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Askefise
Tales of Redemeré: Book I
ASKEFISE
n. One who blows on ashes to bring them to flame.
In a time before the Great War has ravaged the land, two sisters stumble across a lone traveler who calls himself Tyron. They tell him that they’re just passersby. He tells them that he’s nobody.
They’re all lying.
When the sisters begrudgingly agree to take Tyron with them to safety, they have no idea what they set in motion. One thing’s for The world of Eatris will never be the same.
For once Tyron has started, there’s no turning back.
While this is a prequel following an antagonist from the series, A Daughter's Ransom, it can be read as a standalone.
Not recommended for young readers.
ASKEFISE
n. One who blows on ashes to bring them to flame.
In a time before the Great War has ravaged the land, two sisters stumble across a lone traveler who calls himself Tyron. They tell him that they’re just passersby. He tells them that he’s nobody.
They’re all lying.
When the sisters begrudgingly agree to take Tyron with them to safety, they have no idea what they set in motion. One thing’s for The world of Eatris will never be the same.
For once Tyron has started, there’s no turning back.
While this is a prequel following an antagonist from the series, A Daughter's Ransom, it can be read as a standalone.
Not recommended for young readers.
- GenresFantasy
507 pages, Paperback
Published October 12, 2022
36 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 8, 2023
* You can find my full video review here: https://youtu.be/uS_e8G1FiA0 *
I read this book for Team Bookborn as part of phase one of SPFBO9. As such, my rating will be withheld until my semi-finalist is announced.
Askefise, by Rebecca Schmid, is the first book in a prequel duology to the series called A Daughter’s Ransom that she co-authored with her sister-in-law. My understanding is that this duology, titled Tales of Redemeré, serves as the origin story for the villain of the Daughter’s Ransom series, with Askefise charting the “rise” and the forthcoming second book giving us the “fall”.
In exploring the character of Tyron, Askefise, in the author’s words, is the chance for the antagonist of A Daughter’s Ransom to be a hero.
As someone who hasn’t read the other books, I can comfortably say that no prior knowledge of them is needed before picking up this one. I think for those who have read them, there will likely be easter eggs and the like, but any recognisable parts will only serve to enhance the experience, rather than detracting from the experience of those for whom Askefise is the first taste of this world.
In terms of the book itself, we have three main characters and two points of view. Each chapter is split into two, giving us first the viewpoint of Rhioa, and then switching over to Tyron. The third main character is Rhioa’s sister, Tirzah, who doesn’t have her own point of view chapters.
Rhioa and Tirzah find an unconscious Tyron and help him out, and the trio then travel together for a while as they unknowingly set out on a path towards the same goal.
In this world, there is a race called the Myrandi, who, to all outward appearances, keep to themselves and no one else really sees them. Far from that perception though, the Myrandi are puppet masters, controlling the governments of the world. They send out their agents to facilitate change, and one of those operations takes place over the course of this book.
Essentially, the aim is to pull off a bloodless coup—they want to take out one leader, and install their preferred candidate. This is not just a quick assassination and replacement though, it’s a long con, specifically engineered for anonymity, so no one will ever know (or at least most people won’t know) that their strings have been pulled and they’ve been dancing to someone else’s tune.
I like how this plays out, because normally when I see this sort of thing in fantasy, it tends to be a relatively quick operation. Here it’s much more drawn out, allowing you to see all the moving parts that go into the plan, and to get a real feel for the politics at play. I like how this process gradually increases in intensity, especially as other parts of the story are still moving along while all this is going on.
One of those other parts of the story is the romance. At first glance, I have to say this felt like a case of instalust, and it really didn’t work for me, but as I read on, I realised it was actually quite well-handled. It is a case of love (or lust) at first sight as Tyron falls for one of the sisters, but the other sister picks up on it and warns him off.
Because Tyron largely adheres to this warning, it’s not really a big thing, and that allows a romance to develop more organically as the plot progresses. I admit, this did put me off Tyron at first, because it seemed that he had been hit on the head and then woke up and fell head over heels for the first person he saw, and there wasn’t much else to him. Over time, we obviously do get to see more from him, and that really helps. Even in his early POV chapters, where he’s berating himself for the way he has fallen in love, it adds depth to the character rather than just adding a romance element to the plot.
So overall, I thought the characters were quite well done, despite some potential initial misgivings. The main three were interesting, largely because of what they are and what they are trying to accomplish, and there’s a decent supporting cast as well.
