happens next. I absolutely adored all the girls, even Kass. One surprising thing about Monstrous was despite some of the scary and serious parts; this book was quite funny. I laughed so much. Rhi was a freaking comedian. 

Monstrous took me by complete surprise and I enjoyed it more than I anticipated. The book was very well written and kept me engaged throughout. There was never a bored moment. I can't wait to pick up the sequel, Venomous which releases next month, October 2024! I highly recommend this book if you're looking for something different and unique; a reprieve from all the Romantasy on the market right now. I am shocked there isn't more noise and hype about this book. Give this book a shot, you won't regret it!

Lady of Darkness by Melissa K. Roehrich

Title: Lady of Darkness

Author: Melissa K. Roehrich

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Lady of Darkness # 1

Paperback, 538 pages 

Publication: March 1, 2020

Source: Personal Library
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A CAGE.

Owned by a ruthless Assassin Lord, Scarlett Monrhoe and her two sisters have been trained since they were children to torture and take life. They are the most feared trio on the continent, but they are also wild and unpredictable. A tragic night has Scarlett finding herself locked away in a noble's household, trapped and forgotten, until she's ready to fall into line.

A CHOICE.

Until the day she is presented with a job. If she completes the assignment, her payment will be something she has coveted for ten years. Revenge against the Fae Fire Prince who brutally killed her mother ten years ago. Is she willing to sacrifice her ideals for retribution?

A MYSTERY.

But when children begin disappearing from her home, all her plans are put on hold as she races to save the most innocent. With the help of old friends, a jilted lover, and a mysterious newcomer who claims the magic of the Fae is possible in the mortal lands, Scarlett delves into the darkest corners of the world. Forgotten secrets will come to light, and she will discover the darkness extends far beyond her own kingdom.

MY THOUGHTS

I've started and stopped reading Lady of Darkness a handful of times over the last two years. I don't quite remember why though whether it was the book or just my mood. But I finally read and finished the book! The beginning of the book was slow, and I didn't really like Scarlet all that much. I had to remind myself that she's 18-years old or so and is basically an immature child. Ironic that she's part of an assassin syndicate and she's one of their top members. The more I read, I realized that the author's Legacy series is a spinoff or based off the same world as Lady of Darkness. And I actually read The Legacy series before reading this book. Which I guess it helped me understand the world building easier. 

I noticed many similarities between Scarlett and The Legacy's heroine, Tessa. They're literally the same character just in a different timeline. With that said, having finished Lady of Darkness, I'm not sure how I feel about Scarlet. I didn't like her at the beginning and towards the end there wasn't much improvement. I plan to continue with the series and hope that changes and we see more personal development and growth for Scarlet. I also didn't really care for Sorin. I understood the immediate obsession, borderline instalove but he read like all the other typical MMC I've read. Nothing stands out about Sorin, not even being the Fire Prince. 

I thought the plot and writing was well-done, not surprising considering how much I enjoyed Roehrich's Legacy series. I am interested in continuing this series to see what happens next with the characters after the revelation about Scarlet. Lady of Darkness while not as strong as The Legacy, I believe it could get better once I get further into the series. Overall, it was a decent series opener. 

Vesselless by Cortney L. Winn

Title: Vesselless

Author: Cortney L. Winn

Genre: Fantasy

Series: The Merciless Realms # 1

Ebook, 494 pages 

Publication: March 23, 2024

Source: Kindle Unlimited
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She’s heiress to the throne. The throne her father stole from him.

Nizzara has always been able to perceive spirits better than the average caster. When she enters a deadly tournament to end her betrothal, she's determined to win without succumbing to the addictive spirit magic she channels or taking a life in the duel ring. Finding herself outmatched, Nizzara must face her fear of power and team up with Dagen—an enemy who is half-ghost and all charm—to survive the tournament.

Dagen, the last King of Zarr, was killed by Nizzara’s father ten years ago. Now a half-ghost—able to phase between his human and spirit form—he is stuck in another realm, hunting wretched souls. When his keeper offers him a chance to reclaim his freedom in exchange for Nizzara’s soul, Dagen takes the deal.

