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Ruan #1
Daughter of the Flames
Zahira is a young woman of the conquered Rua people, their country occupied by another, very different culture - the Sedorne. Zahira is an orphan and has been raised to despise and distrust the occupying population, as well as to be a devout follower of the native religion. But everything changes for Zahira when her home and foster family are destroyed and she finds out some shocking truths about her heritage and real family. Realizing that it is up to her to do something about the violence and upheaval that are tearing her country apart, she must learn to accept her Sedorne origins and try to bridge the gap between the warring cultures. But when her own people suspect her of treachery for her ideas - especially after she saves the life of a Sedorne nobleman and begins to fall in love - the epic task ahead of her seems insurmountable...
362 pages, Paperback
First published March 3, 2008
25 people are currently reading
3376 people want to read
About the author
Zoë Marriott
17 books803 followersZoë has known that she wanted to be a writer since she read 'The Magic Faraway Tree' by Enid Blyton at age eight. She's never changed her mind in all the years since then.
She completed her first manuscript - a truly embarrassing romance novel - at age sixteen, and kept on writing books and submitting them until she had collected rejections from nearly very publisher in the UK and two in Australia. She eventually got her first publishing contract when she was twenty-two - but had to wait until she was twenty-four to see that book published (The Swan Kingdom). Her books have been longlisted for the Branford Boase Award, shortlisted for the Leeds Book Award and the Lancashire Book of the Year, and have won a Junior Library Guild Selection, a USBBY Outstanding International Listing, the Hillingdon Book Award and the Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation Prize. Over the years she's worked as an admin assistant, a dental nurse, a civil servant, and a reader for a literary scout. She has designed and run over one hundred creative writing workshops in schools and libraries, and from 2017-19 she was the Royal Literary Fund Fellow at York St. John University.
She lives in a little house in a town by the sea, with a manic spaniel called Ruskin (otherwise known as Demon Dog, Trash Puppy, Snaggletooth, or the supervillain in training) and far too many books. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Creative Writing at the Open University, and working on her first novel for adults.
She completed her first manuscript - a truly embarrassing romance novel - at age sixteen, and kept on writing books and submitting them until she had collected rejections from nearly very publisher in the UK and two in Australia. She eventually got her first publishing contract when she was twenty-two - but had to wait until she was twenty-four to see that book published (The Swan Kingdom). Her books have been longlisted for the Branford Boase Award, shortlisted for the Leeds Book Award and the Lancashire Book of the Year, and have won a Junior Library Guild Selection, a USBBY Outstanding International Listing, the Hillingdon Book Award and the Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation Prize. Over the years she's worked as an admin assistant, a dental nurse, a civil servant, and a reader for a literary scout. She has designed and run over one hundred creative writing workshops in schools and libraries, and from 2017-19 she was the Royal Literary Fund Fellow at York St. John University.
She lives in a little house in a town by the sea, with a manic spaniel called Ruskin (otherwise known as Demon Dog, Trash Puppy, Snaggletooth, or the supervillain in training) and far too many books. She is currently pursuing a PhD in Creative Writing at the Open University, and working on her first novel for adults.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 253 reviews
October 25, 2010
Daughter of the Flames was quite a treat. It really had a little bit of everything: action, adventure, drama, political mystery, goddesses and the divine, romance—if you can name it, it was probably there. Marriott manages to balance all of these elements and create a fantasy that is not too overwhelming for the reader to understand. But what I really enjoyed about most about this book (aside from the awesome sparring scenes) was the complexity of its characters and their interactions. Though the romance in this novel starts out as more pragmatic than anything, it was nice to see that the friendship forged out of circumstance slowly blossomed into something heartfelt and true. Marriott does a wonderful job of layering each character with their own fears, wants, hopes, and dreams. Nobody is good. Nobody is evil. Everybody is just doing what they believe they have to do in order to set things right. Even King Abheron. It is very rare for me to find a book where I sympathize with the villain as much as I do the heroine, but I found myself wishing that he could be taken to a therapist and helped. Maybe if Dr. Phil existed in this world less people would have died. But it certainly made for an exciting read!
For the full review, please visit my blog:
http://oktopusink.blogspot.com/2010/1...
For the full review, please visit my blog:
http://oktopusink.blogspot.com/2010/1...
May 4, 2010
This book is perilously close to a full 5 stars. Because I can't decide, I am for now, instead going to give it a glowing review and demand that you just go out and read the book.
The weakest part of this book and one reason it isn't getting an automatic 5 stars is the prologue. I feel that Ms. Marriott tried to tell us too much about her world all at once, by alternately giving the reader way more information about the happenings of this world than we can currently handle and casually tossing out words, phrases and ideas that should have an explaination but don't. Oh, that's right. We all worship a glowing blue fire goddess called The Mother...
Anyway, I understand the desire to introduce your readers quickly and fully into the world you have created, but I do think this time, it could have been better.
That being said, I LOVED this book. Zira/Zihira is scarred. Not an interesting mark in her hairline, or a clever little rose spot on her cheek. No. She has a huge, horribly noticable burn scar that almost completely covers one whole side of her face. It almost cost her the eye. Magically (thank you fire goddess...) she can see. (No worries- it isn't really a spoiler, it's all talked about in the prologue). Oh ya, and she totally kicks trash. She is like, fer real hard core. When I was younger I wanted to be a ninja. (Who am I kidding... I STILL want to be a ninja) If I couldn't be a ninja, I totally wanted to be an indian warrior princess. This girl has got it going on! She gets to be it all! A hidden princess (not quite indian, but there are 2 differing ethnicities acting together here) and she can fight you and win. Bam, smack down! I love that Marriott is able to write a truly strong heroine here who doesn't apologize for what she has to do, or what she has become. Once she realizes who she really is (the true ruler of her people) she faces up to the challenge and makes the really tough decisions no one else seems able to make. And she sticks with them.
Then, there is Sorin. Who doesn't like this guy? He seems pretty down to earth definitely a guy I'd like to meet. And, I love that Marriott doesn't take the easy way out with his character. After the midnight mess (no details, sorry... I don't want an actual spoilers here... Just read the book!) it would have been so easy for Sorin to experience no long term effects, but given the nature of the incident, it would have been unlikely, and would have cheapened the event. So, she didn't. She let the story take it's natural and logical course, made Sorin's character grow and expand around that and I think the story is stronger and more meaningful because of that.
Oh, and her Uncle, the King. Lets no forget about him, shall we. He is creepy. And yet, I pity him. And not in the way you pity villians because they are just such pathetic maggots that there is no emotional response left available to you. No, I pity him because his character deserves the soft hearted genuine pity one gives to someone who has utterly lost their way, truly desires to find it again, but knows- as do you- that there is no redemption left for them. A truly great villian, because there are moments of humanity and heart that shine out through the depravity and darkness.
Most of the supporting side characters are just as fun as those taking the spotlight. Although many of them aren't fully developed and don't get a lot of 'screen time' I left the book feeling like I knew them and that in the event that I needed them, they would have my back. (Sigh... It's gonna really suck when I'm in an awful position, in imminent danger expecting Deo or even Rashna to come riding to my rescue, only to realize... Oh ya, they aren't real here.)
The only other complaint I had with this book- (Stop reading if you don't want a mild spoiler that may or may not ruin a moment for you...)
Although they initially married for convinience and the sake of the kingdom, it is obvious to readers (and those who haven't gotten that far yet, because, come on... What else would happen here) that the pair, Zahira and Sorin fall in love, real love, happily ever after love, with each other. But, neither one actually ever says the word to the other. The closest Sorin comes is once to call her, My love. I for one, would have liked the verbal affirmation. Especially at the end. They both probably know how the other feels, but who doesn't like to hear that every once in a while.
Suffice it to say that this book was wonderful. I loved the characters. Zahira is a strong character. She is of the best kind, because she begins being strong in body and stable of mind and when the story ends, she is still physically strong (although perhaps more aware of her own mortality) but she is now incredibly strong mentally and emotionally and she relies more heavily on who she is.
The weakest part of this book and one reason it isn't getting an automatic 5 stars is the prologue. I feel that Ms. Marriott tried to tell us too much about her world all at once, by alternately giving the reader way more information about the happenings of this world than we can currently handle and casually tossing out words, phrases and ideas that should have an explaination but don't. Oh, that's right. We all worship a glowing blue fire goddess called The Mother...
Anyway, I understand the desire to introduce your readers quickly and fully into the world you have created, but I do think this time, it could have been better.
That being said, I LOVED this book. Zira/Zihira is scarred. Not an interesting mark in her hairline, or a clever little rose spot on her cheek. No. She has a huge, horribly noticable burn scar that almost completely covers one whole side of her face. It almost cost her the eye. Magically (thank you fire goddess...) she can see. (No worries- it isn't really a spoiler, it's all talked about in the prologue). Oh ya, and she totally kicks trash. She is like, fer real hard core. When I was younger I wanted to be a ninja. (Who am I kidding... I STILL want to be a ninja) If I couldn't be a ninja, I totally wanted to be an indian warrior princess. This girl has got it going on! She gets to be it all! A hidden princess (not quite indian, but there are 2 differing ethnicities acting together here) and she can fight you and win. Bam, smack down! I love that Marriott is able to write a truly strong heroine here who doesn't apologize for what she has to do, or what she has become. Once she realizes who she really is (the true ruler of her people) she faces up to the challenge and makes the really tough decisions no one else seems able to make. And she sticks with them.
Then, there is Sorin. Who doesn't like this guy? He seems pretty down to earth definitely a guy I'd like to meet. And, I love that Marriott doesn't take the easy way out with his character. After the midnight mess (no details, sorry... I don't want an actual spoilers here... Just read the book!) it would have been so easy for Sorin to experience no long term effects, but given the nature of the incident, it would have been unlikely, and would have cheapened the event. So, she didn't. She let the story take it's natural and logical course, made Sorin's character grow and expand around that and I think the story is stronger and more meaningful because of that.
