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Alchemight Duology #1
For Mist and Tar
A realm starved of magic. A blade destined to take heads. An oath bound in poison. Welcome to Alchemight.
Vellene Winloc, heiress to boundless power, faces a grim choice under her father's oppressive rule: beheading or submission. In a desperate bid for freedom, she flees through impoverished streets, pursued relentlessly until a mysterious and captivating Golem, a man made of clay desperate to free himself of his chains, intervenes.
A treacherous game of loyalty begins, and a rival risen from the dead, marked in scars and secrets, may be her only way free. But in a realm where everyone is starved for power, is anyone trustworthy?
Freedom has a cost. In this realm, it’s in the mist of souls and the blood of tar. Stab yourself and burn, let an enemy take your head and place it on a pedestal, or abide by magic and return to the abyss. How much would you be willing to sacrifice?
For Vellene — everything, anything.
"For Mist and Tar" is the first book in Jinapher J. Hoffman's multiverse of feminine rage, Wrathos. Readers should be advised of the following trigger warnings: Darker themes; Self-Harm; Domestic Violence; Child abuse; Hangings; General Violence/Gore; Murder; Imprisonment/Enslavement. Written reviews are greatly appreciated.
Vellene Winloc, heiress to boundless power, faces a grim choice under her father's oppressive rule: beheading or submission. In a desperate bid for freedom, she flees through impoverished streets, pursued relentlessly until a mysterious and captivating Golem, a man made of clay desperate to free himself of his chains, intervenes.
A treacherous game of loyalty begins, and a rival risen from the dead, marked in scars and secrets, may be her only way free. But in a realm where everyone is starved for power, is anyone trustworthy?
Freedom has a cost. In this realm, it’s in the mist of souls and the blood of tar. Stab yourself and burn, let an enemy take your head and place it on a pedestal, or abide by magic and return to the abyss. How much would you be willing to sacrifice?
For Vellene — everything, anything.
"For Mist and Tar" is the first book in Jinapher J. Hoffman's multiverse of feminine rage, Wrathos. Readers should be advised of the following trigger warnings: Darker themes; Self-Harm; Domestic Violence; Child abuse; Hangings; General Violence/Gore; Murder; Imprisonment/Enslavement. Written reviews are greatly appreciated.
559 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 3, 2022
1392 people are currently reading
11712 people want to read
About the author
Jinapher J. Hoffman
21 books396 followersJinapher J. Hoffman is an epic dark fantasy author building a multiverse of feminine rage. She is an Amazon #1 Best Seller and mother to two adorable bunny rabbits. She lives in California with her hero and partner and spends most of her day organizing multiverse plot holes and building magic systems.
You can find all of Jinapher's books, including their content warnings, at wrathosbooks.com.
You can find all of Jinapher's books, including their content warnings, at wrathosbooks.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 98 reviews
September 9, 2022
So often "dark fantasy" is a title given to books that needlessly deploy sensitive topics in the interest of shocking readers. For Mist and Tar, however, is responsible and thoughtful in its handling of these topics, creating a bleak world for a story riddled with muddled morality.
I know the term "morally-grey" has been badly misused to describe many dark-haired love interests of modern fantasy, but I assure you that actual grey morality dictates the actions of most characters in this book. And oh, am I glad it does! No one encapsulates this better than our co-protagonist Eledar, a golem whose quest for freedom fighters comes entirely from self-serving purposes.
I have a lot to say about Eledar, primarily that I dislike him. But what makes FMAT great is I don't feel that I'm being forced to either like or dislike him. His actions are his own, actions that I often found myself frustrated with, and his refusal to accept responsibility of consequences from said actions drove me wild. But this was the best possible frustration, one that made me hooked on the last quarter of the book as I devoured the finale. I was engaged to the point of verbally weighing in on arguments between Eledar and other characters, and that's a level of investment that I love.
The female protagonist, Vellene, is less polarizing. She has less urgency than her co-lead, though this suits the story well. Part of her character is a lack of autonomy, and her interactions with other characters reveal it as a source of frustration. I found Vellene's POV more interesting, primarily on account of Kadir.
Kadir is, by far, my favorite character. He's just brilliant, a character with unclear motivations and unpredictable actions. While this can often leave a character feeling like a wildcard used to progress the plot, there is an underlying logic to everything that Kadir does that leaves him feeling reasonable and logical to his own interests. I genuinely love this character and enjoyed the book most when he was "on-screen." I was never certain what he would do next, and that made his appearances that much more exciting.
One of the most engaging features of FMAT is how the author writes dialog. There's a great natural rhythm and flow to conversations that it makes these great tension-filled scenes that much more compelling. Characters feel natural in the way that they interact with one another, which makes the scenes more dynamic and engaging for a reader.
The world building is also good, though I do have issues with the world delivery. Many components of the magic system and world itself are not explicitly explained. I found that over time I was able to piece most things together based on context, though this did create a feeling of being a bit lost in the opening 15-20% of the book. I also found that earlier in the book, some characters pivoted quickly on opinions/attitudes of other characters to the point that it felt too sudden. In the interest of a spoiler-free review I won't go into detail, though these sorts of pivots do not occur in the second half of the book.
Overall I really enjoyed the experience of reading For Mist and Tar. I'm very interested in seeing how this series concludes, and am excited that I'm unsure where the story will go next. As long as I get to spend more time with my beloved Kadir in any capacity, I'm sure I'll enjoy the ride just as much as I did here.
I know the term "morally-grey" has been badly misused to describe many dark-haired love interests of modern fantasy, but I assure you that actual grey morality dictates the actions of most characters in this book. And oh, am I glad it does! No one encapsulates this better than our co-protagonist Eledar, a golem whose quest for freedom fighters comes entirely from self-serving purposes.
I have a lot to say about Eledar, primarily that I dislike him. But what makes FMAT great is I don't feel that I'm being forced to either like or dislike him. His actions are his own, actions that I often found myself frustrated with, and his refusal to accept responsibility of consequences from said actions drove me wild. But this was the best possible frustration, one that made me hooked on the last quarter of the book as I devoured the finale. I was engaged to the point of verbally weighing in on arguments between Eledar and other characters, and that's a level of investment that I love.
The female protagonist, Vellene, is less polarizing. She has less urgency than her co-lead, though this suits the story well. Part of her character is a lack of autonomy, and her interactions with other characters reveal it as a source of frustration. I found Vellene's POV more interesting, primarily on account of Kadir.
Kadir is, by far, my favorite character. He's just brilliant, a character with unclear motivations and unpredictable actions. While this can often leave a character feeling like a wildcard used to progress the plot, there is an underlying logic to everything that Kadir does that leaves him feeling reasonable and logical to his own interests. I genuinely love this character and enjoyed the book most when he was "on-screen." I was never certain what he would do next, and that made his appearances that much more exciting.
One of the most engaging features of FMAT is how the author writes dialog. There's a great natural rhythm and flow to conversations that it makes these great tension-filled scenes that much more compelling. Characters feel natural in the way that they interact with one another, which makes the scenes more dynamic and engaging for a reader.
The world building is also good, though I do have issues with the world delivery. Many components of the magic system and world itself are not explicitly explained. I found that over time I was able to piece most things together based on context, though this did create a feeling of being a bit lost in the opening 15-20% of the book. I also found that earlier in the book, some characters pivoted quickly on opinions/attitudes of other characters to the point that it felt too sudden. In the interest of a spoiler-free review I won't go into detail, though these sorts of pivots do not occur in the second half of the book.
Overall I really enjoyed the experience of reading For Mist and Tar. I'm very interested in seeing how this series concludes, and am excited that I'm unsure where the story will go next. As long as I get to spend more time with my beloved Kadir in any capacity, I'm sure I'll enjoy the ride just as much as I did here.
