***2020 Realm Award Winner, Science Fiction******2020 Alliance Award Winner, Reader’s Choice*** There’s a price on her head, and it has everything to do with the brand on her arm.Tertian Space Coalition has blessed every planet in the quadrants with high technology, save one: Drosero. But in spite of their tenuous treaty with the ruling clans, TSC has plans for the backward planet. And they’re … ruling clans, TSC has plans for the backward planet. And they’re not alone.
After a catastrophic explosion, Kersei Dragoumis awakens in a derelict shuttle, alone, injured, and ignorant of the forbidden technology that has swept her into a nightmare. The brand she’s borne since childhood burns mysteriously, but the pain is nothing to that when she learns her family is dead and she is accused of their murders.
Across the quadrants, Marco Dusan responds to the call of a holy order—not to join them, but to seek a bounty. Gifted—or cursed—with abilities that mark him a Kynigos, a tracker sworn to bring interplanetary fugitives to justice, Marco discovers this particular bounty has nothing to do with justice and everything to do with prophecy. One that involves the hunter as much as the hunted.
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From the expansive worldbuilding to the rich cast of characters, I was a goner from chapter one. I loved every second I spent in this complex, beautiful, intense world. Ronie Kendig is a master storyteller, weaving scenes with intricacy, depth, and heart, while maintaining the taut pacing of a suspense novel. Wherever Kendig takes The Droseran Saga next, I’m there for it!
This book has everything: intricate worlds steeped in rich culture and twisted politics, broken treaties, secret prophecies, and heart-stopping revelations that will keep you turning pages long into the night. Kendig delivers a brilliant blend of pulse-punching action, heartache, and hope. Brand of Light is the space opera I’ve been waiting for. A masterpiece.
Complex and compelling, with enough intriguing characters to power several novels. An exciting start to a space opera series that promises action, mystery, and romance to come!
Brought together through space & time by a brand…
If you were to look at my TBR stack(s) you would probably notice pretty quickly that sci-fi is not on my list of most-read genres. However, every couple of years or so I’ll see one from a familiar, or at least recognized, author and I’ll give them a try. Brand Of Light was one of those. I’ve only read one of Ronie Kendig’s previous books, in a totally different genre, so I thought I would check this one out.
To be honest, I have mixed feelings about the book. On the one hand, I suppose with any space opera, I had a hard time with keeping track of who was who, there were just so many characters, let alone remembering who belonged to which planet and what their customs were. I also spotted an inconsistency or two. But on the other hand I was impressed with the little details, such as the effect on the body when jumping into space for the first time. I liked her use, but not overuse, of futuristic technology, creating a galaxy that is both familiar and different. I also just became so engrossed in the story that I found myself thinking about it frequently while doing mundane chores around the house.
I have to confess that I wasn’t happy where the story ended. Seriously, Ronie Kendig, how could you do this to the characters and how can you keep ME hanging this way??? Cruelty, cruelty to readers! But that shows that the author has done her job, and done it well. I don’t want to have to wait to find out what happens to Kersei, to Marco, to Tigo, and just what exactly is up with the Brand Of Light.
For readers who like to know how ‘Christian’ a book is, I would say that while there isn’t a Salvation moment, there are some loosely Christian themes. I do feel that this book can be enjoyed by not only all ages but also by a wide range of beliefs.
So, to sum it up. Yes, I did enjoy Brand Of Light. It was good to step out of my reading comfort zone. Yes, I’m looking forward to the next book in the Droseran Saga. Ronie Kendig successfully made the jump to hyperspace. Now, I just NEED to know what happens next!
(I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are entirely my own.)
“He never promised His ways to be easy, only true and freeing – but remember that your perspective is particularly one-sided. You know the pain, but not the plan or what will come to fruition.”
I am absolutely besotted. Yes, I have been a fan of Ronie Kendig’s writing since the Quiet Professionals series and have loved every one of her books I have read so far…. but this book tops the last one I read (sorry, Leif). How does the author continue to rack up more action, adrenaline, and mind-spinning plot twists with every book she writes? Incredible.
