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The Avalonia Chronicles #1
The Last of the Firedrakes
She never felt like she belonged…until magic pulled her into a world beyond her wildest imagination.
Sixteen-year-old Aurora wishes she were anyone else. Mistreated by her adopted family and bullied at school, she believes things can’t get any worse. But when she’s kidnapped and dragged through an ancient tapestry into the magical world of Avalonia, she soon discovers that some dreams can easily turn into nightmares.
Hunted by the evil tyrant Queen Morgana, who will stop at nothing to get rid of the last surviving heir to the powerful Firedrake dynasty, Aurora struggles to fit into her new life as a mage at the prestigious Academy of Evolon. Threatened by treachery at every turn and desperate to prove herself worthy, she uncovers a dark, complicated web of political intrigue that threatens the very existence of the seven kingdoms of Avalonia.
Aided by the powerful Duke of Silverthorne, a fae friend, and a handsome but mysterious outlaw called the Black Wolf, Aurora struggles to master her magic and get her rare powers under control before it’s too late.
If she fails, her new home and her family will be enslaved forever...
The Last of the Firedrakes is the first novel in The Avalonia Chronicles series of enchanting YA fantasies. If you like resilient heroines, plentiful magic, immortal fae warriors, and sizzling romance you’ll love Farah Oomerbhoy’s enthralling story.
Sixteen-year-old Aurora wishes she were anyone else. Mistreated by her adopted family and bullied at school, she believes things can’t get any worse. But when she’s kidnapped and dragged through an ancient tapestry into the magical world of Avalonia, she soon discovers that some dreams can easily turn into nightmares.
Hunted by the evil tyrant Queen Morgana, who will stop at nothing to get rid of the last surviving heir to the powerful Firedrake dynasty, Aurora struggles to fit into her new life as a mage at the prestigious Academy of Evolon. Threatened by treachery at every turn and desperate to prove herself worthy, she uncovers a dark, complicated web of political intrigue that threatens the very existence of the seven kingdoms of Avalonia.
Aided by the powerful Duke of Silverthorne, a fae friend, and a handsome but mysterious outlaw called the Black Wolf, Aurora struggles to master her magic and get her rare powers under control before it’s too late.
If she fails, her new home and her family will be enslaved forever...
The Last of the Firedrakes is the first novel in The Avalonia Chronicles series of enchanting YA fantasies. If you like resilient heroines, plentiful magic, immortal fae warriors, and sizzling romance you’ll love Farah Oomerbhoy’s enthralling story.
ebook
First published August 15, 2015
About the author
Farah Oomerbhoy
3 books820 followersFarah Oomerbhoy is the international bestselling author of The Avalonia Chronicles. Her first book, The Last of the Firedrakes, was originally published on Wattpad where it gained over two million reads and a Watty Award. Since publication, The Last of the Firedrakes and book two The Rise of the Dawnstar have gone on to win numerous awards, including matching silver medals in IBPA’s Benjamin Franklin Awards. Wielding her master’s degree in English literature and her love of the fantastical, Farah spends her creative time crafting magical worlds for young adults. She lives with her family in Mumbai, India but can often be found checking closets for magic portals to Narnia.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 652 reviews
September 12, 2015
this book was a surprise find. i came across it on netgalley and thought it sounded good, what I expected and what I got was completely different. I expect to find a good storyline that I thought would be ok. what I got a brilliant storyline that completely hooked me in and had me struggling to put down.
From the moment I met aurora I felt for her, i was sorry for her situation and the cruel teasing and tongue lashing she would get from her aunt and cousin. I have to admit that although at the start I felt sorry for her by the middle of her journey I actually admired her and her strength.
Aurora is only 16 yet she handles the situation very well yes we see a few times where she acts like a 16 year old e.g. at the end when she won't be told that she's to go to fae and her grandmother she won't accept that and sneaks to do the more dangerous task not prepared ( I'm trying not to give the story away LOL)
her mature moments for example when a certain man is betrothed she tries to keep away from him. when we know a lot of grown ass women don't care about things like that.
this author definitely has a way with words, she has us falling in love with a different world and all the beautiful places that resides there. I think a lot of the descriptions of this world is what makes this book that extra special and I give two stars alone for this.
I have to say Aurora is character you will love and will be routing for along the way with her friends kalen, rafe, Vivian, her cousin Erien and snow this is one journey and adventure I was glad I came across I cannot wait for the next book.
easily a five star book if I could give more I would.
From the moment I met aurora I felt for her, i was sorry for her situation and the cruel teasing and tongue lashing she would get from her aunt and cousin. I have to admit that although at the start I felt sorry for her by the middle of her journey I actually admired her and her strength.
Aurora is only 16 yet she handles the situation very well yes we see a few times where she acts like a 16 year old e.g. at the end when she won't be told that she's to go to fae and her grandmother she won't accept that and sneaks to do the more dangerous task not prepared ( I'm trying not to give the story away LOL)
her mature moments for example when a certain man is betrothed she tries to keep away from him. when we know a lot of grown ass women don't care about things like that.
this author definitely has a way with words, she has us falling in love with a different world and all the beautiful places that resides there. I think a lot of the descriptions of this world is what makes this book that extra special and I give two stars alone for this.
I have to say Aurora is character you will love and will be routing for along the way with her friends kalen, rafe, Vivian, her cousin Erien and snow this is one journey and adventure I was glad I came across I cannot wait for the next book.
easily a five star book if I could give more I would.
July 27, 2015
I received a copy of this book via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
Originally posted on my blog Miranda's Book Blog or follow me on Bloglovin
Aurora's loving adoptive parents die in a tragic car accident, she is then sent to live with her adoptive aunt & uncle. She is unloved by her new guardians, bullied at school and utterly alone in the world. That is until Aurora is whisked away to Redstone Manor on a spur of the moment "family trip" and unexpectedly thrust into the world of Avalonia. An astoundingly beautiful more vibrant world filled with magic. Oh I must mention, there's a map! I LOVE when there are maps in books! I am including the map down below.
Farah weaves together the two worlds beautifully, creating a completely original plot with a diverse cast of characters. Such fantastical world-building! I've been waiting for a book like this! You have characters ranging from basic mundane humans, mages, faeries, shape-shifters and everything in-between! Don't let the humans fool you though, they have plenty up their sleeves!
Oh the romance in this book! I have one word for you: RAFE! He's a very mysterious mage who quickly becomes a very important part of Aurora's life. I know as a reader I like to be surprised as I am reading so please do me a favor and JUST TRUST ME HERE, READ THIS BOOK!
I just loved Aurora's friend Vivienne, she doesn't miss anything! I think her and Erien, Aurora's cousin would make the cutest couple! I wouldn't mind seeing a Novella centering on those two characters!
Above all else my favorite thing about this book is the astounding character development we get to see with Aurora. In the beginning she appears weak. In reality she's not weak, she is grieving and feels utterly alone in the world. This book shows us how important it is to have people in your life who love & support you. Family and friendships make us stronger. Aurora is such an admirable character, her thinking is wonderful, no matter what your race or class everyone deserves to be treated equally. I also like how she's not perfect, she's flawed just like everyone else.
I had a lot of fun reading The Last of the Firedrakes. While reading I thought "Wow I just love the place names in this book!" then a couple of pages over Aurora talks about how she just loves the place names too, I couldn't agree more with you Aurora! I will let you, the reader discover some of them for yourself as you explore the world of Avalonia throughout the novel. One other fun thing I found while reading, the extensive array of foods! Farah's descriptive detail made it to where I could practically taste & smell the dishes!
Favorite Quotes:
"I had to stop running. I had to turn and face my life head on." Aurora Firedrake
Favorite Scene:
Without giving away too much, my favorite scene is a market scene that takes place in the middle of the night. Here's a descriptive quote for you: "We came to a large clearing, and the delightful sight left me spellbound. The forest was alive, radiant and subtly lit by pretty, different-colored lanterns hanging from the towering trees."
Originally posted on my blog Miranda's Book Blog or follow me on Bloglovin
Aurora's loving adoptive parents die in a tragic car accident, she is then sent to live with her adoptive aunt & uncle. She is unloved by her new guardians, bullied at school and utterly alone in the world. That is until Aurora is whisked away to Redstone Manor on a spur of the moment "family trip" and unexpectedly thrust into the world of Avalonia. An astoundingly beautiful more vibrant world filled with magic. Oh I must mention, there's a map! I LOVE when there are maps in books! I am including the map down below.