I also thought the worldbuilding was pretty good, despite it not being what I would call a main element of the story. This is more about the plot and the characters, but the world that’s been created is definitely on show as well. I like how there are lots of little threads going on in the background that don’t initially seem to have an impact on the story. But you hear them almost in passing and it’s another little layer to the worldbuilding that shows there is more here than just the story we’re seeing.
We do, of course, have the fantastical elements on show as well, with Drogans, Gifting, and Karansuurs, for instance, giving us magic and fantastic beasts. Drogans are fully human and fully dragon, and can move at will between the two forms, and we do get to see this on display and see how they are looked at by the rest of the world. Gifting is the more traditional magic of this world, and there are plenty of different uses of this shown throughout the book as well.
There were a couple of bits that didn’t work so well for me; one being my initial perception of Tyron and his love. The other main one for me was that there were a couple of conveniences that I didn’t feel were properly tied up or explained away. The key one of these was right at the start, where I felt it made little sense for Rhioa and Tirzah to take Tyron with them, especially once I found out the type of people the sisters were.
All in all though, it was an enjoyable book, and one that I definitely recommend for those who like a good mix of action, romance, and political intrigue.
I read this book for Team Bookborn as part of phase one of SPFBO9. As such, my rating will be withheld until my semi-finalist is announced.
Askefise, by Rebecca Schmid, is the first book in a prequel duology to the series called A Daughter’s Ransom that she co-authored with her sister-in-law. My understanding is that this duology, titled Tales of Redemeré, serves as the origin story for the villain of the Daughter’s Ransom series, with Askefise charting the “rise” and the forthcoming second book giving us the “fall”.
In exploring the character of Tyron, Askefise, in the author’s words, is the chance for the antagonist of A Daughter’s Ransom to be a hero.
As someone who hasn’t read the other books, I can comfortably say that no prior knowledge of them is needed before picking up this one. I think for those who have read them, there will likely be easter eggs and the like, but any recognisable parts will only serve to enhance the experience, rather than detracting from the experience of those for whom Askefise is the first taste of this world.
In terms of the book itself, we have three main characters and two points of view. Each chapter is split into two, giving us first the viewpoint of Rhioa, and then switching over to Tyron. The third main character is Rhioa’s sister, Tirzah, who doesn’t have her own point of view chapters.
Rhioa and Tirzah find an unconscious Tyron and help him out, and the trio then travel together for a while as they unknowingly set out on a path towards the same goal.
In this world, there is a race called the Myrandi, who, to all outward appearances, keep to themselves and no one else really sees them. Far from that perception though, the Myrandi are puppet masters, controlling the governments of the world. They send out their agents to facilitate change, and one of those operations takes place over the course of this book.
Essentially, the aim is to pull off a bloodless coup—they want to take out one leader, and install their preferred candidate. This is not just a quick assassination and replacement though, it’s a long con, specifically engineered for anonymity, so no one will ever know (or at least most people won’t know) that their strings have been pulled and they’ve been dancing to someone else’s tune.
I like how this plays out, because normally when I see this sort of thing in fantasy, it tends to be a relatively quick operation. Here it’s much more drawn out, allowing you to see all the moving parts that go into the plan, and to get a real feel for the politics at play. I like how this process gradually increases in intensity, especially as other parts of the story are still moving along while all this is going on.
One of those other parts of the story is the romance. At first glance, I have to say this felt like a case of instalust, and it really didn’t work for me, but as I read on, I realised it was actually quite well-handled. It is a case of love (or lust) at first sight as Tyron falls for one of the sisters, but the other sister picks up on it and warns him off.
Because Tyron largely adheres to this warning, it’s not really a big thing, and that allows a romance to develop more organically as the plot progresses. I admit, this did put me off Tyron at first, because it seemed that he had been hit on the head and then woke up and fell head over heels for the first person he saw, and there wasn’t much else to him. Over time, we obviously do get to see more from him, and that really helps. Even in his early POV chapters, where he’s berating himself for the way he has fallen in love, it adds depth to the character rather than just adding a romance element to the plot.
So overall, I thought the characters were quite well done, despite some potential initial misgivings. The main three were interesting, largely because of what they are and what they are trying to accomplish, and there’s a decent supporting cast as well.
I also thought the worldbuilding was pretty good, despite it not being what I would call a main element of the story. This is more about the plot and the characters, but the world that’s been created is definitely on show as well. I like how there are lots of little threads going on in the background that don’t initially seem to have an impact on the story. But you hear them almost in passing and it’s another little layer to the worldbuilding that shows there is more here than just the story we’re seeing.