April 13, 2024
Honestly, disappointing.
I was really hyped up for this book since its marketing was centred around dark "feminine-rage". But, the book is quite frankly, neither. Maybe dark to some that don’t usually delve into that theme, but to someone that is no stranger- no. Just no.
Within the first few pages I started to realise that this is probably not a book I was going to be mad about. But as always, I persevered with hope. And.... Yeah, no. I am mad about it, just not the way I wanted to be.
So.... Here we go-
There's not much world building or magic explanation at all. It's basically just reading the glossary at the beginning of the book, and throughout, when a new word appears or you forget what an old one is- flip all the way back to the beginning to look at the definitionwhich on a kindle- is a pain in the ass.
World building and all is something I love, and without it, it's really hard to actually find myself caring at all about the different classes of people or magic. I feel like it was a really big missed opportunity, and honestly just slipping a lil more information in places would've done wonders. I mean, there was no backstory on the goddess's or any lore sprinkled about. Just see a word, look at the definition, and carry on.
The use of italics. Maybe this is just me being picky but good lord, there were so many italics. And at times I would read it and just sigh. There was no importance or weight to the word to even remotely warrant the slightest of slants. And don't even get me started on the writing technique of using repetition. The first time, it was good. Second, cute. Third, fourth, fifth- bored, meaningless, next. The overuse of both just removed and nullified any impact there had or could have been.
Biggest letdown... Female Main Character. Feminine rage? Where.
That analogy with her "spark" and a "match", I was so over it. Three pages in, and I was ready to go find my own match. There was no pure unbridled rage. Just fits of anger, maybe a tantrum or two. But nothing else even remotely close. I'm pretty sure the FMC forgot she was supposed to be tortured and furious half the time. She was too busy forming insta love connections with not one but two romantic interests. The only impression I got from her emotions was that they were fickle. Abusive father? Psycho sister who murdered their mother? Eh. It's okay, the FMC still has hope.
Apparently she was on a path of revenge but... Was she? Even with the weight of the death oath, she seemed like she was too busy kicking her feet at the thought of a kiss.
And the ending, the "plot twist". Sigh. Even her finally getting angry at the golem and realising that she had, in fact, been nothing but a toy once again- was disappointing. I liked that she at least tried to shut down his little pity party. But c'mon, where is the rage? If you're already spitting out blood, might as well get some on his face.
Overall, I would recommend this book if you want a read expanding over days- cause honestly if you're anything like me, you will not be lured in and captivated by it. You will want to put the book down.
The only time I felt an emotion other than annoyance while reading this, was at the end. Which was irritation. A level up, I suppose. Father's death? Too quick. Unsatisfying. Identity reveal and betrayal? Predictable. Why are we surprised that once again she is nothing but a toy? Might as well make a slogan at this point.
Safe to say, it had potential. But I don't see myself reading the second one. I have more faith in the FMC’s likelihood of being a doormat than an inferno. All the matches in the world couldn't light that spark.
I was really hyped up for this book since its marketing was centred around dark "feminine-rage". But, the book is quite frankly, neither. Maybe dark to some that don’t usually delve into that theme, but to someone that is no stranger- no. Just no.
Within the first few pages I started to realise that this is probably not a book I was going to be mad about. But as always, I persevered with hope. And.... Yeah, no. I am mad about it, just not the way I wanted to be.
So.... Here we go-
There's not much world building or magic explanation at all. It's basically just reading the glossary at the beginning of the book, and throughout, when a new word appears or you forget what an old one is- flip all the way back to the beginning to look at the definition
World building and all is something I love, and without it, it's really hard to actually find myself caring at all about the different classes of people or magic. I feel like it was a really big missed opportunity, and honestly just slipping a lil more information in places would've done wonders. I mean, there was no backstory on the goddess's or any lore sprinkled about. Just see a word, look at the definition, and carry on.
The use of italics. Maybe this is just me being picky but good lord, there were so many italics. And at times I would read it and just sigh. There was no importance or weight to the word to even remotely warrant the slightest of slants. And don't even get me started on the writing technique of using repetition. The first time, it was good. Second, cute. Third, fourth, fifth- bored, meaningless, next. The overuse of both just removed and nullified any impact there had or could have been.
Biggest letdown... Female Main Character. Feminine rage? Where.
That analogy with her "spark" and a "match", I was so over it. Three pages in, and I was ready to go find my own match. There was no pure unbridled rage. Just fits of anger, maybe a tantrum or two. But nothing else even remotely close. I'm pretty sure the FMC forgot she was supposed to be tortured and furious half the time. She was too busy forming insta love connections with not one but two romantic interests. The only impression I got from her emotions was that they were fickle. Abusive father? Psycho sister who murdered their mother? Eh. It's okay, the FMC still has hope.
Apparently she was on a path of revenge but... Was she? Even with the weight of the death oath, she seemed like she was too busy kicking her feet at the thought of a kiss.
And the ending, the "plot twist". Sigh. Even her finally getting angry at the golem and realising that she had, in fact, been nothing but a toy once again- was disappointing. I liked that she at least tried to shut down his little pity party. But c'mon, where is the rage? If you're already spitting out blood, might as well get some on his face.
Overall, I would recommend this book if you want a read expanding over days- cause honestly if you're anything like me, you will not be lured in and captivated by it. You will want to put the book down.
The only time I felt an emotion other than annoyance while reading this, was at the end. Which was irritation. A level up, I suppose. Father's death? Too quick. Unsatisfying. Identity reveal and betrayal? Predictable. Why are we surprised that once again she is nothing but a toy? Might as well make a slogan at this point.
Safe to say, it had potential. But I don't see myself reading the second one. I have more faith in the FMC’s likelihood of being a doormat than an inferno. All the matches in the world couldn't light that spark.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2024
i was so excited for this book…. the potential it had & what it was supposed to represent like i’m actually so upset this wasn’t what i was hoping for.
December 6, 2023
**SPOILER FREE 5 STARS ✨ **
I genuinely do not understand how this book hasn’t received the attention it deserves! As an avid epic fantasy reader, and as someone who loved both comps for this book (The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue; Mistborn), I was BLOWN AWAY. As someone who struggles intensely with mental health, I was so SO amazed by the representation for both depression and anxiety in this book and the metaphors surrounding them. I see there are a lot of reviews about the pacing, so I just want to speak on that first.
This book was NOT slow. I’m so confused by this comment. The pacing had almost a lyrical sense to it. After the first couple of chapters, I was completely immersed and flipping the page quickly. I (however) LOVE lyrical writing. It’s not often I get to have that in my epic fantasy books, and I was impressed that this was the author’s fantasy DEBUT. I am honestly so excited to see what else Jinapher releases.
Next, THE ROMANCE. So it’s definitely slow burn, and both heavier scenes fade away, but I wouldn’t say they’re “fade to black”. It’s more like the plot interrupts them (& that’s all I’ll say without spoilers). That said, I was very pleased with the romantic element of this book, and the fact that it wasn’t JUST the physical romance but the writing itself that gave the entire gritty atmosphere a romantic quality. Really, REALLY WELL DONE.
As for the world building and the magic system: SO FREAKING UNIQUE. I can definitely see why Mistborn was a comp simply for the way mist is an element of this magic system. Never, NEVER have I seen golem used like this and ELEDAR *chefs kiss*. The world was dark with turmoil and really set the stage for a “realm starved of magic” as the author heavily promotes (and what originally drew me to the book besides the comps).
This was a FIVE STAR read for me. This book deserves so much more love than it’s gotten. Not to mention I recently saw the author talk about how she’s building a multiverse of FEMININE RAGE (um yes please) and this is the first book. Seriously???? I am so ready to lift this author up and I can’t wait to read more!!!!
