I had seen this book everywhere, and the beautiful cover never left my mind. I thought I’d try it to catch up on my reading goal. I then proceeded to binge it in three days, and the way it ended destroyed me. SOS.
It’s safe to say Powerless lived up to the hype in every way. This story was written like prose and filled with many heart-pounding scenes that captivated me until the end. When I find a book to devour, I DEVOUR it.
Powerless has every single thing you can imagine in a fantasy book. Enemies-to-lovers, forced proximity, touch her and (XP), epic battles, and a dystopian world you can’t help getting lost in. Was it predictable at times? Sure. Did it keep me on my toes? EVERY. SINGLE. CHAPTER. Most of the time, I had no idea what would happen. The frustration I felt while reading this book is palpable. Powerless takes on themes of Hunger Games, Throne of Glass, Divergent, and Once Upon A Broken Heart, but with its own twist of originality.
However, although Powerless is a story of survival and brutal rulers, gore and violence are abundant. I’m not a big fan of murder and death, and there was a lot in this book. The internal monologues were a bit disturbing at times, too. Many scenes were gruesomely depicted, to the point that I almost DNFED. Thankfully, most of those aspects were kept brief. Mild profanity was also used.
As for the romance, it was surprisingly clean for a “romantasy.” There was the occasional implication here and there, but they were vague at most. Even so, we see many scenes where the characters flirt, touch, and prompt various sexual insinuations, all of which become a bit much at times. There are no sex scenes or anything further than “hand on waist” and “kiss but not a kiss.” You get the steam but not the spice, I guess? But I just want a slightly warm blanket or no heat at all (okay, what am I even saying at this point?). The slightest touch and interactions were amplified through the characters’ thoughts, making me squirm and expecting things to take a dive for the worst. But I suppose the so-called “steam” is expected in an enemies-to-lovers fantasy romance, especially between characters who constantly deny their infatuation with one another.
Pae and Kai’s relationship sometimes seemed rushed and depthless, but the author conveyed the beauty of their need for one another. Their connection’s emotional and relational aspects were executed wonderfully, and the banter is top-tier. I swear they made me laugh on every page.
Powerless was a thrilling read, and how it ended left me feeling bamboozled. Betrayed. Utterly SHOOK (seriously, Lauren, why must you break our hearts?). However, as much as I would like to continue with Reckless, I will not be doing so because of personal beliefs and convictions. The violence and potentially heightened romance have me setting aside this trilogy, though I thoroughly enjoyed Powerless.
This review is for all my Christian readers who may be tempted to divulge in this book! I hope it aided in your decision-making on whether or not to read Powerless.
!TRIGGER WARNINGS! Mentions of suicide, murder, gore, violence, death, profanity, anxiety, panic attacks, torture, depictions of torture
Final Rating: 4/5 Stars
Recommended Age Group: 16+
Genres: romance, fantasy, young adult
“Beloved, never avenge yourselves, but leave it to the wrath of God, for it is written, ‘Vengeance is mine, I will repay, says the Lord.'” Romans 12:19 ESV
Blackstar Guardians, Book 1, A Dream of Magic by J. Megan Smith
THIS QUOTE THOUGH. *Chef’s kiss*
This book is the epitome of finding “the man of your dreams” (pun intended).
Briefing Blackstar Guardians…Warriors chosen for their inherent protectiveness and deeply held honor, they are men and women who willingly fight darkness to safeguard those they love…A woman looking for clues to the past… Aisley Montclair was on a mission to save her father from a baffling illness. Her journey took her to the east, into a land far different than anything she’d ever known, where she found an enemy, questions about who she really was…and the man who had haunted every night of her life. She had never believed the man in her dreams was actually real and yet…there he was. Handsome and charming, he was an enigma determined to claim her as his. And a man more than he seems…Cadrian Ethanael had waited eons for his Seraphin–the woman who held a piece of his soul within her own. He knew her for what she was the moment he started seeing her within his dreams and when she stumbled through his gates and into his arms, knew that he would do anything to keep her there. Leader of a band of warriors who had spent eternities protecting the world from evil, he never hesitated in giving his aid to safeguard her from harm and help find the answers she desperately needed. Answers that will change everything for her… A light paranormal romance with humor, heart, and a swirl of magic.