We do, of course, have the fantastical elements on show as well, with Drogans, Gifting, and Karansuurs, for instance, giving us magic and fantastic beasts. Drogans are fully human and fully dragon, and can move at will between the two forms, and we do get to see this on display and see how they are looked at by the rest of the world. Gifting is the more traditional magic of this world, and there are plenty of different uses of this shown throughout the book as well.
There were a couple of bits that didn’t work so well for me; one being my initial perception of Tyron and his love. The other main one for me was that there were a couple of conveniences that I didn’t feel were properly tied up or explained away. The key one of these was right at the start, where I felt it made little sense for Rhioa and Tirzah to take Tyron with them, especially once I found out the type of people the sisters were.
All in all though, it was an enjoyable book, and one that I definitely recommend for those who like a good mix of action, romance, and political intrigue.
March 3, 2024
The story:
When Rhioa and Tirzah find an unconscious traveller in their path, one sister’s misgivings are overruled by the other’s conscience, and Tyron finds himself rescued and accompanying them on the road. Determined not to embroil Tyron in their dangerous mission, they leave him behind as soon as possible, to travel to the land of Arvenir where they have been tasked to overthrow the leader.
But Tyron is not so easily put off, especially given his growing feelings for Rhioa, and is determined to help the sisters escape their life of spying and subterfuge. Soon all three find themselves embroiled in the politics of Arvenir in an effort to raise the rightful ruler to the throne. But with dangers on all sides, will the trio achieve their mission? And if they do, will the sisters ever be free of their all-powerful master?
My thoughts:
I read “Askefise” by Rebecca Schmid as one of the finalists in the Book Bloggers’ Novel of the Year Awards (BBNYA) 2023. I was delighted to see this novel make it through to the final, and finish in 13th place — it’s a brilliant read!
The book is narrated in the first person, with each chapter including both Rhioa and Tyron’s viewpoint. The greater part of the story takes part in Arvenir, with the three main characters inveigling themselves into the manor of Count Ihail, a man they are tasked with rising the throne. The mission is a risky one, but the trio make good use of their complementary skills. The plot is fast-paced but detailed, and I really felt I got to know all the characters and the world they inhabit.
This book is a prequel to the “A Daughter’s Ransom” series by Rebecca Schmid and Niamh Schmid, and takes place in the world they have created and includes one of the antagonists from that story. However, having not read that series, I found I was easily able to read this as a standalone.
The final part of the story serves to set up the story for the second book, and things are left precariously for all three characters, especially Tirzah… Overall, this is a great book for fantasy fans, with flawed but likeable characters in a detailed and fascinating world.
When Rhioa and Tirzah find an unconscious traveller in their path, one sister’s misgivings are overruled by the other’s conscience, and Tyron finds himself rescued and accompanying them on the road. Determined not to embroil Tyron in their dangerous mission, they leave him behind as soon as possible, to travel to the land of Arvenir where they have been tasked to overthrow the leader.
But Tyron is not so easily put off, especially given his growing feelings for Rhioa, and is determined to help the sisters escape their life of spying and subterfuge. Soon all three find themselves embroiled in the politics of Arvenir in an effort to raise the rightful ruler to the throne. But with dangers on all sides, will the trio achieve their mission? And if they do, will the sisters ever be free of their all-powerful master?
My thoughts:
I read “Askefise” by Rebecca Schmid as one of the finalists in the Book Bloggers’ Novel of the Year Awards (BBNYA) 2023. I was delighted to see this novel make it through to the final, and finish in 13th place — it’s a brilliant read!
The book is narrated in the first person, with each chapter including both Rhioa and Tyron’s viewpoint. The greater part of the story takes part in Arvenir, with the three main characters inveigling themselves into the manor of Count Ihail, a man they are tasked with rising the throne. The mission is a risky one, but the trio make good use of their complementary skills. The plot is fast-paced but detailed, and I really felt I got to know all the characters and the world they inhabit.
This book is a prequel to the “A Daughter’s Ransom” series by Rebecca Schmid and Niamh Schmid, and takes place in the world they have created and includes one of the antagonists from that story. However, having not read that series, I found I was easily able to read this as a standalone.
The final part of the story serves to set up the story for the second book, and things are left precariously for all three characters, especially Tirzah… Overall, this is a great book for fantasy fans, with flawed but likeable characters in a detailed and fascinating world.