Oh, and her Uncle, the King. Lets no forget about him, shall we. He is creepy. And yet, I pity him. And not in the way you pity villians because they are just such pathetic maggots that there is no emotional response left available to you. No, I pity him because his character deserves the soft hearted genuine pity one gives to someone who has utterly lost their way, truly desires to find it again, but knows- as do you- that there is no redemption left for them. A truly great villian, because there are moments of humanity and heart that shine out through the depravity and darkness.
Most of the supporting side characters are just as fun as those taking the spotlight. Although many of them aren't fully developed and don't get a lot of 'screen time' I left the book feeling like I knew them and that in the event that I needed them, they would have my back. (Sigh... It's gonna really suck when I'm in an awful position, in imminent danger expecting Deo or even Rashna to come riding to my rescue, only to realize... Oh ya, they aren't real here.)
The only other complaint I had with this book- (Stop reading if you don't want a mild spoiler that may or may not ruin a moment for you...)
Although they initially married for convinience and the sake of the kingdom, it is obvious to readers (and those who haven't gotten that far yet, because, come on... What else would happen here) that the pair, Zahira and Sorin fall in love, real love, happily ever after love, with each other. But, neither one actually ever says the word to the other. The closest Sorin comes is once to call her, My love. I for one, would have liked the verbal affirmation. Especially at the end. They both probably know how the other feels, but who doesn't like to hear that every once in a while.
Suffice it to say that this book was wonderful. I loved the characters. Zahira is a strong character. She is of the best kind, because she begins being strong in body and stable of mind and when the story ends, she is still physically strong (although perhaps more aware of her own mortality) but she is now incredibly strong mentally and emotionally and she relies more heavily on who she is.
December 16, 2009
I've had my eye on Zoë Marriott's second novel, DAUGHTER OF THE FLAMES, since I read Chelle's review lo these many months ago. So I was happy to see it pop up on my Cybils reading list. I've read several books lately that have had an Asian/Middle Eastern flavor to them and was surprised and very much pleased to find DAUGHTER OF THE FLAMES did as well. This was my first novel by Ms. Marriott and I was both looking forward to giving a new author a shot and in the mood for some more traditional fantasy. It's also worth it to point out the rather lovely cover this novel sports. The flames and curlicues are swirlingly lovely, enough so that the fact that Zira doesn't look quite as I pictured her isn't any kind of stumbling block at all.
Zira is a trained warrior. A novice with a face full of scars and a forgotten past, she perches right on the cusp of her sixteenth birthday. At the same time she anxiously awaits her superior's decision on whether she will join the ranks of the namoa or be sent to tend the temple livestock for the rest of her days. Born a Rua, Zira belongs to a conquered people. The Sedorne rulers overran the peaceful country of Ruan and the current king, Abheron, rules with an iron fist, encouraging his lords to crush the Rua under their feet. But behind the deceptively peaceful temple walls, rebellion is in the wind. When a surprising series of events lead Zira to save a young Sedorne lord's life, she is set on the path that will lead her to places she never expected, where, frankly, she would rather die than set foot. But it is Zira's fate to be more than she is, to combine the hopes and fears of two races in one body, and to be savior to a nation.
I was drawn in very quickly. There are all kinds of familiar fantasy elements at play here that Marriott handled quite well, wrapping them up in a nice bit of world building, full of heady descriptions of cuisine, vegetation, and light and shadow that had me salivating and oohing and ahhing at will. Zira's past is appropriately murky and, when it comes to light, it is in no way surprising. And yet Ms. Marriott weaves in some interesting implications that keep you reading. The same is true of the villain. He is dastardly and despicable and, after one particularly grisly scene, I was convinced he was truly evil. But he wasn't surprising or very complex, really, until about 250 pages in when his character development takes a truly masterful turn. Literally between the space of one page and the next I was fully invested, desperate to see how these heretofore unknown layers worked their way into the plot to wreak havoc. Unfortunately, this was a bit too late as there were only about 80 pages left in the book. If only he'd become more interesting 100 pages earlier. Because this book has a truly excellent climax, full of fighting and mayhem and excitement. The romance followed the same lines. I loved how unconventional it was, how it was all arranged as a matter of strategy and convenience and whether or not they might actually be capable of falling in love with each other was considered of only minimal importance. This slow pace was delicious and I bought their hesitance and awkwardness and loved every minute. But things began to fall apart at a certain point and I felt like this central relationship never quite got back its former fervor by the time the story wound to a close. Despite these inconsistencies, there is some real talent here and I will definitely be picking up Ms. Marriott's next book.
Zira is a trained warrior. A novice with a face full of scars and a forgotten past, she perches right on the cusp of her sixteenth birthday. At the same time she anxiously awaits her superior's decision on whether she will join the ranks of the namoa or be sent to tend the temple livestock for the rest of her days. Born a Rua, Zira belongs to a conquered people. The Sedorne rulers overran the peaceful country of Ruan and the current king, Abheron, rules with an iron fist, encouraging his lords to crush the Rua under their feet. But behind the deceptively peaceful temple walls, rebellion is in the wind. When a surprising series of events lead Zira to save a young Sedorne lord's life, she is set on the path that will lead her to places she never expected, where, frankly, she would rather die than set foot. But it is Zira's fate to be more than she is, to combine the hopes and fears of two races in one body, and to be savior to a nation.
I was drawn in very quickly. There are all kinds of familiar fantasy elements at play here that Marriott handled quite well, wrapping them up in a nice bit of world building, full of heady descriptions of cuisine, vegetation, and light and shadow that had me salivating and oohing and ahhing at will. Zira's past is appropriately murky and, when it comes to light, it is in no way surprising. And yet Ms. Marriott weaves in some interesting implications that keep you reading. The same is true of the villain. He is dastardly and despicable and, after one particularly grisly scene, I was convinced he was truly evil. But he wasn't surprising or very complex, really, until about 250 pages in when his character development takes a truly masterful turn. Literally between the space of one page and the next I was fully invested, desperate to see how these heretofore unknown layers worked their way into the plot to wreak havoc. Unfortunately, this was a bit too late as there were only about 80 pages left in the book. If only he'd become more interesting 100 pages earlier. Because this book has a truly excellent climax, full of fighting and mayhem and excitement. The romance followed the same lines. I loved how unconventional it was, how it was all arranged as a matter of strategy and convenience and whether or not they might actually be capable of falling in love with each other was considered of only minimal importance. This slow pace was delicious and I bought their hesitance and awkwardness and loved every minute. But things began to fall apart at a certain point and I felt like this central relationship never quite got back its former fervor by the time the story wound to a close. Despite these inconsistencies, there is some real talent here and I will definitely be picking up Ms. Marriott's next book.
July 16, 2009
From inside jacket flap: "What if your deadliest enemy was the only one who could save you.
In an ancient temple in the mountains, fifteen-year-old Zira trains in the martial arts to become a warrior priestess, defending the faith of the Ruan people. Then terror strikes at everything Zira loves, and the only home she knows is destroyed byt the occupying forces of tyrannical King Abheron. To survive, she must unravel the secrets of her identity, decide her people's fate - and accept her growing feelings for a man who should be her enemy."
I've been waiting for a new Zoe Marriott book ever since I read her first novel, The Swan Kingdom about a year or so ago. Marriott is one of the authors that I've come to count on when I need a good young adult fantasy book to read. She may not be very well known, but she knows what she's doing when it comes to writing a satisfying book!
I really liked the main character, Zira. She was a strong character, and even after she fell in love she was still independent and fierce - there is nothing worse than a heroine who falls to pieces after she has found a big, strong man who sweeps her off her feet! I am a romance junkie, but I still appreciate it when author's allow their female leads to have a brain!
I think that the cover of this book is really eye catching, but a bit of disappointment because the girl isn't a very good representation of a Zira. She is missing a scar of her face that is important to the story line...
Ratings (Out of 10):
Plot: 10
Characters: 10
Writing Style: 10
Romance: 10
Original: 10
Total: 50/50 (A)
In an ancient temple in the mountains, fifteen-year-old Zira trains in the martial arts to become a warrior priestess, defending the faith of the Ruan people. Then terror strikes at everything Zira loves, and the only home she knows is destroyed byt the occupying forces of tyrannical King Abheron. To survive, she must unravel the secrets of her identity, decide her people's fate - and accept her growing feelings for a man who should be her enemy."
I've been waiting for a new Zoe Marriott book ever since I read her first novel, The Swan Kingdom about a year or so ago. Marriott is one of the authors that I've come to count on when I need a good young adult fantasy book to read. She may not be very well known, but she knows what she's doing when it comes to writing a satisfying book!
I really liked the main character, Zira. She was a strong character, and even after she fell in love she was still independent and fierce - there is nothing worse than a heroine who falls to pieces after she has found a big, strong man who sweeps her off her feet! I am a romance junkie, but I still appreciate it when author's allow their female leads to have a brain!
I think that the cover of this book is really eye catching, but a bit of disappointment because the girl isn't a very good representation of a Zira. She is missing a scar of her face that is important to the story line...
Ratings (Out of 10):
Plot: 10
Characters: 10
Writing Style: 10
Romance: 10
Original: 10
Total: 50/50 (A)
October 26, 2015
Its been a while but I remember why I wanted to read this book. Firstly for the main girl; she sounded like a strong heroine that can really hold her ground. Secondly because of my brother. Now he doesn’t read books like this but I remember how he used to always say call himself 'Lord of the Flame' (I think he got it from some movie). So the name Daughter of the Flame caught my eye.
I was really hoping to love this book but I was kind of disappointed. Part of it had to do with the main girl. At first I thought this is exactly the kind of girl I want on my team but then in the middle she really just turns to mush. I understand it’s stressful to be responsible for so many people and being so young too but she cries an awful lot and doesn't know what to do about anything. I think the love interest is making most of the shots and that would be fine if he was the ruler of her people but he’s not. In the end though she shows what she's made of. I like the guy too, just as a side note.
Another part was the villain is just all kinds of wrong. He isn't scary, not really and his reason for doing what he did doesn't make sense to me. He just does bad stuff just because it's his fate (it’s what he is good at), that's the most pitiful excuse I've ever heard. Sorry that might have been a spoiler, buuuut I don't really think so. I can say I thought he was creepy though, yeah he's creepy alright.