First Impression 4/5 A Dream of Magic started with instant intrigue and questions I wanted to see answered. I will say the pace was a bit too fast for me in the beginning, especially where romance is concerned. However, that was the premise of the story, so it was expected. This book’s introduction to its world in the first couple of chapters was confusing but imaginative and original. There were many modern references (culinary schooling, cars, etc.), but the world itself seemed to be a more modern-day fantasy kingdom. A Dream of Magic was on the contemporary fantasy spectrum with a mix of urban elements that refer to certain “earthly” qualities. The romance was introduced early on, somewhat slow progressing, but evident in the pull between the characters. The quick movement of events definitely propelled the plot along.
Character Development 4/5 I enjoyed these characters immensely, as well as the value placed on family and relationships. Their love for each other was beautiful and heartfelt. I loved seeing the two love interests finally meet and develop a more personal relationship after only knowing each other in their dreams. It was a sweet twist on a soul-mate-type love that I think the author executed wonderfully.
World-Building 3.5/5 The world of A Dream of Magic is remarkably detailed and unique, starting immediately with the characters having powers and abilities that reminded me of Fae or superheroes and traveling to worlds they thought to only exist in bedtime stories. The world was vastly different and made for adventurous reading. However, the constant information dumps made it challenging to follow and fully dive into the settings. Further fantasy-like elements were introduced later on in the book as well, such as dragons and unique gadgets. They seemed a little out of place, but otherwise provided more depth to the theme of the book.
Writing Style 4/5 The readability was easygoing, and I found myself binging this book without much effort. Concerning the style, A Dream of Magic was well written, but I wasn’t a big fan of the POV choice (though this affected my reading minimally). It started in first person, through Aisley’s eyes, but as the story went on, it became more omniscient, with multiple characters’ thoughts in a string of paragraphs instead of broken up. I’m all for multiple POVs, but I struggle to fully dive into the character arcs when they clash together instead of sectioned off in their own chapter. Despite this, I enjoyed reading A Dream of Magic and couldn’t put it down. The style appeared to be exactly what the story needed. The plot kept me reading, though I wish there was more action. The majority of the book contains a multitude of historical backstories and how the world came to be as Aisley was slowly introduced to a world of magic. Thankfully, this information was almost as intriguing as an actionable scenario, but I think the book would benefit from additional fight scenes and conflicts.
Emotions 3/5 The only emotion I took from this book was our two main characters’ intense, romantic connection. Chosen to be together, Aisley and Cadrian’s unbreakable bond is portrayed through clean romance and a series of moments that leave you smiling in delight. I found myself laughing on many occasions, too, with the clever banter and humorous interactions.
Cleanliness 5/5 A Dream of Magic was explicit-free, filled with strong family dynamics, sweet, soul-mate romance, and a lack of brutality. Near the end, the romance became more heated, but nothing was explicitly described, just implied. As for violence, I suppose there was some concerning the Guardians and how they’re constantly protecting the innocent from evil, but it was very vague.
Conclusion 3.5/5 This book ended in a heartwarming way as the couple sealed their love for one another in a forever bond. I was slightly disappointed that the conflict never really picked up, and the villain was only briefly mentioned instead of shown. A Dream of Magic ended in a very anticlimactic way (even voiced by Aisley herself), and I was hoping there’d be more action and thrill to conclude the looming doom over Aisley and her family. The last couple of chapters confirmed that the main plot of A Dream of Magic was the love story between Aisley and Cadrian, which was endearing and unique. However, it felt like something was missing. Even so, I enjoyed the last few chapters despite the lack of action as the couple made their relationship official, and the epilogue was too sweet not to adore!
Final Rating: 4/5 Stars
Recommended Age Group: 13+
Genres: fantasy, romance, magic
!Trigger Warnings! Mild romance and implications
Thank you so much, J. Megan Smith, for reaching out and sharing your book with me! It brings me so much joy to find other readers and writers who look for the same stories and adventures I do.