March 7, 2024
Book source ~ BBNYA Tour
Rhioa and Tirzah, two sisters, are on a secret mission when they discover a man near to death by the Forest of Riddles. Tyron claims to have crossed through the Forest to get out of Litash as there’s nothing there for him. They help him out and he travels with them. That’s when the fun and intrigue begins.
Wow! This is a wonderfully written epic fantasy filled to the brim with secrets and intrigue! The characters are fully fleshed, the pacing just right, and the plot reveals itself as the pages turn. Everyone has a secret agenda (and past) and that’s what keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. This book is enthralling. It’s quite a chonky book, but the more you read the faster it seems to fly. I was completely enthralled with it from beginning to end. Lovers of fantasy should enjoy this very much.
Rhioa and Tirzah, two sisters, are on a secret mission when they discover a man near to death by the Forest of Riddles. Tyron claims to have crossed through the Forest to get out of Litash as there’s nothing there for him. They help him out and he travels with them. That’s when the fun and intrigue begins.
Wow! This is a wonderfully written epic fantasy filled to the brim with secrets and intrigue! The characters are fully fleshed, the pacing just right, and the plot reveals itself as the pages turn. Everyone has a secret agenda (and past) and that’s what keeps the reader on the edge of their seat. This book is enthralling. It’s quite a chonky book, but the more you read the faster it seems to fly. I was completely enthralled with it from beginning to end. Lovers of fantasy should enjoy this very much.
Want to read
January 8, 2024This is not a full review. I read through the beginning of all 300 SPFBO9 contest entries. This was a book I wanted to read more of.
Great opening. Character voice, concise details, something’s happening, there’s a sense of spirit. This is present tense prose done right.
Schmid does a fine job of starting this story in motion. All of our characters want something that isn’t easy for them to get. We start with a chance meeting that is itself a complication.
Characters are steadily revealed, and the reader is peppered with intriguing snatches of worldbuilding: a traveler who’s risked his life crossing the Forest of Riddles, something called Gifting…
I think this is great. The characters feel rock solid and unique. I’m already invested in all three of them. This fantasy romance is 500pgs, but I feel I could read it in a weekend! I’m in!
This book came out last year and has only 1 review on GR!? Based on the quality I’m seeing, we’ve all been missing out on something wonderful. Let’s change that!
Great opening. Character voice, concise details, something’s happening, there’s a sense of spirit. This is present tense prose done right.
Schmid does a fine job of starting this story in motion. All of our characters want something that isn’t easy for them to get. We start with a chance meeting that is itself a complication.
Characters are steadily revealed, and the reader is peppered with intriguing snatches of worldbuilding: a traveler who’s risked his life crossing the Forest of Riddles, something called Gifting…
I think this is great. The characters feel rock solid and unique. I’m already invested in all three of them. This fantasy romance is 500pgs, but I feel I could read it in a weekend! I’m in!
This book came out last year and has only 1 review on GR!? Based on the quality I’m seeing, we’ve all been missing out on something wonderful. Let’s change that!
March 4, 2024
Askefise is part of a duology - The Daughters of Redemeré and prequels A Daughter's Ransom. However, it did read well as a standalone. It begins with two sisters, Rhioa and Tirza, stumbling across an unconscious traveller Tyron. They claim to be simple passers-by while he claims to be a nobody. All of them are concealing the truth. The book is presented from a double point of view: Tyron and Rhioa. The sisters agree to help him on his journey to safety, which sets in motion great change for them all. Whilst Tyron eventually is the antihero in the series, we first meet him here in his rise to power. There is great detail in the characterisation and world-building, making this book a worthy top 15 Finalist in the BBNYA 2023 indie book awards out of more than 250 books. #askefise #Rebeccaschmidt
July 29, 2023
Enjoyable prequel
I very much enjoyed reading this book. Tyron is a compelling character, and it is interesting to see his story prior to the events in the Daughter's Ransom series. I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment in both of these series, and seeing how everything plays out.
I very much enjoyed reading this book. Tyron is a compelling character, and it is interesting to see his story prior to the events in the Daughter's Ransom series. I'm definitely looking forward to the next installment in both of these series, and seeing how everything plays out.
March 5, 2024
I had the honour of reading this book last year as a panelist for The Book Bloggers' Novel of the Year Award (BBNYA), in association with TheWriteReads and Folio Society. I was extremely glad to see it make it to the final round and finishing at an impressive 13th place out of hundreds of submissions.