There’s only one catch: she must freely give it to him by the tournament’s end or his own soul is forfeit.

MY THOUGHTS

Vesselless has been taking the book world by storm, and I am so glad I read it! When I heard this book featured ghosts, I was intrigued, though I was also a bit skeptical about how everything would work, given that one of the main characters is a ghost. However, Winn weaves everything together perfectly.

Vesselless incorporates many tropes that readers have come to either love or hate, such as the morally grey/shadow daddy, trials and competitions, and an arranged marriage. Yet, Winn puts her own spin on these elements, offering a refreshing new take. What truly sets Vesselless apart from other books in its genre is its magical world-building and richly developed characters.

In the world of Vesselless, three main kingdoms are vying for dominance. Readers can expect political intrigue and godly influences shaping the lives of the people of Zarr, Zo, and Zem. Adding to the complexity, the nobility and their people wear vessel rings that bond the user with a spirit. These spirits not only offer protection but also grant magical abilities. Meanwhile, the infantry and guards are tied to their rulers through these rings, compelling them to obey every command.

I absolutely loved the world and characters. Without a doubt, I haven't read any book quite like Vesselless. The author skillfully integrated many elements I enjoy, with perfect pacing and writing. I immediately connected with Nizzara and Dagen, and I loved their chemistry and banter. Many readers described this as a slow burn, but in my opinion, I wish it had been even slower—I would have preferred if the leads didn't get together in the first book. Nevertheless, I enjoyed every aspect of their relationship.

While the ending was somewhat predictable, I am still excited to see what happens next. I thoroughly enjoyed Vesselless and highly recommend it to fans of Romantasy.

Quicksilver by Callie Hart

Title: Quicksilver

Author: Callie Hart

Genre: Fantasy

Series: Fae & Alchemy # 1

Paperback, 622 pages 

Publication: June 4, 2024

Source: Personal Library
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In the land of the unforgiving desert, there isn’t much a girl wouldn’t do for a glass of water.

Twenty-four-year-old Saeris Fane is good at keeping secrets. No one knows about the strange powers she possesses, or the fact that she has been picking pockets and stealing from the Undying Queen’s reservoirs for as long as she can remember.

But a secret is like a knot.

Sooner or later, it is bound to come undone.

When Saeris comes face-to-face with Death himself, she inadvertently reopens a gateway between realms and is transported to a land of ice and snow. The Fae have always been the stuff of myth, of legend, of nightmares…but it turns out they’re real, and Saeris has landed herself right in the middle of a centuries-long conflict that might just get her killed.

The first of her kind to tread the frozen mountains of Yvelia in over a thousand years, Saeris mistakenly binds herself to Kingfisher, a handsome Fae warrior, who has secrets and nefarious agendas of his own. He will use her Alchemist’s magic to protect his people, no matter what it costs him… or her.

Death has a name.

It is Kingfisher of the Ajun Gate.

His past is murky.

His attitude stinks.

And he’s the only way Saeris is going to make it home.

Be careful of the deals you make, dear child.

The devil is in the details...

MY THOUGHTS

After seeing Quicksilver on my FYP for weeks, I finally took the plunge and read the book. I'm so glad I did! Like many Romance Fantasy/Fantasy series nowadays, Quicksilver features the usual fae, vampires, and gods, but it stands out with its unique and fresh take on these subjects.

I was effortlessly immersed in the world and writing within a couple of pages. The world-building is fascinating, vivid, and well-developed. While reading Quicksilver, I could easily imagine Saeris and Carrion running the third ward, and Kingfisher and Ren at the battlefronts. The magic system in Quicksilver is straightforward but complex enough without being convoluted or resorting to info-dumping. I absolutely loved all the characters. Saeris is probably one of my new favorite heroines. Imagine a petite, independent, kick-ass woman who can take down men three times her size, yet still has a big heart and a great sense of humor. Kingfisher was perfection—the kind of male lead/hero I enjoy reading about. I can't think of a single negative quality when it comes to Kingfisher. I loved their chemistry, interactions, and especially their banter. The banter was everything!

