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The Chronicles of Altaica #2
Asena Blessed
At the whims of Gods and Men…
Isaura has emerged from the spirit realm forever altered. No longer a pariah, she embraces the future offered in Altaica, but learns that her survival has come at a price. Her transformation is the perfect weapon for Elena to use against her.
The mysterious Asena and The Lady vie for Isaura. Caught between two ancient powers, Isaura must try to make her own path.
Master spy Vikram launches a counterinsurgency against Ratilal and Faros, weaving innocents into the plot to bring him down. Ratilal prepares to wage war against Karan and Baldev. Desperately, he seeks clandestine means to wreak revenge on them in the very heart of their territory, with devastating results.
With enemies nearing, Isaura must learn to master her powers. Aid arrives from the most unlikely source—one who knows no rules and respects no one.
Having run from one war she will not run from another…
The battle is joined.
Isaura has emerged from the spirit realm forever altered. No longer a pariah, she embraces the future offered in Altaica, but learns that her survival has come at a price. Her transformation is the perfect weapon for Elena to use against her.
The mysterious Asena and The Lady vie for Isaura. Caught between two ancient powers, Isaura must try to make her own path.
Master spy Vikram launches a counterinsurgency against Ratilal and Faros, weaving innocents into the plot to bring him down. Ratilal prepares to wage war against Karan and Baldev. Desperately, he seeks clandestine means to wreak revenge on them in the very heart of their territory, with devastating results.
With enemies nearing, Isaura must learn to master her powers. Aid arrives from the most unlikely source—one who knows no rules and respects no one.
Having run from one war she will not run from another…
The battle is joined.
- GenresFantasy
398 pages, Paperback
First published May 1, 2016
About the author
Tracy M. Joyce
5 books513 followersTracy writes epic fantasy for teens through to adults. Her stories are gritty, a little dark and morality is like quicksand. You won’t find any unicorns or fairies here…
Although her stories include romantic elements, they are not romance driven novels. Do not buy these books if you’re after a fairytale….
Consider this a warning: Expect kickass heroines, battles (big ones, small ones - let’s face it, if she’d put gunpowder in this world then there’d be explosions too!) gore, political scheming, horses, archery and a touch of magic, but NO fairies, elves, pixies, orcs and definitely NO unicorns. (Unless, of course, its a combat trained unicorn with stealth capabilities …. then…maybe…)
She grew up on a farm in rural Victoria, in a picturesque dot on the map known as Glenburn. She spent half of her childhood riding horses and the other half trying to stay out of trouble - the only way she did that was by reading books and writing stories. She now lives in Melbourne with her husband, one cat and one (very) lazy greyhound and a manic puppy.
Tracy loves to hear from her readers.
Although her stories include romantic elements, they are not romance driven novels. Do not buy these books if you’re after a fairytale….
Consider this a warning: Expect kickass heroines, battles (big ones, small ones - let’s face it, if she’d put gunpowder in this world then there’d be explosions too!) gore, political scheming, horses, archery and a touch of magic, but NO fairies, elves, pixies, orcs and definitely NO unicorns. (Unless, of course, its a combat trained unicorn with stealth capabilities …. then…maybe…)
She grew up on a farm in rural Victoria, in a picturesque dot on the map known as Glenburn. She spent half of her childhood riding horses and the other half trying to stay out of trouble - the only way she did that was by reading books and writing stories. She now lives in Melbourne with her husband, one cat and one (very) lazy greyhound and a manic puppy.
Tracy loves to hear from her readers.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews
March 11, 2021
The Chronicles of Altaica make for a great read, the kind that you keep reading as you stumble off the bus and still read right up until you arrive (sigh) at the door of the day job. Adventure and danger, hard rides and mountain crossings, spies and plots and murders, primal magic and goddesses, war and strategy, skirmishes and battles and desperate duels. Here is a whole world of rivalries, peoples, cultures and absorbing characters.
In the first part of The Chronicles of Altaica, the villagers fled an invading army, got swept out to sea and then were rescued by people in another country that they knew nothing of. My difficulty now is to urge you to read this sequel, Asena Blessed, without blurting out 'spoilers'. I will highlight some aspects of the world building and the characters that I particularly liked.
Animal guardians have become a feature in fantasy tales since their appearance in Phillip Pullman's books. We readers may have grown used to these linked animals existing mainly for the sake of the humans, like enhanced pets. Tracy Joyce turns that idea on its head by considering the wild nature of the linked animal. What if the linked animal has its its own intentions? What if it could be too powerful and difficult to control? Some scenes in Asena Blessed took me by surprise because the guardian acted on its own account, and the result was not remotely cutesy.
Complicated heroes. Throughout the first book the reader identifies with the dilemmas of the central character, Isaura. In Asena Blessed, however, she is swept unwillingly into the spirit realm and emerges more conflicted than ever. Her resulting actions are not necessarily noble at all times. I often blinked at the turn of events. 'Did she really do that?'
Matriarchs and Female Warriors. To say this book includes 'strong female characters' is an understatement. Among the Altaicans, all adults train for fighting and the tattooed and hardened women ride with the men. Key movers in this story include the female keepers of lore known as 'Kenati', the matriarch of the wolf-like Asena clan , the Lady Malak, who strives to undermine the power of the tyrant Ratilal, and an intervening female spirit who may or may not be a goddess but who in any case seems to be playing her own game.
Plausible Warfare: We have all endured movies and novels in which the fighting scenes are over the top: every warrior seems to know all the modern martial arts. Bows fire multiple arrows at a time, swords cut like lasers through the heaviest body armour, and so on until it all gets silly. Not so here. The tactics, weapons, armour, siegecraft and melees are based on the author's research of warfare in our own non-Altaica world. The fighting here is brutal, the wounds nasty, and soldiers do appalling things to civilians. This is a fantasy world but it is no fairy tale.