I could be okay with the first half because I could understand Zirah to some extant, I was just kind of disappointed is all and the villain just seemed strange.
Other than that: the setting, the culture, religion, and secondary character all very interesting.
I was really hoping to love this book but I was kind of disappointed. Part of it had to do with the main girl. At first I thought this is exactly the kind of girl I want on my team but then in the middle she really just turns to mush. I understand it’s stressful to be responsible for so many people and being so young too but she cries an awful lot and doesn't know what to do about anything. I think the love interest is making most of the shots and that would be fine if he was the ruler of her people but he’s not. In the end though she shows what she's made of. I like the guy too, just as a side note.
Another part was the villain is just all kinds of wrong. He isn't scary, not really and his reason for doing what he did doesn't make sense to me. He just does bad stuff just because it's his fate (it’s what he is good at), that's the most pitiful excuse I've ever heard. Sorry that might have been a spoiler, buuuut I don't really think so. I can say I thought he was creepy though, yeah he's creepy alright.
I could be okay with the first half because I could understand Zirah to some extant, I was just kind of disappointed is all and the villain just seemed strange.
Other than that: the setting, the culture, religion, and secondary character all very interesting.
July 18, 2012
This has been a theme for me lately and I really should learn from it: do not judge a book by its cover. And let me tell you, this book's cover is spectacular, I mean really, it's beautiful. The book itself, however... was boring.
There was nothing particularly wrong with the story. The writing dragged a bit at times, but it wasn't bad. The plot was just the same old fantasy rehash - I notice Marriott thanked Diana Wynne Jones for writing The Tough Guide to Fantasyland but, really, wasn't the whole point of the guide to help you not fall into clichés when writing? Because this plot was all about clichés. Orphan girl discovers she's the last of a royal line, has a great fate to lead her people but must first learn, blah blah blah.
Now, I don't mind that storyline at all because as it is known there are 7 basic plots and every story will follow them somehow. And that's alright because the characters will pull you into the story. You'll root for them, you'll want them to succeed.
I didn't feel much of anything for Zira. I didn't dislike her, I didn't like her - in fact I didn't feel much of anything for any of the characters in the book. Not even one.
I was actually kind of hoping for some kind of tension between Zira and her ~should-be-enemy~ love interest, but he, as well as their whole romance was boring.
And the villain... I mean, he almost woke me up because his story was interesting and I really thought Marriott had struck gold and I was ready to apologise for all my yawning, but she just turned him from tragic and compelling into insane and inane. And not even an interesting crazy person... just boring. Like this book.
There was nothing particularly wrong with the story. The writing dragged a bit at times, but it wasn't bad. The plot was just the same old fantasy rehash - I notice Marriott thanked Diana Wynne Jones for writing The Tough Guide to Fantasyland but, really, wasn't the whole point of the guide to help you not fall into clichés when writing? Because this plot was all about clichés. Orphan girl discovers she's the last of a royal line, has a great fate to lead her people but must first learn, blah blah blah.
Now, I don't mind that storyline at all because as it is known there are 7 basic plots and every story will follow them somehow. And that's alright because the characters will pull you into the story. You'll root for them, you'll want them to succeed.
I didn't feel much of anything for Zira. I didn't dislike her, I didn't like her - in fact I didn't feel much of anything for any of the characters in the book. Not even one.
I was actually kind of hoping for some kind of tension between Zira and her ~should-be-enemy~ love interest, but he, as well as their whole romance was boring.
And the villain... I mean, he almost woke me up because his story was interesting and I really thought Marriott had struck gold and I was ready to apologise for all my yawning, but she just turned him from tragic and compelling into insane and inane. And not even an interesting crazy person... just boring. Like this book.
June 12, 2016
Oh Zoë Marriott the ways I adore you… ♥
Let me get this out of the way: I am an absolutely massive Zoë Marriott fan. Truthfully I have loved every single one of her books. Daughter of the Flames was my emergency read, like that book you keep when things get on top of you and you need escape and comfort. I’d been saving it for years.
If I was comparing Daughter of the Flames to Zoë Marriott’s most recent Name of the Blade Trilogy then there differences. I mean Zira’s story was Zoë’s second book and published in 2008 but the ‘Zoë Magic’ (as I call it) is there.
All the things that I adore so much are there: The characters, the world building, the captivating writing, the way I’ve never yet managed to just read one chapter but always end up reading the whole book in one sitting.
Daughter of the Flames might classed as YA Fantasy but actually I think it’s a story that would be enjoyed as a fantasy read by anyone. It’s strategic and political with magic, love (not just the romantic kind) and swords.
Let me get this out of the way: I am an absolutely massive Zoë Marriott fan. Truthfully I have loved every single one of her books. Daughter of the Flames was my emergency read, like that book you keep when things get on top of you and you need escape and comfort. I’d been saving it for years.
If I was comparing Daughter of the Flames to Zoë Marriott’s most recent Name of the Blade Trilogy then there differences. I mean Zira’s story was Zoë’s second book and published in 2008 but the ‘Zoë Magic’ (as I call it) is there.
All the things that I adore so much are there: The characters, the world building, the captivating writing, the way I’ve never yet managed to just read one chapter but always end up reading the whole book in one sitting.
Daughter of the Flames might classed as YA Fantasy but actually I think it’s a story that would be enjoyed as a fantasy read by anyone. It’s strategic and political with magic, love (not just the romantic kind) and swords.
July 4, 2009
The basic plot here is a fairly cliche high fantasy lost-prince(ss) vs usurping tyrant set-up, but Marriott does manage to add some original elements to make it her own. Zira and Sorin were fairly solid main characters, and I liked that the author did not break down the two sides in the conflict along strictly national/ethnic boundaries (although I think the country of Sedorne could have used some development). Most importantly, I was glad to see Marriott improving as an author -- the writing and structure here are much tighter than in her debut The Swan Kingdom.
February 26, 2021
Someone come get this book it's very own diss track!
AHA. I cannot stop laughing after I stayed up to finish the book! Daughter of the Flames has so many issues... I just can't XD!
It feels like one of those cliche 'I'm a lost princess and I didn't even know it' books. I'll give you the cliff notes version. Zira 'Zahira' is royalty, her family dies in a fire and she gets injured so that she doesn't remember her life before living with the Rue people. Yeah so basically her guardian tells her the day before her 16th b-day that 'oh you're royalty' crap, and she's like O.O okay.
Fast forward, the Sedorne, these people that have been enemies to the Reu (Rue?) for decades, show up and destroy her people's home, temple, and kills her guardian. The 'god' that they serve gives Zira all her memories back, yada yada yada. Zira leads her people to a safe place with some Sedorne lord named Sorin she saved early on in the book. (I know I'm missing a lot of minor details) Annd yeahh. Zira reveals her identity to him and he's like "let's get married so we can take the crown from your evil king of an uncle". I CRINGED SO MUCH. Please keep in mind that Sorin is 24! AND Zira just barely turned 16!
She literally only knows the man for like a week and already they've fallen in love with each other. Insta-love is one of my biggest issues with the book. Anyways... I'm not going to spoil it more than I have to. But I will say that this entire book was one rushed mess. Maybe if Marriott had made this book alone into a duology, maybe even triology, and slowed down the insta-love between Zira and Sorin, then maybe, just maybe I would have enjoyed it. Not to mention the age gap was unacceptable. A SHEER CHILD AND AN ADULT! I..I Can't. It was also tremendously boring and completely slow in some ways. Grabs book and throws it into the trash* Takes it back out because it's a library book*
AHA. I cannot stop laughing after I stayed up to finish the book! Daughter of the Flames has so many issues... I just can't XD!
It feels like one of those cliche 'I'm a lost princess and I didn't even know it' books. I'll give you the cliff notes version. Zira 'Zahira' is royalty, her family dies in a fire and she gets injured so that she doesn't remember her life before living with the Rue people. Yeah so basically her guardian tells her the day before her 16th b-day that 'oh you're royalty' crap, and she's like O.O okay.
Fast forward, the Sedorne, these people that have been enemies to the Reu (Rue?) for decades, show up and destroy her people's home, temple, and kills her guardian. The 'god' that they serve gives Zira all her memories back, yada yada yada. Zira leads her people to a safe place with some Sedorne lord named Sorin she saved early on in the book. (I know I'm missing a lot of minor details) Annd yeahh. Zira reveals her identity to him and he's like "let's get married so we can take the crown from your evil king of an uncle". I CRINGED SO MUCH. Please keep in mind that Sorin is 24! AND Zira just barely turned 16!
She literally only knows the man for like a week and already they've fallen in love with each other. Insta-love is one of my biggest issues with the book. Anyways... I'm not going to spoil it more than I have to. But I will say that this entire book was one rushed mess. Maybe if Marriott had made this book alone into a duology, maybe even triology, and slowed down the insta-love between Zira and Sorin, then maybe, just maybe I would have enjoyed it. Not to mention the age gap was unacceptable. A SHEER CHILD AND AN ADULT! I..I Can't. It was also tremendously boring and completely slow in some ways. Grabs book and throws it into the trash* Takes it back out because it's a library book*
February 14, 2009
Daughter of the Flames opened beautifully. Readers enter into a vibrant new world where the unfortunate people have been suppressed by a brutal tyrant. The dynamics of this novel were wonderful. Marriott’s style is lightly reminiscent of the classic fairytale of old. The characters each had distinct personalities, especially the heroine, Zira.
The passion that Zira feels for what she believes in shines through Daughter of the Flames. But the truly captivating aspect of her personality is how she learns to not let her passion override her sense. Zira’s emotional growth in this novel was remarkable. She begins the story seeing the world only as an individual would, but by the end, she is able to view things by looking at the whole of a situation and at what is best for the general good.
Other characters display depth; even the villain of the story has a story to tell. Marriott did a wonderful job in Daughter of the Flames. The bright fantasy had a soft but heady scent of fairytale, which complemented the tone delightfully. Modern girls will love this novel, particularly readers who are fans of heroines with a backbone. Zira never once gave into the unfortunately common damsel-in-distress syndrome, and the readers will be left with a marvelous sense of empowerment.