Farah weaves together the two worlds beautifully, creating a completely original plot with a diverse cast of characters. Such fantastical world-building! I've been waiting for a book like this! You have characters ranging from basic mundane humans, mages, faeries, shape-shifters and everything in-between! Don't let the humans fool you though, they have plenty up their sleeves!
Oh the romance in this book! I have one word for you: RAFE! He's a very mysterious mage who quickly becomes a very important part of Aurora's life. I know as a reader I like to be surprised as I am reading so please do me a favor and JUST TRUST ME HERE, READ THIS BOOK!
I just loved Aurora's friend Vivienne, she doesn't miss anything! I think her and Erien, Aurora's cousin would make the cutest couple! I wouldn't mind seeing a Novella centering on those two characters!
Above all else my favorite thing about this book is the astounding character development we get to see with Aurora. In the beginning she appears weak. In reality she's not weak, she is grieving and feels utterly alone in the world. This book shows us how important it is to have people in your life who love & support you. Family and friendships make us stronger. Aurora is such an admirable character, her thinking is wonderful, no matter what your race or class everyone deserves to be treated equally. I also like how she's not perfect, she's flawed just like everyone else.
I had a lot of fun reading The Last of the Firedrakes. While reading I thought "Wow I just love the place names in this book!" then a couple of pages over Aurora talks about how she just loves the place names too, I couldn't agree more with you Aurora! I will let you, the reader discover some of them for yourself as you explore the world of Avalonia throughout the novel. One other fun thing I found while reading, the extensive array of foods! Farah's descriptive detail made it to where I could practically taste & smell the dishes!
Favorite Quotes:
"I had to stop running. I had to turn and face my life head on." Aurora Firedrake
Favorite Scene:
Without giving away too much, my favorite scene is a market scene that takes place in the middle of the night. Here's a descriptive quote for you: "We came to a large clearing, and the delightful sight left me spellbound. The forest was alive, radiant and subtly lit by pretty, different-colored lanterns hanging from the towering trees."
August 29, 2015
www.melissa413readsalot.blogspot.com
What a wonderful book. I think this is a great first book, I look forward to the next one!!
**SOME SPOILERS**
Aurora was adopted fifteen years ago, she never knew who her parents were. She vaguely remembered her mother. She was adopted by her fathers family and they treated her like trash. She's sixteen and all of her life they have acted like she doesn't exist and are mean to her. She finds out her uncle has sold her to a Lord Oblek! And this man walks out of a tapestry in the library at Redstone Manor where they went for a mini vacation.
Aurora gets dragged through the tapestry into a world of Kings, Queens, Fae, Pegusus, and random other creatures. She finds out she is the Heir of Illiador. Her father was the King, before his half sister, Morgana killed him for the throne. She apparently killed her mother, Elayna as well. Her mother was a Fae with great powers, her grandmother, Izadora is the Queen of the Fae and the most powerful.
Morgana hired Oblek to bring Aurora to her so she could be killed as well. But, this turns out to be a great adventure and not as easy as Morgana was hoping. Aurora is saved by Rafe (love interest) and brought to Pixie Bush with Kalen, a boy that he was originally breaking out of the cell.
She finds out she has a grand uncle, the Duke of Silverthorne, named Gabriel. He's a very nice man. She also has an aunt and cousin as well. I love these characters! There are several that I love and they bring spice to the book. She also comes in contact with a pegusus named Snow who becomes her best friend.
Duke Gabriel tells her she has powers. More than she could ever know..not giving away that spoiler! Her family gave her an amulet she has always worn that actually hides her powers. Her grand uncle decides to try to train her in magic, but then decides to send her to Evolon, a school for mages instead.
Ultimately, she finds many enemies at the school, a best friend, Vivienne and a school teacher who is on her side. But Aurora jumps the gun a little when she is bullied and gives away who and what she really is. I can't say I blame her because she is most powerful and these other kids are jerks!
There is a great Quest they all go on and I really want to see where this is going to lead. Some great things happens and some very bad things happened to make this Quest harder!
I loved how the author described the setting and this world in depth, but not too much to get boggled down!
**I would like to thank Netgalley and the Publisher for an opportunity to read this ARC!**
What a wonderful book. I think this is a great first book, I look forward to the next one!!
**SOME SPOILERS**
Aurora was adopted fifteen years ago, she never knew who her parents were. She vaguely remembered her mother. She was adopted by her fathers family and they treated her like trash. She's sixteen and all of her life they have acted like she doesn't exist and are mean to her. She finds out her uncle has sold her to a Lord Oblek! And this man walks out of a tapestry in the library at Redstone Manor where they went for a mini vacation.
Aurora gets dragged through the tapestry into a world of Kings, Queens, Fae, Pegusus, and random other creatures. She finds out she is the Heir of Illiador. Her father was the King, before his half sister, Morgana killed him for the throne. She apparently killed her mother, Elayna as well. Her mother was a Fae with great powers, her grandmother, Izadora is the Queen of the Fae and the most powerful.
Morgana hired Oblek to bring Aurora to her so she could be killed as well. But, this turns out to be a great adventure and not as easy as Morgana was hoping. Aurora is saved by Rafe (love interest) and brought to Pixie Bush with Kalen, a boy that he was originally breaking out of the cell.
She finds out she has a grand uncle, the Duke of Silverthorne, named Gabriel. He's a very nice man. She also has an aunt and cousin as well. I love these characters! There are several that I love and they bring spice to the book. She also comes in contact with a pegusus named Snow who becomes her best friend.
Duke Gabriel tells her she has powers. More than she could ever know..not giving away that spoiler! Her family gave her an amulet she has always worn that actually hides her powers. Her grand uncle decides to try to train her in magic, but then decides to send her to Evolon, a school for mages instead.
Ultimately, she finds many enemies at the school, a best friend, Vivienne and a school teacher who is on her side. But Aurora jumps the gun a little when she is bullied and gives away who and what she really is. I can't say I blame her because she is most powerful and these other kids are jerks!
There is a great Quest they all go on and I really want to see where this is going to lead. Some great things happens and some very bad things happened to make this Quest harder!
I loved how the author described the setting and this world in depth, but not too much to get boggled down!
**I would like to thank Netgalley and the Publisher for an opportunity to read this ARC!**
July 27, 2015
This book was exactly the type I wanted to read. It was almost reminiscent of Harry Potter in some ways but with different elements of course and most importantly, a likeable and relatable female lead. I am very much looking forward to continuing the store of Aurora and learning more about her skills, and her future.
I am somewhat new to the genre, just starting to read more YA books especially fantasy and dystopian. This book makes me want to continue in the genre.
Note: I received the book via NetGalley
I am somewhat new to the genre, just starting to read more YA books especially fantasy and dystopian. This book makes me want to continue in the genre.
Note: I received the book via NetGalley
January 1, 2016
Book: The Last of the FireDrakes
Author: Farah Oomerbhoy
Rating: 5 Out of 5 Stars
I would like to thank NetGalley for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was pulled into this book right away. There was just something about it that really, really made it impossible for me to put down. I loved the simple, but elegant detail that Farah put into it. The world that she created has this amazing sense of fantasy. It's not like Narina, but it is a world that will have readers wanting to visit. It was just the prefect mix of light and dark. However, the sense of hope is never far gone from the book, even in the darkest of times.
There was just so many different things going on-some many mini plots, the major plots, and conflicts. Each was different and so well done. The characters all functioned in the same way as the plot-different and well rounded. There really was not a weak link in any part of this story. Even the journeys were filled with fun, dangerous, and excited twists and turns. It just really was attention getting and keeping.
I just hope that the author does not take this the wrong way. I found that this book had many echoes to Harry Potter. A main character gets thrown into a magical world that they didn't know existed, has an enemy that is on the Dark Side, two amazing best friends, and is close to the Headmaster. This is not a bad thing. Look at how successful Harry Potter is! This book has a lot of potential to be something like that. Harry Potter is my favourite series and I am always looking for something in that same genre. It just makes me want grab it up and read it. It is just so prefect.