In the first part of The Chronicles of Altaica, the villagers fled an invading army, got swept out to sea and then were rescued by people in another country that they knew nothing of. My difficulty now is to urge you to read this sequel, Asena Blessed, without blurting out 'spoilers'. I will highlight some aspects of the world building and the characters that I particularly liked.
Animal guardians have become a feature in fantasy tales since their appearance in Phillip Pullman's books. We readers may have grown used to these linked animals existing mainly for the sake of the humans, like enhanced pets. Tracy Joyce turns that idea on its head by considering the wild nature of the linked animal. What if the linked animal has its its own intentions? What if it could be too powerful and difficult to control? Some scenes in Asena Blessed took me by surprise because the guardian acted on its own account, and the result was not remotely cutesy.
Complicated heroes. Throughout the first book the reader identifies with the dilemmas of the central character, Isaura. In Asena Blessed, however, she is swept unwillingly into the spirit realm and emerges more conflicted than ever. Her resulting actions are not necessarily noble at all times. I often blinked at the turn of events. 'Did she really do that?'
Matriarchs and Female Warriors. To say this book includes 'strong female characters' is an understatement. Among the Altaicans, all adults train for fighting and the tattooed and hardened women ride with the men. Key movers in this story include the female keepers of lore known as 'Kenati', the matriarch of the wolf-like Asena clan , the Lady Malak, who strives to undermine the power of the tyrant Ratilal, and an intervening female spirit who may or may not be a goddess but who in any case seems to be playing her own game.
Plausible Warfare: We have all endured movies and novels in which the fighting scenes are over the top: every warrior seems to know all the modern martial arts. Bows fire multiple arrows at a time, swords cut like lasers through the heaviest body armour, and so on until it all gets silly. Not so here. The tactics, weapons, armour, siegecraft and melees are based on the author's research of warfare in our own non-Altaica world. The fighting here is brutal, the wounds nasty, and soldiers do appalling things to civilians. This is a fantasy world but it is no fairy tale.
July 15, 2016
Asena Blessed follows hot on the heels of Altaica, and familiarity with that volume is highly recommended: from page one, the second volume hits the ground running in the same world and the same ensemble of characters.
At the start of the book, the hero, Isaura, and her people find themselves to be virtual refugees. As in the real world, attitudes to the refugees are mixed, and the refugees’ ways of handing their circumstances are similarly diverse. This leads to a range of tensions and complexities that runs throughout the novel. The interdependency between the refugees and their hosts adds another layer of interest.
As in the first volume of the series, the characters are all nicely depicted. Isaura, while strong and determined, is not without fears and difficulties. Conversely, even the arch-villain has some admirable characteristics and mitigating circumstances. Because the story in Asena Blessed is not simply a rehash of its predecessor (as often happens in sequels/series), we get to see additional facets of the characters as they respond to new circumstances.
Unlike many fantasies, the mystical element in Asena does not swamp the story. Much of the narrative involves the interplay between very credible characters and the machinations associated with military conflicts reminiscent of past centuries. The fantasy theme intertwines with these and unfolds languidly, eliciting tension as the characters gradually come to understand what’s going on.
Similarly, a cross-cultural romance swells slowly throughout the tale. It’s all deftly woven together. Much thought has obviously gone in to the design and pacing of this story.
As befits a work of speculative fiction, descriptions are detailed and colourful. The primitive conflict is described in a graphic, albeit matter-of-fact, manner. This brings the reader into the horror of those situations without revelling in them. Conversely, humour is never far away; some of the characters are deliciously irreverent.
The author’s writing style is polished and unobtrusive—except when an especially apt word is used for effect.
If you like epic fantasy, you’ll like this.
At the start of the book, the hero, Isaura, and her people find themselves to be virtual refugees. As in the real world, attitudes to the refugees are mixed, and the refugees’ ways of handing their circumstances are similarly diverse. This leads to a range of tensions and complexities that runs throughout the novel. The interdependency between the refugees and their hosts adds another layer of interest.
As in the first volume of the series, the characters are all nicely depicted. Isaura, while strong and determined, is not without fears and difficulties. Conversely, even the arch-villain has some admirable characteristics and mitigating circumstances. Because the story in Asena Blessed is not simply a rehash of its predecessor (as often happens in sequels/series), we get to see additional facets of the characters as they respond to new circumstances.
Unlike many fantasies, the mystical element in Asena does not swamp the story. Much of the narrative involves the interplay between very credible characters and the machinations associated with military conflicts reminiscent of past centuries. The fantasy theme intertwines with these and unfolds languidly, eliciting tension as the characters gradually come to understand what’s going on.
Similarly, a cross-cultural romance swells slowly throughout the tale. It’s all deftly woven together. Much thought has obviously gone in to the design and pacing of this story.
As befits a work of speculative fiction, descriptions are detailed and colourful. The primitive conflict is described in a graphic, albeit matter-of-fact, manner. This brings the reader into the horror of those situations without revelling in them. Conversely, humour is never far away; some of the characters are deliciously irreverent.
The author’s writing style is polished and unobtrusive—except when an especially apt word is used for effect.
If you like epic fantasy, you’ll like this.
May 17, 2016
I was provided a review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. (I will be buying the paperback asap).