Daughter of the Flames is highly recommended by the NSCGs.
Reviewed by Bella Aire for The-Not-So-Closet-Geek site: http://not-so-cg.blogspot.com
The passion that Zira feels for what she believes in shines through Daughter of the Flames. But the truly captivating aspect of her personality is how she learns to not let her passion override her sense. Zira’s emotional growth in this novel was remarkable. She begins the story seeing the world only as an individual would, but by the end, she is able to view things by looking at the whole of a situation and at what is best for the general good.
Other characters display depth; even the villain of the story has a story to tell. Marriott did a wonderful job in Daughter of the Flames. The bright fantasy had a soft but heady scent of fairytale, which complemented the tone delightfully. Modern girls will love this novel, particularly readers who are fans of heroines with a backbone. Zira never once gave into the unfortunately common damsel-in-distress syndrome, and the readers will be left with a marvelous sense of empowerment.
Daughter of the Flames is highly recommended by the NSCGs.
Reviewed by Bella Aire for The-Not-So-Closet-Geek site: http://not-so-cg.blogspot.com
April 29, 2017
Daughter of Flames is a stand alone, which seems to be harder and harder to find in YA nowadays. It does have a companion novel which has other characters in it, but it isn't necessary to read that one to enjoy this one. While I liked that about it, it was also a drawback because I felt the story was a little rushed at times. This book could have gotten five stars from me if it had progressed at a slower pace through certain parts. For example, I wanted to experience how Zahira and Sorin got closer and I felt like we were mostly just told that they did. Other than that I have no complaints. The book was hard to put down and I loved the characters.
March 5, 2015
http://thedailyprophecy.blogspot.nl/2...
My first experience with Zoë Marriott was her lovely retelling The swan kingdom. From that moment I knew I had to read more from her and the sweet Kristen gave this copy to me. Thanks to her I’m now aware that I really like Marriott’s stories and I’m going to hunt down a copy from the companion novel called Frostfire. You can download the first chapter for free if you like to try it out: Zoë Marriott.
The world-building and concept of this book are pretty basic. Ruan is attacked by Sedorne and the Royal family is butchered, The Sedorne king is a tyrant and destroys everything, but he forgot that one person survived. Zira is rescued by her maid and taken to the covenant where Surya becomes her second mother. She is trained as a warrior and when she finds out who she truly is, Zira’s life changes forever. Together with the Sedornse lord Sorin, Zira is ready to free her people.
The thing that makes this story different is Zira. I loved this girl. She has fire and a passion in her that makes her indestructible. This could easily led to an I'm-far-too-perfect-character, but Zira has enough flaws to make her realistic. She has a soft side and finding out who she truly is makes her insecure. She questions herself a lot despite her warrior training. We get a girl whose life completely changed and we see how she adapts and grows through all her trials. She is capable of clever decisions even when she is frightened; she is even willing to sacrifice others, instead of throwing herself in a dangerous situation where she could be killed. It was so refreshing!
The romance might have been a little too fast, but Marriott manages to stay clear from the insta-love. I could see how the decision was necessary at that time, even when both of the characters were a little naive and too hopeful. Nevertheless, I really liked Sorin and how they both grew toward each other. What started as a strategic connection turns out into a loyal, respectful and balanced relationship.
I was surprised by the villain and his background story. It’s not like anything I’ve read in a while and I love how Marriot twisted him into someone you almost feel sorry for. I don’t agree with his life choices, but it seems he is a trouble person who makes very bad choices, instead of being a bad person. The ending is like I expected from this book. Everything is solved easily and is neatly wrapped-up. Just the way I like my endings most of the times. Definitely check it out!
My first experience with Zoë Marriott was her lovely retelling The swan kingdom. From that moment I knew I had to read more from her and the sweet Kristen gave this copy to me. Thanks to her I’m now aware that I really like Marriott’s stories and I’m going to hunt down a copy from the companion novel called Frostfire. You can download the first chapter for free if you like to try it out: Zoë Marriott.
The world-building and concept of this book are pretty basic. Ruan is attacked by Sedorne and the Royal family is butchered, The Sedorne king is a tyrant and destroys everything, but he forgot that one person survived. Zira is rescued by her maid and taken to the covenant where Surya becomes her second mother. She is trained as a warrior and when she finds out who she truly is, Zira’s life changes forever. Together with the Sedornse lord Sorin, Zira is ready to free her people.
The thing that makes this story different is Zira. I loved this girl. She has fire and a passion in her that makes her indestructible. This could easily led to an I'm-far-too-perfect-character, but Zira has enough flaws to make her realistic. She has a soft side and finding out who she truly is makes her insecure. She questions herself a lot despite her warrior training. We get a girl whose life completely changed and we see how she adapts and grows through all her trials. She is capable of clever decisions even when she is frightened; she is even willing to sacrifice others, instead of throwing herself in a dangerous situation where she could be killed. It was so refreshing!
The romance might have been a little too fast, but Marriott manages to stay clear from the insta-love. I could see how the decision was necessary at that time, even when both of the characters were a little naive and too hopeful. Nevertheless, I really liked Sorin and how they both grew toward each other. What started as a strategic connection turns out into a loyal, respectful and balanced relationship.
I was surprised by the villain and his background story. It’s not like anything I’ve read in a while and I love how Marriot twisted him into someone you almost feel sorry for. I don’t agree with his life choices, but it seems he is a trouble person who makes very bad choices, instead of being a bad person. The ending is like I expected from this book. Everything is solved easily and is neatly wrapped-up. Just the way I like my endings most of the times. Definitely check it out!
March 23, 2018
Not quite five star material but a solid four star, Daughter of the Flames was a real treat to read. Fantasy religion, sacrifice, secrets, warriors, love - both of family/friends and romantic, rebellion... this book has it all. The best part, though, is the characterisation. The heroine is not a Special Snowflake. She's gifted but not perfect and able to make decisions even when they aren't pretty ones. Her relationship with the hero is touching as are her often complicated relationships with her people, not all of whom are all that sure that they like her! Best of all is the author's treatment of the villain - he's suitably loathsome but you can completely understand why. I both hated him and felt deeply sorry for him and that kind of complexity is just gorgeous.
August 25, 2024
P/S: The book cover is very misleading, a good design but does not match the storyline and the MFC's design.
The book reminded me of The Poppy War story, mainly because Zahira's past made her an orphan and her relation to the fire goddess. While I truly enjoyed that series, this one didn't quite capture the essence of its own fantasy world. I felt like it had a strong background story, religion, namoa/noirin, Rua and Sedorne people as well as the conflict between the people. But I still felt like the plot was rushed and concluded too quickly.
I was quite taken in with the story. The book started out with a very interesting prologue "scene." I was left wanting to know more. And the book did that for awhile until we reached part two of the book. Then I felt like the story pacing was too slow and the story diverted from an active pace to a downtime pace.
The whole Daughter of Flame is nothing more than a fancy name, based on the book design and the title of the book, you'd assume that Zahira may gain the ability of pyrokinesis. Nope, it was just for that one part of the story, where the holy fire did not hurt Zahira. I also felt like the "goddess" only appeared twice in the story and was basically nonexistent throughout the book. God came and left like a wisp.
I was fond of Zahira and Surya's relationship, during that time, when she had to follow Surya to Mesgao, Zahira came across Sorin. She decided to help him even though he is Sedorne. It portrayed Zahira as a person who had strong moral principles and beliefs that she wanted to help a Sedorne lord, the "enemy" even if it put her in a bad spot among Rua people. I felt like Zahira was a bad arse in that term. Her interference had good consequences later on in the story.
Like I've mentioned earlier, the world-building was good, but I felt like it started to tone down when the Zahira left the mountain with other survivors. I understand that finding out the truth about yourself at the most horrendous time of your life may not have left Zahira enough time to truly accept and understand her purpose. But I personally think that the only time Zahira has shown some real confidence and leadership is when she guided her people to safety, even if she had many doubting her abilities and charge of handling the dire situation. But she persevered and managed to get her people to safety even though many still doubted her and abandon her during the journey there.
The story pacing was still good, but after chapters 10 to 13, nothing much happened. Zahira was still coming to terms with her identity, but there isn't much urgency in the next course of action. I mean, the cruel king Abheron isn't going to forget that half of the nomoas had survived the attack and disappeared, but Zahira isn't sitting down with Sorin and all her trusted members to decide what they can do and plan. Which I think is very important because regardless of what trust Zahira had for Sorin, she cannot guarantee that everyone is 100% loyal to him. She already did not have 100% loyalty from her own people. I felt like Zahira was playing safe too long and should have taken immediate action to safe guard her people from further attack.
The attempt at assassination on Zahira picked up the story pacing again, and I loved the fighting scene and the revelation of the assassinator. Was I surprised? No, not really, because, like I've said before, she had not gained 100% loyalty from her own people. Yes, she brought them to safety, but her traumatized people are "forced" to play house with the very race who destroyed everything they knew and loved. Zahira's blind trust in Sorin is a cause for worry, especially since she is not 100% Rua. Zahira is mixed, both Rua and Sedorne heritage. Of course people are going to doubt where her loyalty stands especially if she suddenly trusting a Sedorne lord.
While I liked Sorin, I didn't think there was any legit romance between them. The age difference between them was disturbing. To be honest, I felt like he was a pretty one-dimensional character. I was appalled at how quickly Zahira revealed the truth about herself to Sorin. I felt like she trusted him way too quickly, sure, he was kind and kept his promise, but he also did not know who she really was before he made that promise. In fact, if Sorin was a bad person and Zahira blindly trusted him, it would have landed her in a very bad situation. Especially if he needed some sort of leverage to gain something of his own agenda (like taking back his direct royal line from Abheron).