The book is narrated in the first person, with a multiPOV alternating between the two main characters - Rhioa and Tyron. The story sets off as Rhioa and her sister, Tirzah, stumble upon a passed out Tyron right outside a (very infamously dangerous) forest. From then on, they (somewhat reluctantly) end up forming an alliance and set out to accomplish a mission that will get them entangled in a web of dangerous political agendas. This story has it all - dragon shifters, trained assassins, magical powers, slow burn romance, sister bonds, found family, court intrigue...what more could anyone ask for?
I enjoyed it so much that it would've been a 5-star rating if it had ended when they decided to go to Rhy and Tirzah's homeland. Alas, it carried on and - although I suspect I might have felt differently had I also read the original series this book is a prequel for - the whole last story arc felt a bit rushed and anticlimatic. As a standalone, I'd like to have seen that last arc explored more deeply in a second book that gave us more insight into how everything progressed after they striked a deal with Rhy's father - especially the romance subplot. As someone who does enjoy romance, the timeskip felt a bit criminal!!!
All this said, it's a very well written book with a very solid storyline and characters that you can't help but root for. Honestly, I don't usually read middle-grade but I'm very tempted to give the original series a go! Oh and side note: Askefise is suitable for audiences >16 but all main characters are adults, so I'd definitely recommend it for older readers like myself as well (it's definitely not your typical YA).
The book is narrated in the first person, with a multiPOV alternating between the two main characters - Rhioa and Tyron. The story sets off as Rhioa and her sister, Tirzah, stumble upon a passed out Tyron right outside a (very infamously dangerous) forest. From then on, they (somewhat reluctantly) end up forming an alliance and set out to accomplish a mission that will get them entangled in a web of dangerous political agendas. This story has it all - dragon shifters, trained assassins, magical powers, slow burn romance, sister bonds, found family, court intrigue...what more could anyone ask for?
I enjoyed it so much that it would've been a 5-star rating if it had ended when they decided to go to Rhy and Tirzah's homeland. Alas, it carried on and - although I suspect I might have felt differently had I also read the original series this book is a prequel for - the whole last story arc felt a bit rushed and anticlimatic. As a standalone, I'd like to have seen that last arc explored more deeply in a second book that gave us more insight into how everything progressed after they striked a deal with Rhy's father - especially the romance subplot. As someone who does enjoy romance, the timeskip felt a bit criminal!!!
All this said, it's a very well written book with a very solid storyline and characters that you can't help but root for. Honestly, I don't usually read middle-grade but I'm very tempted to give the original series a go! Oh and side note: Askefise is suitable for audiences >16 but all main characters are adults, so I'd definitely recommend it for older readers like myself as well (it's definitely not your typical YA).
March 5, 2024
Stepping into Askefise feels like stepping into a giant epic fantasy world. Right at the start we get a fab map and a big list of pronunciations which I personally fins adds a lot to the atmosphere. The book is then told via two POV characters, the first is Rhioa and the second is Tyron.
The book opens with Rhioa and her sister, Tirzah discovering the unconscious Tyron. Unfortunately the book is written in present tense which seems to be the fashion these days, but it is well written despite that. I think the voices of both POV characters are a little similar and the book would benefit from more distinction between them, but this is only a very minor issue.
As the plot develops we start to see some feelings between Rhioa and Tyron, but the author keeps any romance on the back burner, which I think is a good thing. In return for their aid Tyron helps the sisters with their mission.
Tyron is certainly the best and most interesting character, but he is complimented nicely by those around him. This is a prequel to a full series and I think it does very good job of whetting the reader’s appetite for that. All in all its a good read and if you fantasy that is more politics and intrigue based feather than big battle based this would be a good choice.
The book opens with Rhioa and her sister, Tirzah discovering the unconscious Tyron. Unfortunately the book is written in present tense which seems to be the fashion these days, but it is well written despite that. I think the voices of both POV characters are a little similar and the book would benefit from more distinction between them, but this is only a very minor issue.
As the plot develops we start to see some feelings between Rhioa and Tyron, but the author keeps any romance on the back burner, which I think is a good thing. In return for their aid Tyron helps the sisters with their mission.
Tyron is certainly the best and most interesting character, but he is complimented nicely by those around him. This is a prequel to a full series and I think it does very good job of whetting the reader’s appetite for that. All in all its a good read and if you fantasy that is more politics and intrigue based feather than big battle based this would be a good choice.