What can I say about Asena Blessed? Altaica (the first book in the series) was a great read, but Asena Blessed is a triumph. It improves on Altaica in so many areas. The pacing is excellent, plot is crafted and the politick is devious. World-building and character remain strong, and the story retains it's brutal edge. I loved the way in which the several strands of story weaved around each other, resolving mysteries and revealing new ones. A lot of the brilliance of this book was it's ability to create such a cast of complex characters beyond Isaura (the protagonist). I look forward to seeing these characters develop more.
There were a couple of places where the book caught me off guard, in that I thought an arc would have a longer resolution to play out or that things would resolve differently. Overall, I have achieved very little in the past day or so, because I kept coming back to read more of Asena Blessed.
I want more of this series immediately.
What can I say about Asena Blessed? Altaica (the first book in the series) was a great read, but Asena Blessed is a triumph. It improves on Altaica in so many areas. The pacing is excellent, plot is crafted and the politick is devious. World-building and character remain strong, and the story retains it's brutal edge. I loved the way in which the several strands of story weaved around each other, resolving mysteries and revealing new ones. A lot of the brilliance of this book was it's ability to create such a cast of complex characters beyond Isaura (the protagonist). I look forward to seeing these characters develop more.
There were a couple of places where the book caught me off guard, in that I thought an arc would have a longer resolution to play out or that things would resolve differently. Overall, I have achieved very little in the past day or so, because I kept coming back to read more of Asena Blessed.
I want more of this series immediately.
April 29, 2016
Asena Blessed is the continuation of the Young Adult fantasy novel ‘Altaica’, continuing exactly where the first book left off. I enjoy this series so much that I’ve read both books an up teeth amount of times, sending my family and friends insane over my daily praise. I only have to say this; I love fantasy books from the classic ‘Harry Potter’ to the much loved ‘Eragon’ but it has been a very long time indeed since I’ve read a book with such depth and thought paired with imagination and ingenuity. I’d highly recommend the Altaica series to anyone with a fierce love and appreciation for all that is magical, medieval, fantastical or mysterious, I think you’d find this book to be right up your alley.
December 6, 2016
With the clans at war, and Isaura now possessing powers unfamiliar even to the Altaicans, Asena Blessed not only meets the high standard set by Altaica, but far exceeds it. Not only are old tensions raised, but the division of the refugees, and the demands of assimilation raise new ones, as Isaura’s powers further ostracises her from friends. She is left wrestling with the frustrations of trying to help those responsible for her social rejection, while she tries to grasp the nature of new allies and powers.
Asena also builds much more on the internal politics of the Boar Clan, as Ratilal proves an able, but brutal, commander. Worshipped by some and leaving others disgruntled with their service, a successful coup lies in the ability of conspirators to balance provoking action, with not revealing themselves, regardless of the consequences.
This novel build more on the characters and building the landscape of Altaica than its prequel, giving a more solid feel to the structure, while maintaining an enthralling plotline. Furthermore, a grander plotline is introduced, one far more existential than the clan war, and encompassing mysterious lost with the passage of time. In short, if you have read Altaica, you’ll love Asena Blessed. If you haven’t read Altaica, its worth reading just to get to Asena, and you’ll get the bonus of reading a great book in the process.
Asena also builds much more on the internal politics of the Boar Clan, as Ratilal proves an able, but brutal, commander. Worshipped by some and leaving others disgruntled with their service, a successful coup lies in the ability of conspirators to balance provoking action, with not revealing themselves, regardless of the consequences.
This novel build more on the characters and building the landscape of Altaica than its prequel, giving a more solid feel to the structure, while maintaining an enthralling plotline. Furthermore, a grander plotline is introduced, one far more existential than the clan war, and encompassing mysterious lost with the passage of time. In short, if you have read Altaica, you’ll love Asena Blessed. If you haven’t read Altaica, its worth reading just to get to Asena, and you’ll get the bonus of reading a great book in the process.
October 24, 2017
This well crafted second novel in the Altaica Chronicles continues straight on from the storyline of book one. Rich characterisation, detailed world building and a twisty plot all come together in a very satisfying read that doesn’t disappoint the way sequels sometimes do. It features more of the gutsy Isaura – my favourite of the main female leads from Altaica – and more of most of the things I enjoyed in book one. What I liked best about this series was the element of surprise. Each time I thought I had the story figured out, it would surprise me, either plot wise or character wise, giving it an addictive Game of Thrones feel. Tracy Joyce has a knack for mounting a rear attack on the reader’s preconceptions – she did so in Altaica and has managed the same in Asena Blessed. Looking forward to the third in the series.
May 27, 2017
After reading Alticia I could not wait to get my hands on a copy of this book. I love a fantasy that takes you on a journey, Vikram was a stand out character for me the things he had to do in order to remain under cover were at time evil and unforgivable. Without Vikram undermining Ratilal constantly, Ratilal could have done a great deal of damage to the Bear and Horse Clans as well as his own Boar clan. I was disappointed that the people that traveled with Isaura in the boat did not feature very much in this story after being such a major part of the first book, even Pio's story line was minor. Karan and Baldev felt more like brothers they have such a great connection with each other and the people in their clans are like family I love the respect they had for their people.
May 9, 2020
OMG!!!!!!!! This was AMAZING, I couldn’t put the book down it was so damn good, I would definitely recommend it to anyone who loves fantasy, romance, and adventure. Loved the characters so much, the storyline was amazing. I hope to see the author again at supanova 😜
June 9, 2016
Book I of the Chronicles of Altaica, introduced a story-topic that is all too familiar in today’s world – the harrowing experiences of refugees fleeing invading armies. There, we were introduced to a diverse group of vulnerable individuals desperate to survive and find a safe haven. In Book Two, Asena Blessed, the refugees have been rescued, brought to the island kingdom of Altaica, and are now tasked with the challenges of adapting to their new home and with winning the right to remain and be accepted by their new communities.
