Kellen begins as a principled, headstrong young man lacking in the magic crucial for power, familial stability and social standing in his world. By the end of the book he is satisfyingly resolved, stronger, and accepting of his complicated fate.
“I’m a woman, kid. You probably haven’t met one before, coming as you do from this backward place, but it’s like a man only smarter and with bigger balls.”
I loved so much of this book, particularly the early parts. Sebastian de Castell's worldbuilding is fascinating, the magic-school setting is a favorite, and the cast of characters is irresistible. The dark humor is fantastic.
Kellen is struggling in his mage's trials aimed at earning him a name among his privileged people, the Jan'Tep. And the struggle feels even worse because his younger sister is living up to the family's powerful name by demonstrating more powerful magic than any student in their school. But Kellen's magic hasn't come in--and he fears that it never will.
“First thing you learn wandering the long roads, kid. Everyone thinks they're the hero of their own story.”
But as he uses his smarts, his unlikely allies, and his loyalty to get by, he finds himself discovering uncomfortable truths about his family and his community--and questioning everything he thought he knew.
I loved the characters' dynamics, the outsider Ferius Pargosi who becomes a mentor and deeply loyal friend, the quest, the uprising of the downtrodden, and the setup to book two, Shadowblack, which I definitely want to read.
I also appreciated witnessing Kellen's tough road to self-acceptance--particularly in light of his discovery that his parents have hidden, tamped down, and diminished his particular type of magic, deeming it destructive to Kellen and to the family's status. I can't wait to see him come into his own in book two.
I'd love to hear your thoughts about this book or other fantasy books you've loved!
Sebastian de Castell is the author of 16 novels, including 6 in the Spellslinger series and 4 in the Greatcoats series--plus prequels and extras.
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