Shaken

by Krysta Maravilla

When Phe receives a cryptic summons from General Bastion, she rushes to meet him and Shadow Unit, her apprehension building with each step. An apprehension that’s well-founded when she discovers that the mission is unlike anything she’s ever faced: a level thirteen target, three levels above the highest she’s ever taken on.


As unforeseen challenges arise, testing not only her skills but her mind, Phe finds herself in a perilous position. Can she pull off this mission unscathed? Or is this the one she doesn’t come back from? The answers lie in the heart-pounding pages of “Shaken,” where secrets unravel, and danger lurks.

Shaken is an Of Fire and Shadows series short story around 14,500 words and is set between Spared & Spark, pre-Phe's discovery of magic.

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About the author

When Krysta Maravilla isn’t squirrelled away writing and reading and eating Nutella, she can be found plotting her next adventure as she loves to explore. With a passion for hiking and a desire to experience different cultures, she has lived in various places throughout the US and the world.

Her love of fantasy and adventure and romance has inspired her to write her own stories, which transport readers to fantastical worlds filled with magic and action where she weaves in themes of healing, friendship, and loyalty.

Check out her website and join her newsletter if you want monthly updates on Of Fire and Shadows series, her wanderings, and various projects.

Reviews

[Bobby · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short story introduces Phe as the FMC, and I enjoyed both the writing style and the cast of characters. The story was engaging, and I found myself quickly invested in the mission and the tension surrounding it. That said, I did finish the story feeling like I wanted more; more about the world, more depth to the characters, and more insight into Phe’s life beyond what we were shown.

Phe herself was an interesting lead, and I appreciated the vulnerability she showed toward the end, which allowed for some meaningful character growth despite the shorter format. The hints about her childhood were especially intriguing and left me wanting to learn more. I was also curious about Bastion; his cold, closed off nature clearly has a backstory, but I would have loved more context as to why he is the way he is. There was also a spark acknowledged between Phe and Roar, which added a nice layer of intrigue.

Overall, while I enjoyed the story and was definitely interested in where it was going, I was left with more questions than answers by the end. This feels like a concept that could become something truly compelling if expanded with more world-building and character development. For that reason, I've given it Four stars.

I received an advanced reader copy, and this is my own honest review.

[Angiewagg · Rating 5 out of 5]

Phe rushes to help General Bastion. Something just doesn't feel right.
And she is right - this is more than she has ever taken on.
Can she do it and survive? Or will it change her and her outlook?
Short story but well written and I love the characters.
I received an advance review copy for free and am leaving this review voluntarily.