But refugees, as we in Europe and Australia know, no matter how worthy, are also people with their own skills, fears and agendas. In Asena Blessed, jealousy and suspicion of Isaura, the gifted, brown-skinned girl who had led them to Altaica, intensifies as her special talents develop and she moves into leadership circles. The small refugee group must deal with their fear of magic and resentment of Isaura if they are to survive, for Altaica is at war. The violence prone regicidal dictator, Ratilal, is determined to destroy the Horse and Bear Clans to claim total hegemony over the entire country. Not all the incomers will be able to meet this challenge successfully. How this plays out is an important element of Book Two.
Also in Asena Blessed, some of my favourite elements, from Book One, the giant magic wolves, the Asena, become major characters in the unfolding story. Their leader, the Matriarch has appointed herself Isaura’s guardian and thus a supporter of the beleaguered clans. Romances are budding as so often happens during times of war, but above all, this book concentrates on preparing the Bear and Horse clan members for the coming battle.
It’s all delightful! The writing is vivid; characters, even the foolish or bitchy ones, are believable. And despite being a fantasy set in a mythical country, the issues raised and the solutions and failures presented are so relevant to our current world situation that the book made me think and question even as I read; like scarfing a whole box of wonderful chocolates only to discover the centres were full of things that are good for you!!
Second books can often be an iffy thing, but in Asena Blessed, Ms Joyce’s’ writing skills have matured and developed. The characterizations in particular have become more rounded and vivid. The events are believable. I can’t wait to get my hands on the concluding Book Three. (Hint! Hint!)
I’m happy to give Asena Blessed 5***** I received this book from the publishers in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. It is not their fault that I enjoyed it so much.
But refugees, as we in Europe and Australia know, no matter how worthy, are also people with their own skills, fears and agendas. In Asena Blessed, jealousy and suspicion of Isaura, the gifted, brown-skinned girl who had led them to Altaica, intensifies as her special talents develop and she moves into leadership circles. The small refugee group must deal with their fear of magic and resentment of Isaura if they are to survive, for Altaica is at war. The violence prone regicidal dictator, Ratilal, is determined to destroy the Horse and Bear Clans to claim total hegemony over the entire country. Not all the incomers will be able to meet this challenge successfully. How this plays out is an important element of Book Two.
Also in Asena Blessed, some of my favourite elements, from Book One, the giant magic wolves, the Asena, become major characters in the unfolding story. Their leader, the Matriarch has appointed herself Isaura’s guardian and thus a supporter of the beleaguered clans. Romances are budding as so often happens during times of war, but above all, this book concentrates on preparing the Bear and Horse clan members for the coming battle.
It’s all delightful! The writing is vivid; characters, even the foolish or bitchy ones, are believable. And despite being a fantasy set in a mythical country, the issues raised and the solutions and failures presented are so relevant to our current world situation that the book made me think and question even as I read; like scarfing a whole box of wonderful chocolates only to discover the centres were full of things that are good for you!!
Second books can often be an iffy thing, but in Asena Blessed, Ms Joyce’s’ writing skills have matured and developed. The characterizations in particular have become more rounded and vivid. The events are believable. I can’t wait to get my hands on the concluding Book Three. (Hint! Hint!)
I’m happy to give Asena Blessed 5***** I received this book from the publishers in exchange for an honest and unbiased review. It is not their fault that I enjoyed it so much.
June 5, 2019
Mind.
Blown.
If you thought the first book was good then this one's icing on the cake. All our favourite characters are back; and some of them start pushing up daises too. The character development in this novel is exceptional and I really enjoyed how Joyce portrayed them and managed to stick to the characterisations and personalities she gave them in the first novel. Especially Ratilal. While I despise him for all he's done to Asha, his father, the women and all the others, there's no denying his cunning and ability to turn things round so they benefit him. He really comes to life in this novel. And Isaura's guardian! I will not give any spoilers but man, he is a brute! Every time I read it, I imagined this hulking dark figure that would hover by her side not the mundane creature Joyce's portrayed him as.
The POV changes are smoother in this book and the combat scenes (both close combat and battles), phew! I'm in love. They are some of the best I've read, very well executed.
Joyce does not skip on the nitty gritty in here. There's blood, vomit, addiction, the emptying of bowels and murder aplenty in these pages, and I applaud Joyce for not backing away and for telling it how it is. There are also a lot of twists in the book and moments where I was like, 'no don't do that! Ratilal's waiting!'
A con of the book (I nitpick when I read paperbacks now, lol, instead of just online). There were quite a number of grammatical errors, spelling mistakes (heal instead of heel) and either extra words or missing words (was mostly present in the dialogue). A more thorough edit could have fleshed these out.
I really enjoyed this series. I don't know if there is a third book but I really want one just for the character ships and to see if 'they' finally get married (you'll know which couple if you read - he's taking his sweet time) and if there are any young Bear and Horse babies running around XD
Blown.
If you thought the first book was good then this one's icing on the cake. All our favourite characters are back; and some of them start pushing up daises too. The character development in this novel is exceptional and I really enjoyed how Joyce portrayed them and managed to stick to the characterisations and personalities she gave them in the first novel. Especially Ratilal. While I despise him for all he's done to Asha, his father, the women and all the others, there's no denying his cunning and ability to turn things round so they benefit him. He really comes to life in this novel. And Isaura's guardian! I will not give any spoilers but man, he is a brute! Every time I read it, I imagined this hulking dark figure that would hover by her side not the mundane creature Joyce's portrayed him as.
