by Dana Swift
Release Date: January 19, 2021; Delacorte Press
From Goodreads:
The first book in an epic, heart-pounding fantasy duology about two royal heirs betrothed to be married, but whose loyalties are torn, and a ruthless enemy who threatens their world, perfect for fans of Sabaa Tahir, Hafsah Faizal, and Renée Ahdieh.
Adraa is the royal heir of Belwar, a talented witch on the cusp of taking her royal ceremony test, and a girl who just wants to prove her worth to her people.
Jatin is the royal heir to Naupure, a competitive wizard who's mastered all nine colors of magic, and a boy anxious to return home for the first time since he was a child.
Together, their arranged marriage will unite two of Wickery's most powerful kingdoms. But after years of rivalry from afar, Adraa and Jatin only agree on one thing: their reunion will be anything but sweet.
Only, destiny has other plans and with the criminal underbelly of Belwar suddenly making a move for control, their paths cross...and neither realizes who the other is, adopting separate secret identities instead.
Between dodging deathly spells and keeping their true selves hidden, the pair must learn to put their trust in the other if either is to uncover the real threat. Now Wickery's fate is in the hands of rivals..? Fiancées..? Partners..? Whatever they are, it's complicated and bound for greatness or destruction.
Rating: 4 of 5 stars
"It's like trying to describe pure happiness or the feeling of warmth. Your chest is light and heavy at the same time. You can feel each breath of air and it is both rich and all-consuming. I'm taller somehow, stronger."
Cast in Firelight was so far from what I expected and I ABSOLUTELY LOVE IT!
This book took me on a wild ride. The magic system was excitingly unique. The storytelling was atmospheric, vibrant and utterly addictive. And the characters were adorably lovable! Jatin and Adraa had my heart from the start!
I don't think I could describe exactly how I feel about this book. I'm trying to write this review literally just minutes after I finished reading it and I'm still trying to come up with words. Rest assured, Cast in Firelight was exciting, surprising, sweet, romantic and was not without humor. Personally, what I most love about it was the unique and complex magic system. I honestly could barely describe it but I think the best I can come up with is The Last Air Bender meets Sherry Thomas' The Elemental trilogy? If that makes sense?
Okay, in the spirit of keeping things simple and calming my anxiety. (Writing reviews and knowing I'm failing in expressing what I'm feeling makes me anxious.) Here's the top three things I love about CIF- the magic, the writing and Jatin and Adraa. (Okay that's four) You have got to read the book to understand just how magical and cinematic the magic is. The writing was definitely enjoyable and thrilling. I love descriptive books and this did not disappoint. Mistaken identities, slow burn romance, not exactly enemies to friends to lovers, and swoony banter. If you're a fan of those, be prepared to fall in love with Adraa and Jatin. Because you will.
With its gorgeous cover and exquisite writing, Cast in Firelight is a definite must-read! I cannot wait to shove it in everyone's faces! Lol. (But seriously)
I received an e-arc to read and review. Quoted excerpt/s may change in the final print.
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