I really liked Aurora. She was a very nature and strong lead character. She wasn't perfect, but she did own up to every mistake that she made and tried to better both herself and the kingdom. She also had the same feelings of a seventeen year old, but I think that she handled everything with a certain amount of class.
I also liked Rafe. Out of all the males in the book, he was my favourite. I didn't think he was quiet as mature as Aurora, but he was still well done. The twist about him really was not all that surprising to me. I figured it out long before Farah revealed the truth, but it was still good.
When this book is out, I think readers will be in for a treat. Even though this is young adult, older readers will love it. This is the perfect book for fans of fantasy-if you don't mind cliff hangers. Speaking of that, when does the next book come out? Does anyone know?
Author: Farah Oomerbhoy
Rating: 5 Out of 5 Stars
I would like to thank NetGalley for providing me a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I was pulled into this book right away. There was just something about it that really, really made it impossible for me to put down. I loved the simple, but elegant detail that Farah put into it. The world that she created has this amazing sense of fantasy. It's not like Narina, but it is a world that will have readers wanting to visit. It was just the prefect mix of light and dark. However, the sense of hope is never far gone from the book, even in the darkest of times.
There was just so many different things going on-some many mini plots, the major plots, and conflicts. Each was different and so well done. The characters all functioned in the same way as the plot-different and well rounded. There really was not a weak link in any part of this story. Even the journeys were filled with fun, dangerous, and excited twists and turns. It just really was attention getting and keeping.
I just hope that the author does not take this the wrong way. I found that this book had many echoes to Harry Potter. A main character gets thrown into a magical world that they didn't know existed, has an enemy that is on the Dark Side, two amazing best friends, and is close to the Headmaster. This is not a bad thing. Look at how successful Harry Potter is! This book has a lot of potential to be something like that. Harry Potter is my favourite series and I am always looking for something in that same genre. It just makes me want grab it up and read it. It is just so prefect.
I really liked Aurora. She was a very nature and strong lead character. She wasn't perfect, but she did own up to every mistake that she made and tried to better both herself and the kingdom. She also had the same feelings of a seventeen year old, but I think that she handled everything with a certain amount of class.
I also liked Rafe. Out of all the males in the book, he was my favourite. I didn't think he was quiet as mature as Aurora, but he was still well done. The twist about him really was not all that surprising to me. I figured it out long before Farah revealed the truth, but it was still good.
When this book is out, I think readers will be in for a treat. Even though this is young adult, older readers will love it. This is the perfect book for fans of fantasy-if you don't mind cliff hangers. Speaking of that, when does the next book come out? Does anyone know?
January 3, 2016
About the book:
"A fantastic adventure story that will transport you to a dazzling world of myth and magic.
16-year-old Aurora Darlington is an orphan. Mistreated by her adopted family and bullied at school, she dreams of running away and being free. But when she is kidnapped
and dragged through a portal into a magical world, suddenly her old life doesn’t seem so bad.
Avalonia is a dangerous land ruled by powerful mages and a cruel, selfish queen who will do anything to control all seven kingdoms—including killing anyone who stands in her way. Thrust headlong into this new, magical world, Aurora’s arrival sets plans in motion that threaten to destroy all she holds dear.
With the help of a young fae, a magical pegasus, and a handsome mage, Aurora journeys across Avalonia to learn the truth about her past and unleash the power within herself. Kingdoms collide as a complicated web of political intrigue and ancient magic lead Aurora to unravel a shocking secret that will change her life forever."
You can purchase this book here: Amazon,Barnes&Noble,iTunes,Kobo.
MY REVIEW:
Such an interesting book.The main character,Aurora,is fierce and determined to make everything work,no matter what.Even though she is always in danger & sometimes doesn’t know who to trust,Aurora is not a girl that gives up easily.She wants to learn and be able to fight the bad guys-Morgana,Lucian & the Blackwaters.World building is extremely good,I could picture everything Farah described in her book and I really loved experiencing Avalonia through Aurora’s eyes.However,what would a kick ass lady be without her amazing side kicks? Rafe is swoon worthy but also very loyal and brave.Kalen is extremely talkative and friendly,but also a great friend.I really love Kalen.♥ There is also Vivienne,bestie everyone needs & Erien,Aurora’s cousin,who is a bit of troublemaker but also pretty cute,haha.ツ (totally ship these two.).There are a lot of action scenes,great plot twists,heart-wrenching moments & scenes that will just make you smile and be happy.Romance is quite good,to be honest.The chemistry between Rafe & Aurora is great,I hope that it will be even better in the sequels.So,overall,”The Last of the Firedrakes” is an amazing fantasy/young adult book but I had one problem with it-Aurora can be very naive and stubborn sometimes and that was somewhat irritating.She will have to learn to take advice from people who care about her & to think of consequences of her actions if she wants to survive and lead her people into the brighter future.
Can’t wait for the sequel.Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this book.(Amy,Farah & NetGalley).
You can check out this review on my blog - Bookish Fever.
_______________________
ABOUT THE AUTHOR:
For Farah Oomerbhoy, writing is a passion and reading her solace. She is a firm Farajh - high resbeliever in the fantastic and magical, and often dreams of living in Narnia, Neverland, or the Enchanted Forest.
Farah lives with her husband and three children in their family home in Mumbai, India. She has a Master’s degree in English Literature from the University of Mumbai.
Farah’s first novel, The Last of the Firedrakes, Book 1 of the Avalonia Chronicles will be published worldwide August 15th, 2015.
You can find her on: Her website,Twitter,Facebook,Wattpad.
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September 19, 2022
My god this was TERRIBLE.
It's basically every YA fantasy cliche EVER with exactly 0% originality and the narration was AWFUL.
Please consider this lack of review a representation of the level of attachment I felt towards this story.
**EDIT: 19/9**
Okay look, I NEED TO RANT.
From the very start, this is Cliché City. Whatserface (I've literally already forgotten her name but it's something stupidly flouncy, like Aurora)(Apologies to any Auroras/same-name-as-protagonist's) is an abandoned orphan taken in by cruel relatives that make her life a living hell. Then suddenly she discovers she's the long-lost last-hope of a fancy magical kingdom where everyone loves and adores her.
I am not kidding about the cliches, man.
✓ Parents died/vanished mysteriously
✓ Mysterious stranger appears to save the day continuously
✓ Heroine falls in love with mysterious stranger
✓ Who is so, SO mysterious
(✓ ... and dashing, of course *swoon*)
✓ Comical sidekick friend
✓ Talking horse (complete with badly narrated horsey quiver)
✓ Evil queen
✓ A ball (WHY is there ALWAYS a BALL??!)
✓ Magic school classes that heroine naturally excels at
✓ Nasty girl who relentlessly bullies our heroine
✓ Surprise reveals that are in no way a surprise to anyone
Like, there is actually nothing in this book that interested me at all and the only reason I got through it was because it was an audiobook I could listen to/tune out while I did other things.
I'm so mad at how bad this turned out to be.
I just wanted ANYTHING unique. Just a TEENSY bit of originality. And instead I just got like, every fantasy book EVER rolled into one big, messy ball of trash.
Not cool.
It's basically every YA fantasy cliche EVER with exactly 0% originality and the narration was AWFUL.
Please consider this lack of review a representation of the level of attachment I felt towards this story.
**EDIT: 19/9**
Okay look, I NEED TO RANT.
From the very start, this is Cliché City. Whatserface (I've literally already forgotten her name but it's something stupidly flouncy, like Aurora)(Apologies to any Auroras/same-name-as-protagonist's) is an abandoned orphan taken in by cruel relatives that make her life a living hell. Then suddenly she discovers she's the long-lost last-hope of a fancy magical kingdom where everyone loves and adores her.
I am not kidding about the cliches, man.
✓ Parents died/vanished mysteriously
✓ Mysterious stranger appears to save the day continuously
✓ Heroine falls in love with mysterious stranger
✓ Who is so, SO mysterious
(✓ ... and dashing, of course *swoon*)
✓ Comical sidekick friend
✓ Talking horse (complete with badly narrated horsey quiver)
✓ Evil queen
✓ A ball (WHY is there ALWAYS a BALL??!)