The POV changes are smoother in this book and the combat scenes (both close combat and battles), phew! I'm in love. They are some of the best I've read, very well executed.
Joyce does not skip on the nitty gritty in here. There's blood, vomit, addiction, the emptying of bowels and murder aplenty in these pages, and I applaud Joyce for not backing away and for telling it how it is. There are also a lot of twists in the book and moments where I was like, 'no don't do that! Ratilal's waiting!'
A con of the book (I nitpick when I read paperbacks now, lol, instead of just online). There were quite a number of grammatical errors, spelling mistakes (heal instead of heel) and either extra words or missing words (was mostly present in the dialogue). A more thorough edit could have fleshed these out.
I really enjoyed this series. I don't know if there is a third book but I really want one just for the character ships and to see if 'they' finally get married (you'll know which couple if you read - he's taking his sweet time) and if there are any young Bear and Horse babies running around XD
May 14, 2016
**I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review**
Asena Blessed is the first fantasy novel I've read in a while, so I had high expectations. Fortunately, it met all of them.
As in the last book, I loved the characterization. Isaura was one of my favourites - like many characters these days, she was fiery and impulsive, but she was also very smart and there were real consequences to her actions (such as the rift between her and her old friends). She was sort of a special snowflake, but she did have to work to control her powers and she struggled with an injury throughout the book, so I didn't mind at all.
Every character was well develop in their motivations, and the only problem I had was the gap between reading Altaica and reading this book, which made it hard for me to remember characters' names. There were also a lot of characters and places and things going on, and because this is a fantasy novel, this made it sometimes hard to keep track of what was going on.
The writing style was almost addictive, so that kept me interested even when I had a minor problem with the plot. However, I don't have many, as nearly all of them are either a problem with my memory or just a decision by the author that I didn't like. For example, I thought Karan and Isaura's relationship moved a bit fast at the start, but it quickly slowed down as they got into disagreements.
I love how the author has chosen to deal with racism in this novel. It's hard to work a real - world message or problem into a fantasy novel, but I really liked how time was actually spent discussing the issue rather than simply saying it was there.
In general, I loved Asena Blessed, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
Asena Blessed is the first fantasy novel I've read in a while, so I had high expectations. Fortunately, it met all of them.
As in the last book, I loved the characterization. Isaura was one of my favourites - like many characters these days, she was fiery and impulsive, but she was also very smart and there were real consequences to her actions (such as the rift between her and her old friends). She was sort of a special snowflake, but she did have to work to control her powers and she struggled with an injury throughout the book, so I didn't mind at all.
Every character was well develop in their motivations, and the only problem I had was the gap between reading Altaica and reading this book, which made it hard for me to remember characters' names. There were also a lot of characters and places and things going on, and because this is a fantasy novel, this made it sometimes hard to keep track of what was going on.
The writing style was almost addictive, so that kept me interested even when I had a minor problem with the plot. However, I don't have many, as nearly all of them are either a problem with my memory or just a decision by the author that I didn't like. For example, I thought Karan and Isaura's relationship moved a bit fast at the start, but it quickly slowed down as they got into disagreements.
I love how the author has chosen to deal with racism in this novel. It's hard to work a real - world message or problem into a fantasy novel, but I really liked how time was actually spent discussing the issue rather than simply saying it was there.
In general, I loved Asena Blessed, and I'm looking forward to reading the next book.
September 27, 2017
A review of Asena Blessed by Tracy M Joyce
Asena Blessed. To those of us who have read the first book, Altacia, this title speaks of the the long awaited answers to questions about the mystical Asena and their connection with our protagonist character, Isaura.
The story, as a whole, is so much better than Altacia and you start to really be able to connect with the plot line and characters. All the separate parts come together in a thrilling climax at the end, leaving readers speechless and wanting more.
In terms of the characters, I felt that they really evolved even more than in Altacia. More complex aspects of their personalities are added, as well as new emotional journeys, however I still think that there needs to be more backstories, especially about Isaura’s past- so much about her heritage and her mother is still shrouded in mystery.
I also felt that the plot as a whole was much more rounded out, and even includes the kind of villains point of view. This is really uncommon and was also quite interesting, giving you more than one perspective of the events and even helping you to see the characters in a new light.
Although the plot and most of the situations aren't really that relatable, I think the way it is written helps you to emphasise with the characters.
One thing I would say is that quite a few ideas seem to fizzle out into nothing, like (spoiler alert) the bond. It becomes quite a big thing, then just seems to go away. I realise that this is so the characters can have a proper relationship but I kind of find it all a bit weird.
Overall, I would recommend this book to high fantasy lovers, and I rate it 8.8/10
Asena Blessed. To those of us who have read the first book, Altacia, this title speaks of the the long awaited answers to questions about the mystical Asena and their connection with our protagonist character, Isaura.
The story, as a whole, is so much better than Altacia and you start to really be able to connect with the plot line and characters. All the separate parts come together in a thrilling climax at the end, leaving readers speechless and wanting more.
In terms of the characters, I felt that they really evolved even more than in Altacia. More complex aspects of their personalities are added, as well as new emotional journeys, however I still think that there needs to be more backstories, especially about Isaura’s past- so much about her heritage and her mother is still shrouded in mystery.
I also felt that the plot as a whole was much more rounded out, and even includes the kind of villains point of view. This is really uncommon and was also quite interesting, giving you more than one perspective of the events and even helping you to see the characters in a new light.
Although the plot and most of the situations aren't really that relatable, I think the way it is written helps you to emphasise with the characters.
One thing I would say is that quite a few ideas seem to fizzle out into nothing, like (spoiler alert) the bond. It becomes quite a big thing, then just seems to go away. I realise that this is so the characters can have a proper relationship but I kind of find it all a bit weird.