Even if you’re not a fan of space operas or fantasy genre, you will be missing out greatly if you don’t read this book. This is book 1 of the Droseran Saga so it spends a good deal of time laying out an entire universe and the ways of different planets and cultures, very reminiscent of the Star Wars movies. The action and plot move quickly and the questions shrouded in suspense that build with each chapter are answered with a big finale at the end….but the ending of this book will also leave you impatient for the next book in the series to release. The complex, passionate, loyal natures of Kersei, Marco, and Tigo will draw you into their worlds and hearts as good fights evil in a galaxy where nothing is as it seems.
Ronie Kendig needs to write faster and release the next books in quick succession!
I received a copy of the book from Enclave Publishing via Celebrate Lit Publishing and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
Kingdoms at war. A galaxy full of intrigue. A heroine you can’t help but cheer for. Brand of Light is the exhilarating start of an epic new saga! Kendig at her best!
Why did I wait so long to read this series? This is an adventure that has kept me up late into the night and devouring every page. It is so good! All of the new vocabulary did take me a little time to get used to, but it’s so fun to read about all the new places, peoples, and even new slang and vocab for everyday things. The characters come alive and I really got to know them, hurt for them, and fall in love with them. There are twists, action and fighting scenes, tingly to your toes romance, and heartbreaking moments. This is a must read!!!
“His neck was lovely and long. Easily snapped in two, had she a javrod. Mayhap more easily strangled. Or severed.”
Absolutely love these main characters! A girl who can fight, yet feels hopeless against an arranged marriage. A hunter ruled by honor, drawn to the girl by their shared brand. Weird science, impending war, space drama…
Master storyteller Ronie Kendig once again enraptured me right up to the killer plot twist/cliff hanger.
I loved this first book in the Drosarean Saga. Wow… Not a fan of sci-fi per say but it’s a Ronie Kendig book, so I had to take a look. Oh… my… The characters are amazing. The worlds are so interesting. The plot… I was gripped by it from page one. The author is such a fantastic story crafter, it’s such a pleasure to read this book. This is probably my favorite of her books, and I’ve read most of them. It’s also my favorite read of the year. Need more Marco for sure. Thank you.
THIS BOOK. Where to begin? Naming this one of my top 2020 reads. It’s everything I love in a space opera. Book 2 is calling my name…
-cue muffled screaming-
Where’s the next book?? XD
I’m not usually an outer-space genre reader, but this one is a Ronie Kendig book, therefore it’s a must-read for me. It’s wonderfully written (as all her books are), the scif-fi lingo and elements aren’t overwhelmingly confusing for a newbie to the genre, and the characters and plot are fantastic. (And the cover….the cover is gorgeous.) I can’t wait for the next books in the series!
Brand of Light is the first space opera I’ve ever read so when I picked up this book I didn’t know what was waiting for me on the pages.
In truth, I really had no expectations when it came to Brand of Light but after reading it the bar is now set extremely high and I don’t mean just for space operas. This book is truly one of a kind and is officially one of my all-time favorites that I will enjoy reading over and over.
Brand of Light throws you into this beautiful and intriguing world Ronie created and it’s the best thing ever! There’s nonstop action so be prepared to be sitting on the edge of your seat the entire book, hanging on to every word like its a lifeline. This book is THAT good!!
I personally think the characters are what makes Brand of Light stand out so much and truth be told, they were all so perfectly written that I couldn’t pick a favorite. Each character had unique qualities that I loved.
Kersei is a strong and determined woman that didn’t conform to the Droseran’s standard and fought to be the person she wanted to be. Given everything that she went through she still had this soft and vulnerable side to her which made me love her character even more. Marco is a very intriguing character and someone who you can’t help but get wrapped up with and want to know more about. His storyline stood out to me the most and I really enjoyed how his character grew throughout the book. Tigo, oh my sweet Tigo. I loved his playful and flirty nature but it was his compassionate heart that won me over. His drive to do the right thing despite everything he had trained for and the dangers of disobeying orders made his character growth even more meaningful.