March 3, 2024
I first heard of Askefise when it reached the finals of BBNYA 2023. Its actually the first book in a prequel series for another series, which in itself is a little unusual, but it is incompletely standalone for all that and there is no need to know anything about the follow up series to start on this(and vice versa) though no doubt both series complement each other and likely have characters and what not common to both.
The book is written in present tense which I am generally not a huge fan of, but the author does it well so its ok. The POV characters of Tyrion and Rhioa are accompanied by Rhino’s sister throughout most of the story and we dogged a bidding romance between two of them. The book is I feel largely a character centric political fantasy, but there is that element of romance too. At circa 500 pages its a pretty chonky book, but it actually doesn’t feel that big and long when you are in it and its fairly fast paced. Worldbuilding is solid throughout.
All in all a solid 4 star fantasy for me.
The book is written in present tense which I am generally not a huge fan of, but the author does it well so its ok. The POV characters of Tyrion and Rhioa are accompanied by Rhino’s sister throughout most of the story and we dogged a bidding romance between two of them. The book is I feel largely a character centric political fantasy, but there is that element of romance too. At circa 500 pages its a pretty chonky book, but it actually doesn’t feel that big and long when you are in it and its fairly fast paced. Worldbuilding is solid throughout.
All in all a solid 4 star fantasy for me.
April 12, 2024
Find this review and more on my blog at
Worlds Unlike Our Own
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I received a copy of this book as part of the BBNYA 2023 Finalists Blog Tour.
Sisters Rhioa and Tirzah stumble across an unconscious traveller and despite their misgivings, rescue him and allow him to accompany them. The traveller identifies himself as Tyron, and they as ordinary travellers, but all of them are keeping secrets. The sisters are on a mission and don’t want anyone else getting involved, so they promptly leave him behind in the first safe city they get to and proceed on their journey. But Tyron is not so easily fooled and is determined to help them, leading to their paths crossing once more in the land of Arvenir, where the sisters have been charged to overthrow the current ruler and restore the rightful heir. The three of them soon find themselves entangled in court politics of Arvenir and with danger on all sides, they must work together to complete their mission.
The best part about being a part of BBNYA last year was discovering so many amazing books I would have never come across otherwise. Askefise was one of the 15 finalists, and while I didn’t get a chance to read it as a panelist, the premise was so intriguing that I signed up for this blog tour as soon as I saw it.
The plot was just as interesting as the blurb hinted, and despite it taking a little time to get moving, it held my attention easily. I was definitely glad of the pronunciation guide included at the beginning of the book and of course, the map, which was very useful given how much the characters moved around. Once the mission itself took centre stage, I couldn’t put the book down as the situation grew riskier and riskier by the page for the characters.
I thought that more attention should have been given to world building, in particular the magic system given that this is a fantasy novel. This aspect of the story just didn’t draw me in as much and the focus was clearly more on the plot and characters.
While this book is apparently a prequel of sorts to another series, it doesn’t seem that any prior knowledge of the other series is needed to read this and it was easy to follow. The pacing was a bit slow for my taste initially, but really started to pick up around the 35-40% mark. The narrative alternates between Tyron and Rhioa’s POVs which provided a balanced perspective and the writing was good as well.
All three main characters were interesting and likeable, though I found Tyron’s POV to be the most intriguing. They were all characters that were easy to root for and I liked how their arcs unfolded, revealing details about them as the story progressed rather than laying it all out at once.
There were some hints of romance but it was largely kept to the background, which I really appreciated as there was enough going on with the plot without adding one more arc to it, not to mention what little was there was slipping into the instalove trope.
While I did find the last couple of chapters to be rather rushed, Askefise concluded on an interesting note, setting up things for a promising sequel.
Overall, this was an interesting read. It was enjoyable as a standalone, but also set the scene really well if one wants to proceed to the connected series that follows this. I would definitely recommend this book and will be adding the sequel to my TBR!
I received a copy of this book as part of the BBNYA 2023 Finalists Blog Tour.
Sisters Rhioa and Tirzah stumble across an unconscious traveller and despite their misgivings, rescue him and allow him to accompany them. The traveller identifies himself as Tyron, and they as ordinary travellers, but all of them are keeping secrets. The sisters are on a mission and don’t want anyone else getting involved, so they promptly leave him behind in the first safe city they get to and proceed on their journey. But Tyron is not so easily fooled and is determined to help them, leading to their paths crossing once more in the land of Arvenir, where the sisters have been charged to overthrow the current ruler and restore the rightful heir. The three of them soon find themselves entangled in court politics of Arvenir and with danger on all sides, they must work together to complete their mission.
