It's been a while since I've done one of these and I have to say it's not for lack of reading...just a lack of time to pen the thoughts! I stumbled across this book when Goodreads recommended it to me. The plot sounded interesting and I thought, what the heck, let's have another go at this dystopia/fantasy novel habit you've gotten yourself into and let's see where it leads you!
The premise of the novel is that a a young girl by the name of Sonya has a rare gift, that of being able to sense people's emotions both physically and mentally. Hidden from the Empire which uses those with her gift, Auraseers, to protect its Emperors, Sonya has little in the way of training in how to use this gift. Having traveled with the Gypsies, she finds life in the home for the the other Auraseers difficult and when an accident wipes out all the others like her, she is left as the only offering to the Emperor when the Royal Auraseer meets her demise.
This story was interesting for so many reasons. The unique, eastern European setting, the fantasy elements and of course, the romance. What is a dystopia/fantasy without a love triangle between two brothers, the passionate, almost larger than life Emperor, Valko and his emotionally withdrawn but kind brother Anton? It was such a great read with twist and turns and me sitting on the edge of my seat wondering, which side will Sonya choose? Will she remain loyal to her role as royal Auraseer and protect the Empire at all costs or will she choose the side of those who revolt against what they believe to be a life of servitude to a leader who cares only for his personal gain.
The setting was richly crafted, I felt like I was in Russia during this unnamed time and I really loved that. The fact that this is a debut novel has me eagerly awaiting the next offering from Kathryn Purdie. The series continues, with a new release anticipated in 2017 (I am not sure if I can wait that long! Miss Purdie if you read this, please throw an advanced ARC my way!)
I would recommend this book if you like a well crafted alternate reality, characters that make you feel something (even if it's why on earth would you do that?!) and romance...I gave the novel five stars on Goodreads and I fully stand by that even after all this time.
Have you read this gem yet?
Books in the series:
#1 Buring Glass
#2 Untitled (Expected in 2017)
Visit Kathryn's website here.
TK MAJ
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