UPDATE:
Coming back to this review because it’s been a couple weeks and I STILL can’t stop thinking about Vellene. I resonated with her so hard, and I’m just so glad to have found it. Like it really meant that much to me omf. PLEASE you have to read this!!
I genuinely do not understand how this book hasn’t received the attention it deserves! As an avid epic fantasy reader, and as someone who loved both comps for this book (The Invisible Life of Addie La Rue; Mistborn), I was BLOWN AWAY. As someone who struggles intensely with mental health, I was so SO amazed by the representation for both depression and anxiety in this book and the metaphors surrounding them. I see there are a lot of reviews about the pacing, so I just want to speak on that first.
This book was NOT slow. I’m so confused by this comment. The pacing had almost a lyrical sense to it. After the first couple of chapters, I was completely immersed and flipping the page quickly. I (however) LOVE lyrical writing. It’s not often I get to have that in my epic fantasy books, and I was impressed that this was the author’s fantasy DEBUT. I am honestly so excited to see what else Jinapher releases.
Next, THE ROMANCE. So it’s definitely slow burn, and both heavier scenes fade away, but I wouldn’t say they’re “fade to black”. It’s more like the plot interrupts them (& that’s all I’ll say without spoilers). That said, I was very pleased with the romantic element of this book, and the fact that it wasn’t JUST the physical romance but the writing itself that gave the entire gritty atmosphere a romantic quality. Really, REALLY WELL DONE.
As for the world building and the magic system: SO FREAKING UNIQUE. I can definitely see why Mistborn was a comp simply for the way mist is an element of this magic system. Never, NEVER have I seen golem used like this and ELEDAR *chefs kiss*. The world was dark with turmoil and really set the stage for a “realm starved of magic” as the author heavily promotes (and what originally drew me to the book besides the comps).
This was a FIVE STAR read for me. This book deserves so much more love than it’s gotten. Not to mention I recently saw the author talk about how she’s building a multiverse of FEMININE RAGE (um yes please) and this is the first book. Seriously???? I am so ready to lift this author up and I can’t wait to read more!!!!
UPDATE:
Coming back to this review because it’s been a couple weeks and I STILL can’t stop thinking about Vellene. I resonated with her so hard, and I’m just so glad to have found it. Like it really meant that much to me omf. PLEASE you have to read this!!
March 29, 2023
Heart-wrenching, epic, and impactful, For Mist & Tar is a refreshing take on the grimdark realities of what people will do when they are hungry for power, and how those who burn with hope are cursed to fall.
I will never be the same person I was before I read this. Quite literally... Y'all are sleeping on Vellene. She's the best. Eledar and Kadir have my heart.
I will never be the same person I was before I read this. Quite literally... Y'all are sleeping on Vellene. She's the best. Eledar and Kadir have my heart.
January 9, 2025
It took me a while to get into the story, but after around 60% I was hooked. I’m still a little lost on how everything works with the chemight, deposits and stuff, but the rest of the story was great!
The plot twist at the end was also shocking, I wasn’t expecting that at all from him, now I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2 and how everything will work out.
The plot twist at the end was also shocking, I wasn’t expecting that at all from him, now I can’t wait to see what happens in book 2 and how everything will work out.
May 24, 2024
1.5⭐
review to come because it made me so mad.
[edit]
I amend my statement, this didn't make me mad, I was just disappointed.
I'll probably read the sequel because this book ended on a cliffhanger that bumped my rating up from a 1⭐
I feel mean, but I genuinely didn't enjoy myself that much.
Sure, there were some nice moments and sparks of something good, but considering the whole it was… frustrating.
×
The author is obviously very skilled, she has genuinely great ideas that should've been allowed to cook a bit more, but some choices she made were questionable.
Issue the first: the “feminine rage”.
Where was Vellene’s rage? Where was the boiling hot anger or the freezing cold fury? This was a lukewarm temper tantrum at best.
From the first chapter we're introduced to our metaphor: Vellene’s anger is a spark that needs a match to turn into a blaze.
Well, I waited for it and it never came.
Stuff happens to her and she does (almost) nothing to take agency.
For example, I was hyped when she ran away, but 1) she wasn't prepared for it and 2) she literally got to the shore, saw a hot guy and decided to follow him because *checks notes* he was hot? What?
Issue the second: Vellene.
She's 17 and I didn't realise that (maybe that's my fault for not reading the summary), but I think I'm justified in that since this wasn't marketed as YA, so I expected to see a 20 year old, at least.
She is a coward, which isn't necessarily a negative, she is an abused 17 year old after all, but she also commits the worst main character sin: she is boring and I don't care about her at all.
Issue the third: the glossary.
WHY AT THE BEGINNING? WHY IS IT THE ONLY WORLDBUILDING WE GET?
I understand I'm not reading high fantasy, but give me something!
Maybe it's just me, but if you put an ornate glossary at the beginning of the book, I'm going to think this is an excerpt from an in-world book, so when you tell me that "[creature name] is infused with this (al)chemight, it's similar to a dog but bigger and more feral", you're breaking the fourth wall.
If a glossary is telling me there are two regions that are in opposition, and both are struggling with an internal war because the different politically powerful families are abusing their power, that's worldbuilding!
That's supposed to be in the 560 pages book! there's supposed to be book in my book!
I know you don't want to infodump, but the glossary makes it so much worse. I get not wanting to dedicate a prologue or a chapter to the history of the world, but at least make up an in-world book called “the history of alchemight” (or anything else) and give me some lines at the beginning of the book, maybe even every chapter! Exposition done!
Issue the fourth: the love interests.
Vellene doesn't get instalove with only one guy, but two! How old are they? Don't worry about it!
This is going to be mainly about Eledar because I liked Kadir as he's “mysterious” (read: bisexual (unsure) and traumatised), even if he and Vellene had the cringiest scene in the book (“It’s a tune only for us.” I'm throwing up.)
But Eledar is annoying as hell and dumb (NOT in a himbo way). I loved the fact that he is a Golem, he can be controlled so that raises the stakes and it's actually quite fun, but if I had to read “he hears bones he doesn't even have snap” one more time, I was going to murder someone.
Apparently he's the catalyst for the Golem insurrection in Frales, but he doesn't feel competent enough to be a rebellion leader or even a fighter. He gets thwarted by everything and falls for the oldest tricks in the book. (eg. he gets caught by Aquim, swears he won't tell him anything, and proceeds to spill the beans after Aquim vaguely threatens to hurt Vellene)
Also, sidenote, when did the Golem insurrection happen? I'm pretty sure it was 4 or 5 years before the book begins, but it feels like it happened a decade ago and 4 months ago simultaneously.
The entirety of this world feels like it came to be maybe 20 years ago, even if I'm pretty sure it's supposed to be ancient.
×
So, these were my main gripes.
The love story is tissue paper thin, plopped on worldbuilding made of cardboard, with characters that have the average depth of half a pringles can.
review to come because it made me so mad.
[edit]
I amend my statement, this didn't make me mad, I was just disappointed.
I'll probably read the sequel because this book ended on a cliffhanger that bumped my rating up from a 1⭐
I feel mean, but I genuinely didn't enjoy myself that much.
Sure, there were some nice moments and sparks of something good, but considering the whole it was… frustrating.
×
The author is obviously very skilled, she has genuinely great ideas that should've been allowed to cook a bit more, but some choices she made were questionable.
Issue the first: the “feminine rage”.
Where was Vellene’s rage? Where was the boiling hot anger or the freezing cold fury? This was a lukewarm temper tantrum at best.
From the first chapter we're introduced to our metaphor: Vellene’s anger is a spark that needs a match to turn into a blaze.