✓ Magic school classes that heroine naturally excels at
✓ Nasty girl who relentlessly bullies our heroine
✓ Surprise reveals that are in no way a surprise to anyone
Like, there is actually nothing in this book that interested me at all and the only reason I got through it was because it was an audiobook I could listen to/tune out while I did other things.
I'm so mad at how bad this turned out to be.
I just wanted ANYTHING unique. Just a TEENSY bit of originality. And instead I just got like, every fantasy book EVER rolled into one big, messy ball of trash.
Not cool.
July 28, 2015
This book is one of those fantasies you want to live in simply because the characters and pace of the story are so very compelling. I fell in love with Aurora and with her plight to understand the circumstances surrounding her parents' deaths and the visions she'd recently begun having.
One of Oomerbhoy's biggest strengths is her captivating descriptions. Sometimes I just had to sit back and say "wow" after she'd described the adornments of a castle, or the seediness of a tavern, or the pure delightfulness of a treehouse. Her descriptions were always evocative without ever being overdone. This is an enviable skill, to say the least.
There is well-placed tension, both in terms of the plot (high stakes: an evil queen is out to kill Aurora) and between the characters (a handsome but mysterious young man helps Aurora, but he has his own well-guarded secrets).
This story was completely enjoyable, and engaged me from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a classic fantasy.
One of Oomerbhoy's biggest strengths is her captivating descriptions. Sometimes I just had to sit back and say "wow" after she'd described the adornments of a castle, or the seediness of a tavern, or the pure delightfulness of a treehouse. Her descriptions were always evocative without ever being overdone. This is an enviable skill, to say the least.
There is well-placed tension, both in terms of the plot (high stakes: an evil queen is out to kill Aurora) and between the characters (a handsome but mysterious young man helps Aurora, but he has his own well-guarded secrets).
This story was completely enjoyable, and engaged me from beginning to end. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a classic fantasy.
August 1, 2015
I loved reading this book, it was so interesting and magical I have never read anything like it. It does remind me a bit of Harry Potter But also of Narnia, but it's a completely new beautiful world. With a map!! I love maps.
Aurora Starts out as an ordinary girl, but when she's dragged into the magical world of Avalonia she realises she's special and people want her dead. She has to find out more about her life and who she is.
But what I liked was that she wasn't some perfect person, she made mistakes, maybe quite a few mistakes, I remember doing everything opposite to what my parents or elders told me to do when I was her age. That's what those years are all about, and she is a good person with a good heart and she's brave enough to deal with these situations.
Basically I was so caught up in the wonderful narrative, the beautiful descriptions and setting, and all that wonderful food, that I just couldn't put it down. I finished it in a day.
Can't wait for book 2!!
Aurora Starts out as an ordinary girl, but when she's dragged into the magical world of Avalonia she realises she's special and people want her dead. She has to find out more about her life and who she is.
But what I liked was that she wasn't some perfect person, she made mistakes, maybe quite a few mistakes, I remember doing everything opposite to what my parents or elders told me to do when I was her age. That's what those years are all about, and she is a good person with a good heart and she's brave enough to deal with these situations.
Basically I was so caught up in the wonderful narrative, the beautiful descriptions and setting, and all that wonderful food, that I just couldn't put it down. I finished it in a day.
Can't wait for book 2!!
September 26, 2016
“Most maidens are perfectly capable of rescuing themselves in my experience, at least the ones worth something, in any case.”
----Erin Morgenstern
Farah Oomerbhoy, an Indian bestselling author, has penned her debut engaging young adult fantasy novel The Last of the Firedrakes which marks as the first book in The Avalonia Chronicles where the author has weaved a mystical fantasy universe where a young princess has just returned back to rightfully proclaim the throne that belongs to her from an evil queen who killed her parents when she was just a baby, but before that she needs to be groomed and proper training to face that ruthless queen thereby saving the kingdom.
Synopsis:
16-year-old Aurora Darlington is an orphan. Mistreated by her adopted family and bullied at school, she dreams of running away and being free. But when she is kidnapped and dragged through a portal into a magical world, suddenly her old life doesn’t seem so bad.
Avalonia is a dangerous land ruled by powerful mages and a cruel, selfish queen who will do anything to control all seven kingdoms—including killing anyone who stands in her way.
Thrust headlong into this new, magical world, Aurora’s arrival sets plans in motion that threaten to destroy all she holds dear.
With the help of a young fae, a magical pegasus, and a handsome mage, Aurora journeys across Avalonia to learn the truth about her past and unleash the power within herself. Kingdoms collide as a complicated web of political intrigue and ancient magic lead Aurora to unravel a shocking secret that will change her life forever.
Aurora is a sixteen year old orphan girl who is ill treated by her adopted family. But soon Aurora gets relived from all the bully from both home and school when she returns back to a fantasy world separated by a magic portal from our world, called, Avalonia, where she actually belongs. Her father was the king of such a mythical land, but an evil and ruthless queen Morgana killed him and his wife and took away that kingdom and now Morgana wants to kill Aurora who is the rightful ruler of that kingdom and Aurora needs proper training in magic and skills in fighting before facing that evil queen in order to save the fate of the entire land. But that's not an easy thing to achieve when the challenges welcome her at every turn of her path, can Aurora save her birth land?
No wonder why these fantasy novels are hitting off the bestselling shelves when they are more of an evolved version of the classic fantasy series like Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and Rowling's Harry Potter. There is no way that I cannot give any credit to the author for being so much unoriginal right from the plot development to the character development, everything has a starking similarity to Harry Potter with a Cinderellaish kind of feel. So despite of an unoriginal story line, the readers will slightly feel connected with the story only because of the author's diligently developed fantasy world that is hard to give it a miss.
The author's writing style is coherent that the readers will find it easy to comprehend with. The narrative of the book is okay as the dialogues are somewhat cliched hence the readers might find it difficult to grasp the story from the main character's point of view. Right from the very beginning, the story opens in an arresting manner so despite of the lack of depth in the characterization, the readers might feel glued to the book just for the sake of such a vast and creative universe. The pacing of the book is real slow as the author has included so many unnecessary descriptions in the plot, that make the story bit dull, but near the end, the readers will be pushed to the very edge to find out what happens with Aurora and the kingdom.
The world that is developed by the author is extremely vivid and bright that the readers will be immediately transported to such a mythical land filled with equally enchanting yet dementors like creatures, captivating landscape with magical fae. The alluring backdrop proves that there is no boundary to the author's creativity and imagination that even holds the power to astound the readers with its grandeur.
The characters are very much stereotypical, especially their narratives along with their unbelievable demeanor make the story unstimulating. Not to mention when the main character, Aurora is a typical damsel in distress who needed to be be saved and protected at each and every step of her way. The supporting cast is also not that interesting enough to make the readers feel immersed into the story line. The romance part is cheesy, predictable and extremely tacky.
In a nutshell, this was unfortunately an okay read for me and if you fancy a good fantasy or dystopian novel, then you need o look other way, as this one draws a close line to the Harry Potter series.
Verdict: Boring, dull yet the fantasy universe is a spot on!
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Farah Oomerbhoy, for giving me an opportunity to read and review her novel.
----Erin Morgenstern
Farah Oomerbhoy, an Indian bestselling author, has penned her debut engaging young adult fantasy novel The Last of the Firedrakes which marks as the first book in The Avalonia Chronicles where the author has weaved a mystical fantasy universe where a young princess has just returned back to rightfully proclaim the throne that belongs to her from an evil queen who killed her parents when she was just a baby, but before that she needs to be groomed and proper training to face that ruthless queen thereby saving the kingdom.
Synopsis:
16-year-old Aurora Darlington is an orphan. Mistreated by her adopted family and bullied at school, she dreams of running away and being free. But when she is kidnapped and dragged through a portal into a magical world, suddenly her old life doesn’t seem so bad.
Avalonia is a dangerous land ruled by powerful mages and a cruel, selfish queen who will do anything to control all seven kingdoms—including killing anyone who stands in her way.
Thrust headlong into this new, magical world, Aurora’s arrival sets plans in motion that threaten to destroy all she holds dear.
With the help of a young fae, a magical pegasus, and a handsome mage, Aurora journeys across Avalonia to learn the truth about her past and unleash the power within herself. Kingdoms collide as a complicated web of political intrigue and ancient magic lead Aurora to unravel a shocking secret that will change her life forever.