I also felt like the suggestion to get married was made in terse, and Sorin's reasons for getting married seem so one-sided, he was only looking at the "possible positive" outcome, and somehow it took Zahira only a few moments to think about it and then agree with him. What!! Sorin, 10 years is not that big of a deal, and don't BS that Sedorne's influence in Rua is ineradicable. If it took 10 years to invade and take over Rua, it's going to take just that long or even shorter to get rid of Sedorne too. Also, Sorin isn't willing to back off from Rua even if he was made the ruling king. Thank God Sorin is a good guy, because if he isn't, the marriage could prove to be more disastrous than beneficial.
I also felt like Zahira and Sorin didn't do much to establish trust and gain support from their people, they just "assume" their people's loyalty by default. After the assassination attempt, Zahira and Sorin should be more cautious and diligent in finding support with their people as a united team. Because there is always a risk of a spy working among them, didn't Sorin mention that Abheron is always sending spies and killers after him ? So maybe don't be so trusting and conduct due diligence among your close contacts ?
The marriage could also put them on the spot. Maybe the people of Rua in Mesgao are willing to accept Sorin as their king because they know he is a compassionate and cordial Lord in Mesgao. But can you expect that kind of automated acceptance from Rua people outside of Mesgao? They had only faced cruelty and dictatorship from Sedorne, I doubt they will be willing to accept their only (half) Rua princess marrying a Sedorne.
They may start to doubt where her loyalty lies because the marriage kind of seems to favor Sedorne people by ratio. Their future heir may have more Sedorne blood than Rua, it seems like an insignificant fact, but isn't that why universally royals fight to keep their line "pure" and "kosher" so they may never have people doubt their lineage?
Also, I doubt Sorin is going to be Prince Consort to Queen Zahira. I think based on their conversation they are going to rule as equal side by side, in case the current King Abheron decided to "kill" off the "Rua" part of the marriage between Sorin and Zahira. Wouldn't that just make (Sorin) Sedorne the legitimate monarch of Ruan? Maybe I'm mistaken, but I did wonder about it while I was reading.
Alright, fine I could go along with the wedding plan, but OMG, from chapters 14 to 16, that was all that was going on, and mind you, after the assassination attempt, it took Sorin one month to somewhat recover. One month!!! like I said, there wasn't any urgency to their plan, besides Zahira working out occasionally.
I felt like there isn't much planning or formation of anything to fight against Abheron's pending attack. I felt like during this time, both Sorin and Zahira sort of fell out of their original motive and started playing house with each other. Did they do anything at all after suggesting marriage? Also, why did they need the wedding to be so formal and elaborate ? If you wanted this unity to be contained, why all this lavish wedding? Long time gap between Rua and Sedorne wedding .....gosh!!
Another downtime is after Abheron did a "wedding crasher" into their wedding and literally forced them to join him in Jijendra, isolating them from their save heaven, and you can't say NO and you can't control your security because he is the freaking KING and he demands it!! (Wow, I bet you didn't see that coming, huh.) I still felt like chapters 22 to 27 were "downtime," despite Zahira finding out what had happened to her family during that dreadful day. She also found out that her uncle is sick in the head in more ways than one. I felt like during this time I'm constantly wondering, "Where is that badarse Zahira?" Why are Zahira and Sorin not doing anything "active" to save themselves? Why are they both just playing "cross your fingers" and "cross your heart and hope to die" game? During this time, they are in the most vulnerable place because their "brilliant marriage" plan was turning shit, because they had no idea what had happened to their allies they had sent ahead before their "forced trip."
Oh, did I mention that Sorin no longer retains his old stamina and combat ability because of the poison, and they "STILL" decided the marriage was a good idea? At this point, Sorin can't do much to protect Zahira much alone himself. Zahira also did not gain any new combat skills or any new abilities to face Abheron, which is inevitable at this point.
I felt like it was always someone else that was helping their cause and mission. If it weren't for retaliation and the resistance community, I don't have much hope for Sorin and Zahira because all they did was walk into a trap. Zahira is always seeking advice from other people, and someone else is actively helping their course in the background. Also, Sorin had the gall to get angry at Deo for putting Zahira in harm's way, you know, to rescue Rashna and both your arses while all you did was doll up to attend a party *eye roll* while your shitty plan was flushing down the toilet. Did you mean that plan, Sorin ?
While I get that the author is trying to establish an internal conflict of self-identity with Zira/Zahira, I also felt the need to point out that Zahira was not very fragmented about her eye and skin color, being that is something she notice changed physically and very obvious. Did she also feel conflicted when she say the eyes and face that looked back at her in the mirror ? Just saying.....
Abheron is a fucked up dude, he didn't get a chance to prove himself beyond his "cursed" life because someone decided to proclaim him as a cursed child since birth. So he started to believe it himself, and it didn't help that his parents also forced his hand. So he grew up starving for love and ended up falling in love with his own sister. Considering how fucked up he is, he did manage quite well until he had to visit his sister and her family in Ruan. Then his control broke and all well up in flames, literally.
Knowing this dude was messed up in the head and his definition of "redemption" is senseless because he still doesn't show any remorse and his thirst for power and control still demands the death of someone dear to niece. Zahira's plan was pretty dumb, she was hoping his promise to never hurt her was going to save her from the royal challenge. I mean, he is an unhinged, girl! He can still go out of control and kill you, and then what? That was a bloody reckless plan, if you ask me. Not to mention, Abheron was super efficient and skillful in combat training, and you're not even close. I'm glad her attempt at provoking him had at least allowed the people (Sedorne and Rua) to realize just what he had done to his own family and that he is not a king but a madman. But her plan to face him and risk losing her life is so dumb. Not to mention she is the last heir to Rua, and it was a very dangerous gamble. So much for promising everyone her "I don't plan to die" but coming super close to it. Also, what was her plan anyway ? Abheron damn near stabbed her in the chest and if he did ....what was the alternative plan ? Die and hope for the best ? Sorin to take over ?
I wished the book had maintained a kickass and wise planner, Zahira. I felt like the author had a good plot, world-building, and checklist, but somewhere along the way, the enthusiasm had faded and the same ambience started to fade as the story progressed. Zahira started to make rash decisions, and suddenly someone else is helping her move forward with her mission. I liked the background stories and revelations in the book. I also like Zahira and her relationship with other people. But I did feel like the book lost its urgency somewhere along the way.
I tagged MFC as Indian because all the names and places and description sound close to Indian decent fantasy character
P/S: Another free book giveaway from work library
The book reminded me of The Poppy War story, mainly because Zahira's past made her an orphan and her relation to the fire goddess. While I truly enjoyed that series, this one didn't quite capture the essence of its own fantasy world. I felt like it had a strong background story, religion, namoa/noirin, Rua and Sedorne people as well as the conflict between the people. But I still felt like the plot was rushed and concluded too quickly.
I was quite taken in with the story. The book started out with a very interesting prologue "scene." I was left wanting to know more. And the book did that for awhile until we reached part two of the book. Then I felt like the story pacing was too slow and the story diverted from an active pace to a downtime pace.
The whole Daughter of Flame is nothing more than a fancy name, based on the book design and the title of the book, you'd assume that Zahira may gain the ability of pyrokinesis. Nope, it was just for that one part of the story, where the holy fire did not hurt Zahira. I also felt like the "goddess" only appeared twice in the story and was basically nonexistent throughout the book. God came and left like a wisp.
I was fond of Zahira and Surya's relationship, during that time, when she had to follow Surya to Mesgao, Zahira came across Sorin. She decided to help him even though he is Sedorne. It portrayed Zahira as a person who had strong moral principles and beliefs that she wanted to help a Sedorne lord, the "enemy" even if it put her in a bad spot among Rua people. I felt like Zahira was a bad arse in that term. Her interference had good consequences later on in the story.
Like I've mentioned earlier, the world-building was good, but I felt like it started to tone down when the Zahira left the mountain with other survivors. I understand that finding out the truth about yourself at the most horrendous time of your life may not have left Zahira enough time to truly accept and understand her purpose. But I personally think that the only time Zahira has shown some real confidence and leadership is when she guided her people to safety, even if she had many doubting her abilities and charge of handling the dire situation. But she persevered and managed to get her people to safety even though many still doubted her and abandon her during the journey there.
The story pacing was still good, but after chapters 10 to 13, nothing much happened. Zahira was still coming to terms with her identity, but there isn't much urgency in the next course of action. I mean, the cruel king Abheron isn't going to forget that half of the nomoas had survived the attack and disappeared, but Zahira isn't sitting down with Sorin and all her trusted members to decide what they can do and plan. Which I think is very important because regardless of what trust Zahira had for Sorin, she cannot guarantee that everyone is 100% loyal to him. She already did not have 100% loyalty from her own people. I felt like Zahira was playing safe too long and should have taken immediate action to safe guard her people from further attack.
The attempt at assassination on Zahira picked up the story pacing again, and I loved the fighting scene and the revelation of the assassinator. Was I surprised? No, not really, because, like I've said before, she had not gained 100% loyalty from her own people. Yes, she brought them to safety, but her traumatized people are "forced" to play house with the very race who destroyed everything they knew and loved. Zahira's blind trust in Sorin is a cause for worry, especially since she is not 100% Rua. Zahira is mixed, both Rua and Sedorne heritage. Of course people are going to doubt where her loyalty stands especially if she suddenly trusting a Sedorne lord.
While I liked Sorin, I didn't think there was any legit romance between them. The age difference between them was disturbing. To be honest, I felt like he was a pretty one-dimensional character. I was appalled at how quickly Zahira revealed the truth about herself to Sorin. I felt like she trusted him way too quickly, sure, he was kind and kept his promise, but he also did not know who she really was before he made that promise. In fact, if Sorin was a bad person and Zahira blindly trusted him, it would have landed her in a very bad situation. Especially if he needed some sort of leverage to gain something of his own agenda (like taking back his direct royal line from Abheron).
I also felt like the suggestion to get married was made in terse, and Sorin's reasons for getting married seem so one-sided, he was only looking at the "possible positive" outcome, and somehow it took Zahira only a few moments to think about it and then agree with him. What!! Sorin, 10 years is not that big of a deal, and don't BS that Sedorne's influence in Rua is ineradicable. If it took 10 years to invade and take over Rua, it's going to take just that long or even shorter to get rid of Sedorne too. Also, Sorin isn't willing to back off from Rua even if he was made the ruling king. Thank God Sorin is a good guy, because if he isn't, the marriage could prove to be more disastrous than beneficial.
