Love and Dragons: Romance in a the Basgiath War College

Rebecca Yarros’s “Empyrean” series stands out in the New Adult fantasy romance genre, blending high-stakes action with steamy romance in a world where dragon riders soar and battles rage. The series, projected to include five books, has currently published two that set the stage for an epic saga of love, war, and resilience.

Series Overview:

Set in a vibrant world where dragon riders are at the heart of military defense, the “Empyrean” series introduces readers to a war-college setting filled with young cadets training to become protectors of their realm. These cadets are paired with dragons, forming bonds that go beyond the battlefield, including psychic links that deepen their relationships and tactics.

1. Fourth Wing: Introduces Violet Sorrengail, a cadet with a unique blend of bravery and vulnerability. Born with a genetic disorder that makes her joints loose, Violet’s physical limitations do not deter her spirit or her strategic mind. Her journey at the academy intertwines with Xadan Riorson, another rider whose family she has been taught to fear, but whose secrets might shatter the way she sees her family and her world.

2. Iron Flame: Expands on Violet and Xadan’s relationship as they struggle with wanting to be vulnerable to each other, while needing to keep secrets to maintain national security. They also wonder if the devotion they feel for each other is simply a symptom of their bonded dragons, or if their love is genuine. The duo’s strategic prowess and deepening bond are tested as they navigate through battles that are as much about wits as they are about physical strength.

There are three additional books anticipated in this series. The next book, Onyx Storm, is anticipated in 2025.

Personal Take:

What captivates me about the “Empyrean” series is its seamless fusion of fantasy and romance—”romantasy”—appealing to a broad audience through its dynamic setting and compelling characters. The inclusion of a protagonist like Violet, who manages her genetic disorder while training to become a dragon rider, is particularly groundbreaking. It shifts the typical narrative around physical disability in action-oriented roles, presenting a hero who is both formidable and distinctly human.

The psychic connection between riders and their dragons adds a rich layer to the narrative, enhancing the emotional and tactical depth of the story. Yarros does not shy away from the complexities of Violet and Xadan’s relationship, which is filled with passionate disagreements and profound understanding, capturing the essence of a partnership where both parties grow and adapt.

For fans of fantasy that transcends traditional boundaries and embraces the complexities of love and war, Rebecca Yarros’s “Empyrean” series offers a thrilling dive into a world where the bonds between dragon and rider illuminate the battles faced both in the skies and within the heart. If you’re drawn to stories where romance meets epic fantasy, or if you’re looking for narratives that feature diverse and richly developed characters, the “Empyrean” series is not to be missed.

I know that I am avidly awaiting the next book.

If you would like to learn about more “romantasy” books like these, consider signing up for my newsletter, where I review stories with epic love and epic fantasy. You’ll also receive updates on my works in progress and my “Slavic Spirits” blog series, which explores the little-known world of Slavic fairy tales and mythology.

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UPDATE — This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act. Disclosure added on November 18, 2024 to align with transparency requirements under the EU AI Act.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.

Magic Reawakened: Navigating Power and Identity

Tomi Adeyemi’s groundbreaking series, Legacy of Orïsha, has captivated readers with its rich tapestry of West African culture and thrilling fantasy narrative. With the series spanning three books, the final installment, Children of Valor and Virtue just released this year. Adeyemi’s novels have not only gained acclaim but have also been optioned for film, promising to bring this vibrant world to a broader audience.

Series Overview:

Legacy of Orïsha unfolds in a world where magic once flourished, and the maji, or magic wielders, were revered. However, a ruthless monarchy has suppressed magic and persecuted the maji in response to fear and grief over past grievances. The series is renowned for its lush world-building inspired by West African mythology, its intense action sequences, and its exploration of themes such as oppression, redemption, prejudice, and the struggle for power.

This series appeals to young adult readers and fans of epic fantasy looking for rich cultural narratives and dynamic character development. It tackles complex themes like racial discrimination, cultural heritage, generational trauma, and the moral complexities of leadership and rebellion, making it not only an entertaining fantasy series but also a thought-provoking read about societal struggles.

Book Summaries:

Book 1: Children of Blood and Bone

   The series kicks off with Children of Blood and Bone, where we meet Zélie Adebola, who remembers when Orïsha hummed with magic. But when magic is stripped away under the orders of a merciless king, Zélie has one chance to bring it back. With the help of her brother Tzain and rogue princess Amari, Zélie sets out on a dangerous quest to restore her people’s gifts. This book sets the stage for an epic saga, as they battle both physical and mystical forces aiming to thwart their mission.

Book 2: Children of Virtue and Vengeance

 In the sequel, the newly awakened maji face a regime bent on their destruction. Zélie and Amari struggle to unite the maji in a fractured kingdom. As they fight to secure Amari’s claim to the throne and protect new maji recruits, they encounter grave challenges that test their resolve and force them to question their own motives and methods. *Children of Virtue and Vengeance* expands on the political intrigue and complex relationships established in the first book, diving deeper into the characters’ personal battles and the broader war for justice.