Aurora is a sixteen year old orphan girl who is ill treated by her adopted family. But soon Aurora gets relived from all the bully from both home and school when she returns back to a fantasy world separated by a magic portal from our world, called, Avalonia, where she actually belongs. Her father was the king of such a mythical land, but an evil and ruthless queen Morgana killed him and his wife and took away that kingdom and now Morgana wants to kill Aurora who is the rightful ruler of that kingdom and Aurora needs proper training in magic and skills in fighting before facing that evil queen in order to save the fate of the entire land. But that's not an easy thing to achieve when the challenges welcome her at every turn of her path, can Aurora save her birth land?
No wonder why these fantasy novels are hitting off the bestselling shelves when they are more of an evolved version of the classic fantasy series like Tolkien's The Lord of the Rings and Rowling's Harry Potter. There is no way that I cannot give any credit to the author for being so much unoriginal right from the plot development to the character development, everything has a starking similarity to Harry Potter with a Cinderellaish kind of feel. So despite of an unoriginal story line, the readers will slightly feel connected with the story only because of the author's diligently developed fantasy world that is hard to give it a miss.
The author's writing style is coherent that the readers will find it easy to comprehend with. The narrative of the book is okay as the dialogues are somewhat cliched hence the readers might find it difficult to grasp the story from the main character's point of view. Right from the very beginning, the story opens in an arresting manner so despite of the lack of depth in the characterization, the readers might feel glued to the book just for the sake of such a vast and creative universe. The pacing of the book is real slow as the author has included so many unnecessary descriptions in the plot, that make the story bit dull, but near the end, the readers will be pushed to the very edge to find out what happens with Aurora and the kingdom.
The world that is developed by the author is extremely vivid and bright that the readers will be immediately transported to such a mythical land filled with equally enchanting yet dementors like creatures, captivating landscape with magical fae. The alluring backdrop proves that there is no boundary to the author's creativity and imagination that even holds the power to astound the readers with its grandeur.
The characters are very much stereotypical, especially their narratives along with their unbelievable demeanor make the story unstimulating. Not to mention when the main character, Aurora is a typical damsel in distress who needed to be be saved and protected at each and every step of her way. The supporting cast is also not that interesting enough to make the readers feel immersed into the story line. The romance part is cheesy, predictable and extremely tacky.
In a nutshell, this was unfortunately an okay read for me and if you fancy a good fantasy or dystopian novel, then you need o look other way, as this one draws a close line to the Harry Potter series.
Verdict: Boring, dull yet the fantasy universe is a spot on!
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Farah Oomerbhoy, for giving me an opportunity to read and review her novel.
July 28, 2015
The Last of the Firedrakes is one of my favorite reads this year. The story chronicles 16 year old Aurora's journey as she leaves the mundane world through a magical tapestry (portal) and enters a world of magic. She quickly discovers she is far from ordinary, and that she has powers she never imagined. With the help of a young fae, a magical pegasus, and a handsome mage, Aurora journeys across Avalonia to learn the truth about her past and to learn how to unleash the power within herself.
I loved this story. The characters were endearing, and I rooted for Aurora as struggled to develop her powers and gain confidence. My two other favorite characters were Rafe and Snow, the Pegasus. Rafe is basically that dreamy untouchable guy that you know is interested, but you just don't know how much, so he keeps you guessing. Throughout the story, I was wishing I had a pegasus like Snow.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the vivid descriptions. Much like Harry Potter stories, you can almost taste the delicious foods, strawberries and cream, game pies with gold crusts, fish in citrus sauce, fresh bread - am I making your stomach growl yet? You can also imagine the breathtaking scenery. Her attention to the details are impeccable. One of my favorite scenes is the Midnight Market.
This story is such a fun read. I highly recommend you check it out!
I loved this story. The characters were endearing, and I rooted for Aurora as struggled to develop her powers and gain confidence. My two other favorite characters were Rafe and Snow, the Pegasus. Rafe is basically that dreamy untouchable guy that you know is interested, but you just don't know how much, so he keeps you guessing. Throughout the story, I was wishing I had a pegasus like Snow.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the vivid descriptions. Much like Harry Potter stories, you can almost taste the delicious foods, strawberries and cream, game pies with gold crusts, fish in citrus sauce, fresh bread - am I making your stomach growl yet? You can also imagine the breathtaking scenery. Her attention to the details are impeccable. One of my favorite scenes is the Midnight Market.
This story is such a fun read. I highly recommend you check it out!
August 17, 2015
Great book! A quick fun read. Gorgeous world-building I must say!
Aurora is an orphan, dragged into a magical portal. She finds herself in Avalonia, a land of magical beings. The adventures she has kept me awake till the wee hours. I couldn't put down! There is also a school for magic, a Pegasus (whom I loved by the way) and a swashbuckling romantic hero, everything I want to see in a well balanced fantasy story.
Aurora can be perceived as silly and not following orders, but I think she's brave and feisty and goes after what she wants. Not necessarily a bad thing.
Overall, this is a wonderful debut novel. Will be watching this author and can't wait to find out what happens to aurora and Rafe.
Aurora is an orphan, dragged into a magical portal. She finds herself in Avalonia, a land of magical beings. The adventures she has kept me awake till the wee hours. I couldn't put down! There is also a school for magic, a Pegasus (whom I loved by the way) and a swashbuckling romantic hero, everything I want to see in a well balanced fantasy story.
Aurora can be perceived as silly and not following orders, but I think she's brave and feisty and goes after what she wants. Not necessarily a bad thing.
Overall, this is a wonderful debut novel. Will be watching this author and can't wait to find out what happens to aurora and Rafe.
August 1, 2015
I don't normally read YA fantasy, but a friend recommended it, and I'm so glad I read it. Excellent action packed adventure, with a strong likeable heroine.
The world of Avalonia astounded me with its detail and complexity. I look forward to visiting this world again in book 2.
The world of Avalonia astounded me with its detail and complexity. I look forward to visiting this world again in book 2.
August 17, 2015
First I would like to thank netgalley and WiseInk creative publishing for providing me a ARC of this book.
This one is now one of my favourites! Compelling plot, wonderful characters, and Magic, so much wonderful magic, magical creatures, a school for magic, I couldn't ask for anything more.
This is the story of Aurora Firedrake, an orphan living in the real world. But she soon realises she's meant for more. Dragged into the magical world of Avalonia, she proceeds on a journey of self discovery and finds true love along the way.
And what a love!! Rafe, the black wolf, a mysterious hero who turns up whenever she needs him. Circumstances keep them apart and I can't wait to see what happens between them in the second book.
Aurora is a wonderful character and one I could really identify with. She seemed so real and confused when she was thrown into an absurd situation, but she had courage and tried to make the most of it. That's what life is all about, to move forward despite the circumstances. Even though she was special and powerful, I was still scared for her and wanted her to win, to prove herself, just because she was so apprehensive about her abilities herself. I rooted for her all the way.
Eagerly awaiting the second book.
This one is now one of my favourites! Compelling plot, wonderful characters, and Magic, so much wonderful magic, magical creatures, a school for magic, I couldn't ask for anything more.
This is the story of Aurora Firedrake, an orphan living in the real world. But she soon realises she's meant for more. Dragged into the magical world of Avalonia, she proceeds on a journey of self discovery and finds true love along the way.
And what a love!! Rafe, the black wolf, a mysterious hero who turns up whenever she needs him. Circumstances keep them apart and I can't wait to see what happens between them in the second book.
Aurora is a wonderful character and one I could really identify with. She seemed so real and confused when she was thrown into an absurd situation, but she had courage and tried to make the most of it. That's what life is all about, to move forward despite the circumstances. Even though she was special and powerful, I was still scared for her and wanted her to win, to prove herself, just because she was so apprehensive about her abilities herself. I rooted for her all the way.
Eagerly awaiting the second book.
August 17, 2015
Absolutely brilliant. Can I have book 2 now please as I cannot wait?
I loved this fantasy world, it was a little predictable in parts. I've been in epic magical battles, a princess, a nobody, powerful, weak, in love, consumed with hate, confused, dumfounded, in despair and finally I have hope.
Bring on book 2.
Read the book from cover to cover in one sitting, it was unputdownabke.
Now I have a major book hangover ~ what happens next?
