This story grabbed me from the blurb, making me eager to dive into its pages. Once I did, I knew I was in for a fantastic read. "Thorn Season" by Kiera Azar is the first book in a romantasy trilogy and an excellent start to the series. Think "The Selection", but with magic - and even better.
The book takes place in the Kingdom of Daradon, where Wielders are persecuted for their invisible power, the Specter, which makes them feared by the common people. The story follows Alissa Paine—heiress to a noble lineage and daughter of a Hunter family sworn to hunt Wielders. But Alissa is a Wielder herself, forced to keep her abilities hidden to avoid detection. On her 18th birthday, she must attend the royal court for the debutante season, only to find herself ensnared in court intrigue and caught between two dangerous men: Eric, the cruel king, and Keil, a foreign ambassador. It may be the Rose Season at the palace, but only her wit and thorns will keep her alive.
Court intrigue, an original magic system, secrets and betrayals, hidden agendas, enemies to lovers, forbidden powers, slow-burn romance - this book has it all. While the romance takes a backseat to the plot, there's a touch of well-crafted sexual tension. Plus, no love triangle—a trope I'm more than happy to do without.
This is a highly entertaining romantasy, filled with rich world-building, vivid and original characters, and a captivating magical setting. The magic system is unique, creative, and well-thought-out. The author does an excellent job of portraying her characters - whether protagonists or side characters, each one feels fully developed, from the honorable to the wicked and everyone in between.
Alissa is a fantastic heroine - intelligent, beautiful, sharp-tongued, and strong-willed. But she’s also reckless, daring, and rash. More than once, I wanted to shake her and tell her to stop being such a daredevil! I especially liked her relationship with her father and the genuine care between them. The dialogue, particularly the snappy exchanges between the main characters, was a highlight - whether in moments of flirtation or otherwise.
The pacing is just right - not too fast, not too slow - keeping a steady flow of twists and turns. With its immersive world-building, compelling characters, intricate magic system, and suspenseful plot, this book is an absolute page-turner. The writing style is smooth and easy to follow, and the thrilling ending perfectly sets the stage for the second book in the trilogy.
From the very first page, this story pulled me in and kept me hooked. I loved it and can’t wait for the next installment. While aimed at a YA audience, this book is an engaging, fast-paced read that any adult fantasy lover would enjoy. Full stars from me!
*Thank you NetGalley and (publisher) for the opportunity to read this arc. All opinions are my own.
* For more info about the book: "Thorn Season" by Kiera Azar