Book 3: Children of Anguish and Anarchy

In the thrilling finale of Tomi Adeyemi’s “Legacy of Orïsha” series, Zélie Adebola faces her most formidable challenge yet. After seizing the royal palace, Zélie thought the worst was over, but finds herself imprisoned on a foreign ship by warriors known as the Skulls. The true mastermind behind her capture is King Baldyr, who seeks to harness Zélie’s powers for his own ruthless ends. As catastrophe looms over Orïsha, Zélie, along with Amari and Tzain, must forge new alliances and confront Baldyr to save her people from destruction. This final installment brings a storm of action and emotion, pushing Zélie to her limits in a desperate fight for freedom and justice.

Personal Take:

Reading Legacy of Orïsha is a journey into a uniquely crafted universe that masterfully blends magical fantasy with real-world issues. Adeyemi’s skill in narrating from multiple points of view adds depth to the narrative, allowing readers to experience the diverse perspectives and inherited traumas of the characters as they all strive to make a better future. The depiction of such a vividly imagined world through the lens of West African culture is both refreshing and impactful, offering a story that is as educational as it is entertaining.

If you would like to learn about more books like these, please consider subscribing to my Reader’s Club for more recommendations.

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UPDATE — This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act. Disclosure added on November 18, 2024 to align with transparency requirements under the EU AI Act.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.

Fairie Tales, Courtship, and True Love in “A Court of Thorns and Roses”

Sarah J. Maas’s “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series has become a hallmark of New Adult fantasy romance, blending rich, fantastical narratives with deep romantic elements. Inspired by various fairy tales, the series has played a pivotal role in defining the New Adult genre, providing a lush, steamy escape for readers craving stories where love and fantasy intertwine.

Series Overview:

The series begins with “A Court of Thorns and Roses,” where we meet Feyre Archeron, a young huntress who finds herself entwined in the intrigues and tales of the fae after mistakenly killing one. A blend of “Beauty and the Beast” and “Tam Lin,” this book sets up a world of beauty shadowed by dark undercurrents.

1. A Court of Thorns and Roses: Feyre’s life changes forever when she is taken to the fae realm as punishment for a crime. She discovers that her captor, the mysterious Tamlin, is not only a powerful fae lord but also under a deadly curse that Feyre must find a way to break.

2. A Court of Mist and Fury: Often regarded as the series’ best, this book recasts Feyre’s struggles with the broader evils of their world. It introduces Rhysand, the enigmatic High Lord of the Night Court, who opens Feyre’s eyes to her powers and the political complexities of their world. This is a wonderful example of the romance trope where a character’s first love isn’t necessarily their true love.

3. A Court of Wings and Ruin: Feyre and Rhysand’s story continues as they battle to save their world from a looming war that threatens to destroy everything they hold dear. This installment combines epic battles with deep personal sacrifices.

4. A Court of Frost and Starlight: This novella acts as a bridge between the original trilogy and the next book, focusing on the characters’ lives during the Winter Solstice and setting up future tales.

5. Court of Silver Flames: Nesta Archeron, Feyre’s sister, takes center stage in this book. Nesta’s journey is about healing and forgiveness, where her abrasive and cold exterior is peeled back to reveal the vulnerabilities and strengths underneath, especially through her developing relationship with Cassian.

Personal Thoughts:

I first heard about this series from an interview with Sarah J. Maas on the “Smart Bitches, Trashy Books” romance podcast. The interview was done when she concluded her series, and I was quite impressed with how well she talked how difficult it can be to have relationships with me when you don’t know whether they will be violent, protective, or neutral.

This was one of the very first New Adult fantasy romance series I read, which made me realize that this was even a genre. These are stories set in a high fantasy world, and which often are inspired by fairy tales, but where the dominant story has to do with love and romance. It has been really cool to watch this genre emerge as a dominant force because it blends two of my other favorite genres: fantasy and romance. (New Adult generally has PG-13 or R-rated sex scenes, whereas Young Adult generally caps out at PG-13, or closes the door when things get too intimate.)

Sarah J. Maas not only crafts a mesmerizing world filled with intrigue and magic but also provides a refreshing take on romance and heroism. The evolution of her characters, especially the female protagonists, is compelling. They embody strength and complexity, often growing through personal hardship and finding power in their resilience—a theme that resonates deeply with readers.

Nesta’s story in “A Court of Silver Flames” particularly stands out as my persona favorite. It challenges conventional romantic narratives by presenting a heroine who is difficult and unlikable but ultimately relatable in her flaws. Watching her grow and find love is a testament to the idea that everyone, no matter how flawed, deserves compassion and redemption.

