Every year, each village is required to send a young woman to the Empire's capital--her fate to be burned alive for the entertainment of the masses. For the last five years, one small village's tithe has been the same woman. Gilene's sacrifice protects all the other young women of her village, and her secret to staying alive lies with the magic only she possesses.
But this year is different.
Azarion, the Empire's most famous gladiator, has somehow seen through her illusion--and is set on blackmailing Gilene into using her abilities to help him escape his life of slavery. And unknown to Gilene, he also wants to reclaim the birthright of his clan.
To protect her family and village, she will risk everything to return to the Empire--and burn once more.
4.5 STARS
Phoenix Unbound lovingly reveals a tale veiled in creative, magical flames. Grace Draven has the mental agility to fly closer to the sun than the rest of us, allowing for an incandescence quality to her work. The manifestation of a world rich with the whims of evil and the desire to survive sets the stage. Phoenix Unbound announces the arrival of unprecedented characters. Rich in flaws and torturous pasts, the characters flare to life. Gilene and Azarion shine in this envisioning world. From the very beginning, the two main characters' destinies are joined. Gilene and Azarion are a great pairing. Gilene's ability to wield magic throughout the story was exceptional. I wish there had been more of an edge to Azarion, especially after all he had experienced. I'm excited to see what path Draven beckons us upon next.
No comments
Post a Comment
I just love hearing what you have to say. Drop me a few lines. 8-D