Well, I waited for it and it never came.
Stuff happens to her and she does (almost) nothing to take agency.
For example, I was hyped when she ran away, but 1) she wasn't prepared for it and 2) she literally got to the shore, saw a hot guy and decided to follow him because *checks notes* he was hot? What?
Issue the second: Vellene.
She's 17 and I didn't realise that (maybe that's my fault for not reading the summary), but I think I'm justified in that since this wasn't marketed as YA, so I expected to see a 20 year old, at least.
She is a coward, which isn't necessarily a negative, she is an abused 17 year old after all, but she also commits the worst main character sin: she is boring and I don't care about her at all.
Issue the third: the glossary.
WHY AT THE BEGINNING? WHY IS IT THE ONLY WORLDBUILDING WE GET?
I understand I'm not reading high fantasy, but give me something!
Maybe it's just me, but if you put an ornate glossary at the beginning of the book, I'm going to think this is an excerpt from an in-world book, so when you tell me that "[creature name] is infused with this (al)chemight, it's similar to a dog but bigger and more feral", you're breaking the fourth wall.
If a glossary is telling me there are two regions that are in opposition, and both are struggling with an internal war because the different politically powerful families are abusing their power, that's worldbuilding!
That's supposed to be in the 560 pages book! there's supposed to be book in my book!
I know you don't want to infodump, but the glossary makes it so much worse. I get not wanting to dedicate a prologue or a chapter to the history of the world, but at least make up an in-world book called “the history of alchemight” (or anything else) and give me some lines at the beginning of the book, maybe even every chapter! Exposition done!
Issue the fourth: the love interests.
Vellene doesn't get instalove with only one guy, but two! How old are they? Don't worry about it!
This is going to be mainly about Eledar because I liked Kadir as he's “mysterious” (read: bisexual (unsure) and traumatised), even if he and Vellene had the cringiest scene in the book (“It’s a tune only for us.” I'm throwing up.)
But Eledar is annoying as hell and dumb (NOT in a himbo way). I loved the fact that he is a Golem, he can be controlled so that raises the stakes and it's actually quite fun, but if I had to read “he hears bones he doesn't even have snap” one more time, I was going to murder someone.
Apparently he's the catalyst for the Golem insurrection in Frales, but he doesn't feel competent enough to be a rebellion leader or even a fighter. He gets thwarted by everything and falls for the oldest tricks in the book. (eg. he gets caught by Aquim, swears he won't tell him anything, and proceeds to spill the beans after Aquim vaguely threatens to hurt Vellene)
Also, sidenote, when did the Golem insurrection happen? I'm pretty sure it was 4 or 5 years before the book begins, but it feels like it happened a decade ago and 4 months ago simultaneously.
The entirety of this world feels like it came to be maybe 20 years ago, even if I'm pretty sure it's supposed to be ancient.
×
So, these were my main gripes.
The love story is tissue paper thin, plopped on worldbuilding made of cardboard, with characters that have the average depth of half a pringles can.
May 5, 2024
This caught me off guard. It's been on my TBR for a while and I decided to dive in and I'm so happy that I did!
It was a little tough to get into purely because it was so different from anything I've read in a long time. So often we see books that have similar magic systems, character development and dialogue that it can become "easy" to keep up with how the new story unfolds. For Mist and Tar was different because it was so unique.
🖤 The world building was incredibly interesting, but I do feel that sometimes it was a bit confusing and took me a while to fully understand all the terminology, locations and characters (and where they fit into the story!). The magic system - WOW. It was so unique and interesting and had me gripped!
The characters took a while to grow on me, mostly because the author fully embraced the "morally grey" trope and I'm so glad she did. The characters are complex, burdened and so utterly human in their emotions and thoughts that I found myself rooting for them.
🖤 Vellene was complicated, but I really liked her. I loved how she grew into herself, albeit slowly, throughout the book. As she grew, she strengthened in her decision making and resolve, giving me a sneaky peek into the fiery feminine rage I was so desperate to see from her.
🖤 Eledar was even more complicated than Vellene and I found myself disliking him often in this book, but I liked this because it showed how complex his character is. He frustrated me because he does not accept responsibility for his actions, decisions and the consequences, all contributing to him being a "morally grey" character. I really liked this. I also liked how he grew throughout the book and found myself cheering him on in the last few chapters and genuinely caring about him.
🖤 Kadir...oh Kadir. Another brilliantly complex character with many secrets and unpredictable actions. Every time he wasn't actively in the dialogue or scene, I was waiting for him to arrive. His character was the most exciting and entertaining, with so much still to be developed.
It was a little tough to get into purely because it was so different from anything I've read in a long time. So often we see books that have similar magic systems, character development and dialogue that it can become "easy" to keep up with how the new story unfolds. For Mist and Tar was different because it was so unique.
🖤 The world building was incredibly interesting, but I do feel that sometimes it was a bit confusing and took me a while to fully understand all the terminology, locations and characters (and where they fit into the story!). The magic system - WOW. It was so unique and interesting and had me gripped!
The characters took a while to grow on me, mostly because the author fully embraced the "morally grey" trope and I'm so glad she did. The characters are complex, burdened and so utterly human in their emotions and thoughts that I found myself rooting for them.
🖤 Vellene was complicated, but I really liked her. I loved how she grew into herself, albeit slowly, throughout the book. As she grew, she strengthened in her decision making and resolve, giving me a sneaky peek into the fiery feminine rage I was so desperate to see from her.
🖤 Eledar was even more complicated than Vellene and I found myself disliking him often in this book, but I liked this because it showed how complex his character is. He frustrated me because he does not accept responsibility for his actions, decisions and the consequences, all contributing to him being a "morally grey" character. I really liked this. I also liked how he grew throughout the book and found myself cheering him on in the last few chapters and genuinely caring about him.
🖤 Kadir...oh Kadir. Another brilliantly complex character with many secrets and unpredictable actions. Every time he wasn't actively in the dialogue or scene, I was waiting for him to arrive. His character was the most exciting and entertaining, with so much still to be developed.
August 15, 2024
ARE YOU KIDDING ME WITH THAT ENDING!?
I literally finished this book mere minutes ago so bear with me whilst I try to gather my thoughts.
“A broken weapon is still a weapon. It may only need to be wielded closer to the chest and with less forgiveness.” UGH.
I started For Mist and Tar without knowing much about it, so the glossary in the beginning was pretty daunting. I felt super overwhelmed with the world building from this alone, but that’s probably down to my own obsessive need to understand every bit of information I’m given instead of just getting on with reading the book and referring back to the info like a normal person (don’t come at me).
Anyway, after getting over myself and diving into the book, I quickly became obsessed with everything about it. It’s the first dark fantasy book I’ve read in a while that actually fits the vibes as described - the themes and plot are actually DARK, not just grey or ‘evil but also not really’. I rated it highly in the beginning purely on that respect.
What really sucked me in though, was the resolve and determination of both Vellene and Eledar as the MCs. With dual POVs, we’re given two characters from different ends of the realm, brought together by fate and a common goal in search of freedom, thrown onto a path that changes everything.
I will admit that I called one of the big twists pretty early on, but in no way did I predict the scale of what that was going to mean and how it would eventually play out to affect both the other characters and the direction of the plot.
Without going into spoilers, the only thing I will say is that the last few chapters left me screaming into my pillow. I need the sequel DESPERATELY.
I literally finished this book mere minutes ago so bear with me whilst I try to gather my thoughts.
“A broken weapon is still a weapon. It may only need to be wielded closer to the chest and with less forgiveness.” UGH.
