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The Reckoning
The magical lands of Alterra have been stricken with famine since the destruction of light magic. Rebellion threatens to rise, but the Reckoning, an age-old tradition where potential warriors compete in deadly challenges, could provide distraction.
To be Called is an honor, but glory is reserved for the champion. So when Malaki Darkblood, a prince with demonic heritage, is Called he is expected to win. But his fate is intertwined with that of a girl and he finds more than his reputation is at stake.
Harrison Darkborne, a highborn asudh, is more than honored to be Called. His loyalty to the King knows no bounds, but when his wedding to the princess is postponed he soon discovers that there are challenges far greater than the Reckoning.
Tyler Skyy, a human farmer, clings to her faith in love and kindness even as her family's herd thins. Though her hope is strong, her life is turned upside down when she is Called. Without any magic of her own her odds of survival are low, but her kindness may prove to be her savior.
Facing the unknown challenges ahead of them, one thing holds true.
Their fates are intertwined.
To be Called is an honor, but glory is reserved for the champion. So when Malaki Darkblood, a prince with demonic heritage, is Called he is expected to win. But his fate is intertwined with that of a girl and he finds more than his reputation is at stake.
Harrison Darkborne, a highborn asudh, is more than honored to be Called. His loyalty to the King knows no bounds, but when his wedding to the princess is postponed he soon discovers that there are challenges far greater than the Reckoning.
Tyler Skyy, a human farmer, clings to her faith in love and kindness even as her family's herd thins. Though her hope is strong, her life is turned upside down when she is Called. Without any magic of her own her odds of survival are low, but her kindness may prove to be her savior.
Facing the unknown challenges ahead of them, one thing holds true.
Their fates are intertwined.
- GenresFantasy
338 pages, Hardcover
First published April 14, 2021
16 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews
May 30, 2021
"Kindness isn't right if it gets you killed"
(Disclaimer: I was lucky enough to receive an eARC of "The Reckoning" from the author, in exchange for an honest review. Thanks, Kayla!)
Since Lightbloods and their magic disappeared from the land of Alterra, famine and violence have slowly taken over, pushing the Alterran citizens to the verge of starvation--and revolution. To have the people distracted enough that they don't plan any uprising, the Darkblood King of Alterra decides to celebrate the Reckoning: a competition in which those Chosen for the challenge will fight to death for the chance to serve their kingdom as fierce, powerful warriors. Being the heir to the Alterran throne, Ki's not surprised to be Called. Neither are his best friends Harrison, bearer of a heavy burden and bethroted to Ki's sister, and Daniel, an army general known for his ruthless command. But Tyler Skyy? She's just a famined farmer girl. What could the Reckoning have to do with her, if there isn't a single ounce of magic running through her veins?
Kayla Knue's debut could be described as the kind of dark fantasy you'd get if The Hunger Games met Beauty And The Beast, and had a queer child. From the first moment, The Reckoning offers rich LGBTQ+ representation, featuring demisexual, bisexual, homosexual and non-binary characters. The aspec rep, in particular, was incredible to see, as there's barely any of it out there. My heart was so happy to have all this rep!
But don't be mistaken: this is not the kind of book that will make you happy. For there's also rep of very important, triggering issues, which Knue tackles fearlessly to give silenced victims a voice (please check CWs at the bottom of this review, they're important). Even though I would have personally liked to see the psychological mid- and long-term aftermath of rape be explored in more depth, for I think its devastating consequences are all-consuming and would logically affect the person in every single aspect of their life for a long time, no matter the net of support (or lack of thereof), it wasn't handled poorly, and I, again, really appreciate the inclusion of such an important, delicate, and stigmatized topic as ftm sexual abuse.
