This hits all the elements that make great fantasy novels so engaging!
Such a fun, rollicking adventure. Ziva is a bladesmith who can create weapons with magical abilities...but with severe social anxiety. To quote, "There's nothing more terrifying than a well-attended party." She struggles to have a safe space after she must go on the run to protect a magical sword from an evil warlord.
She's accompanied by her sister who has a few secrets that reveal themselves along the way, a scholar who wants to collect information about Ziva's magical abilities for a book, and a handsome mercenary hired to protect them on their journey. These four are the heart and soul of the novel. Their relationships are such fun as the travel from city to city. I loved the growth and vulnerability they all endured. I can't wait to see where things go in the next book of this duology.
I enjoyed the map at the beginning which helps visualize things for readers as the world comes to life. Magical abilities are rare, and some religions would rather wipe them out and ask questions later. Meanwhile, Ziva is being chased by an army. Tension mounts as safe havens become less available.
Quite the well-written and enjoyable tale. This hits all the elements that make a great fantasy novel so engaging. I'll be diving into more from this author.
She's accompanied by her sister who has a few secrets that reveal themselves along the way, a scholar who wants to collect information about Ziva's magical abilities for a book, and a handsome mercenary hired to protect them on their journey. These four are the heart and soul of the novel. Their relationships are such fun as the travel from city to city. I loved the growth and vulnerability they all endured. I can't wait to see where things go in the next book of this duology.
I enjoyed the map at the beginning which helps visualize things for readers as the world comes to life. Magical abilities are rare, and some religions would rather wipe them out and ask questions later. Meanwhile, Ziva is being chased by an army. Tension mounts as safe havens become less available.
Quite the well-written and enjoyable tale. This hits all the elements that make a great fantasy novel so engaging. I'll be diving into more from this author.