I started For Mist and Tar without knowing much about it, so the glossary in the beginning was pretty daunting. I felt super overwhelmed with the world building from this alone, but that’s probably down to my own obsessive need to understand every bit of information I’m given instead of just getting on with reading the book and referring back to the info like a normal person (don’t come at me).
Anyway, after getting over myself and diving into the book, I quickly became obsessed with everything about it. It’s the first dark fantasy book I’ve read in a while that actually fits the vibes as described - the themes and plot are actually DARK, not just grey or ‘evil but also not really’. I rated it highly in the beginning purely on that respect.
What really sucked me in though, was the resolve and determination of both Vellene and Eledar as the MCs. With dual POVs, we’re given two characters from different ends of the realm, brought together by fate and a common goal in search of freedom, thrown onto a path that changes everything.
I will admit that I called one of the big twists pretty early on, but in no way did I predict the scale of what that was going to mean and how it would eventually play out to affect both the other characters and the direction of the plot.
Without going into spoilers, the only thing I will say is that the last few chapters left me screaming into my pillow. I need the sequel DESPERATELY.
June 11, 2023
I’ve read this book twice, and I greatly enjoyed it both times. I will be reading the second book when it comes out. The first book ends on a wonderful cliff hanger.
Now for the review:
I liked how complex and mysterious the magical system of this world is. The author created a unique universe, at times it can be a little confusing but it adds to the other all theme of the book. I’d say the mood is dark and almost hopeless, between the war zone and the poverty stricken slums there is a lot of despair in this world.
That is not to say it’s a depressing read. There is also hope and a beautiful depiction of a friendship. The love interest also adds a great level to the plot. The FMC is constantly torn between difficult choices, and left to deal with the consequences of her own (and others) actions. I loved watching her develop as the book goes on.
The main protagonist is a shadowy a mysterious figure, often it was the idea of his actions driving the plot rather than the man himself. This left the main aspects of the plot to be driven by the consequences of the actions of the main FMC and her cohorts. There were also some wonderful plot twists, I found myself shocked a few times at the end!
This book handles sensitive topics such as self harm with a gentle hand. However, this could be triggering for some.
I recommend reading this book!
Now for the review:
I liked how complex and mysterious the magical system of this world is. The author created a unique universe, at times it can be a little confusing but it adds to the other all theme of the book. I’d say the mood is dark and almost hopeless, between the war zone and the poverty stricken slums there is a lot of despair in this world.
That is not to say it’s a depressing read. There is also hope and a beautiful depiction of a friendship. The love interest also adds a great level to the plot. The FMC is constantly torn between difficult choices, and left to deal with the consequences of her own (and others) actions. I loved watching her develop as the book goes on.
The main protagonist is a shadowy a mysterious figure, often it was the idea of his actions driving the plot rather than the man himself. This left the main aspects of the plot to be driven by the consequences of the actions of the main FMC and her cohorts. There were also some wonderful plot twists, I found myself shocked a few times at the end!
This book handles sensitive topics such as self harm with a gentle hand. However, this could be triggering for some.
I recommend reading this book!
January 14, 2025
I have such mixed feelings about this book. Firstly there’s no world building or backstory AT ALL you’re just thrown right into the universe. If that’s not confusing enough there’s different terms for the different classes of citizens but it’s not based off wealth so how is that determined? They use a magical orb called chemight but there’s different types of orbs that do different stuff but you don’t get any backstory on those either. Finally I’m having trouble trying to picture what any of these people look like. They talk about sticking the orbs in different deposits on their body but don’t talk about if it’s literally embedded in the skin or like a holster that holds them? Idk the extreme lack of explanation and world building just makes it very confusing to understand. I think from what you eventually piece together it could be a phenomenal read/series. A place where it rains tar, is covered in mist, and the citizens want to rise against the ranks. It has all the pieces but just flopped in the end. I’ll eventually read the second one because it does end on a cliff hanger but book 2 is twice as long so it just leaves room to be twice as confusing 🥲
December 30, 2023
was it bad? no. was it good? sort of.
here’s the thing, i was very excited to read this. i had such high hopes for this book with the way it was marketed. female rage and gut wrenching? count me in!!!
however, i felt nothing.
where was the rage??? the emotion????
i expected a badass female lead who would stop at nothing to avenge herself. instead, i was met with vellene who blindly follows everyone around her and falls for not one, but TWO MEN that were very obviously using her. i’m talking they hold her hand once and she FOLDS.
this world was very hard for me to understand, unfortunately. there was no world building and half the time i had no idea what i was reading.
the writing was good. the story had a lot of promise.
i think there are many people out there that would enjoy this book, but it just didn’t really do it for me.
here’s the thing, i was very excited to read this. i had such high hopes for this book with the way it was marketed. female rage and gut wrenching? count me in!!!
however, i felt nothing.
where was the rage??? the emotion????
i expected a badass female lead who would stop at nothing to avenge herself. instead, i was met with vellene who blindly follows everyone around her and falls for not one, but TWO MEN that were very obviously using her. i’m talking they hold her hand once and she FOLDS.
this world was very hard for me to understand, unfortunately. there was no world building and half the time i had no idea what i was reading.
the writing was good. the story had a lot of promise.
i think there are many people out there that would enjoy this book, but it just didn’t really do it for me.
January 16, 2025
3.75⭐️
There is a glossary with the magical terms at the end (would’ve been practical in the beginning). The world building isn’t always very slow and explained but it isn’t hard to follow along and understand. According to the author, this book should be read before starting the mirrors of fate trilogy. I didn’t know and I read the trilogy first. Afterwards when I read For Mist and Tar I was under the impression that it would make Mirrors of Faith make more sense, but it didn’t. The magical worlds are different, the words are different, ultimately I don’t feel like it’s a necessity to read it before the trilogy.
There is a glossary with the magical terms at the end (would’ve been practical in the beginning). The world building isn’t always very slow and explained but it isn’t hard to follow along and understand. According to the author, this book should be read before starting the mirrors of fate trilogy. I didn’t know and I read the trilogy first. Afterwards when I read For Mist and Tar I was under the impression that it would make Mirrors of Faith make more sense, but it didn’t. The magical worlds are different, the words are different, ultimately I don’t feel like it’s a necessity to read it before the trilogy.
December 20, 2024
Shoutout to the author's social media marketing bc I watched a few tik toks and was thoroughly convinced this was going to be everything I've ever wanted.
It was not, but that's okay! I feel like there's some really great ideas in here, and while I feel like this book doesn't really deliver on its promises, apparently book 2 is supposed to be basically what book 1 said it was gonna be. I feel like this story might be redeemable, I just unfortunately did not enjoy the writing enough to struggle through another book.
It was not, but that's okay! I feel like there's some really great ideas in here, and while I feel like this book doesn't really deliver on its promises, apparently book 2 is supposed to be basically what book 1 said it was gonna be. I feel like this story might be redeemable, I just unfortunately did not enjoy the writing enough to struggle through another book.
July 18, 2025
Did not love it. The “world building” felt like literary vomit at times. Too many words, unnecessary adjectives, and too many metaphors. Once we got into the characters I really started to enjoy it and learning about them, but their dynamics became a little too much for me. It was a great thought but I didn’t enjoy it the way I wanted to.
December 9, 2025
This book is about feminine rage. But the only feminine rage I experienced was me. Reading this book. With an underage FMC. In a love triangle with 2 adult men????? And confused about the magic system. Anyway. Onto the next lol.
November 11, 2024
I enjoyed the story and the characters, but I wish I could determine the timeline better. There were some amazing moments, but I wanted more rage at the end.
October 17, 2022
I am an Eledar stan. I was in his corner the entire book, I still think he and Vellene are two halves of the same whole. Kadir is just there, who is that "sexy" dark character.
