Nightbirds is the start to an exciting new YA fantasy series. The story is set in the city of Simta in the Eudean Republic, where magic is prohibited, except for those who are wealthy and powerful, who partake of it behind closed doors.
The Nightbirds follows a group of teenage girls who secretly and anonymously gift their magic to members of the Great Houses through a kiss. A series of events exposes their identities, and they are forced to go into hiding from an extreme religious sect, the leader of Simta and those who would use their magic for nefarious purposes. As they explore the full extent of their abilities and find other girls who can wield magic, they realize that they have been lied to, their powers used to benefit others.
Nightbirds is a thrilling tale filled with forbidden magic, political intrigue, action, adventure and romance. I found it a fascinating allegory of how female power is suppressed by male dominated religions, political systems and financial structures. The story is told through multiple points of view which allows for character development, an intense, woven plot and detailed world building. I loved the maps! The sequel can't come a moment too soon.
The Nightbirds follows a group of teenage girls who secretly and anonymously gift their magic to members of the Great Houses through a kiss. A series of events exposes their identities, and they are forced to go into hiding from an extreme religious sect, the leader of Simta and those who would use their magic for nefarious purposes. As they explore the full extent of their abilities and find other girls who can wield magic, they realize that they have been lied to, their powers used to benefit others.
Nightbirds is a thrilling tale filled with forbidden magic, political intrigue, action, adventure and romance. I found it a fascinating allegory of how female power is suppressed by male dominated religions, political systems and financial structures. The story is told through multiple points of view which allows for character development, an intense, woven plot and detailed world building. I loved the maps! The sequel can't come a moment too soon.