Review #433
This duology is Hunger games with magic and spells. I gave it a 4.8/5 stars and will be jumping into the sequel ASAP. Even thought the characters are all about 18 it felt like an adult fantasy due to the violence.
So there will be spoilers but here’s my ramblings while reading:
After the 4th separate PoV I’m glad that chapter 5 went back to one of the originals. It would’ve been a bit much if there were 7 PoV for all 7 champions.
It’s interesting that half of them really want the title as challenger and half fear/resentment it.
Surprised that Briony has a PoV if she isn’t a champion.
It was very smart of the author to give the weakest champion some sort of advantage to make it more exciting.
Isobel is the least interesting character so far. Allister is the most interesting story so far. I want to know more about his brother and how the sacrifice was completed. How terrible.
It’s already at the 30% mark and the tournament hasn’t been explained with the rules or if they only fight via magic or where it’s held.
Briony’s sudden switch from thinking their situation is a fairy tale to now seeing them as sacrifices doesn’t feel authentic.
It’s weird that they’re having so many interactions during the tournament and no one is making an assertive move.
I’m having a problem imagining what the landmarks look like. Apparently the dragon’s lair has a bedroom and desk, etc.
Isobel & Allister’s combo makes everything more interesting. But I don’t like the telepathic spells when used.
The spells and curses are all really creative. I’m enjoying learning about each.
My biggest issue is 4 PoV. Unsure if we need Gavin’s.
Hendry… awesome
Cracks in pillar … amazing
The dangerous way of breaking thr tournament… fantastic
Oooh? Allister’s mind changing… spectacular
I was unsure how the climatic scene would be pulled off with four main characters, worried that it would feel too spread out and unfocused or end up flat. But that didn’t happen at all.
The spellcaster Reed started out as an assumed Dumbledore and has switched to a Voldemort?
“The nightmares hadn’t taught him to fear the dark. The nightmares have taught him to become it.”
I’m going straight to the sequel. No time to waste writing notes.