Overall, I would recommend this book to high fantasy lovers, and I rate it 8.8/10
December 23, 2017
This is the second novel in The Chronicles of Altaica series. I gave it 3 stars. I enjoyed this book much more than the first in the series. It felt less chaotic and better structured.
The story carries on exactly where the first book left off. Isaura is finally pulled from her ‘coma’. Upon awakening, she realises she is a completely different person and she now must learn to control her newly acquired powers and strengths. Relationships blossom and the war continues.
I particularly loved how the author has continued the theme of women empowering women. There was a scene in the book where one of the male characters is upset that his partner no longer has a womanly figure due to her new combat training and he points out his displeasure about it to her and she shuts him down. I thought that was great! Women can be whomever they choose to be.
I thought the trials scene was odd, they go through all this training and are told that the clan trials are difficult, but each person got through without a problem even though they didn’t perform that well? I felt rushed and weird. I also didn’t like that the facial expression ‘lip curled’ was used so often. It started to get annoying like don’t these people ever get sick of using the same facial expression?
Overall, I really liked this book. Was a huge improvement to the first and I hope the next book comes out soon! It said next release was 2017 but there is only a month left so not sure if that’s going to happen.
The story carries on exactly where the first book left off. Isaura is finally pulled from her ‘coma’. Upon awakening, she realises she is a completely different person and she now must learn to control her newly acquired powers and strengths. Relationships blossom and the war continues.
I particularly loved how the author has continued the theme of women empowering women. There was a scene in the book where one of the male characters is upset that his partner no longer has a womanly figure due to her new combat training and he points out his displeasure about it to her and she shuts him down. I thought that was great! Women can be whomever they choose to be.
I thought the trials scene was odd, they go through all this training and are told that the clan trials are difficult, but each person got through without a problem even though they didn’t perform that well? I felt rushed and weird. I also didn’t like that the facial expression ‘lip curled’ was used so often. It started to get annoying like don’t these people ever get sick of using the same facial expression?
Overall, I really liked this book. Was a huge improvement to the first and I hope the next book comes out soon! It said next release was 2017 but there is only a month left so not sure if that’s going to happen.
June 28, 2016
Asena Blessed is the second installment of the Chronicles of Altaica fantasy/adventure series. In this fast-paced sequel, we get to see the main character of Isaura come into her own. War, bloody, and cruel is now upon the people of Altaica. Isaura and her companions must assimilate quickly if they are to survive in this harsh new world. They train, long and hard for the enemy is fast approaching and will show them no mercy. Isaura's newfound powers grow with every passing day but she fears embracing them. What will happen when she realizes her full potential? Will there be anything left to salvage after all is said and done?
I would first like to state that I received this free from the author in exchange for an honest review. To be truthful, I didn't know if the momentum of the previous book could be maintained, but wow! This book really blew me away. I could not put it down. It was way better than the first in the series, which was quite good in its own right. It was jam-packed full of action, magic, politics, and burgeoning love. The character of Isaura not only blossomed but became a powerhouse of an avenging angel. If this is what I have to look forward to, sign me up for the rest of the series. Trust me when I say to give this one a chance - sword & sorcery never looked so good!
I would first like to state that I received this free from the author in exchange for an honest review. To be truthful, I didn't know if the momentum of the previous book could be maintained, but wow! This book really blew me away. I could not put it down. It was way better than the first in the series, which was quite good in its own right. It was jam-packed full of action, magic, politics, and burgeoning love. The character of Isaura not only blossomed but became a powerhouse of an avenging angel. If this is what I have to look forward to, sign me up for the rest of the series. Trust me when I say to give this one a chance - sword & sorcery never looked so good!
July 23, 2022
I enjoyed the first book, 'Altaica' and was looking forward to reading the 2nd book 'Asena Blessed'. Most series start of great and by the 2nd or 3rd book, it usually ends up being boring or frustratingly predictable. Not so with 'Asena Blessed'. I was riveted to it and had to finish reading it in one sitting! Nothing irritates me more when the heroine of a story 1) can't make up her mind between guy no 1 or guy no 2 and have conflicting feelings and 2) when she does stupid and irrational things or give the villain an upper hand by her not thinking clearly etc! Thank goodness, our heroine Isaura is none of the above. She's strong, capable, talented, have a good heart and most of all due to her hardships, her character is not weak but strong willed and pure. No wonder Karan (our very worthy hero)is attracted to her!
All the characters in the story came alive, it was well written and a pleasure to read. The only criticism I can give, is I feel Isaura and Karan's story was too short! My romantic heart would have liked more scenes between them and more understanding how his feelings toward her have developed. The courtship felt a bit rushed. The story covers a lot of scenes from different characters and I rushed through them to get to Isaura and Karan's scenes! I'm looking forward to reading book 3. I think Tracy is a talented writer and has become one of my favorite authors.
All the characters in the story came alive, it was well written and a pleasure to read. The only criticism I can give, is I feel Isaura and Karan's story was too short! My romantic heart would have liked more scenes between them and more understanding how his feelings toward her have developed. The courtship felt a bit rushed. The story covers a lot of scenes from different characters and I rushed through them to get to Isaura and Karan's scenes! I'm looking forward to reading book 3. I think Tracy is a talented writer and has become one of my favorite authors.
July 10, 2016
I recieved a copy of this review in exchange for an honest review.
And honestly, I enjoyed it. Getting back into this story was a little tricky for me since it had been a while since I read Altaica, and this is proper hard fantasy, and it took me a little while to remember the style and language of the world. But in the end I settled back into the rhythm of things and everything just got better from there.