If you’re drawn to epic tales where fierce heroines and intriguing heroes navigate a world as enchanting as it is lethal, the “A Court of Thorns and Roses” series promises to captivate and inspire. 

For more reviews like this, deep dives into fantasy romance, and exclusive updates on similar works, subscribe to my newsletter. Join a community of readers who cherish rich storytelling and explore the magic of love and adventure in every book.

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UPDATE — This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act. Disclosure added on November 18, 2024 to align with transparency requirements under the EU AI Act.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.

Enemies to Allies: Love and Deception in the Fairie Courts

Holly Black’s enchanting yet treacherous world of Elfhame, depicted in the “Folk of Air” series and the “Stolen Heir” duology, offers a rich tapestry of faerie lore that dives deep into the complex interplay of magic, power, and human emotions.

Series Overview for “The Folk of the Air”:

1. The Cruel Prince: The series begins with Jude Duarte, a human girl raised in the faerie world of Elfhame. She navigates the brutal politics of the court, driven by a desire for power to secure her place and protect her family, clashing with the wicked prince, Cardan Greenbriar.

1.5. The Lost Sisters: An ebook novella that revisits Taryn, Jude’s twin, offering a different perspective on the events of the first book and her own complex relationships within the faerie court.

2. The Wicked King: Continuing the tumultuous tale, Jude now seeks to control Cardan, who has ascended to the throne. Their twisted alliance evolves amidst ever-deepening plots of betrayal and power struggles.

3. The Queen of Nothing: This finale sees Jude exiled to the human world, struggling with her feelings for Cardan while facing a kingdom in turmoil. The culmination of their story tests the bounds of trust and ambition.

3.5 How the King of Elfhame Learned to Hate Stories: A collection of short stories focused on Cardan, detailing his past and his intricate feelings about his rise to power and his relationship with Jude.

“Stolen Heir” Duology:

1. The Stolen Heir: The narrative shifts to Suren, once promised to the throne, and Oak, Jude’s younger brother and the heir apparent to Elfhame. Their story of love and legacy wrestles with their haunted pasts and the heavy expectations of their futures.

2. The Prisoner’s Throne: After betraying Suren’s heart, Oak is now her prisoner. He must find a way to repair his relationship with Suren, or risk their kingdoms going to war.

World Building and Themes:

Elfhame is a realm drawn straight from the darker corners of English and Irish folklore, where faeries are not the benign creatures of children’s tales but are instead beautiful, manipulative, and cruel. Holly Black’s Elfhame is vibrantly detailed with elements like poisoned flora and magical artifacts, creating a backdrop where beauty is intertwined with danger.

What truly fascinates me about these books is the depiction of characters who navigate a world where deception is commonplace, and trust is a scarce commodity. The series brilliantly captures the struggle of characters like Jude and Cardan, who emerge from abusive pasts to wrestle with their desires for power, love, and redemption. Their journey from enemies to lovers highlights their growth and the harsh realities of their world.

The “Stolen Heir” duology continues this exploration of trust and trauma through Suren and Oak, whose burgeoning relationship must contend with the legacies of their complicated histories.

Holly Black’s works are a testament to the enduring allure of fairy tales, reimagined with modern complexities and moral ambiguities. For readers who relish narratives where dark meets light, and love contends with betrayal, the “Folk of Air” series and “Stolen Heir” duology offer compelling escapes into a meticulously crafted world.

If you’re intrigued by tales of faerie courts filled with intrigue and romance, consider subscribing to my newsletter for more book reviews and insights into the magical realms of literature. Join me in exploring worlds where every shadow has a story and every character has secrets waiting to be unveiled.

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UPDATE — This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act. Disclosure added on November 18, 2024 to align with transparency requirements under the EU AI Act.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.

Blessings and Curses: The Power of Stories

Marissa Meyer’s duology, “Gilded” and “Cursed,” breathes new life into the classic tale of Rumpelstiltskin, transforming it into a richly imagined young adult fairy tale romance. These novels dive deep into a world where ancient myths blend seamlessly with modern sensibilities, including diverse characters and contemporary themes.

In Gilded, we meet Serilda, a gifted storyteller whose ability to weave fantastical stories is both a blessing and a curse. Her wild fantasies captures the attention of the malevolent Erlking, a sadistic entity who wishes her to spin straw into gold. While trapped in the Erlking’s dungeon, Serilda receives help from Gild, a poltergeist with no memory, who has the actual ability to weave straw into gold. Neither of them expect their simple business transaction to turn into real love.

Cursed picks up the threads of Serilda’s journey as she grapples with the consequences of her storytelling and the harm it has caused to those she loves. She and Gild walk the a fine line as they seek to discover the secrets of their ghost-filled castle without incurring the Erlking’s wrath. But when they discover that the Erlking seeks to bring back a diety even worse than himself—his beloved huntress—Serilda must learn to tell the ultimate story in order to save herself, her family, and the world.