I also felt like Zahira and Sorin didn't do much to establish trust and gain support from their people, they just "assume" their people's loyalty by default. After the assassination attempt, Zahira and Sorin should be more cautious and diligent in finding support with their people as a united team. Because there is always a risk of a spy working among them, didn't Sorin mention that Abheron is always sending spies and killers after him ? So maybe don't be so trusting and conduct due diligence among your close contacts ?
The marriage could also put them on the spot. Maybe the people of Rua in Mesgao are willing to accept Sorin as their king because they know he is a compassionate and cordial Lord in Mesgao. But can you expect that kind of automated acceptance from Rua people outside of Mesgao? They had only faced cruelty and dictatorship from Sedorne, I doubt they will be willing to accept their only (half) Rua princess marrying a Sedorne.
They may start to doubt where her loyalty lies because the marriage kind of seems to favor Sedorne people by ratio. Their future heir may have more Sedorne blood than Rua, it seems like an insignificant fact, but isn't that why universally royals fight to keep their line "pure" and "kosher" so they may never have people doubt their lineage?
Also, I doubt Sorin is going to be Prince Consort to Queen Zahira. I think based on their conversation they are going to rule as equal side by side, in case the current King Abheron decided to "kill" off the "Rua" part of the marriage between Sorin and Zahira. Wouldn't that just make (Sorin) Sedorne the legitimate monarch of Ruan? Maybe I'm mistaken, but I did wonder about it while I was reading.
Alright, fine I could go along with the wedding plan, but OMG, from chapters 14 to 16, that was all that was going on, and mind you, after the assassination attempt, it took Sorin one month to somewhat recover. One month!!! like I said, there wasn't any urgency to their plan, besides Zahira working out occasionally.
I felt like there isn't much planning or formation of anything to fight against Abheron's pending attack. I felt like during this time, both Sorin and Zahira sort of fell out of their original motive and started playing house with each other. Did they do anything at all after suggesting marriage? Also, why did they need the wedding to be so formal and elaborate ? If you wanted this unity to be contained, why all this lavish wedding? Long time gap between Rua and Sedorne wedding .....gosh!!
Another downtime is after Abheron did a "wedding crasher" into their wedding and literally forced them to join him in Jijendra, isolating them from their save heaven, and you can't say NO and you can't control your security because he is the freaking KING and he demands it!! (Wow, I bet you didn't see that coming, huh.) I still felt like chapters 22 to 27 were "downtime," despite Zahira finding out what had happened to her family during that dreadful day. She also found out that her uncle is sick in the head in more ways than one. I felt like during this time I'm constantly wondering, "Where is that badarse Zahira?" Why are Zahira and Sorin not doing anything "active" to save themselves? Why are they both just playing "cross your fingers" and "cross your heart and hope to die" game? During this time, they are in the most vulnerable place because their "brilliant marriage" plan was turning shit, because they had no idea what had happened to their allies they had sent ahead before their "forced trip."
Oh, did I mention that Sorin no longer retains his old stamina and combat ability because of the poison, and they "STILL" decided the marriage was a good idea? At this point, Sorin can't do much to protect Zahira much alone himself. Zahira also did not gain any new combat skills or any new abilities to face Abheron, which is inevitable at this point.
I felt like it was always someone else that was helping their cause and mission. If it weren't for retaliation and the resistance community, I don't have much hope for Sorin and Zahira because all they did was walk into a trap. Zahira is always seeking advice from other people, and someone else is actively helping their course in the background. Also, Sorin had the gall to get angry at Deo for putting Zahira in harm's way, you know, to rescue Rashna and both your arses while all you did was doll up to attend a party *eye roll* while your shitty plan was flushing down the toilet. Did you mean that plan, Sorin ?
While I get that the author is trying to establish an internal conflict of self-identity with Zira/Zahira, I also felt the need to point out that Zahira was not very fragmented about her eye and skin color, being that is something she notice changed physically and very obvious. Did she also feel conflicted when she say the eyes and face that looked back at her in the mirror ? Just saying.....
Abheron is a fucked up dude, he didn't get a chance to prove himself beyond his "cursed" life because someone decided to proclaim him as a cursed child since birth. So he started to believe it himself, and it didn't help that his parents also forced his hand. So he grew up starving for love and ended up falling in love with his own sister. Considering how fucked up he is, he did manage quite well until he had to visit his sister and her family in Ruan. Then his control broke and all well up in flames, literally.
Knowing this dude was messed up in the head and his definition of "redemption" is senseless because he still doesn't show any remorse and his thirst for power and control still demands the death of someone dear to niece. Zahira's plan was pretty dumb, she was hoping his promise to never hurt her was going to save her from the royal challenge. I mean, he is an unhinged, girl! He can still go out of control and kill you, and then what? That was a bloody reckless plan, if you ask me. Not to mention, Abheron was super efficient and skillful in combat training, and you're not even close. I'm glad her attempt at provoking him had at least allowed the people (Sedorne and Rua) to realize just what he had done to his own family and that he is not a king but a madman. But her plan to face him and risk losing her life is so dumb. Not to mention she is the last heir to Rua, and it was a very dangerous gamble. So much for promising everyone her "I don't plan to die" but coming super close to it. Also, what was her plan anyway ? Abheron damn near stabbed her in the chest and if he did ....what was the alternative plan ? Die and hope for the best ? Sorin to take over ?
I wished the book had maintained a kickass and wise planner, Zahira. I felt like the author had a good plot, world-building, and checklist, but somewhere along the way, the enthusiasm had faded and the same ambience started to fade as the story progressed. Zahira started to make rash decisions, and suddenly someone else is helping her move forward with her mission. I liked the background stories and revelations in the book. I also like Zahira and her relationship with other people. But I did feel like the book lost its urgency somewhere along the way.
I tagged MFC as Indian because all the names and places and description sound close to Indian decent fantasy character
P/S: Another free book giveaway from work library
July 4, 2012
I was so excited to start this book. Firstly, let’s not even lie about my interest in Daughter: it had everything to do with the fact that the main character was supposedly a kick-butt trained martial artist, who also happened to be a woman of color. People of color as protagonists are so hard to come by in mainstream (read: not “black interest”) fiction, and to find one in fantasy young adult fiction is practically like finding a unicorn. So when I read the blurb about this book I made it my mission to read it.
Well, the premise was very interesting. The setting was very colorful and vivid, and I wish that the temple in which the protagonist trained and the area surrounding was fleshed out more. Zira, the main character, is a fifteen-year-old namoa, or warrior priestess of a temple which trains in the martial arts. She has no memory of how she got there or who she was before she arrived at the temple as a little girl. All she has is a horrific scar over her body from a fire she does not remember, presumably gotten when the Ruan castle burned to the ground because of the Sedornes. For the most part, Zira is a strong and admirable character and does have her moments to shine. When faced with a hard decision, she always makes the tough call for the greater good even if it ends up hurting her.
The book hits the ground running. Within a few chapters, Zira defends the life of a handsome Sedornian noble named Sorin in an awesome battle scene that ends up changing the course of everyone’s lives. Good start, right? Overall, however, I felt like I probably shouldn’t have set such high expectations for this book. The entire book felt… rushed. And not in the good, action-packed adrenaline-rush way, either. It just felt like someone sat down and speed-wrote the entire book in the span of a couple of days and didn’t bother going back to flesh out parts of the story or allow a little bit of transition time for each of the plot twists to sink in. As a result of this, I found myself very detached from the events of the story, and rather indifferent to things I probably shouldn’t have.
For example, I found that Zira and Sorin fell in love way too quickly. Like, out of the blue quickly. I actually had to reread the sentence a couple of times, because I thought I imagined it. Zira mentions that Sorin (who is 25-29 to Zira’s 15—a little tidbit for you there) is good-looking on several occasions and mentions her attraction to him in an offhanded way, but then you turn the page and BOOM she claims she’s fallen in love with him… and we’re not even halfway through the book. It gets better—they get [spoiler] almost immediately after. Talk about a whirlwind romance… only without the romance part. Sorin is good-looking (the prerequisite blond-haired, blue-eyed dreamboat) and a decent man, but the way he acts, coupled with his age, makes me feel like he would have been best served as an older-brother type figure. The romance was contrived and dragged down the plot.
The villain, a Sedornian named was absolutely terrible. You find out that he’s [spoiler] to Zira, and the whole reason that he’s trying to kill all these people and take over as Grand Evil SuperKing of Everything Forever and Ever (at least, that’s how I saw it) was some vague prophecy, which claimed that he was destined to do evil things. So, apparently, that was reason enough for him to do evil things. Since he’s destined to do it. Yeeeaahh, okay. Maybe I’m the only person who thinks that reason is kind of flimsy, but regardless, that made the villain laughable.
The ending fight scene was great, but again, I felt like we arrived at it so quickly that I wasn’t even sure any of it was warranted. I’m pretty sure I got whiplash from the pace at which this book moved, at the expense of both character and world development. Daughter had potential to be an epic series, but lost steam (and believability) by book’s end.
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For more book reviews, visit my blog The Bookshelf!
Well, the premise was very interesting. The setting was very colorful and vivid, and I wish that the temple in which the protagonist trained and the area surrounding was fleshed out more. Zira, the main character, is a fifteen-year-old namoa, or warrior priestess of a temple which trains in the martial arts. She has no memory of how she got there or who she was before she arrived at the temple as a little girl. All she has is a horrific scar over her body from a fire she does not remember, presumably gotten when the Ruan castle burned to the ground because of the Sedornes. For the most part, Zira is a strong and admirable character and does have her moments to shine. When faced with a hard decision, she always makes the tough call for the greater good even if it ends up hurting her.