Like with Altaica, the characters of Asena Blessed are incredibly detailed and just sweep me away. I get wrapped up with Isaura and her problems, even knowing that this isn't the book for soft and squishy happily-ever-afters. The plot can become a little predictable at times, but it was still really awesome. It's the kind of book where I felt I'm reading this for the characters and how they are going to react to these situations that you're kind of familiar with. And I had a ball with them.
I would recommend grabbing the print version of this book. It's totally worth it! I had a few issues my eBook copy of this book, from half the book going missing and then, once I re-installed it, I couldn't enlarge the text. It's a small issue but it made reading difficult. So grab the print copy, its freaking awesome, and the cover is pretty.
And honestly, I enjoyed it. Getting back into this story was a little tricky for me since it had been a while since I read Altaica, and this is proper hard fantasy, and it took me a little while to remember the style and language of the world. But in the end I settled back into the rhythm of things and everything just got better from there.
Like with Altaica, the characters of Asena Blessed are incredibly detailed and just sweep me away. I get wrapped up with Isaura and her problems, even knowing that this isn't the book for soft and squishy happily-ever-afters. The plot can become a little predictable at times, but it was still really awesome. It's the kind of book where I felt I'm reading this for the characters and how they are going to react to these situations that you're kind of familiar with. And I had a ball with them.
I would recommend grabbing the print version of this book. It's totally worth it! I had a few issues my eBook copy of this book, from half the book going missing and then, once I re-installed it, I couldn't enlarge the text. It's a small issue but it made reading difficult. So grab the print copy, its freaking awesome, and the cover is pretty.
October 5, 2016
I was really excited to read the next chapter in Isaura’s life. The first book was a tapestry of lives moving together but never really intersecting. This book finally pits all the lives together and we see the waves come together. In this book, we really see Isaura coming into her own. It's bloody, wicked and exciting. I'm sure just like me you were waiting for Karan’s people to meet Isaura’s people. And yes, I think we were all expecting the chemistry that ensued between Karan and Isaura. I don't want to say too much, but this book reveals the origins of the Assena and The lady.
This book combines imagination, surprise, intrigue, chemistry, and history to create a magical, bloody, brutal and real story that still manages to capture the essence of life. There's so much that happens, and if you've read Altaica, you know what I mean. It doesn't disappoint, the story goes where you hope it goes, but at the same time, it changes, surprises, and sets up what's to come in the third chapter (coming in 2017).
I most definitely can't wait for the book to be released. This book deserves a five out of five stars.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This book combines imagination, surprise, intrigue, chemistry, and history to create a magical, bloody, brutal and real story that still manages to capture the essence of life. There's so much that happens, and if you've read Altaica, you know what I mean. It doesn't disappoint, the story goes where you hope it goes, but at the same time, it changes, surprises, and sets up what's to come in the third chapter (coming in 2017).
I most definitely can't wait for the book to be released. This book deserves a five out of five stars.
*I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2016
It’s taken me longer than I would like to admit to write this review, but that is only because I feel that I cannot properly express what I truly want to say.
In reality, I feel there is little I can say that I didn’t say about Altaica. The characters are well written, the world interesting, reminiscent of Tolkien and the like, and the storyline engaging. However, while I loved Altaica , Asena Blessed completely blew it out of the water. After reading Asena Blessed, I realize that Altaica is just a tease, the tip of the iceberg. It’s like comparing a shake to a sundae. Both are delicious, but there are more ingredients to enjoy in the sundae. The characters, geography, and plot introduced in the first novel are more developed and fleshed out. We learn more about the mythology and event going on in the world the story is set in.
Normally, I don’t like cliffhangers, but with Joyce’s Altaica’s it just makes me hunger for more. I read it in one sitting and I felt like I lost a friend once I finished Asena. I cannot wait for the next installment. If you are a fan of Tamora Pierce, you will love this series.
In reality, I feel there is little I can say that I didn’t say about Altaica. The characters are well written, the world interesting, reminiscent of Tolkien and the like, and the storyline engaging. However, while I loved Altaica , Asena Blessed completely blew it out of the water. After reading Asena Blessed, I realize that Altaica is just a tease, the tip of the iceberg. It’s like comparing a shake to a sundae. Both are delicious, but there are more ingredients to enjoy in the sundae. The characters, geography, and plot introduced in the first novel are more developed and fleshed out. We learn more about the mythology and event going on in the world the story is set in.
Normally, I don’t like cliffhangers, but with Joyce’s Altaica’s it just makes me hunger for more. I read it in one sitting and I felt like I lost a friend once I finished Asena. I cannot wait for the next installment. If you are a fan of Tamora Pierce, you will love this series.
May 22, 2016
I received a digital copy of this book for free on a read-to-review basis. Thanks to Netgalley and to Tracy Joyce and her publishing house
In this one the main character is not asleep for half of the book and there happen a lot of things. It's a really fast paced book and I liked it! I liked the Asena, the Guardians and all the new things that we learn about the world that the author creates. I liked a lot of characters and despised some of them (Ratilal and his friend, for example) but I'm happy because I was right about Vikram, yay! .
Now I really want to read the next one!!!!!!
The author did a good job with the religious and magic system, the Asena and the story of the world are the best part, even if we don't know yet all there is to know... but I think we would discover all in the next one (or at least, I hope it!) and I was really hooked up during the reading.
In this one the main character is not asleep for half of the book and there happen a lot of things. It's a really fast paced book and I liked it! I liked the Asena, the Guardians and all the new things that we learn about the world that the author creates. I liked a lot of characters and despised some of them (Ratilal and his friend, for example) but I'm happy because I was right about Vikram, yay! .