My final thought on Brand of Light is that it’s a wonderful book filled with meaningful character arcs and well crafted plot twists that you won’t see coming. By the end you’ll be left with nothing but a tirade of emotions and with one final thought this can’t be the end.
*I purchased my own copy of this book. I was not required to write a review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
I honestly don’t know where to start with my review! There’s SO much (in a good way) going on in this story and I feel like to encapsulate it in one review would be impossible!
The beginning of the story sets us up for the adventure to come. I wish I’d been paying better attention to the prologue! As I dove into the story, it took me a while to get fully into it because there were so many terms I wasn’t used to with this being an entirely new galaxy. Once I got used to that though I finally settled in.
Now, that might actually be a misnomer because there’s nothing settled about this entire story. People chasing people. Hunters going missing. Father pitted against son. People dying. There’s no resting while reading. Well, unless you’re on a star deck for a couple of minutes. The story had twists and turns that kept me on my toes. And the end… the end leaves you wanting to know what in the world is going to happen next!
ALL of the characters were significant and I’m glad for each one’s storyline. They each played a role in making it all come together. I think one of my favorite male characters (ever) will end up being Marco. He’s such a well written character. Kersei is fierce while incredibly vulnerable, which makes sense since she’s still young. And Tigo, this poor guy can’t catch a break even when he’s doing the right things! The villains were oozing evil as to be expected. There were times when I wasn’t sure who to trust.
Some of the things I’ve noticed about Ronie’s main characters is that they’re strong while having heart and complement each other wonderfully. She does that once again with this story!
So… I finally finished reading Brand of Light a few days ago and have been struggling with what to say on the review.
First off I loved the book. Ronie Kendig has a way of creating characters and stories that grab a hold of you and wont let go. I personally love sci fi books and Brand of Light did not disappoint. The way Kendig creates the environments make you feel like you are actually there, and the different story lines that at first seem like the don’t go together make is all the more real.
This book had my attention from the beginning and I knew that I needed to read it slow to be able to take it all in.
This next part has a little spoiler about the ending so if you don’t want to know don’t read below!
I have never had an issue with where Kendig takes her characters until now, and it wasn’t all of them just 1. The entire last half / third of the book seems to be leading Marco and Kersei to end up together and when that didn’t happen it felt like I was punched in the gut. I kept telling my self that this was not the way to end this book. Now I know Kendig will make it right and she even hinted at it in the epilogue so that did bring some solace to the ending.
Overall I loved the book and would recommend it to anyone who likes sci fi or fantasy. I cant wait until book #2 comes out later this year.
Great world-building (or maybe I should say galaxy-building?) and excellent character development too! Looking forward to reading the next book!
I had reservations about this book, “The Band of Light” because it is a different genre than I am used to reading, and I wasn’t sure what to expect. Bottom line I have loved all of Ronie’s books that I have read so far, so with that in mind I read this new space opera. It was hard in the beginning the first couple of chapters were hard going. I felt like it was rushed and she was trying to get all these characters out there, and I had trouble keeping them straight. As I continued to read I had to keep returning to the beginning to refresh my memory of who they were, their function and purpose in the story. By the 3rd chapter I was finally feeling comfortable with the characters and the story started to flow. I fell in love with Kersei the heroine. She is strong, determined,insightful,beautiful, and brave! She is delightful,and easy to love. Her family is killed when a bomb kills her family and with them her best friend and his family! Droseran is her home and they are a anti-technical planet they have no ships or planes to fly they use horses to travel from one place to another. Kersei, is found on a ship unconscious, and is charged with the deaths of her family, her best friend Darius and his family. She is honest and doesn’t know how to lie or understand when people lie to her.Tigo is her first protector he found her in the ship. She is moved to another planet for medical care. She is tortured by the directer of the facility, and they try to wipe her memories and is subjected to mental brain washing! Teeli, Dr. Knowles knows what is happening to Kersei and tries to protect her. Tigo is arrogant, handsome is part of the police force. Marcos is a hunter and several of his fellow hunters have disappeared. Marcos is special and Kersei is also special because they both have a band on their arms that when they meet their bands start to glow and burn their arms. Neither knows why they have the band but they have kept their bands hidden. Things are about to change, that throws them together fighting a common enemy. There is heartbreak, brother against brother, a forced marriage, and death of a dear friend.” Tissue alert” and this is the first book!! I am looking forward to the next even knowing that there will be more losses, and heartbreak! I am loving this new series!! Can’t wait!!! Ronie has done it again strong vibrant characters that come to life and you either love them or hate them. The story comes to life and takes you on a wondrous journey that I never want to end! Thank you Ronie Great job!!