Something I thoroughly enjoyed was the character development. Ki has to be my favourite; he undergoes a major development arc as the book progresses, which is, in my humble opinion, masterfully executed. He slowly learns to open up, even if he's not used to let anyone near his heart (not even Harrison and Daniel, his best friends), and comes to terms with the vulnerability that comes with trusting someone else. I also particularly enjoyed his discovery of his demisexuality, which is a sexual orientation that gets little to no rep and has been handled excellently here. (And the boy journals to ease his mind! I MEAN--)
There were also other characters that really stuck with me, of course! Even though I really hated Daniel at first, for his really crude behaviour and attitude, I later on understood him, and even grew fond of his green arse. Then, Harrison really stole my heart from the moment he appeared, and even though I'm frankly scared about wherever he's going in the next books, he's still a complex character I loved reading about. He's most probably Not Going To Be Okay, tho, so... Here's to suffering in the next installments of the Intertwined series!
Regarding the plot and setting, Knue's novel does make the reader reminisce THG. I'm personally a sucker for deadly competitions and tourneys, so the second the Reckoning was mentioned, I was sold! There still are original twists, such as the intervention of magic or the familiars, that make Knue's deadly games different from Suzanne Collins'; it's the tension, mostly, that they share.
Speaking of which... WHAT. A. PAGE-TURNER. I've stayed up real late three days in a row, because I was so mesmerized with TR, I simply couldn't drop it!!! Not kidding! I thought this read would take me a while, but it was actually fast because of how insanely addictive the story is. There was no info-dumping at any given point, the stakes were high, the characters felt real--and I just couldn't stop reading. There was also a very nice worldbuilding, with stories of shamans and deities, different races, and magic, that I was charmed by. I can't wait to hear more about the Gods and Goddesses of Alterra! Hopefully we'll get a deeper insight into the religious system in future books!
My only constructive criticism would be in regard to the sex scenes. I can't quite put my finger on why, but they didn't really ring entirely true. There was a certain detachedness to them. Again, this is simply my personal perception; and I'm not even a fan of sex scenes, at all, so I didn't mind it much lol. There was also the aforementioned issue of developing the aftermath of sexual trauma, which (again, only in my opinion! And it isn't poorly handled, don't take me wrong) I would've liked to get more of. It's something that shakes a person's foundations, after all, and I would've liked to see that reflected in the story and the character's arc way more than it was.
All in all, "The Reckoning" is definitely a very strong debut for Knue! They have written a dark and addictive story any and every THG fan should put at the top of their TBR, and from the looks of the ending, there's going to be even a bigger ride in future installments. Don't even doubt it: pick up your copy of The Reckoning as soon as it comes out on April the 14th.
[Content Warnings//CWs: Beatings, Blood and gore, Death, Loss of a loved one, Murder, Physical violence, Psychological abuse, Rape (explicit description), Sex, Sexual violence, Trauma, Victim blaming]
April 5, 2021
⭐️4.5/5
So I read this book within 16 hours, only stopping to sleep 👍
'The Reckoning' is described as an LGBT+ dark fantasy where 'The Hunger Games' meets 'Beauty and the Beast' and honesty, I can't argue with that. The LGBT+ rep is rich, there's the barbaric fight-to-the-death games, and there's the "beast" (or in this case, a demon prince) being teamed up with -- and subsequently protecting -- the human girl as they strive to survive The Reckoning.
This book is honestly addictive. The characters are rich, the action is tense, and the themes explored are brutally honest. This is a dark fantasy - in every sense of the word - and it can be extremely tough to read at times. The way certain characters deal with the ramifications of what happened were both heartbreaking and terrifying -- a true Fall character arc and I am genuinely scared to see where Knue takes his story in the next books in the series.
I enjoyed the arcs explored in the other characters, particularly Ki (who is perhaps my favourite character) -- he is carrying so much rage, and to see him finally start to open up (to others and himself) was genuinely heartwarming. The final character I loved to see was Tyler, whose unlimited kindness within such a dark and brutal world was such a bright light. Tyler's ending was mind-blowing, and answered the subtle clues and questions that Knue skilfully placed throughout the story.
In saying that, some characters just didn't warm to me: Daniel, for instance. I could never get passed his shocking disclosures during the open scenes, and consequently I could never warm to him being another character's love interest. But in saying that, I still wanted to follow their story through to the end.