“For behold, He who forms the mountains and creates the wind, and declares to man what is His thought, who makes the morning darkness, and treads on the heights of the earth–the Lord, the God of hosts, is His name!” Amos 4:13 ESV
Keyholder, The Wells of Power Book 1 by Danielle Harrington
“You have changed my mind.” –Keyholder
> Enemies-to-lovers > Thrilling and suspenseful > Powerful concepts > Unpredictable > Epic fantasy world-building
Need I say more?
*tremendous sigh*
This book. Ohhhhh this book. I struggled with how to review it. All I could do was stare at this blank page, wondering how to fully encapsulate such an incredible story. The best way to understand how marvelous this book is is to read it for yourself. And I’m not just saying that so you’ll read it (although you definitely should). When I first received an ARC copy from the lovely Danielle, I didn’t read it right away because I knew I’d want to binge it, and I had no time to do so *insert tears here.* Sure enough, I read this book in THREE DAYS. On. My. Phone. Mind you, it was nearly 500 pages long. I have no regrets, except now I don’t have this book to look forward to after work. AND NOW I HAVE TO WAIT FOR BOOK 2- It’s okay *deep breaths.* Bear with me as I try to capture the brilliance of this story in a six-minute review.
Briefing Beware of the darkness, and those who seek to conquer it… Octavia Fletcher, the daughter of Rustwick’s wealthy wheat overseer, finds herself bloodbound to a key that holds an ancient magic coveted by all the kingdoms of the land. The Well of Eternal Healing in Hritza has been shrouded by a veil of impenetrable darkness for a millennium, its precious waters cut off by the gods of old. But now, Octavia possesses the key that can unlock it. Captured by a bounty hunter with a mysterious past, Octavia must fight to survive a slew of enemies who are keen to steal her–and the key’s power–for themselves. But danger lurks not only in the evils of men. The darkness surrounding the fallen Kingdom of Hritza is creeping past its boundaries for the first time since its creation, and anyone caught in its clutches perishes. Time is running out–not only for Octavia, but for all the Wells of Power gifted to humanity. Only the Keyholder can walk through the darkness and reverse its destruction, but can Octavia endure long enough to do so? And can she survive her own heart when it comes to the bounty hunter who has proven time and time again that he will do anything to save her?
First Impression 5/5 Chapter one leads with Octavia’s fierce personality. Not only do we get a glimpse of who our main character is, but we also meet her heartwarming family and the devastating situations they face. Danielle had the waterworks going within the first couple of pages. In addition, we have a beautiful world of intrigue that seems vast and unending. The unique lands and the purposes they uphold are slowly revealed with each chapter in the most enticing ways.
Character Development 5/5 *slams hand on table* Let’s talk about the characters in Keyholder, starting with the heroine, Octavia. She is an absolute beast, taking the conflicts thrown at her with strength and fearlessness. I can’t say too much about the character growth without spoiling anything…but let’s just say these characters bloom through the darkness they’re surrounded by, including Azariah, the bounty hunter *swoons.* A man chained by his past, adamant on not trusting or loving again. Talk about ripping my heart out. Then…we have…the VILLAINS. I think Danielle is now notorious for evil villains. They are despicable in every way, yet the perfect ingredients for suspenseful storytelling.
World-Building 5/5 Where to even begin with the world of Keyholder? It’s unlike anything I’ve ever read (and I’ve read a LOT of fantasy). Each land is magical in its own way, alive with beauty, intrigue, and an underlying ominous layer. We have the Wells of Power that amplify each land in fertility, bountifulness, euphoria, beauty, prophecy, costly metals, and healing. As the story goes on, we see Octavia experience each land and the wonders they hold. You can tell, without a doubt, how much precision, time, and effort Danielle put into creating this world to make it the best it can be. The settings were effortlessly imagined. I couldn’t look away. Keyholder has some of the most fantastic world-building I have ever encountered in fantasy.