Kadir though, he is something. From his introduction I was in his corner to be with Vellene but then she and Eledar were just too precious. Kadir as a character by himself, he is one of those character that you don't know what's going on with him. Especially because he always gave somewhat vague answers to Vellene's questions, it made me suspicious of him. Eledar on the other hand had straight up answered her question, always had been straight forward. They shared a lot of the same pain, which is why I like Vellene with Eledar better.
The first half of this book I was honestly debating putting it down, but then right when I was going to it really started to pick up and really started keeping my attention. This story revolves around this love triangle that is Kadir, Vallene and Eledar. I felt like the only "background" character that had any character to them was Soff and that one Chemibreaker who ended up helping them in the end. Soff's part was a lot more and I liked her a lot more. That Chemibreaker? I don't even remember their name they had didn't have a lot of character to them but they did have more compared to the other ones.
The worldbuilding was pretty interesting, this book all happened in one city but it felt like a good large city with a history to it. I am excited to see if the second book happens in their "mirrored" city just to see some of the world building.
Overall a pretty good book, I would not read it again, I am not wrapped into the story like I have been with other books. Though I am excited for the second book to come out maybe sometime next year?
Kadir though, he is something. From his introduction I was in his corner to be with Vellene but then she and Eledar were just too precious. Kadir as a character by himself, he is one of those character that you don't know what's going on with him. Especially because he always gave somewhat vague answers to Vellene's questions, it made me suspicious of him. Eledar on the other hand had straight up answered her question, always had been straight forward. They shared a lot of the same pain, which is why I like Vellene with Eledar better.
The first half of this book I was honestly debating putting it down, but then right when I was going to it really started to pick up and really started keeping my attention. This story revolves around this love triangle that is Kadir, Vallene and Eledar. I felt like the only "background" character that had any character to them was Soff and that one Chemibreaker who ended up helping them in the end. Soff's part was a lot more and I liked her a lot more. That Chemibreaker? I don't even remember their name they had didn't have a lot of character to them but they did have more compared to the other ones.
The worldbuilding was pretty interesting, this book all happened in one city but it felt like a good large city with a history to it. I am excited to see if the second book happens in their "mirrored" city just to see some of the world building.
Overall a pretty good book, I would not read it again, I am not wrapped into the story like I have been with other books. Though I am excited for the second book to come out maybe sometime next year?
April 26, 2024
4.5! I was riveted from the beginning to the end. It’s a unique fantasy world with a brilliantly designed magic system. I loved the descriptions of color amongst the world that seems to be dark and “tarry”. I loved the orbs (magic delivery tool) and their many different uses.
Once again I don’t love the FMC being such a doormat. She literally falls in insta love at a touch. Which is almost explained and maybe will be more so in the next book. She just allows everyone she comes across to crap on her & it’s obnoxious. I don’t take points off for that anymore, lol. It’s par for the course.
Absolutely on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book.
Once again I don’t love the FMC being such a doormat. She literally falls in insta love at a touch. Which is almost explained and maybe will be more so in the next book. She just allows everyone she comes across to crap on her & it’s obnoxious. I don’t take points off for that anymore, lol. It’s par for the course.
Absolutely on the edge of my seat waiting for the next book.
June 20, 2023
I can’t get more than a chapter at a time down. It’s so much being thrown at you (verbiage wise) right off the bat. I am struggling so much to get into it as I’m trying to just figure out how it all works just in the second chapter. I really think I would love it, but it sadly just can’t hook me. This is probably a personal preference thing so don’t take this by heart please💕 I will try again another day.
September 6, 2023
ABSOLUTELY LOVED THIS BOOK!! the magic system was so good and unique, the world building was so good! And the characters!!! Like everything was so good! KADIR AAHHH LOVE HIM! and Valene! Love her so much! This book gave me chills reading it, it was so good.
January 23, 2024
I love it and I hate it at the same time…
An extremely powerful story of a scared seventeen year old Imperial girl who gets caught up in a world starved of magic and is hungry for power and chaos, and her only desire is to flee the controls of those surrounding her. Instead she becomes a prisoner to those who seek vengeance and retribution, manipulated because she happens to have the right connections. Vellene’s early torture inflicted by her father prepared her for a life of humility and pain however, she was naive to believe she would escape the same experiences out in the real world. When she chooses to flee her father’s imprisonment is the day she becomes a pawn in this game of chess her father and the Convocation of Eternal are playing.
The theme of freedom and power is woven throughout Vellene’s story and is the foundation of this dark fantasy book; dare I say it is even embedded into every character - it is their purpose, who they are as an individual and their reason to live. Every ounce of their lives, their chemight (magic) feeds the greed of the Imperials of Frales. Before Scraps, it was Golem hunted through the streets, melted back to clay as they chased freedom. Throughout the story you can feel their pleading cries or hear their screams of death. All of which climax’s naturally in scenes of violence followed by a retreat which is both literal and figurative.
Who is JJ Hoffman and thoughts on FM&T.
But was it enough to captivate?
Well did it, captivate?
“Hey siri, play Daylight by David Kushner” 🎵
An extremely powerful story of a scared seventeen year old Imperial girl who gets caught up in a world starved of magic and is hungry for power and chaos, and her only desire is to flee the controls of those surrounding her. Instead she becomes a prisoner to those who seek vengeance and retribution, manipulated because she happens to have the right connections. Vellene’s early torture inflicted by her father prepared her for a life of humility and pain however, she was naive to believe she would escape the same experiences out in the real world. When she chooses to flee her father’s imprisonment is the day she becomes a pawn in this game of chess her father and the Convocation of Eternal are playing.
The theme of freedom and power is woven throughout Vellene’s story and is the foundation of this dark fantasy book; dare I say it is even embedded into every character - it is their purpose, who they are as an individual and their reason to live. Every ounce of their lives, their chemight (magic) feeds the greed of the Imperials of Frales. Before Scraps, it was Golem hunted through the streets, melted back to clay as they chased freedom. Throughout the story you can feel their pleading cries or hear their screams of death. All of which climax’s naturally in scenes of violence followed by a retreat which is both literal and figurative.
Who is JJ Hoffman and thoughts on FM&T.
This is the first novel I have read written by indie author JJ Hoffman and you can clearly see she has complete control of her style and deserves recognition for publishing a well designed magical tier system that reflects societies social status. Hoffman goes even further by spending nearly 60 hours to construct and create the front cover herself to reflect this very magical system. I think her ability to do all of this and provide representation to a community of people who experience mental health conditions is worth praising.
But was it enough to captivate?
I loved all of the above and the potential this book has however, the story and the characters does not embody the ‘female rage’ that Hoffman suggests. Soffesa the Silent is a female assassin and despite her significant influence on the choices made by other characters, there is a lack of emotional investment in her character. Even when she loses loved ones, there is no evidence of a calculated and vengeful response typically associated with assassins or ‘female rage’. Ferula is a powerful younger version of Vellene who also lost her mother due to the war, and I believe her character could have played a bigger role in the story however, was kept in the background overshadowed by other dominant characters. Vellene, a character who has experienced torture, manipulation, poisoning, and betrayal from those she loved. Despite this, she does not exhibit the same desire for revenge or violence as her male counterpart, Eldar. And finally Mogaell Winloc deserved a chapter of her own because somebody that angry at the world and at her sister has a story to be told.
Well did it, captivate?
Due to the pace of the book I struggled to be ‘choked’ by the content and that’s because there was no world building and half the time I didn’t understand what I was reading. Instead I slowly immersed myself into what is (what I completely overlooked) the first book of a multiverse. I struggled to keep up with this fast assuming story and then became compelled to finish when the story picked up 75% in - thank you to the love triangle - in a nutshell yes because I felt the need to finish the book but I wouldn’t have a desire to read the next instalment.