Overall, this is a great debut and I eagerly await the next books in the series.
I received a free ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
So I read this book within 16 hours, only stopping to sleep 👍
'The Reckoning' is described as an LGBT+ dark fantasy where 'The Hunger Games' meets 'Beauty and the Beast' and honesty, I can't argue with that. The LGBT+ rep is rich, there's the barbaric fight-to-the-death games, and there's the "beast" (or in this case, a demon prince) being teamed up with -- and subsequently protecting -- the human girl as they strive to survive The Reckoning.
This book is honestly addictive. The characters are rich, the action is tense, and the themes explored are brutally honest. This is a dark fantasy - in every sense of the word - and it can be extremely tough to read at times. The way certain characters deal with the ramifications of what happened were both heartbreaking and terrifying -- a true Fall character arc and I am genuinely scared to see where Knue takes his story in the next books in the series.
I enjoyed the arcs explored in the other characters, particularly Ki (who is perhaps my favourite character) -- he is carrying so much rage, and to see him finally start to open up (to others and himself) was genuinely heartwarming. The final character I loved to see was Tyler, whose unlimited kindness within such a dark and brutal world was such a bright light. Tyler's ending was mind-blowing, and answered the subtle clues and questions that Knue skilfully placed throughout the story.
In saying that, some characters just didn't warm to me: Daniel, for instance. I could never get passed his shocking disclosures during the open scenes, and consequently I could never warm to him being another character's love interest. But in saying that, I still wanted to follow their story through to the end.
Overall, this is a great debut and I eagerly await the next books in the series.
I received a free ARC of this novel in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2021
Wow. This was an addictive read. I've seen The Reckoning compared to The Hunger Games, and in some aspects this holds true, but there is so much more to the story than that. I was struck by the contrasting character arcs of two of the main characters - as one rises, the other falls, and this was done beautifully. My heart is aching.
It's very hard for me to choose a favourite character. I loved Ki and his journey. Tyler is a wonderful character and I loved their interactions. She was like a ray of sunlight, and the revelations about her as the story progresses have me so excited for the next book! Harrison broke my heart... I have many thoughts and feelings, and I am so invested in him for the sequel too. I won't say anything else because of spoilers, but yes, very interested to see where the story takes him next...
Something that stood out to me about The Reckoning is how well the author balances an exciting plot (the Reckoning itself) with romantic relationships, personal realisations, traumatic experiences, and many other complex themes. I thought the plot and character development was weaved so well throughout the novel. I'm so interested to learn more about the conflict between the Darkbloods and the Lightbloods, and to see how the characters will take their places in the coming conflict.
It's very hard for me to choose a favourite character. I loved Ki and his journey. Tyler is a wonderful character and I loved their interactions. She was like a ray of sunlight, and the revelations about her as the story progresses have me so excited for the next book! Harrison broke my heart... I have many thoughts and feelings, and I am so invested in him for the sequel too. I won't say anything else because of spoilers, but yes, very interested to see where the story takes him next...
Something that stood out to me about The Reckoning is how well the author balances an exciting plot (the Reckoning itself) with romantic relationships, personal realisations, traumatic experiences, and many other complex themes. I thought the plot and character development was weaved so well throughout the novel. I'm so interested to learn more about the conflict between the Darkbloods and the Lightbloods, and to see how the characters will take their places in the coming conflict.
April 29, 2021
I enjoyed the story but not the sex. If you don’t like reading explicit sex scenes or sexual violence, this book is not for you. It is an X-rated LGBTQ+ Hunger Games with magic. It is also more than that. It looks at societal pressures around caste and gender roles and how the characters feel as they choose to accept or reject those expectations. It tackles tough topics like consent and the experience of male victims of sexual assault. It is all woven seamlessly into this story of forbidden love and the battle of good and evil. I was drawn into the story and look forward to seeing where it goes as the series continues.
January 29, 2021
The Hunger Games meets Beauty and the Beast in this epic LGBTQ+ dark fantasy romance.