I loved this fantasy world, it was a little predictable in parts. I've been in epic magical battles, a princess, a nobody, powerful, weak, in love, consumed with hate, confused, dumfounded, in despair and finally I have hope.
Bring on book 2.
Read the book from cover to cover in one sitting, it was unputdownabke.
Now I have a major book hangover ~ what happens next?
August 3, 2015
A fantastic debut!
This one was quite a surprise. I came across it on netgalley and was immediately drawn into Aurora's story from the start. This book is like a wonderful amalgamation of so many magical stories, but still it is completely unique.
Aurora starts off as a confused, unprepared, 16 year old, and she grows into a confident young adult by the end of the book. She does what she thinks is right and has a strong sense of duty.
This book is about family, friendship, and of course the wonderful romance between Aurora and Rafe all set in the most creative magical world I have come across for a long time. Everything is described perfectly, and many times I felt like I was in the book, alongside Aurora, seeing and feeling what she was. The Author really has a way with words, when it comes to setting and world creation.
I really enjoyed this book, and am very invested in Aurora now. I hope book 2 is out soon.
*Thank you to netgalley and WiseInk for providing this ARC.*
This one was quite a surprise. I came across it on netgalley and was immediately drawn into Aurora's story from the start. This book is like a wonderful amalgamation of so many magical stories, but still it is completely unique.
Aurora starts off as a confused, unprepared, 16 year old, and she grows into a confident young adult by the end of the book. She does what she thinks is right and has a strong sense of duty.
This book is about family, friendship, and of course the wonderful romance between Aurora and Rafe all set in the most creative magical world I have come across for a long time. Everything is described perfectly, and many times I felt like I was in the book, alongside Aurora, seeing and feeling what she was. The Author really has a way with words, when it comes to setting and world creation.
I really enjoyed this book, and am very invested in Aurora now. I hope book 2 is out soon.
*Thank you to netgalley and WiseInk for providing this ARC.*
July 23, 2015
This book transports you to a beautiful world of fantasy and mysticism from which you never want to leave. I am counting the days until i can read more of this original masterpiece in the next two books of the trilogy. It is truly the most beautifully written and imaginative piece of fantasy literature that I have ever come across. I want to thank the author for giving us a peek into her creative and beautiful mind! Thank you and please continue swiftly with the next two books!
July 30, 2015
This is such a wonderful book. I thoroughly enjoyed reading about Avalonia and Aurora's adventures.
Aurora is a lovely character, a little naive at times, but it makes her all the more likeable. I loved loved loved Rafe, he is fantastic, brave and charming.
Can't wait for book for book 2.
Aurora is a lovely character, a little naive at times, but it makes her all the more likeable. I loved loved loved Rafe, he is fantastic, brave and charming.
Can't wait for book for book 2.
August 2, 2015
Firstly I would like to thank NetGalley for kindly approving of my request to read and review, absolutely LOVED this book.
I have fallen in love with Ms Oomerbhoy's work and I'm patiently waiting for more to come.
"The Last Of The Firedrakes" is one of then books where when you've reached the end and it leaves you dangling like a carrot in the wind, you automatically get the urge to track down the sequel and delve into the next one!
Aurora hasn't had an easy life, her biological parents were killed when she was young and she was adopted, unfortunately this wasn't a happy ending either, with these ultimately meeting their demise, thus leaving the young girl to live with "other" family
But what happens when she finds out that the world she lives in isn't quite what she thought it was, thus being transported to a WHOLE new world through the tapestry where magic rules
What will happen when Aurora finds out that she is the rightful Heir of the Illiador throne?
The world that Oomerbhoy has created has this amazing sense of fantasy. A world that leaves readers wanting to visit. It was the perfection of light and dark.
I loved the way the magical system worked, the mythical creatures we got to meet too. Aurora behaved in ways that were believable, both for the age of a 16 year old as well as the situations she was put in
There is a great Quest they all go on and I really want to see where this is going to lead. Unfortunately some of Aurora's actions will cause more hurdles for her to cross in her quest in becoming Queen.
I have fallen in love with Ms Oomerbhoy's work and I'm patiently waiting for more to come.
"The Last Of The Firedrakes" is one of then books where when you've reached the end and it leaves you dangling like a carrot in the wind, you automatically get the urge to track down the sequel and delve into the next one!
Aurora hasn't had an easy life, her biological parents were killed when she was young and she was adopted, unfortunately this wasn't a happy ending either, with these ultimately meeting their demise, thus leaving the young girl to live with "other" family
But what happens when she finds out that the world she lives in isn't quite what she thought it was, thus being transported to a WHOLE new world through the tapestry where magic rules
What will happen when Aurora finds out that she is the rightful Heir of the Illiador throne?
"I had to stop running. I had to turn and face my life head on." Aurora Firedrake
The world that Oomerbhoy has created has this amazing sense of fantasy. A world that leaves readers wanting to visit. It was the perfection of light and dark.
I loved the way the magical system worked, the mythical creatures we got to meet too. Aurora behaved in ways that were believable, both for the age of a 16 year old as well as the situations she was put in
There is a great Quest they all go on and I really want to see where this is going to lead. Unfortunately some of Aurora's actions will cause more hurdles for her to cross in her quest in becoming Queen.
July 13, 2015
I can say that I greatly enjoyed this story, so much that I read through two versions of it. I looked at some of the other reviews on this site but I saw things in a different way than others did.
Yes, there were times where I felt like smacking Aurora on the head. Some of the comments and thoughts make her seem like she is a confused idiot. With that being said though, you go to a different world that you never know about and discover that you have the ability to use magic and see how well you can handle things. She did already seem a bit socially awkward before she was taken away from everything that she know. But it really just make me like her more and more.
THe supporting characters were well written and helped to advance the book. And while I was able to figure out a few of the secrets before they were announced, it did not take away from the experience. I am eagerly awaiting the release of the second book.
Yes, there were times where I felt like smacking Aurora on the head. Some of the comments and thoughts make her seem like she is a confused idiot. With that being said though, you go to a different world that you never know about and discover that you have the ability to use magic and see how well you can handle things. She did already seem a bit socially awkward before she was taken away from everything that she know. But it really just make me like her more and more.
THe supporting characters were well written and helped to advance the book. And while I was able to figure out a few of the secrets before they were announced, it did not take away from the experience. I am eagerly awaiting the release of the second book.
August 2, 2015
This was a great read, I thought it was very good and very engrossing. I couldn't put down.
September 3, 2019
I read this book because I got an arc for the next one.
Despite it's 488 pages this story flows fast, it has an interesting world building, a complicated magic system, a variety of mythical creatures and... that's all.
I can understand that this is a debut novel and the author is mastering her craft but I found no originallity in the plot, it is so, so predictable full of the gender's tropes.
The heroine, Aurora, is so silly and I find myself having no patience for stupid girls any more. From the start she's presented to be a very subtle person, with no social life (I mean she hasn't manage to get a single friend the first year in her new school), being the object of bullying and laughing and didn't master the courage to stand up to her cousin. And all of a sudden she desides to play it Miss Congeniality?
And her reactions were out of reality most of the time, they didn't make sense. I mean, face it girl, you're doomed in a life without toilet paper and dental health care and all you care about is what Rafe'll think seeing you in your pink fluffy dressing gown? The amount of eye-rolls while reading this book...
As for Rafe, he is a hero worthy of his title, as all YA heroes go, but excuse me if I didn't bought his out-law facade for long and I saw his big reveal from a mile away. His actions, speech and behavior reek of nobility.
The last 10% of the book picked up pace and finally we had some interesting action with a jaw-dropping twist, enough to have me reading the next book right away.
Despite it's 488 pages this story flows fast, it has an interesting world building, a complicated magic system, a variety of mythical creatures and... that's all.
I can understand that this is a debut novel and the author is mastering her craft but I found no originallity in the plot, it is so, so predictable full of the gender's tropes.
The heroine, Aurora, is so silly and I find myself having no patience for stupid girls any more. From the start she's presented to be a very subtle person, with no social life (I mean she hasn't manage to get a single friend the first year in her new school), being the object of bullying and laughing and didn't master the courage to stand up to her cousin. And all of a sudden she desides to play it Miss Congeniality?