The best part about being a part of BBNYA last year was discovering so many amazing books I would have never come across otherwise. Askefise was one of the 15 finalists, and while I didn’t get a chance to read it as a panelist, the premise was so intriguing that I signed up for this blog tour as soon as I saw it.
The plot was just as interesting as the blurb hinted, and despite it taking a little time to get moving, it held my attention easily. I was definitely glad of the pronunciation guide included at the beginning of the book and of course, the map, which was very useful given how much the characters moved around. Once the mission itself took centre stage, I couldn’t put the book down as the situation grew riskier and riskier by the page for the characters.
I thought that more attention should have been given to world building, in particular the magic system given that this is a fantasy novel. This aspect of the story just didn’t draw me in as much and the focus was clearly more on the plot and characters.
While this book is apparently a prequel of sorts to another series, it doesn’t seem that any prior knowledge of the other series is needed to read this and it was easy to follow. The pacing was a bit slow for my taste initially, but really started to pick up around the 35-40% mark. The narrative alternates between Tyron and Rhioa’s POVs which provided a balanced perspective and the writing was good as well.
All three main characters were interesting and likeable, though I found Tyron’s POV to be the most intriguing. They were all characters that were easy to root for and I liked how their arcs unfolded, revealing details about them as the story progressed rather than laying it all out at once.
There were some hints of romance but it was largely kept to the background, which I really appreciated as there was enough going on with the plot without adding one more arc to it, not to mention what little was there was slipping into the instalove trope.
While I did find the last couple of chapters to be rather rushed, Askefise concluded on an interesting note, setting up things for a promising sequel.
Overall, this was an interesting read. It was enjoyable as a standalone, but also set the scene really well if one wants to proceed to the connected series that follows this. I would definitely recommend this book and will be adding the sequel to my TBR!
March 4, 2024
Askefise made it to the finals of the Book Bloggers Novel the year Award 2023 and I can see why. It’s a very well written dual POV fantasy that’s a bit different and far more character focused than you often see in the self published field.
The two POV characters Tyron and Rhioa along with Tirzah find themselves mixed up in the politics and intrigues of Arvenir. There is a hint of romance between Tyron and Rhioa, but it not the main thrust of the story. There’s a lot of magic and monsters, half dragon, half humans, ‘gifting -basically magic - and all and all just plenty of fantasy fun for fans of the genre.
A solid book well worth picking up
The two POV characters Tyron and Rhioa along with Tirzah find themselves mixed up in the politics and intrigues of Arvenir. There is a hint of romance between Tyron and Rhioa, but it not the main thrust of the story. There’s a lot of magic and monsters, half dragon, half humans, ‘gifting -basically magic - and all and all just plenty of fantasy fun for fans of the genre.
A solid book well worth picking up
March 6, 2024
Another brilliant book I've found through The Book Bloggers Novel of the year Award!
Askefise made it all the way to the finals of the 2023 contest where it finished in an impressive 13th place out of something like 300 books. It is written via the dual 1st person POV’s of Tyron and Rhioa. When Rhio and her sister Tirzah discover the unconscious Tyron they soon join forces and embark on an ambitious mission.
In a world of magic, dragons and no small amount of political and courtly intrigue we even get a hint of romance. Its fast past, fun, multilayered and well written. All in all a really top notch book in my opinion.
Askefise made it all the way to the finals of the 2023 contest where it finished in an impressive 13th place out of something like 300 books. It is written via the dual 1st person POV’s of Tyron and Rhioa. When Rhio and her sister Tirzah discover the unconscious Tyron they soon join forces and embark on an ambitious mission.
In a world of magic, dragons and no small amount of political and courtly intrigue we even get a hint of romance. Its fast past, fun, multilayered and well written. All in all a really top notch book in my opinion.
August 17, 2025
beautiful story
A wonderful story of friendship, sacrifice, love, and supporting others through even extreme trials. I loved Askefise! You don't need to read any other books by these authors to understand what is going on. It stands very well on its own.
I loved how the characters grew together, and how it had a mix of fight scenes but also "Oceans 11" style heists and intrigue.
I'm looking forward to the sequel!
A wonderful story of friendship, sacrifice, love, and supporting others through even extreme trials. I loved Askefise! You don't need to read any other books by these authors to understand what is going on. It stands very well on its own.
I loved how the characters grew together, and how it had a mix of fight scenes but also "Oceans 11" style heists and intrigue.