Emotions 5/5 *covers eyes* Tears. That is all there is to say. So many tears and emotions, so much frustration and heartache. This story is woven with brutal circumstances that bring the characters through outstanding refinement. Keyholder is formulated to wound one to the core, and yet, beautiful in the way Danielle manages to show how darkness doesn’t stand a chance when paired against a hopeful heart and determined spirit. Octavia and Azariah experience a whirlwind of turmoil. But through the shambles of their heartbreak, light pierces through in the most unique and unexpected ways. These characters feel deeply, and as a result, so will the reader.
Style 5/5 The first books I read by Danielle were those from The Hollis Timewire Series, and they were phenomenally written. But Keyholder…it was like I took a dive into the pages, for I quite literally watched everything happen from the sidelines, as if I were in the story myself, wholly transported into another word. The pace was breakneck, keeping the reader hungry for more and balanced with the perfect suspense and plot twists. There was a mystery in each sentence and questions in every chapter. I would’ve read this book in one sitting if I didn’t have a job! To put it simply, I couldn’t stop reading, and I adore it when that happens. Keyholder is fabricated like the waves of the sea: consistent, powerful, strong, unpredictable, and beautiful. Not once did I falter while reading with such smooth readability. The story had me captured from beginning to end. Danielle’s growth as a writer is unmistakable in this book, and it’s a lovely thing to see.
Cleanliness 4/5 The “cleanliness” level of this book is the only area I would say needs to be approached with caution; however, the things included I know were written specifically for the story that needed to be told and for the hope that needed to be unleashed. As mentioned in the synopsis above, Octavia is hunted at every turn. Cruel, horrible people provide many violent situations. There is brutality, gore, depictions of torture, and death. These things do become a bit intense, but I wouldn’t say they’re unbearable (although it depends on the reader. For reference, I’m personally sensitive to the mentioned elements and was able to read this book without any major issues). I’d also like to note there is talk of sexual assault and an attempted sexual assault scene, though it doesn’t expand further than that. The author was sweet enough to tell me exactly when the scene occurs, knowing I can’t particularly handle these details, and I am so grateful to her! Even though I skipped that part, it wasn’t long, and nothing above an attempt happened (as voiced by the author). There is also mild profanity, but hardly noticeable. I include these details to help readers triggered by specific things like I am. But I read this book in full and saw the beauty within the darkness, just as Danielle intended. Yes, Keyholder was heartbreaking and tear prompting, but it was also an astounding story with a robust layer of truth and hope.
Conclusion 5/5 If I could type out the frustrated scream I gave while reading the final chapters of Keyholder, it would be in all caps, like this: AGGHHGHHGHHGHHGH. The ending was phenomenal and unexplainably thrilling. The way things tie together. The revelations and discoveries. The tears shed. *sigh* When I was close to the end, I had to keep checking how many pages I had left because there truly wasn’t enough time for everything that needed to happen to happen. I utterly devoured this book with no choice, for I HAD to know what would happen. Only to be betrayed by a cliffhanger. It gets a pass, though, since Danielle gave SOME conclusive details. I don’t know if I can physically wait for book two. But I will try because I MUST know the end of this story. Questions were answered only to be replaced with even more. *cries* Danielle Harrington knows exactly what I want to read and writes it. Not only that, she writes it well and with so much love and passion. I am so grateful to be a part of her author journey, and I look forward to reading more of her books (regardless of how terrified I will be of the ending).
Final Rating: 5 stars
Recommended Age Group: 16-18+
!Trigger Warnings! Death, violence, gore, mild profanity, depictions of torture, mentioned sexual assault, attempted sexual assault
Genres: fantasy, romance, new adult
Thank you, Danielle, for loving your readers and giving us stories worth reading. Thank you for allowing me to be a part of the Keyholder journey. This book will take flight (it already has, to be honest), and I can’t wait to see it soar!
Follow the author on Instagram: @djharrigtonwriter
“He has delivered us from the domain of darkness and transferred us to the kingdom of His beloved Son, in whom we have redemption, the forgiveness of sins.” Colossians 1:13-14 ESV
Julia Rose Books 