Throne of Glass meets Black Jewels in this twisted yet alluring dark fantasy tale.Quinn Darkova, freed from the chains of slavery, wants nothing more than vengeance against those who sold her. But with her dark powers on the rise and her ascension nearing, Quinn’s blood retribution will have to wait in favor of her immediate survival. Lazarus Fierté is a nobleman without equal. He’s as … nobleman without equal. He’s as controlling as he is stubborn, and for the last six years he’s been waiting for a woman to appear—but not just any woman. A Maji of great power, capable of terrible things. She could be the key to everything he holds dear.
His savior … or his destroyer.
The only thing he didn’t predict was that she would become both.
Please note, this is a dark fantasy series. There is a heavy romance subplot between two consenting adults but the material is dark in nature. The characters are not heroes. This isn’t a story about saving the day.
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I liked the premise of this story. I liked how Quinn as the MC embraces her darkness and isn’t trying to be changed. The tension between Quinn and Lazarus is great. Overall, a great read and I am looking forward to what happens next
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Quinn Darkova has been a slave to 17 men. Now she dreams of revenge but survival comes first. Her dark magic is uncontrolled and growing even more powerful daily. Her ascension is near and she may not survive her own magic. Lazarus Fierté is a dark magic nobleman. For the last six years, he’s been searching for a special woman. A Maji of great and terrible power. She is the key to his future. His savior or his destroyer.
I had a bit of difficulty settling into this book and it’s difficult to explain why. The writing is top-notch, the story itself is creative, the characters are complex and flawed (just how I like them). The closest I can come to explaining is that I was not happy with the characters’ interactions. As a group and as a pair. They had a reason to be together but other than serving a mutual purpose they didn’t develop any further depth to their relationship other than a few thoughts here and there. I prefer a stronger connection even if there are no additional actions. I am a big fan of Quinn. I like her unapologetic darkness and only want her physical and emotional safety. I am drawn to her beauty and strength. I haven’t made up my mind about Lazarus. I love his magic but his lack of honesty and transparency turns me off. I am also not a fan of a human that seems to view others as valuable only if they are of use to him. The other vassals aren’t worthy of many mentions. They served their purposes, provided needed information, and padded the story but were clearly supporting only.
The journey itself is super interesting and the future holds endless possibilities. I loved the time with Thorne of the mountains and his people and can’t wait to see how the visit with the Pirate Queen plays out. I look forward to exploring more of Quinn’s powers, her dream walking, and her relationship with Lazarus. Looks like I am all in for book 2!