And her reactions were out of reality most of the time, they didn't make sense. I mean, face it girl, you're doomed in a life without toilet paper and dental health care and all you care about is what Rafe'll think seeing you in your pink fluffy dressing gown? The amount of eye-rolls while reading this book...
As for Rafe, he is a hero worthy of his title, as all YA heroes go, but excuse me if I didn't bought his out-law facade for long and I saw his big reveal from a mile away. His actions, speech and behavior reek of nobility.
The last 10% of the book picked up pace and finally we had some interesting action with a jaw-dropping twist, enough to have me reading the next book right away.
August 2, 2015
The Last of the Firedrakes was one of the very first fantasy books I had ever read. The feisty heroine, Aurora, hooked me immediately! I loved watching her blossom throughout her journey. She is a strong and likable character, yet makes mistakes like every young girl.
The vivid detail in this story made me feel as if I was a part of the magical world of Avalonia, and I enjoyed the action incorporated into every chapter, especially the forbidden love budding between Aurora and Rafe!
This is a must read for every lover of fantasy. I am really looking forward to book two!
The vivid detail in this story made me feel as if I was a part of the magical world of Avalonia, and I enjoyed the action incorporated into every chapter, especially the forbidden love budding between Aurora and Rafe!
This is a must read for every lover of fantasy. I am really looking forward to book two!
July 23, 2015
I can't stop reading and I just started today! This book is brilliantly original and will go down with the fantasy classic authors masterpieces like Tolkien, Rowling and Lawrence. I am so happy to have come across our modern day equivalent of the old greats! I particularly love the originality and creativity of the mystical creatures which are such a key part of this book and find aurora to be the best combination of brave and humble which makes the perfect fantasy heroine! I cant wait to read more!
July 20, 2015
This is a thrilling new take on the world of fantasy and mystical beings, I read this book in 1 day and can't wait for the second book to come out! The plot is scintillatingly unexpected and the characters are remarkable! I love the use of ancient mysticism and the incredible names of the places and characters, the writing and descriptions are so vibrant that they seem to come off the pages. I think that the black wolf has the most depth of character and is a fascinating dark hero for auroras tale of exploration in the wonderful land of avalonia!
August 12, 2015
This book is the first literary piece since Tolkiens lord of the rings to reflect the modern day cultural and political complexities in its own fantastical creation of avalonia and in the inhabitants of avalonia. The power structure and the magical schools and sects of mages and faes are fascinating and leave you wanting to be apart of this world.
July 23, 2015
Wow! I couldn't put this book down, I love auroras ways of expression compared to rafes, and everyone else in avalonias, more formal expressions, it makes it very witty and funny! I can't wait to read the second book in this trilogy!!!
April 4, 2016
Pretend that you're 16 and you're living a miserable life. Your adoptive family died in a car accident, and your new adoptive family hates your guts. You don't have many friends, you're not popular or well-liked in school, and you're totally ready for your life to change. Pretend that you spent your entire life thinking you're human....when in truth, that is not the case
Well now you know how Aurora feels! Welcome to her shoes.
Aurora Darlington is half mage and half fey. Her parents were killed by her evil step-aunt, Morgana, who wanted to rule the magical land of Avalonia. Aurora was sent to the human world very early in her life by her fey mother right before Morgana could kill her.
For 16 years, she was raised by an adoptive family, blind to the knowledge of her world.
Skip forward:
Aurora is kidnapped by one of the queen's evil henchmen, Oblek, who emerged from a magic tapestry, and is introduced to a world she never knew existed. She finds out she has powers, that her last name is actually Firedrake (I feel that should clue us in to dragons, but no dragons thus far), her royal parents are dead and she meets new friends, and is saved several times by the devastatingly handsome Rafe, aka the "Black Wolf".
Kalen is a fey who becomes a close friend of Aurora.
Aurora's granduncle, Gabriel the Duke of Silverthorne is pretty awesome!
And Aurora's aunt and cousin were so cool too!
Penelope Plumpleberry, Kalen's mom.
Vivienne, Aurora's best friend whom she met at magic school.
These characters were all fabulous and fun!
Aside from a few issues that I can't tell you about yet because spoilers, it's a good book and I recommend it!
From here on down lay spoilers! Readers' discretion is advised!
Aurora, our protagonist, is very powerful. Her father was a mage and her mother was fey. Normally the children of fey and mage develop the magic of one or the other. Aurora, however, is one of the special cases that acquire BOTH magical lineages. There were only six others before her. However, her extreme power can easily be sensed by Morgana, so she has to wear the magical Amulet of Auraken, created by Auraken Firedrake, the first fae-mage ever.
In order to master her powers, Aurora's granduncle the Duke sends her to the Academy of Magic at Evolon,
Rafe was like Ash/Robin Hood. Sexy and dark, more in color, though, like he wears dark clothes. He wasn't really the brooding type.
Aurora fell for him, and he fell for her, but to be honest, I didn't feel the chemistry. It was also a little bit insta-lovey on Aurora's part, but she did start out the story as a fairly naive girl. Rafe's falling for her though, was a little stranger. But, what I like was that Aurora knew she was falling to quickly and was somewhat unhappy with herself, as she quotes:
What was also realistic was how Rafe couldn't/wouldn't leave his relationship with his betrothed Leticia (yet), who FREAKING SOLD AURORA TO THE SHADOWGUARD BECAUSE THE B***H WAS JEALOUS OF HER!
Aurora was like I'm not gonna tell Rafe about this treason because I don't want to cause problems.
Le sigh
She did a lot of growing, but I HAAAAAAATE it when characters make straight up idiotic decisions thinking they're being smart!
And we see more of that later! At the end.
The ending.....yeah let's talk about the ending!
Aurora finds out her mother is actually alive: her soul is trapped inside the Dagger of Dragath with which Morgana stabbed her. Aurora is desperate to find her and get her back. Everyone around her tells her to chill a little because she can't just rush off without a plan into extremely dangerous territory....you know, your run of the mill common sense speech that should go without saying.
So what does Aurora do? Does she listen to their very sensible concerns and decide to spend time strengthening her magic and developing a plan?
haha NOPE!
Stupid McDumb decides to run off BY HERSELF and WITHOUT A PLAN! Like yo! You're strong, but you're not strong enough to defeat the whole slew of dangerous enemies! I shouldn't need to tell you this!
I hate to be Captain Obvious, but WHAT?
Just before she leaves, her fey friend Kalen shows up. She tells him what she's up to after she made him promise not to tell anyone. What does he do? Does he try to knock some common sense into Aurora?
haha NOPE!
He decides oh, let me join her on her quest that's sure to end badly. Hooray for dumb plans!
As they're leaving, they come across a pissed off Rafe. Rafe guesses where they're off too. What does Rafe do? Does he try to hand the two stupids some brains on a platter from a strong and smart hot ninja warrior?
HAHAHAHA NOPE!
He decides oh you're both idiots, but let me join you on the quest that's sure to end badly because you could never execute this by yourselves. Hooray for dumb plans!
So lets summarize:
-three youngens
-no plan
- Very powerful, but not enough magic to defeat an extremely powerful tyrant, that tyrant's powerful evil dead poltergeist mother, a very dark and powerful spirit of Dragath who the bad guys are trying to bring back to life, and (maybe) evil and powerful shadowguards!
I realize I used a lot of the same words several times, but I'm trying to prove how dumb these characters' plan is.
Do you see how, no matter how strong the three are together, the odds are really stacked against them? How do they not see that?
How does Rafe not see that? He's a powerful warrior with lots of experience! And if he loves Aurora (even though they're kinda mad at each other), he should have convinced or forced her to stay. Going with her really isn't going to help anybody!
The ending was the worst part of the book.
But other than that and a few minor things, this was a pretty entertaining read!
I got a few vibes of other worlds that I loved such as the Iron Fey, a little bit of Narnia, and a little bit of Harry Potter was in there too, but it was little enough that it wasn't a replica or anything! It was also a little Kind Arthur-y with the names (Morgana, Avalonia, Evolon...etc.). I enjoyed it.
The plot was solid and straightforward. World-building was pretty good and the characters and their adventures were fun!
Rafe is scrumptious ;)
I like him! I just don't know if he's the best for Aurora.
Oh well.
