Phoenix Unbound by Grace Drayven
I know this novel was highly anticipated by others and I am THRILLED to have gotten a chance to read it! Im glad I wasn't left in anticipation because as soon as I read the synopsis I needed it.
This world was absolutely breathtaking. I dove right in and couldn't stop until I was finished. Grave Drayven not only has the coolest name ever, but she has the BEST writing style! I was completely captivated by her writing and her characters.
This novel tells a story of sacrifice and survival. It built the relationship between the characters and by the end I was completely hooked on all of them. I want so much more from Azarion and Gilene.
I am hooked. I want more. Can I beg for it? This seems to be a year for Ya/Na fantasy novels that completely ROCK YOU and I am all for it.
Synopsis:
A woman with power over fire and illusion and an enslaved son of a chieftain battle a corrupt empire in this powerful and deeply emotional romantic fantasy from the USA Todaybestselling author of Radiance.
Every year, each village is required to send a young woman to the Empire's capital--her fate to be burned alive for the entertainment of the masses. For the last five years, one small village's tithe has been the same woman. Gilene's sacrifice protects all the other young women of her village, and her secret to staying alive lies with the magic only she possesses.
But this year is different.
Azarion, the Empire's most famous gladiator, has somehow seen through her illusion--and is set on blackmailing Gilene into using her abilities to help him escape his life of slavery. And unknown to Gilene, he also wants to reclaim the birthright of his clan.
To protect her family and village, she will risk everything to return to the Empire--and burn once more.