Not quite an “ARC” as such, but I did receive a free copy of the New Edition released August 2024 from the author in exchange for an honest review. 

Before I go any further, I have to state just how much I love all of the characters SM Gaither has created in her Marrlands world, and I cannot believe I had no idea of this series existence until recently. This was the first series the author has written in this world, but timeline wise, it is set between Flame and Sparrow and The Song of the Marked. It also is very much YA compared to F&S and its sequel, so please bear that in mind.

As always we’re introduced to a strong, independent and thoroughly well thought out female main character. SM writes found family really well, and this book is no exception.

We follow Alaya, who is not who she seems and is hiding a pretty big secret from her village and her friends. A shock discovery of this secret leads her to the empires capital, and an introduction to the Royal Family. The Rook King is not a good leader, in Alaya’s eyes he’s the reason for her mother’s death and why she has to keep so many secrets close to her chest. She wants revenge and she may just have found a way to enact it, with the help of her friends and a certain prince. 

This is absolutely a book that focuses on self-discovery and redemption. Alaya doesn’t know who she is and this majorly impacts her life and her plans for the future. Character development is strong and there are some plot twists, particularly betrayals, which I did not expect. The complexity of the characters themselves and their behaviours kept me engaged and made for a compelling story. 

The world building is just enough to keep you informed, but not overwhelm. You would probably find this much easier if you have already read the other books in the Marrland World, where the heavy detail of the God’s Hierarchy and the magic system have already been detailed. 

Overall, as always, SM writes a fantastic fantasy story that makes you want to come back for more. I am already counting down the days for the re-release of book 2!