Quicksilver is very character-driven and centered. I love when an author writes fully developed, fleshed-out characters with flaws and attributes we can relate to and connect with. Whether it's a villain like Malcolm or a minor but adorable character like Archer, each character feels real.

Quicksilver is one of the best books I've read so far this year and easily in my top five reads. I loved it so much. If I could rate it more than five stars, I would. It was just that amazing. I highly, highly recommend Quicksilver if you haven't read it yet. You will not regret it! And you know what's crazy? The author mentioned that this was her first foray into the Romantasy/Fantasy genre and that she didn't have an audience for it. I was shocked to learn that because, as I mentioned earlier, the world-building is done really well. I can't wait for book 2, which comes out later this year in the fall!

Seven Faceless Saints by M.K. Lobb

Title: Seven Faceless Saints

Author: M.K. Lobb

Genre: Fantasy YA

Series: Seven Faceless Saints #1

Hardcover, 400 pages 

Publication: February 7, 2023 by Little Brown BFYR

Source: I received a review copy in exchange for honest review.
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In the city of Ombrazia, saints and their disciples rule with terrifying and unjust power, playing favorites while the unfavored struggle to survive.

After her father’s murder at the hands of the Ombrazian military, Rossana Lacertosa is willing to do whatever it takes to dismantle the corrupt system—tapping into her powers as a disciple of Patience, joining the rebellion, and facing the boy who broke her heart. As the youngest captain in the history of Palazzo security, Damian Venturi is expected to be ruthless and strong, and to serve the saints with unquestioning devotion. But three years spent fighting in a never-ending war have left him with deeper scars than he wants to admit… and a fear of confronting the girl he left behind.

Now a murderer stalks Ombrazia’s citizens. As the body count climbs, the Palazzo is all too happy to look the other way—that is, until a disciple becomes the newest victim. With every lead turning into a dead end, Damian and Roz must team up to find the killer, even if it means digging up buried emotions. As they dive into the underbelly of Ombrazia, the pair will discover something more sinister—and far less holy. With darkness closing in and time running out, will they be able to save the city from an evil so powerful that it threatens to destroy everything in its path?

 

MY THOUGHTS

Seven Faceless Saints was one of my most anticipated reads of 2023, and it certainly didn't disappoint! Within the first few pages, readers were thrust head-first into a murder mystery. A Disciple (those with power) of Death was found murdered in his room and Damian, The Head Security of the Plazzo was tasked with finding the person who committed the crime. What initially looked like a isolated incident turned into a serial killer on the loose. With the assistance of another Disciple and Damian's former flame, the two set out to solve the murders...only to discover a more sinister plot that can destroy both of their world.

The novel takes place in the city of Ombrazia where Disciples rule with an iron hand. The next group in the hierarchy are the guards that protect the city, despite being born without powers. And finally, at the bottom are the unfavored, those without gifts/abilities, mortals that the city deems disposable and are often drafted off to the army to fight a never ending war.

I found the world building very interesting and well-done. Lobb's detailed description and explanation was straightforward and easy to understand.
Like the title says, there are seven saints, with each Disciple specializing in an ability to help serve the city. For example The Cunning Disciples specializes in poison, and Patience's Disciples deals with black smith metal work. I liked the dual narration, with each chapter alternating between Roz and Damian. We get to see each perspective on the situation and what they're feeling. Each alternating chapters connects and continues the dual narrating flawlessly, its like experiencing the character's emotions in real-time. I found it refreshing.

I thought Roz and Damien were great leading characters. Despite being somewhat polar opposite, they really complement one another. Roz was an impulsive big fireball of rage but ultimately wants equal rights for the citizens of Ombrazia. Damien is the opposite, always calm, composed and does everything by the book. His purpose is to serve, protect and find justice no matter a person's background.

I enjoyed Seven Faceless Saints, it kept me on edge and guessing all the way till the end. The plot was full of action and suspense, twists and turns that I didn't see coming. I loved that the villain was so unpredictable. I was shocked when it was revealed. And that ending...Superb! Seven Faceless Saints is the start to what I predict to be an amazing series. I can't wait to see what Lobb has in store for us in the the next book!