The book hits the ground running. Within a few chapters, Zira defends the life of a handsome Sedornian noble named Sorin in an awesome battle scene that ends up changing the course of everyone’s lives. Good start, right? Overall, however, I felt like I probably shouldn’t have set such high expectations for this book. The entire book felt… rushed. And not in the good, action-packed adrenaline-rush way, either. It just felt like someone sat down and speed-wrote the entire book in the span of a couple of days and didn’t bother going back to flesh out parts of the story or allow a little bit of transition time for each of the plot twists to sink in. As a result of this, I found myself very detached from the events of the story, and rather indifferent to things I probably shouldn’t have.
For example, I found that Zira and Sorin fell in love way too quickly. Like, out of the blue quickly. I actually had to reread the sentence a couple of times, because I thought I imagined it. Zira mentions that Sorin (who is 25-29 to Zira’s 15—a little tidbit for you there) is good-looking on several occasions and mentions her attraction to him in an offhanded way, but then you turn the page and BOOM she claims she’s fallen in love with him… and we’re not even halfway through the book. It gets better—they get [spoiler] almost immediately after. Talk about a whirlwind romance… only without the romance part. Sorin is good-looking (the prerequisite blond-haired, blue-eyed dreamboat) and a decent man, but the way he acts, coupled with his age, makes me feel like he would have been best served as an older-brother type figure. The romance was contrived and dragged down the plot.
The villain, a Sedornian named was absolutely terrible. You find out that he’s [spoiler] to Zira, and the whole reason that he’s trying to kill all these people and take over as Grand Evil SuperKing of Everything Forever and Ever (at least, that’s how I saw it) was some vague prophecy, which claimed that he was destined to do evil things. So, apparently, that was reason enough for him to do evil things. Since he’s destined to do it. Yeeeaahh, okay. Maybe I’m the only person who thinks that reason is kind of flimsy, but regardless, that made the villain laughable.
The ending fight scene was great, but again, I felt like we arrived at it so quickly that I wasn’t even sure any of it was warranted. I’m pretty sure I got whiplash from the pace at which this book moved, at the expense of both character and world development. Daughter had potential to be an epic series, but lost steam (and believability) by book’s end.
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For more book reviews, visit my blog The Bookshelf!
November 8, 2012
The cover of this book is a beautiful piece of art, and, if you read through the entire book, actually fits the story perfectly.
Except for the fact that Zahira (the female lead) was supposed to be scarred on the left side of her face, leaving an ugly white mark all the way down the middle of her forehead, and leaving her left eye slightly distorted. The girl on the cover, however, is practically flawless. In simpler terms, she doesn’t look the part at all.
Another thing that was glaringly obvious was what was written in the blurb- the last few lines state: ‘Now the time has come to fight back- and nothing will stand in the way of her people’s freedom. Not even the man she loves.’ This implies that the man she supposedly loves is an enemy of hers, and in time to come, she’ll have to choose between him and her people. This is not the case, however, in the book. Sure, he’s an enemy at first. But she learns to trust him, and eventually he doesn’t exactly pose a threat to her people’s freedom. So the last line of the blurb had me utterly baffled.
On to the story itself.
I loved that Zahira was strong from the start, that she wasn’t some crying, weeping, sniveling female lead unable to take charge of her own life. She’s an excellent role models for young girls everywhere, and continues displaying that strength of hers even in the most difficult of situations. So… girl power :D
The setting was fantastic, and the descriptions showed how carefully thought-out every single detail had been. It was a realistic fantasy world, with gorgeous scenery and real-to-life characters. Not to mention, the fighting scenes were great. The writing flowed well, and even though it was simple and not as lyrical as I would have liked, it rather suited the story. Some terms had me rather confused (and still do), but they were used consistently throughout the story so even though I didn’t exactly understand them, the story still made perfect sense.
I also found myself rather liking the character of Abheron, her ‘evil’ uncle, who turned out not so evil after all. It was a welcome change from the usual ‘I’m-dark-and-evil-and-cruel’ bad guy in stories. This was a man with a conscience, forced by his will and upbringing to become the person he ended up being. And I found that very, very believable. Some things he did in the story (e.g. burning the plant) had me awed at the subtle significance of it all, and the slow and steady emergence of his more humane side. His character was brought out better than Sorin’s was, however I did think that the story could have been lengthened slightly more towards the end, because there wasn’t enough time to fully flesh out his character properly and hence, lessening the intended impact on the readers.
The romance between Zahira and Sorin was an unusual one. For one, he was eight years older than her. Their marriage was also one of convenience, and not of love and passion. But it suited the context of the story well. I felt that she fell in love with him too early, and that would actually be believable had it not been for the lack of romance development between the two of them. There should have been more time given for their romance to develop and fully blossom- but there had not. It was understandable, though, given that this entire story was done in only one book.
All in all, it was a satisfying read, and towards the end, the story does indeed get compelling, ending with a marvelous twist. On to FrostFire (:
Except for the fact that Zahira (the female lead) was supposed to be scarred on the left side of her face, leaving an ugly white mark all the way down the middle of her forehead, and leaving her left eye slightly distorted. The girl on the cover, however, is practically flawless. In simpler terms, she doesn’t look the part at all.
Another thing that was glaringly obvious was what was written in the blurb- the last few lines state: ‘Now the time has come to fight back- and nothing will stand in the way of her people’s freedom. Not even the man she loves.’ This implies that the man she supposedly loves is an enemy of hers, and in time to come, she’ll have to choose between him and her people. This is not the case, however, in the book. Sure, he’s an enemy at first. But she learns to trust him, and eventually he doesn’t exactly pose a threat to her people’s freedom. So the last line of the blurb had me utterly baffled.
On to the story itself.
I loved that Zahira was strong from the start, that she wasn’t some crying, weeping, sniveling female lead unable to take charge of her own life. She’s an excellent role models for young girls everywhere, and continues displaying that strength of hers even in the most difficult of situations. So… girl power :D
The setting was fantastic, and the descriptions showed how carefully thought-out every single detail had been. It was a realistic fantasy world, with gorgeous scenery and real-to-life characters. Not to mention, the fighting scenes were great. The writing flowed well, and even though it was simple and not as lyrical as I would have liked, it rather suited the story. Some terms had me rather confused (and still do), but they were used consistently throughout the story so even though I didn’t exactly understand them, the story still made perfect sense.
I also found myself rather liking the character of Abheron, her ‘evil’ uncle, who turned out not so evil after all. It was a welcome change from the usual ‘I’m-dark-and-evil-and-cruel’ bad guy in stories. This was a man with a conscience, forced by his will and upbringing to become the person he ended up being. And I found that very, very believable. Some things he did in the story (e.g. burning the plant) had me awed at the subtle significance of it all, and the slow and steady emergence of his more humane side. His character was brought out better than Sorin’s was, however I did think that the story could have been lengthened slightly more towards the end, because there wasn’t enough time to fully flesh out his character properly and hence, lessening the intended impact on the readers.
The romance between Zahira and Sorin was an unusual one. For one, he was eight years older than her. Their marriage was also one of convenience, and not of love and passion. But it suited the context of the story well. I felt that she fell in love with him too early, and that would actually be believable had it not been for the lack of romance development between the two of them. There should have been more time given for their romance to develop and fully blossom- but there had not. It was understandable, though, given that this entire story was done in only one book.
All in all, it was a satisfying read, and towards the end, the story does indeed get compelling, ending with a marvelous twist. On to FrostFire (:
November 17, 2015
A satisfying menarche fantasy.
*spoilers follow*
Zira has been disfigured as a child in the fire that killed her parents. She remembers nothing of her childhood as she grows up in a sheltered monastery. There she is protected from the Sedorne conquerors who have despoiled the land of Ruan. Trained as a warrior priestess, her one desire is to be a fighting namoa but she is unsure where her guardian Surya will choose to appoint her when her sixteenth birthday comes.
Just before that, Surya takes her to a distant town: Mesgao. There, while Surya is in secret discussion with some men Zira suspects of having connections with the resistance to the Sedorne overlords, she is allowed to wander the market. When an attack is made on a passing carriage, her fighting instincts kick in and she saves a man's life: a man who is none other than the cousin of the tyrannical king Abheron. She won't take payment for her rescue but Sorin extracts from her a promise that, should she ever need help, she will come to him and he will give it.
She has no intention of ever asking him to redeem his promise but circumstances overtake her. Rumours of a fighting namoa who saved the life of Sorin of Mesgao reach the king. Abheron had been behind the plot to kill Sorin but now he turns his attention to the monastery. Troops are sent to destroy it. Surya is killed, but many enter the secret inner citadel dedicated to the goddess of fire and escape the carnage.
When the destruction is over, Zira emerges from the central fire sanctuary where she lay in a coma. She remembers who she is: half Sedorne, half Ruan, she is the last remaining princess of the kingdom of Ruan. Abheron is her uncle. And he murdered her parents...
With nowhere else to go, she leads the survivors on a terrible trek to Mesgao. There Sorin, despite being one of the enemy, proves his integrity and the worth of his word. But he is aware Abheron will move against him, simply for sheltering the survivors. If only the people of Ruan could join with the disaffected Sedorne and, together, form a strong united resistance capable of defeating Abheron.
Sorin realises there is only one way. Zira is appalled at his proposal. For that's exactly what it is: a proposal of marriage.
I liked this book a lot. I usually like well done menarche fantasies which do the 'do not touch me' conflict well. However, I didn't like the way Zira was made the strong character of the piece through the incapacitation of Sorin. His disability, even though it occurred quite early, seemed like the deus ex machina of the plot to ensure that the final duel (which was all too obviously coming) would be between Zira and Abheron. It killed some of the suspense because it took Sorin out of contention of much of the action.
*spoilers follow*
Zira has been disfigured as a child in the fire that killed her parents. She remembers nothing of her childhood as she grows up in a sheltered monastery. There she is protected from the Sedorne conquerors who have despoiled the land of Ruan. Trained as a warrior priestess, her one desire is to be a fighting namoa but she is unsure where her guardian Surya will choose to appoint her when her sixteenth birthday comes.