What I Loved About the Series:

Meyer’s “Gilded” and “Cursed” standout for their dynamic world-building that respects the original fairy tale while updating its elements to reflect contemporary values. The inclusion of diverse characters—gay characters, female warriors, and gods with they/them pronouns—adds layers of depth and relatability to the narrative.

I also appreciated Serilda’s internal conflict, her gift for storytelling seen both as a blessing and a curse. Her journey reflects the power of narratives in shaping realities and the moral responsibilities that come with such power. As she transitions from dreaming to doing, Serilda’s growth mirrors the path many find themselves on—navigating the complexities of their talents and the impacts they have on the world around them.

If you’re captivated by fairy tales reimagined with depth, diversity, and modern twists, “Gilded” and “Cursed” are must-reads. 

Join my newsletter for more reviews like this and stay updated on my upcoming works, including a series on Slavic spirits that brings mythical tales to life with a similar blend of tradition and transformation. Together, let’s dive deeper into stories that move and mold us, and discover how ancient tales can reflect and enrich our contemporary world. Join now and be part of a community that cherishes every word of the journey.

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UPDATE — This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act. Disclosure added on November 18, 2024 to align with transparency requirements under the EU AI Act.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.

When Fairy Tales and Science Fiction Collide: From Cinderella to Snow White

“The Lunar Chronicles” is a captivating series by Marissa Meyer that reimagines classic fairy tales in a futuristic world where humans, cyborgs, and supernatural Lunars intertwine. The series skillfully combines science fiction with fantasy, weaving each tale into a larger, cohesive narrative that culminates in a thrilling finale where a gang of unlikely young heroes strive to overthrow a tyrannical government.

Book 1: Cinder: The series kicks off with a futuristic twist on Cinderella. Cinder, a cyborg mechanic in New Beijing, finds her life intertwined with Prince Kai’s and discovers startling secrets about her past that will alter her future forever.

Book 2: Scarlet: Inspired by Little Red Riding Hood, this book introduces Scarlet, a bold French farmer who embarks on a quest to find her missing grandmother with the help of Wolf, a street fighter with deep secrets. Their adventure leads to perilous discoveries and a blossoming romance.

Book 3: Cress: Retelling the story of Rapunzel, Cress centers on a brilliant hacker who has been trapped on a satellite. She is rescued by Captain Carswell Thorne, and together they embark on a mission that challenges both their destinies.

Book 4: Winter: The final book wraps up the series with a reimagining of Snow White. Princess Winter and her loyal guard, Jacin, join Cinder and her allies to confront Queen Levana.

Fairest: Although a prequel to “The Lunar Chronicles,” “Fairest” delves into the backstory of Queen Levana, portraying her as a damaged and lonely princess, before she became the notorious Queen seen in the series.

Stars Above: A collection of short stories set in the world of the Lunar Chronicles. This anthology deepens the backstory and futures of beloved characters from the series. It includes tales like “The Keeper,” exploring Scarlet’s grandmother’s protection of Cinder, and “The Queen’s Army,” which reveals Wolf’s origin. The collection also features “The Mechanic,” detailing Cinder’s meeting with Kai, and “Something Old, Something New,” a charming epilogue wrapping up the series with a festive gathering. This collection is a must-read for fans, offering new insights and filling the gaps left by the main series.

Marissa Meyer’s series will enchant readers who enjoy fresh takes on classic tales, particularly those who appreciate a blend of science fiction, romance, and adventure. Each book maintains its own narrative arc while contributing to the series’ overarching plot, making it a compelling read for fans of character-driven stories.

Each book in “The Lunar Chronicles” not only pays homage to its fairy tale origins but also expands the story in unique and intriguing ways. Meyer’s integration of romance, personal growth, and heroic quests against the backdrop of a richly built world makes for an enthralling series. The evolution of Cinder from a mechanic to a revolutionary is particularly well-executed, embodying the series’ theme of self-discovery and empowerment.

If you’re captivated by tales that blend the magical, consider subscribing to my Reader’s Club newsletter for more reviews, sneak peeks at my works in progress, and exclusive insights into the myths and legends that inspire our favorite stories. Whether you’re a fan of fairy tales, fierce heroines, or futuristic settings, join us as we explore new worlds together.

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UPDATE — This blog post includes text and images generated with the assistance of OpenAI’s models. I provided detailed prompts, curated the outputs, and made edits, but the majority of the content was created with AI assistance. This disclosure aligns with my commitment to transparency under the EU AI Act. Disclosure added on November 18, 2024 to align with transparency requirements under the EU AI Act.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 4.0 International License. Portions of this content were generated using OpenAI’s models, with significant curation, editing, and creative input by E. S. O. Martin. AI-generated portions may not be subject to copyright under current laws.