August 19, 2021
A great book 1. Can't wait for the rest of the series
I read a lot of paranormal romance and paranormal fiction in general. This book had a stellar story line, world building and character building - which are often lacking in PR - while also adding spice.
The narration by different key characters is engaging and makes me feel as if I am building a relationship with each one.
I can't wait for the rest of the series!
I read a lot of paranormal romance and paranormal fiction in general. This book had a stellar story line, world building and character building - which are often lacking in PR - while also adding spice.
The narration by different key characters is engaging and makes me feel as if I am building a relationship with each one.
I can't wait for the rest of the series!
April 16, 2021
The short review:
Would I recommend The Reckoning to others? Yes! 100%. I've already sent copies to other readers.
Would I read The Reckoning again knowing the outcome? Yes! I'm on my second pass through this novel. With the development of its characters there are so many subtle bits and pieces that I would have missed if I hadn't started a second read through.
Will I read additional work by Kayla Knue? Yes! Especially of the are from the Intertwined universe.
_________________________
As a reader I the Hunger Games. Hated. Capitol H, full stop. I barely made it through Katniss volunteering as tribute in her sister’s stead. That doesn’t mean I didn’t finish the Hunger Games. It just means that I found Hunger Games very contrived and predictable. If Hunger Games had broader spectrum of characters, magic, and a Beauty and the Beast trope, I might have enjoyed it.
Because of my dislike for the Hunger Games I was a bit anxious about reading The Reckoning.
While I didn't want, I was honestly prepared to hate it.
What I found is so much more than I ever expected. This book forces readers outside of their comfort zone and into a well imagined dystopian universe where we face some of the greatest evils of any society. With captivating characters and an immersive story. Kayla more than delivered on a promise of the Hunger Games + Beauty and the Beast.
In The Reckoning, the characters are not only diverse and well rounded, each is relatable in their own way because they represent such a broad spectrum of people from all walks of life.
While this first installment focuses more on Ki and Taylor's partnership in The Reckoning, my favorite character is Harrison.
I found myself drawn to his life experiences as they mirror some of my own. I cried when he was hurt and wanted to dive into the pages and gouge out the eyes of his attacker. I cried again when he finally felt the love and joy he deserves. And he deserves more.
If I honestly have any sort of disappointments with the overall telling and development of this novel, it's that I came to the end too quickly. I found that like others, I am eagerly awaiting the opportunity to read more from Intertwined and seeing the story to continue unfolding.
Would I recommend The Reckoning to others? Yes! 100%. I've already sent copies to other readers.
Would I read The Reckoning again knowing the outcome? Yes! I'm on my second pass through this novel. With the development of its characters there are so many subtle bits and pieces that I would have missed if I hadn't started a second read through.
Will I read additional work by Kayla Knue? Yes! Especially of the are from the Intertwined universe.
_________________________
As a reader I the Hunger Games. Hated. Capitol H, full stop. I barely made it through Katniss volunteering as tribute in her sister’s stead. That doesn’t mean I didn’t finish the Hunger Games. It just means that I found Hunger Games very contrived and predictable. If Hunger Games had broader spectrum of characters, magic, and a Beauty and the Beast trope, I might have enjoyed it.
Because of my dislike for the Hunger Games I was a bit anxious about reading The Reckoning.
While I didn't want, I was honestly prepared to hate it.
What I found is so much more than I ever expected. This book forces readers outside of their comfort zone and into a well imagined dystopian universe where we face some of the greatest evils of any society. With captivating characters and an immersive story. Kayla more than delivered on a promise of the Hunger Games + Beauty and the Beast.
In The Reckoning, the characters are not only diverse and well rounded, each is relatable in their own way because they represent such a broad spectrum of people from all walks of life.
While this first installment focuses more on Ki and Taylor's partnership in The Reckoning, my favorite character is Harrison.
I found myself drawn to his life experiences as they mirror some of my own. I cried when he was hurt and wanted to dive into the pages and gouge out the eyes of his attacker. I cried again when he finally felt the love and joy he deserves. And he deserves more.