December 6, 2023
HOLY SHIT. This was unbelievably good. I saw this on TikTok and was drawn in from the content warnings that are for its upcoming sequel. I find it hard to believe that the next book is supposedly a million times darker than this?!?!?! I guess it makes sense WITH THAT ENDING.
I am in utter shock. I didn’t see any of that coming. And the writing IS SO GOOD. It’s so beautiful like I felt fully immersed in the emotions of the characters. Also the magic and world is super intriguing. I’ve followed the author for a bit but I never dove in until now and I seriously regret not doing so. The end has me questioning everything man I need the sequel.
There’s been very few books that I’ll hold close to my chest and cherish probably for the rest of my life, but honestly this is one of them. I just felt so connected to the characters. As a survivor of abuse, I thought the author handled Vellene’s trauma really well. I actually like that she’s a bit more meek and desperate until the end. Her feminine rage was bottled up over time and I also thought that was much more amazing to read because you really get to watch her come into her own.
Like don’t get me wrong, I love the like classic always-has-a-dagger fmcs with a spicy attitude, but I feel like they can be so one dimensional and over the last year i got tired of reading about them. Vellene was like a breath of fresh air. Her feminine rage was ACTUALLY feminine rage, not this like glamorized version that other authors say their fmcs have.
I could really see myself in her, and I also like that she’s a quieter fmc for that reason. It felt like when she spoke and committed to things, her words were more weighted and real.
I also could relate to Eledar. I thought the way the writer handled his addiction to lumis and his self harm was BRILLIANT. It’s not often I pick up a book promoted as grimdark on booktok and ITS ACTUALLY GRIMDARK. Like it’s fucking tragic but it’s beautiful. I literally cannot wait for the next book that the content warning is for. I can’t wait to see where she takes this plot because I’m honestly not sure what to expect 🤯🤯🤯🤯
I am in utter shock. I didn’t see any of that coming. And the writing IS SO GOOD. It’s so beautiful like I felt fully immersed in the emotions of the characters. Also the magic and world is super intriguing. I’ve followed the author for a bit but I never dove in until now and I seriously regret not doing so. The end has me questioning everything man I need the sequel.
There’s been very few books that I’ll hold close to my chest and cherish probably for the rest of my life, but honestly this is one of them. I just felt so connected to the characters. As a survivor of abuse, I thought the author handled Vellene’s trauma really well. I actually like that she’s a bit more meek and desperate until the end. Her feminine rage was bottled up over time and I also thought that was much more amazing to read because you really get to watch her come into her own.
Like don’t get me wrong, I love the like classic always-has-a-dagger fmcs with a spicy attitude, but I feel like they can be so one dimensional and over the last year i got tired of reading about them. Vellene was like a breath of fresh air. Her feminine rage was ACTUALLY feminine rage, not this like glamorized version that other authors say their fmcs have.
I could really see myself in her, and I also like that she’s a quieter fmc for that reason. It felt like when she spoke and committed to things, her words were more weighted and real.
I also could relate to Eledar. I thought the way the writer handled his addiction to lumis and his self harm was BRILLIANT. It’s not often I pick up a book promoted as grimdark on booktok and ITS ACTUALLY GRIMDARK. Like it’s fucking tragic but it’s beautiful. I literally cannot wait for the next book that the content warning is for. I can’t wait to see where she takes this plot because I’m honestly not sure what to expect 🤯🤯🤯🤯
November 13, 2024
So, I picked this series up after seeing a review about how complex and thorough the world-building was and that the series “is for readers who understand the importance of sometimes losing main characters.” I had such high hopes (or as high as they could be with so few reviews), and they fell so flat. I had to force myself to read 50 pages, and by then I still disliked the writing style but wanted to know how it ended.
I normally don’t pick apart writing, especially at the beginning of an author’s career, but it was like whiplash between emotional and flippant remarks among the characters. I think there were some truly great aspects, but these needed a more experienced editor to make sure everything was pieced together correctly. One character is built on trustworthiness and putting others above (themselves), yet (they) did something so out of character that completely affected the entire plot line. This was one of many moments where I felt the author was trying to do too much and got lost in the mix.
The world-building felt a little forced. I had such a hard time keeping up with what everything meant and who was made of what (still don’t think I know). I love a complex world; however, you need to be able to introduce something the readers can ~easily ish~ grasp… this was not that. The author shouldn’t have to explain everything word for word, and it kinda felt like that’s what was happening.
There is so much I could say, and I hate that. I wanted to enjoy the book, and I see great potential. However, I believe this duology should have been a later in the career tackle after a writing style was solidly established and the author had more experience introducing readers to completely new worlds.
I normally don’t pick apart writing, especially at the beginning of an author’s career, but it was like whiplash between emotional and flippant remarks among the characters. I think there were some truly great aspects, but these needed a more experienced editor to make sure everything was pieced together correctly. One character is built on trustworthiness and putting others above (themselves), yet (they) did something so out of character that completely affected the entire plot line. This was one of many moments where I felt the author was trying to do too much and got lost in the mix.
The world-building felt a little forced. I had such a hard time keeping up with what everything meant and who was made of what (still don’t think I know). I love a complex world; however, you need to be able to introduce something the readers can ~easily ish~ grasp… this was not that. The author shouldn’t have to explain everything word for word, and it kinda felt like that’s what was happening.
There is so much I could say, and I hate that. I wanted to enjoy the book, and I see great potential. However, I believe this duology should have been a later in the career tackle after a writing style was solidly established and the author had more experience introducing readers to completely new worlds.
January 20, 2024
I wanted to enjoy this story so much. But, I honestly...couldn't.
The sheer ideas behind the story, the characters, and the magic system are utterly captivating. I picked up this novel based on the idea of feminine rage. However, it just fell short for me.
The constant present tense used in the writing was very difficult for me to process. Each sentence read as if it was literally,
In.
The.
Moment.
Right.
Now.
The author has the talent to write beautifully. It's there, in her prose. I hope it truly develops over time.
The characters in the story needed a bit more emotional development in order for them to be believable. It's a difficult task to create characters from being 2 dimensional to 4 dimensional complex people. When I finally felt the feminine rage it was in the last few pages. But, it resembled a sputtering spark in the rain. Glorious and divine. Yet, short and out to soon.
The world building was interesting but lacked a few key developments to make it believable. Making it difficult to imagine this world being able to function realistically. With my neurodivergent brain I just got stuck on it. It rains tar and shards (almost constantly?) but there's grass?
Would I recommend this book? No.
Will I read it again? No.
Will I watch this author to see how her stories develop? Hands down yes.
The sheer ideas behind the story, the characters, and the magic system are utterly captivating. I picked up this novel based on the idea of feminine rage. However, it just fell short for me.
The constant present tense used in the writing was very difficult for me to process. Each sentence read as if it was literally,
In.
The.
Moment.
Right.
Now.
The author has the talent to write beautifully. It's there, in her prose. I hope it truly develops over time.
The characters in the story needed a bit more emotional development in order for them to be believable. It's a difficult task to create characters from being 2 dimensional to 4 dimensional complex people. When I finally felt the feminine rage it was in the last few pages. But, it resembled a sputtering spark in the rain. Glorious and divine. Yet, short and out to soon.
The world building was interesting but lacked a few key developments to make it believable. Making it difficult to imagine this world being able to function realistically. With my neurodivergent brain I just got stuck on it. It rains tar and shards (almost constantly?) but there's grass?
Would I recommend this book? No.
Will I read it again? No.
Will I watch this author to see how her stories develop? Hands down yes.