So unique and enrapturing. Dying for the next book!!
What I think you should know:
Brand of Light is the first in The Droseran Saga, a new series. It is a futuristic science fiction novel, the author Ronie Kendig refers to the book as a space opera. It involves a fictional Universe / Solar system.
What I think about this book:
As the mom of boys I am thankful that I actually enjoy science fiction rather than just tolerate it, so I was excited to read a new series. Kendig throw you right into the story, so I was slightly confused about the story at first, once I caught on to the story I loved it. It has Drama, Intrigue, Mysteries galore. I admired the spunkiness of Kersei, she was a character that I want more of, I want to see her fire and spunk that was shown to us at the beginning of the book, the spunkiness that allowed her to survive. I was disappointed in a few places that she was portrayed as a doormat, I wanted her to fight harder.
Marco and Tigo are both exciting heroes. I enjoyed the perspective of the TSC that Tigo gives the story, his team was a great ragtag group that you had to love. Marco was a great hero, but
surrounded by mystery, making his character more intriguing. I can’t imagine being not only able, but forced to smell each other’s emotions.
The story has everything you need, adventure, suspense, danger, heartbreak, love and Villains. If you need closure on a story wait until the saga is finished, but if you can handle the anticipation I highly recommend Brand Of Light. I cannot wait to read the next story in the Saga.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Celebrate Lit, this in no way influenced my review. All opinions are my own.
An edge-of-your-seat space thriller…
“Brands are tied to prophecies. Do you know which yours is?”
As an avid reader of Kendig’s military thrillers, I was curious as to how she would handle the sci-fi genre – she didn’t disappoint.
Brand of Light is a sweeping space opera about Kersei Dragoumis, inhabitant of the technologically backward planet Drosero, and Marco Dusan, a hunter ‘sworn to bring interplanetary fugitives to justice,’ and how their lives become intertwined thanks to an ancient prophecy.
Filled with intrigue, action and a bit of romance, Kendig keeps us guessing as to the details of the prophecy and how it will ultimately affect Kersei and Marco. The only hint we’re given that their destinies are linked is a mysterious brand each bears on their arm.
Although the two don’t actually come face to face until half-way through the book, it takes nothing from the story. That’s because along the way we’re introduced to other so-called secondary characters – both heroes and villains – that serve as more than just props but have interesting backstories of their own. Indeed, they play key roles in making this a rich, edge-of-your-seat thriller that keeps the reader engaged from the mysterious opening scene till the cliff-hanging conclusion. I’m very much looking forward to the sequel.
Note: I voluntary reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the author. All thoughts expressed are my own.
Brand of light
Brand of light is the Genre that I don’t usually read. For those that do will enjoy this book a lot. This book is the first in the series, after reading it you will want to continue the series.
Kersei has trained to be a fighter. I loved her character and how brave she is. A lot of the book I didn’t understand but I did understand the love between Kersei and Marco. I recommend this book to all that enjoy this type of book.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit. This book review is my own opinion.