Friday, 14 February 2020

Song of Blood & Stone - Book Review


Song of Blood & Stone (Earthsinger Chronicles #1)
by L. Penelope


What is it about:
L. Penelope's Song of Blood & Stone is a treacherous, thrilling, epic fantasy about an outcast drawn into a war between two powerful rulers.

The kingdoms of Elsira and Lagrimar have been separated for centuries by the Mantle, a magical veil that has enforced a tremulous peace between the two lands. But now, the Mantle is cracking and the True Father, ruler of Lagrimar and the most powerful Earthsinger in the world, finally sees a way into Elsira to seize power.

All Jasminda ever wanted was to live quietly on her farm, away from the prying eyes of those in the nearby town. Branded an outcast by the color of her skin and her gift of Earthsong, she’s been shunned all her life and has learned to steer clear from the townsfolk…until a group of Lagrimari soldiers wander into her valley with an Elsiran spy, believing they are still in Lagrimar.

Through Jack, the spy, Jasminda learns that the Mantle is weakening, allowing people to slip through without notice. And even more troubling: Lagrimar is mobilizing, and if no one finds a way to restore the Mantle, it might be too late for Elsira. Their only hope lies in uncovering the secrets of the Queen Who Sleeps and Jasminda’s Earthsong is the key to unravel them.

Thrust into a hostile society and a world she doesn’t know, Jasminda and Jack race to unveil an ancient mystery that might offer salvation.


What did I think of it:
I've found a new author to watch!

When I discovered this book has several viewpoint characters and storylines, I was hesitant at first, but soon I was totally engrossed. What a wonderful read. I loved Jasminda: she is strong, independent, and caring. She gets caught up in danger and adventure by accident, but once involved she will go the distance and doesn't back down when things get though.

Jack is more difficult to love. He might be heroic and brave, but his bravery fails him when it comes to being honest towards the woman who saved his life. I'd wanted to see a bit more personal growth in Jack, but he did redeem himself enough in my eyes eventually.

Then there's Ella and her husband Ben. Ella gets a cry for help from her sister, who she hasn't seen in years. When she answers the call she gets drawn into a conspiracy. As she puts herself into danger, Ben will have to decide what's more important: his job or Ella.

These storylines didn't seem to have anything in common at first, but slowly they connect and the bigger picture becomes visible. Where I usually ith multiple storylines find myself bored with at least one, here I was invested in all of them, and I rooted for both Jasminda and Ella to get out on top of things.

All in all a really cool read set in a very intriguing world. You bet I'll get hold of the next book.

Why should you read it:
It's a very cool Fantasy read.


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