Just before that, Surya takes her to a distant town: Mesgao. There, while Surya is in secret discussion with some men Zira suspects of having connections with the resistance to the Sedorne overlords, she is allowed to wander the market. When an attack is made on a passing carriage, her fighting instincts kick in and she saves a man's life: a man who is none other than the cousin of the tyrannical king Abheron. She won't take payment for her rescue but Sorin extracts from her a promise that, should she ever need help, she will come to him and he will give it.
She has no intention of ever asking him to redeem his promise but circumstances overtake her. Rumours of a fighting namoa who saved the life of Sorin of Mesgao reach the king. Abheron had been behind the plot to kill Sorin but now he turns his attention to the monastery. Troops are sent to destroy it. Surya is killed, but many enter the secret inner citadel dedicated to the goddess of fire and escape the carnage.
When the destruction is over, Zira emerges from the central fire sanctuary where she lay in a coma. She remembers who she is: half Sedorne, half Ruan, she is the last remaining princess of the kingdom of Ruan. Abheron is her uncle. And he murdered her parents...
With nowhere else to go, she leads the survivors on a terrible trek to Mesgao. There Sorin, despite being one of the enemy, proves his integrity and the worth of his word. But he is aware Abheron will move against him, simply for sheltering the survivors. If only the people of Ruan could join with the disaffected Sedorne and, together, form a strong united resistance capable of defeating Abheron.
Sorin realises there is only one way. Zira is appalled at his proposal. For that's exactly what it is: a proposal of marriage.
I liked this book a lot. I usually like well done menarche fantasies which do the 'do not touch me' conflict well. However, I didn't like the way Zira was made the strong character of the piece through the incapacitation of Sorin. His disability, even though it occurred quite early, seemed like the deus ex machina of the plot to ensure that the final duel (which was all too obviously coming) would be between Zira and Abheron. It killed some of the suspense because it took Sorin out of contention of much of the action.
May 18, 2014
Another great read by Zoe Marriott. DotF follows the story of 15 year old Zira. Although she is young, she's fearless, which is just as well, because the antagonist in this story is warped as well as evil.
Ms Marriott has been very clever with this book because, not only do you get to know the heroine in DotF, you also get to know her opponent and his motivations and, strangely, you feel some sympathy for him. It really makes you question what makes a person evil? And can evil people do good things? I like when a book has the power to make you ask questions of morality without actually posing those questions or preaching at you.
Once again, we get to experience Ms Marriott's great characterization. You have a very clear picture in your head of each individual that plays a part in the story and you feel that you get to know them as the story progresses. I very much enjoyed the interaction between Zira and Sorin.
The writing is clean, the pacing is good throughout and the plot is easy to follow, flowing seamlessly from one scene to the next. She builds a very believable world and creates engaging characters that you become emotionally invested in.
This is Book 1 in the Ruan series but they are stand alone books. Perhaps if I would have read this one before I read Frostfire I would have given it 5* but Ms Marriott has had time to hone her skills. That does not take anything away from this book, though. It is well worth a read.
Ms Marriott has been very clever with this book because, not only do you get to know the heroine in DotF, you also get to know her opponent and his motivations and, strangely, you feel some sympathy for him. It really makes you question what makes a person evil? And can evil people do good things? I like when a book has the power to make you ask questions of morality without actually posing those questions or preaching at you.
Once again, we get to experience Ms Marriott's great characterization. You have a very clear picture in your head of each individual that plays a part in the story and you feel that you get to know them as the story progresses. I very much enjoyed the interaction between Zira and Sorin.
The writing is clean, the pacing is good throughout and the plot is easy to follow, flowing seamlessly from one scene to the next. She builds a very believable world and creates engaging characters that you become emotionally invested in.
This is Book 1 in the Ruan series but they are stand alone books. Perhaps if I would have read this one before I read Frostfire I would have given it 5* but Ms Marriott has had time to hone her skills. That does not take anything away from this book, though. It is well worth a read.
July 28, 2009
I was all over the board while reading this, trying to pick a rating. I kept switching from two to three to four to two to three to two to four, etc. I settled on three stars for several reasons.
1) It is materially better than Marriott's first book, Swan Kingdom. It has a better male lead, a better ending and showdown, and a slightly less confusing religious system. So, it rated higher than two. But not quite a four either.
2) I was interested the whole way through in how it would end, but I wished for more time with the characters. I wanted to see more of Soren's character, and more of Soren and Zira getting to know one another. Characters tend to make or break a book and apart from Zira I failed to get to really know the others and that definitely brought it down a star.
3) Lastly, it felt like the story could be extended - not that it needs a sequel or anything, but just that there is a lot left unresolved. And I don't particularly care for that in stand-alone novels.
So, very enjoyable fantasy read, strong and easy-to-care-for heroine, and some action, adventure and political intrigue, along with some fantasy religion straight out of Jones' Guide to Fantasyland.
1) It is materially better than Marriott's first book, Swan Kingdom. It has a better male lead, a better ending and showdown, and a slightly less confusing religious system. So, it rated higher than two. But not quite a four either.
2) I was interested the whole way through in how it would end, but I wished for more time with the characters. I wanted to see more of Soren's character, and more of Soren and Zira getting to know one another. Characters tend to make or break a book and apart from Zira I failed to get to really know the others and that definitely brought it down a star.
3) Lastly, it felt like the story could be extended - not that it needs a sequel or anything, but just that there is a lot left unresolved. And I don't particularly care for that in stand-alone novels.
So, very enjoyable fantasy read, strong and easy-to-care-for heroine, and some action, adventure and political intrigue, along with some fantasy religion straight out of Jones' Guide to Fantasyland.
August 17, 2008
I found this book, the English version, in a bookstore here in Malaysia and I was instantly attracted by the cover. It's a beautiful, striking piece of art.
Zira grows up training, hoping to become a novice and a fighting warrior. She lives in Ruan, which was invaded ten years ago by the Sendrone. One day before her 16th birthday, her home, a holy temple, is attacked by the Sendrone king insinuated in Ruan. Upon escaping their attack, Zira discovers something about herself, thanks to the God's fire (who is a female God, awesomely enough), and has to lead the survivors to a place of refuge and also to a hopeful future of regaining their land.
There are some pretty obvious events foretold in this story, but I like the vivid succinct writing of Zoe Marriott. Nobody is completely good or bad, there's a mixture of both in some, though some characters don't get a more time in order to show their depths. Some of Zira's decisions or events that happen to her/other people are believable - it's not all happy endings for everybody. A delightful read, and it makes me wish my public library back home in the US had Zoe Marriott's first novel.
Zira grows up training, hoping to become a novice and a fighting warrior. She lives in Ruan, which was invaded ten years ago by the Sendrone. One day before her 16th birthday, her home, a holy temple, is attacked by the Sendrone king insinuated in Ruan. Upon escaping their attack, Zira discovers something about herself, thanks to the God's fire (who is a female God, awesomely enough), and has to lead the survivors to a place of refuge and also to a hopeful future of regaining their land.
There are some pretty obvious events foretold in this story, but I like the vivid succinct writing of Zoe Marriott. Nobody is completely good or bad, there's a mixture of both in some, though some characters don't get a more time in order to show their depths. Some of Zira's decisions or events that happen to her/other people are believable - it's not all happy endings for everybody. A delightful read, and it makes me wish my public library back home in the US had Zoe Marriott's first novel.
November 22, 2014
A light and fast paced book with an interesting plot and characters.
A lost princess without family and freshly recovered memories and destiny, a country oppressed and divided in two, the invading Sedorne and the conquered Rua and a tyrant king with his very own sad story.
That was the first book I've read by the author and she has some great ideas, so I'll definitely keep an eye out for more.
A lost princess without family and freshly recovered memories and destiny, a country oppressed and divided in two, the invading Sedorne and the conquered Rua and a tyrant king with his very own sad story.
That was the first book I've read by the author and she has some great ideas, so I'll definitely keep an eye out for more.
November 20, 2008
Enter Zahira, a warrior priestess in training at a shrine to their 'God.' She lost her memory when she was 5 and then, at age 15, her shrine is burned down by a relative that she didn't know existed. Now, as she regains her memories she has to lead her people to either their rise, or their downfall. Packed with action, romance, and secrets, 'Daughter of the Flames' is a guarrenteed good read.
September 9, 2009
Heir to the thrown of a conquered nation is told of her heritage at 16 and considers the help of an enemy to regain her place.
Interesting premise, but total fail in the resolution. I won't give it away, but the ending is an "Oh, c'mon!" Blah. Still the writing is okay, and the heroine interesting enough for when teens have run through all the other strong-girl based adventure books.
Interesting premise, but total fail in the resolution. I won't give it away, but the ending is an "Oh, c'mon!" Blah. Still the writing is okay, and the heroine interesting enough for when teens have run through all the other strong-girl based adventure books.
August 9, 2010
i enjoyed this book, but found the main 'dude' too good to be true.
i really enjoyed that the main 'dude' was not able to solve all the damsel in distresses problems. She has to do it herself. it was also a nice change to read a book that wrapped up and had a real ending. Of course, there are always possibilities, but closure was nice.
i really enjoyed that the main 'dude' was not able to solve all the damsel in distresses problems. She has to do it herself. it was also a nice change to read a book that wrapped up and had a real ending. Of course, there are always possibilities, but closure was nice.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 3, 2020
Daughter of the Flames is a supertasticawesome book. I really liked it. Zahira Elfenesh is such a great character. She learns her true identity and fights the powers that come against her. Zahira looses, but she also gains. Sorin Mesgao is another great character. He barely knows Zahira, and yet he cares for her in more ways than one. I really liked this book. It was awesome!
October 2, 2008
This was a good book. I liked Zoe Marriott's version of the Swan Kingdom better, but in general, this book talks about coming of age and the power of friends and family.
August 4, 2009
It was way too predictable and I felt like I was reading some book that was just thrown together without any revision or thought.
March 25, 2010
Absolutely loved this book!!! One of my favorites.
May 6, 2011
Only complaint about this book is that it was not NEARLY long enough. I wish there had been an epilogue at least. I NEED more!
September 23, 2011
This book is not a literary masterpiece or anything, but it is awesomely fun and I enjoyed it emensely! A lot of action, un anticipated plot twists, and good ending.
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