In Emmory Jarman's A Kingdom So Crimson, the first book in the Lightbringer series, Eliah, a fiercely independent young woman, finds her life irrevocably altered. Abandoned and forced into a brutal death match for a place in the King's court, Eliah's world is one of relentless training and crushing despair. But when she's thrust into the competition, she discovers a hidden world of dark magic, monstrous creatures, and a conspiracy reaching far beyond the kingdom's walls. With a mysterious mentor and deadly secrets, Eliah must fight not only for survival but also against a sinister order seeking cosmic domination. This high-fantasy blend of Anastasia, The Hunger Games, and Throne of Glass promises a thrilling adventure filled with action, romance, and a fight for ultimate freedom.
Review A Kingdom so Crimson
Wow, "A Kingdom So Crimson" completely swept me away! From the very first page, I was hooked by Eliah's story. Her fierce spirit, born from years of abuse and hardship, resonated deeply. Emmory Jarman masterfully portrays Eliah's internal struggle – that simmering rage constantly threatening to boil over, yet tempered by a desperate need for survival. You feel her pain, her frustration, and her quiet moments of hope, all woven together beautifully. The author doesn't shy away from depicting the brutality of Eliah's world, making the moments of triumph all the more satisfying.
The plot itself is a whirlwind. It's a gripping blend of high-fantasy action, political intrigue, and burgeoning romance—a potent cocktail that kept me constantly on the edge of my seat. The constant threat of danger, lurking both within the kingdom's corrupt court and from the sinister Spellcasters, maintained a palpable tension throughout the narrative. The twists and turns were genuinely surprising, keeping me guessing until the very end. That ending! I won’t spoil anything, but let’s just say I desperately need the next book yesterday.
What truly impressed me, beyond the compelling narrative and strong protagonist, was the world-building. Jarman's creation feels lived-in, rich with detail and believable magic. The magic system is fascinating, unique, and seamlessly integrated into the story. It’s complex enough to feel significant without bogging down the pacing. The author's descriptive language painted vivid pictures in my mind, allowing me to fully immerse myself in this fantastical realm, feeling the chill of the castle walls and the weight of the oppressive atmosphere. It felt like stepping into a fully realized world, not just reading about one.
The supporting characters, while not as deeply explored as Eliah, are still well-defined and contribute significantly to the overall narrative. Each has their own motivations and secrets, adding layers of complexity to the plot. While some readers might find the pacing a little slow in the beginning—a common trait in epic fantasy—I found it necessary to establish the foundation of the world and the protagonist's character arc. The slow burn romance adds a nice touch, building the tension between Eliah and her mentor without resorting to unnecessary spice.
Honestly, I can’t believe this is a debut novel. The level of skill and attention to detail exhibited by Emmory Jarman is remarkable. "A Kingdom So Crimson" is a captivating read, a powerful story of resilience and survival, and a testament to the author's immense talent. I wholeheartedly recommend this book to fans of high fantasy, action-packed adventures, and compelling characters. It's a five-star read for me, and I'm eagerly anticipating the next installment in this promising series.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 1.06 x 8.5 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 422
- Publication date: 2024
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