January 11, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I’ve struggled with how to rate this, because I truly enjoyed the story. As with most fantasy, book one begins with world building. I love the uniqueness of this magic system and world, however, all of it being something completely new required a lot of focus in the first half for me to shift my mind to recognizing the terms and not needing the dictionary in the front. I enjoyed the dialogue between characters and the intricate details of their connections. I look forward to reading the about the rest of the badass FMC’s in the Wrathos megaverse and seeing where Vellene’s story goes from here.
Vellene has spent her life under her father’s abuse, as has the kingdom. Just shy of her 18th birthday and her impending death, she escapes his torture looking for freedom. When she stumbles across Eladar, she has no idea she is trading one freedom for another-or that it will land her back in her father’s clutches. Then Kadir arrives, and suddenly she feels like she has found a true alli. But everything is not as it seems and neither of these males anticipate the hold Vellene would have over them.
I’ve struggled with how to rate this, because I truly enjoyed the story. As with most fantasy, book one begins with world building. I love the uniqueness of this magic system and world, however, all of it being something completely new required a lot of focus in the first half for me to shift my mind to recognizing the terms and not needing the dictionary in the front. I enjoyed the dialogue between characters and the intricate details of their connections. I look forward to reading the about the rest of the badass FMC’s in the Wrathos megaverse and seeing where Vellene’s story goes from here.
Vellene has spent her life under her father’s abuse, as has the kingdom. Just shy of her 18th birthday and her impending death, she escapes his torture looking for freedom. When she stumbles across Eladar, she has no idea she is trading one freedom for another-or that it will land her back in her father’s clutches. Then Kadir arrives, and suddenly she feels like she has found a true alli. But everything is not as it seems and neither of these males anticipate the hold Vellene would have over them.
July 17, 2024
This is the first book in this genre that I have read and I can’t wait to see what else this series has to bring.
This book was interesting to get through. The heartbreak, the love, the strange circumstances, then the end, the end that left the entire book in a cliff hanger to keep reading.
Aquim is just an awful character, there is no other way to explain it. Just awful.
Mogaell I think was just manipulated by her father and then again by Kadir. Unfortunately, she’s not going to want to change much if Kadir pushes her down the wrong path.
Kadir is good at pretending and masking who he is, in the end, I think he’s a manipulator that just wanted power.
Eledar, there is so much hope to this lump of clay but the way he death oathed Vellene doesn’t sit right with me.
Vellene didn’t deserve the life she was handed. I’m curious to see if she actually died or if she made it in the realm universe she went off to.
Soffesa has just been left to deal with a lot in her life. She lost all of her family and had to take survival into her own hands. The way she protects those that she trusts, shows she is a great character under all the baggage.
This book was interesting to get through. The heartbreak, the love, the strange circumstances, then the end, the end that left the entire book in a cliff hanger to keep reading.
Aquim is just an awful character, there is no other way to explain it. Just awful.
Mogaell I think was just manipulated by her father and then again by Kadir. Unfortunately, she’s not going to want to change much if Kadir pushes her down the wrong path.
Kadir is good at pretending and masking who he is, in the end, I think he’s a manipulator that just wanted power.
Eledar, there is so much hope to this lump of clay but the way he death oathed Vellene doesn’t sit right with me.
Vellene didn’t deserve the life she was handed. I’m curious to see if she actually died or if she made it in the realm universe she went off to.
Soffesa has just been left to deal with a lot in her life. She lost all of her family and had to take survival into her own hands. The way she protects those that she trusts, shows she is a great character under all the baggage.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2024
Took a few hundred pages to really get into it. It's a great concept, and I love how dark it is.
BUT... it suffers from too much of its own made-up vocabulary. You're thrown into it without any warm-up to what a lot of it means and are given a huge lore dump that just confuses things more. I know technically Chemi aren't people, but the word person/people EASILY could have been used in its place sometimes. The word Chemi was literally on every page.
The female rage was only there for a side character in the last couple of pages...not the main character like we were promised. At times I couldn't tell if this was YA, or just a toned down adult fantasy...
It would easily be a 4.5 star if it wasn't for Eledar being so fucking stupid, the rushed timeline, and the vocabulary thing.
This is to Eledar: You suck. I hate you. Your sister doesn't deserve to have an idiot like you around her, and Vellene needs to not end up with you. PLEASE GO TO THERAPY
I'm much more upset that this genuinely talented and imaginative author wrote this.
BUT... it suffers from too much of its own made-up vocabulary. You're thrown into it without any warm-up to what a lot of it means and are given a huge lore dump that just confuses things more. I know technically Chemi aren't people, but the word person/people EASILY could have been used in its place sometimes. The word Chemi was literally on every page.
The female rage was only there for a side character in the last couple of pages...not the main character like we were promised. At times I couldn't tell if this was YA, or just a toned down adult fantasy...
It would easily be a 4.5 star if it wasn't for Eledar being so fucking stupid, the rushed timeline, and the vocabulary thing.
This is to Eledar: You suck. I hate you. Your sister doesn't deserve to have an idiot like you around her, and Vellene needs to not end up with you. PLEASE GO TO THERAPY
I'm much more upset that this genuinely talented and imaginative author wrote this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2024
For the first book that I have read from this author. I can honestly say, I would be back for more. Well, I am coming back for more because I can't just read one, I have to finish the duo. Or is it the series?
What with the who with the how with the why!? You, Hoffman, have some VERY much explaining to do. Did you seriously kill Vellene? Wait no you couldn't have or else there would be no duo or there would be a chapter in Kadir POV with the pain of losing her like El "felt" but was that real? Speaking of else, did you SERIOUSLY have to make Kadir be Eledar's master?! ARE YOU TRYING TO BE EVIL WITH THE HEART!!!??? But having the infusion? Are you wild? Having Velie infuse with the golem and then with his master!? But not knowing until the end that Ka was the master and also the head of that secret group that SENT El to the island is just... just insane! Book 2 better be better. And not make me cry and have so many crazy emotions! If it is, I'm suing for heartbreak XD You lost a star for the emotional ride you put me through.
I am so lost on the whole secret series thing. The Era of awakening. Like I found books 1-3 which is that trilogy series but what's book 4 if book 5 and 6 is the Alchemight Duo?
What with the who with the how with the why!? You, Hoffman, have some VERY much explaining to do. Did you seriously kill Vellene? Wait no you couldn't have or else there would be no duo or there would be a chapter in Kadir POV with the pain of losing her like El "felt" but was that real? Speaking of else, did you SERIOUSLY have to make Kadir be Eledar's master?! ARE YOU TRYING TO BE EVIL WITH THE HEART!!!??? But having the infusion? Are you wild? Having Velie infuse with the golem and then with his master!? But not knowing until the end that Ka was the master and also the head of that secret group that SENT El to the island is just... just insane! Book 2 better be better. And not make me cry and have so many crazy emotions! If it is, I'm suing for heartbreak XD You lost a star for the emotional ride you put me through.
I am so lost on the whole secret series thing. The Era of awakening. Like I found books 1-3 which is that trilogy series but what's book 4 if book 5 and 6 is the Alchemight Duo?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 29, 2024
To start off I love my books, they're my escapes and reading that this was supposed to be an unhinged female rage. I needed this. Dove in headfirst to get a migraine at flicking through the glossary and still not being able to understand the god damn formularies or picture their deposits. The explanation to everything was so vague that I found myself trying to fill in gaps to make it more comprehensive. Took me 3 days to get to 55% and for me that's rough.... I wanted to like this book so so so much and in a way I do. There is a brilliant story to unpack here but if the author added some more information or world building it'd make such a difference. I really hope I find the will to finish but based off the other reviews it seems my prediction of the ending is completely correct so I don't see much point which is disappointing because damn I was really hyped up for this book.
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