If I honestly have any sort of disappointments with the overall telling and development of this novel, it's that I came to the end too quickly. I found that like others, I am eagerly awaiting the opportunity to read more from Intertwined and seeing the story to continue unfolding.
April 16, 2021
*I received this ARC for free in exchange for an honest review.
TW: sexual assault, graphic violence, blood, starvation, explicit sex scenes
I really liked this story. It was incredibly captivating, every time I had to set it down I'd be thinking about it until I got a chance to read it again. It took some tropes I was indifferent about and changed them around to make me love them, and overall I really enjoyed it.
The premise was really interesting, and it definitely delivered. It was a great concept with some surprising twists, and overall a really fun ride. There were a few big events that felt a little too fast, but aside from a few placed the pacing was really great and kept me captivated the whole way through. I also liked that each POV character felt really distinct. The balance between them was great, and I never felt like we went too long without hearing from one of them.
I will admit that it took me a while to warm up to one of our POV characters through. In one of the first chapters, he tells a story about raping one of his soldiers when she questions him. I know it served a purpose, but I think we could have gotten the same outcome with a different path. This book does centre around some themes of rape and the aftermath the victim goes through, and I think it was mostly approached in a great way aside from this specific scene. It also addressed the stigma of men who get sexually abused, and I thought that was also handled well.
My main complaint was that I was a little lost sometimes and felt like I was just missing some information, mostly in the worldbuilding and the character races and just how things worked. The best way I can explain it is that it's like reading an amazing fanfiction about a fandom I'm not part of. The writing may be great, the story may be interesting, but I just feel like I'm missing out on a lot of context. One example early on is that gets brought up early on is that a character doesn't want his father finding out that he grew wings. But I had no idea if his species is supposed to have wings, or what that means, or why he's suddenly growing wings. I just know it's apparently important to him to hide that fact. I still enjoyed it, but I would have been way more invested if I'd understood or had context.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and can't wait for the sequel. Some big events were set up and some things went in a different direction than I expected, and I'm really looking forward to finding out what happens next. I would recommend this to anyone who likes dark violent fantasy and doesn't mind explicit sex scenes.
TW: sexual assault, graphic violence, blood, starvation, explicit sex scenes
I really liked this story. It was incredibly captivating, every time I had to set it down I'd be thinking about it until I got a chance to read it again. It took some tropes I was indifferent about and changed them around to make me love them, and overall I really enjoyed it.
The premise was really interesting, and it definitely delivered. It was a great concept with some surprising twists, and overall a really fun ride. There were a few big events that felt a little too fast, but aside from a few placed the pacing was really great and kept me captivated the whole way through. I also liked that each POV character felt really distinct. The balance between them was great, and I never felt like we went too long without hearing from one of them.
I will admit that it took me a while to warm up to one of our POV characters through. In one of the first chapters, he tells a story about raping one of his soldiers when she questions him. I know it served a purpose, but I think we could have gotten the same outcome with a different path. This book does centre around some themes of rape and the aftermath the victim goes through, and I think it was mostly approached in a great way aside from this specific scene. It also addressed the stigma of men who get sexually abused, and I thought that was also handled well.
My main complaint was that I was a little lost sometimes and felt like I was just missing some information, mostly in the worldbuilding and the character races and just how things worked. The best way I can explain it is that it's like reading an amazing fanfiction about a fandom I'm not part of. The writing may be great, the story may be interesting, but I just feel like I'm missing out on a lot of context. One example early on is that gets brought up early on is that a character doesn't want his father finding out that he grew wings. But I had no idea if his species is supposed to have wings, or what that means, or why he's suddenly growing wings. I just know it's apparently important to him to hide that fact. I still enjoyed it, but I would have been way more invested if I'd understood or had context.
Overall I really enjoyed this story and can't wait for the sequel. Some big events were set up and some things went in a different direction than I expected, and I'm really looking forward to finding out what happens next. I would recommend this to anyone who likes dark violent fantasy and doesn't mind explicit sex scenes.
Displaying 1 - 8 of 8 reviews