I'm looking forward to the sequel!
April 25, 2024
Trigger Warnings
This book contains:
• Espionage
• Racism
• Extortion.
Characters
Rhioa and Tirzah are the main female characters. As sisters, they have a close bond despite what their relationship means for them and their futures. Because of who they are, their career choice puts them in harms way, and makes it difficult for either one to form relationships outside of each other.
Tyron is a human from a country that’s closed off from the rest of the world, with healing gifts based in magic. His background isn’t identifiable early on, and I won’t spoil it for you otherwise it spoils some of the story. But he has strong principles that he stands by at all costs.
Storyline
Rhioa and Tirzah are on a mission, and due to the nature of their race and work, we don’t know the details until well into the book. Throughout this book, we get to follow them as they complete their mission, while Tyron is finding his way in the world outside of his home country.
Overall Thoughts
I first read this in Round 2 of the BBNYA 2023 competition and I had the pleasure of reading it again in the final round. When I read it in Round 2, I was so engrossed that I forgot I only had an excerpt and was so confused when my “next page” never came. So when I got to pick it up again I was so excited!
As someone who enjoys intrigue, mystery, and puzzles in my books, I thoroughly enjoyed the entire premise of this book. I was puzzling over what was happening, why, and what possible motivations they might have for most of the book. By the time I got my answers, I could see how every little piece of information we’d been given had given us a clue. But without the final piece of information, it was practically impossible for me to put all those clues together.
My only concern with the book was Part III. From my point of view, this final Part didn’t have a place in this book. Maybe as a short epilogue, but not 3 chapters and a really weirdly placed and timed epilogue. The epilogue especially didn’t make sense to me. Part III felt detached enough from the rest of the story, but to then have an even more detached epilogue. I was left finishing the book confused rather than eagerly wanting the next book.
This book contains:
• Espionage
• Racism
• Extortion.
Characters
Rhioa and Tirzah are the main female characters. As sisters, they have a close bond despite what their relationship means for them and their futures. Because of who they are, their career choice puts them in harms way, and makes it difficult for either one to form relationships outside of each other.
Tyron is a human from a country that’s closed off from the rest of the world, with healing gifts based in magic. His background isn’t identifiable early on, and I won’t spoil it for you otherwise it spoils some of the story. But he has strong principles that he stands by at all costs.
Storyline
Rhioa and Tirzah are on a mission, and due to the nature of their race and work, we don’t know the details until well into the book. Throughout this book, we get to follow them as they complete their mission, while Tyron is finding his way in the world outside of his home country.
Overall Thoughts
I first read this in Round 2 of the BBNYA 2023 competition and I had the pleasure of reading it again in the final round. When I read it in Round 2, I was so engrossed that I forgot I only had an excerpt and was so confused when my “next page” never came. So when I got to pick it up again I was so excited!
As someone who enjoys intrigue, mystery, and puzzles in my books, I thoroughly enjoyed the entire premise of this book. I was puzzling over what was happening, why, and what possible motivations they might have for most of the book. By the time I got my answers, I could see how every little piece of information we’d been given had given us a clue. But without the final piece of information, it was practically impossible for me to put all those clues together.
My only concern with the book was Part III. From my point of view, this final Part didn’t have a place in this book. Maybe as a short epilogue, but not 3 chapters and a really weirdly placed and timed epilogue. The epilogue especially didn’t make sense to me. Part III felt detached enough from the rest of the story, but to then have an even more detached epilogue. I was left finishing the book confused rather than eagerly wanting the next book.
March 7, 2024
I’ll admit my enjoyment of this book came primarily for my love for one of the MCs. Tyron is curious, kind, resourceful, patient, sincere, a good listener, and charismatic.
The rest of the cast is just as interesting. The interactions between them as they start opening up were also a highlight and I found the banter really funny.
The story is splashed with action and romance, has simple but well done political intrigue, and includes thoughtful disability representation. It also pictures complex familial relationships and how trauma shapes us as we grow up. It got me engaged all the way through and I need more of this.
Read my full review: Tiny Elf Arcanist’s review for Askefise
The rest of the cast is just as interesting. The interactions between them as they start opening up were also a highlight and I found the banter really funny.
The story is splashed with action and romance, has simple but well done political intrigue, and includes thoughtful disability representation. It also pictures complex familial relationships and how trauma shapes us as we grow up. It got me engaged all the way through and I need more of this.
Read my full review: Tiny Elf Arcanist’s review for Askefise
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