Review of Whispers of Shadow & Flame (Earthsinger #2) by L. Penelope
Earthsinger #1: Song of Blood & Stone
Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆
I listened to the finished audiobook, but also had a review copy provided to me by St. Martin’s Griffin in exchange for and honest review.
DESCRIPTION
The Mantle that separates the kingdoms of Elsira and Lagrimar is about to fall. And life will drastically change for both kingdoms.
Born with a deadly magic she cannot control, Kyara is forced to become an assassin. Known as the Poison Flame in the kingdom of Lagrimar, she is notorious and lethal, but secretly seeks freedom from both her untamed power and the blood spell that commands her. She is tasked with capturing the legendary rebel called the Shadowfox, but everything changes when she learns her target’s true identity.
Darvyn ol-Tahlyro may be the most powerful Earthsinger in generations, but guilt over those he couldn’t save tortures him daily. He isn’t sure he can trust the mysterious young woman who claims to need his help, but when he discovers Kyara can unlock the secrets of his past, he can’t stay away.
Kyara and Darvyn grapple with betrayal, old promises, and older prophecies—all while trying to stop a war. And when a new threat emerges, they must beat the odds to save both kingdoms.
REVIEW
I absolutely love L. Penelope’s work and this book really adds to her Earthsinger Chronicles and the incredibly detailed fantasy world she’s created. Fantasy or not, this is a world with realistic emotions, motivations and (steamy) romance.
I’ve been really looking forward to getting to know Darvyn, after his first mention in Song of Blood & Stone, and this book did not disappoint! In addition to his character, we meet new ones Kyara, Zeli, Ulani and Tana. I loved everyone – they’re all incredibly different but each plays a pivotal role in the plot. There’s also a handful of characters with not so benevolent intentions and it’s up to the reader to weed them out as the story progresses. Innocence is shattered, friendships are broken and alliances are forged.
Additionally, this story takes place during the same time as Song of Blood & Stone, therefore we get occasional mention of what Jack & Jasminda (😍) are up to and what’s happening over the border in Elsira. You get the feeling that soon, everyone will have to come together and the story is building toward that point.
I really love these books and cannot wait for more. It left some characters in precarious positions and I’m forever curious to see where L. Penelope will take them next!
Highly recommend these books to ALL fantasy fans. L. Penelope’s writing and storytelling is masterful.
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