I totally recommend this and I'm looking forward to the next one to see what happens with their plan-less plan ^_^
Thanks to InspiredKathy for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
Well now you know how Aurora feels! Welcome to her shoes.
Aurora Darlington is half mage and half fey. Her parents were killed by her evil step-aunt, Morgana, who wanted to rule the magical land of Avalonia. Aurora was sent to the human world very early in her life by her fey mother right before Morgana could kill her.
For 16 years, she was raised by an adoptive family, blind to the knowledge of her world.
Skip forward:
Aurora is kidnapped by one of the queen's evil henchmen, Oblek, who emerged from a magic tapestry, and is introduced to a world she never knew existed. She finds out she has powers, that her last name is actually Firedrake (I feel that should clue us in to dragons, but no dragons thus far), her royal parents are dead and she meets new friends, and is saved several times by the devastatingly handsome Rafe, aka the "Black Wolf".
Kalen is a fey who becomes a close friend of Aurora.
Aurora's granduncle, Gabriel the Duke of Silverthorne is pretty awesome!
And Aurora's aunt and cousin were so cool too!
Penelope Plumpleberry, Kalen's mom.
Vivienne, Aurora's best friend whom she met at magic school.
These characters were all fabulous and fun!
Aside from a few issues that I can't tell you about yet because spoilers, it's a good book and I recommend it!
From here on down lay spoilers! Readers' discretion is advised!
Aurora, our protagonist, is very powerful. Her father was a mage and her mother was fey. Normally the children of fey and mage develop the magic of one or the other. Aurora, however, is one of the special cases that acquire BOTH magical lineages. There were only six others before her. However, her extreme power can easily be sensed by Morgana, so she has to wear the magical Amulet of Auraken, created by Auraken Firedrake, the first fae-mage ever.
In order to master her powers, Aurora's granduncle the Duke sends her to the Academy of Magic at Evolon,
Rafe was like Ash/Robin Hood. Sexy and dark, more in color, though, like he wears dark clothes. He wasn't really the brooding type.
Aurora fell for him, and he fell for her, but to be honest, I didn't feel the chemistry. It was also a little bit insta-lovey on Aurora's part, but she did start out the story as a fairly naive girl. Rafe's falling for her though, was a little stranger. But, what I like was that Aurora knew she was falling to quickly and was somewhat unhappy with herself, as she quotes:
"I had hoped that it was something more, that he was inexplicably drawn to me for reasons he couldn't understand....I frowned at my own foolishness; I had to stop reading so many romance novels."
What was also realistic was how Rafe couldn't/wouldn't leave his relationship with his betrothed Leticia (yet), who FREAKING SOLD AURORA TO THE SHADOWGUARD BECAUSE THE B***H WAS JEALOUS OF HER!
Aurora was like I'm not gonna tell Rafe about this treason because I don't want to cause problems.
Le sigh
She did a lot of growing, but I HAAAAAAATE it when characters make straight up idiotic decisions thinking they're being smart!
And we see more of that later! At the end.
The ending.....yeah let's talk about the ending!
Aurora finds out her mother is actually alive: her soul is trapped inside the Dagger of Dragath with which Morgana stabbed her. Aurora is desperate to find her and get her back. Everyone around her tells her to chill a little because she can't just rush off without a plan into extremely dangerous territory....you know, your run of the mill common sense speech that should go without saying.
So what does Aurora do? Does she listen to their very sensible concerns and decide to spend time strengthening her magic and developing a plan?
haha NOPE!
Stupid McDumb decides to run off BY HERSELF and WITHOUT A PLAN! Like yo! You're strong, but you're not strong enough to defeat the whole slew of dangerous enemies! I shouldn't need to tell you this!
I hate to be Captain Obvious, but WHAT?
Just before she leaves, her fey friend Kalen shows up. She tells him what she's up to after she made him promise not to tell anyone. What does he do? Does he try to knock some common sense into Aurora?
haha NOPE!
He decides oh, let me join her on her quest that's sure to end badly. Hooray for dumb plans!
As they're leaving, they come across a pissed off Rafe. Rafe guesses where they're off too. What does Rafe do? Does he try to hand the two stupids some brains on a platter from a strong and smart hot ninja warrior?
HAHAHAHA NOPE!
He decides oh you're both idiots, but let me join you on the quest that's sure to end badly because you could never execute this by yourselves. Hooray for dumb plans!
So lets summarize:
-three youngens
-no plan
- Very powerful, but not enough magic to defeat an extremely powerful tyrant, that tyrant's powerful evil dead poltergeist mother, a very dark and powerful spirit of Dragath who the bad guys are trying to bring back to life, and (maybe) evil and powerful shadowguards!
I realize I used a lot of the same words several times, but I'm trying to prove how dumb these characters' plan is.
Do you see how, no matter how strong the three are together, the odds are really stacked against them? How do they not see that?
How does Rafe not see that? He's a powerful warrior with lots of experience! And if he loves Aurora (even though they're kinda mad at each other), he should have convinced or forced her to stay. Going with her really isn't going to help anybody!
The ending was the worst part of the book.
But other than that and a few minor things, this was a pretty entertaining read!
I got a few vibes of other worlds that I loved such as the Iron Fey, a little bit of Narnia, and a little bit of Harry Potter was in there too, but it was little enough that it wasn't a replica or anything! It was also a little Kind Arthur-y with the names (Morgana, Avalonia, Evolon...etc.). I enjoyed it.
The plot was solid and straightforward. World-building was pretty good and the characters and their adventures were fun!
Rafe is scrumptious ;)
I like him! I just don't know if he's the best for Aurora.
Oh well.
I totally recommend this and I'm looking forward to the next one to see what happens with their plan-less plan ^_^
Thanks to InspiredKathy for providing me with a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review!
August 5, 2015
This book was like a delicious piece of chocolate candy! The only bad thing is that the next book has not been written yet! What am I supposed to do!?!? I hope that Farah Oomerbhoy is busy writing as I type this review. The book had a little Harry Potter, Lord of the Rings, Game of Thrones all mixed up in to a fun story line. The writing was good. The descriptions were not overly descriptive. I liked the characters and I really want to read the next book in the series!
Part of what appealed to me with this book is that somewhere inside this old body there is a little girl who dreams of being sucked into another world where wonderful things happen with lots of adventure along the way. There were a couple things that were predictable but I did not care because I loved this book.
Thank you, thank you NetGalley and Wise Ink Creative Publishing for the opportunity to read this delightful book. I will (and already have) recommended to fellow readers, librarians, and anyone else who will listen to me rave about this book!
Part of what appealed to me with this book is that somewhere inside this old body there is a little girl who dreams of being sucked into another world where wonderful things happen with lots of adventure along the way. There were a couple things that were predictable but I did not care because I loved this book.
Thank you, thank you NetGalley and Wise Ink Creative Publishing for the opportunity to read this delightful book. I will (and already have) recommended to fellow readers, librarians, and anyone else who will listen to me rave about this book!
September 16, 2015
I received a copy through NetGalley, in exchange for an honest review.
I was very excited to get a copy! This was one I was very excited to read.
We meet a fiery heroine, who isn't just content to just accept what everyone around her thinks she should be.
She stands up for herself, what she believes in, is brave and sometimes reckless in her need to help others.
Thrown into a land she knows nothing about, having to learn about her own history, about a land she's destined to rule. And that's she's not nearly as ordinary as she thinks she is.
A land with magic, faeries, mages,different kingdoms, a wicked queen, a vivid, well thought out world that we get to delve into. (these are my favorite kinds of stories with elaborate worlds.)
And did I mention there's also a handsome rakish outlaw?
I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to seeing what comes next for Princess Aurora.
I was very excited to get a copy! This was one I was very excited to read.
We meet a fiery heroine, who isn't just content to just accept what everyone around her thinks she should be.
She stands up for herself, what she believes in, is brave and sometimes reckless in her need to help others.
Thrown into a land she knows nothing about, having to learn about her own history, about a land she's destined to rule. And that's she's not nearly as ordinary as she thinks she is.
A land with magic, faeries, mages,different kingdoms, a wicked queen, a vivid, well thought out world that we get to delve into. (these are my favorite kinds of stories with elaborate worlds.)
And did I mention there's also a handsome rakish outlaw?
I really enjoyed this book and I look forward to seeing what comes next for Princess Aurora.
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