Now I really want to read the next one!!!!!!
The author did a good job with the religious and magic system, the Asena and the story of the world are the best part, even if we don't know yet all there is to know... but I think we would discover all in the next one (or at least, I hope it!) and I was really hooked up during the reading.
May 3, 2016
After reading Altaica I was eager and excited to start the second of the series, Asena Blessed. This novel exceeded my expectations! I was instantly engaged with the thrilling plot, which focused on themes including power, justice and conflict.
Some of my favourite characters include Isuara, Gabriela and Umniga, all of whom share strong characteristics such as courage, independence and all have a unique sense humour.
Asena Blessed is a book I would highly recommend, and I am excited to read the next of the series.
Some of my favourite characters include Isuara, Gabriela and Umniga, all of whom share strong characteristics such as courage, independence and all have a unique sense humour.
Asena Blessed is a book I would highly recommend, and I am excited to read the next of the series.
May 13, 2017
As the first book the second has again given me the ability to be there live this book along side the characters. This book is a world you want to live in. When you can write as tracey dose and make me hate a character as if it where alive you know your doing something right but also make me love them and feel their worries and heart break is truely a talent. I for one am glad this is chronicles. I have cleared a whole shelf on one my massive book cases just for this series so i can fill it with a world that takes me away and will do so again and again.
March 22, 2018
This is the first book from the series I have read and can't help but feel that I have missed out and didn't enjoy it as much as I could have. So firstly, I recommend that anyone start at the beginning - some series' you can drop into at any stage, but this isn't one of them. Having said that, it is a brilliantly written fantasy book which doesn't drag you down in complexity making it an excellent starting point for young fantasy fans. Featuring such a strong female character is always a win also.
October 23, 2016
What a great follow up to Altaica! Isa really comes into her own here, assimilating into a new culture without compromising her strong character. This story is well thought out and neatly structured. It has everything you could want: psychic connections with wolves, tricksy ghost ladies, an old wise woman, manly clan lords, a stubborn mule hero, ancient mysterious documents, magic crystals, bloody battles - the list goes on. Well worth a read.
July 31, 2016
Received a copy from Netgalley for an honest review. Isaura arises from her coma like state as powerful magic engulfs her. The legendary Asena bless her with the ability to know the foreign language. Her village refugees now fear her and Isa receives her guardian. Political machinations abound from the death of Ratilals father, the high lord. Intrigue, wolves, magic, WAR. Medieval setting, great worldbuilding, nice romance addition, lots of sexual tension, Exceptional book.
May 8, 2016
Tracy Joyce did it again with yet another enthralling novel. I absolutely loved it. I couldn't stop reading it and finished it in less than 24 hours. I just love her characters and how strong they are. The men are strong and like their partners to be just as strong. Joyce so well that you feel as if you were there fighting the battle or sitting under the trees. I cannot wait for book number 3!
May 15, 2016
I loved this book, 'Asena Blessed' as much as I loved 'Altaica'.
Tracy has given all of her characters great depth, and one can 'feel' the relationships (both good and bad) between each character. I'm also delighted with her world-building ability and depth of history, giving it a sense of realism.
Looking forward to book 3…
Tracy has given all of her characters great depth, and one can 'feel' the relationships (both good and bad) between each character. I'm also delighted with her world-building ability and depth of history, giving it a sense of realism.
Looking forward to book 3…
May 18, 2016
I found this better and worse than the previous book. I wished that there was more Pio. It being an ensemble piece is good and I enjoyed much of it but at times I felt that a slightly smaller cast might have been more manageable. Great setting up for next time e.g. Gabi and Daniel getting together (blatantly). I liked the book a lot and would definitely recommend it.
June 7, 2018
Isaura comes back changed. This is one intriguing fantasy book that doesn’t let you go until you’re finished. Impossible to not read all of them.
October 23, 2018
Review: Asena Blessed by Tracy M Joyce
Publisher: Odyssey Books, Canberra
Epic fantasy book 2 of a series and before you start, book 3 isn't due out until 2017. If you're reading this review and it is 2017; perfect! You won't have long to wait. If you're in 2018, even better, no wait at all. You may as well buy book 3 at the same time as no. 2 because waiting is terrible! You are not going to want to wait.
I'm starting with the end in this review. I approached the last few chapters of Asena Blessed with trepidation. You know the feeling when you just don't want the story to end? As the number of pages left to read dwindled at an increasingly rapid rate, I realised that the end was way too close. But I couldn't stop reading or even slow down. I had to know what happened.
Tracy is such a great writer. If you love epic fantasy, you are going to love the Chronicles of Altaica of which Asena Blessed is the second in the series. The characters and the journeys they take in life are well thought out and the actions scenes are fabulous!
To get back to the beginning: Asena Blessed carries on from Altaica (book one) with the story of Isaura. Isaura has grown up as the outsider in her close knit village. Different colour skin, different background, and family from a different part of the world all together. She has a small group of friends who protect and are wary of her at the same time. When war comes to the village (as inevitably it must, this is epic fantasy after all), the villagers including Isaura and friends must flee. In so doing, they all become refugees in a strange land. Asena Blessed takes up their story of rescue and forced assimilation and the rising of Isaura from isolated outsider to someone who finds power. She is the Asena Blessed.
This is the part where I want to gush about what happens, Isaura nearly dies, is brought back, discovers she has new power, can talk to wolves.... But I really don't want to give it all away.
Needless to say, Tracy has produced a story with plenty of action and enough detail for readers to be swept into a whole new world. The characters have plenty of flaws (perfect characters are so boring), the descriptions are spot on (no exposition), and the fight scenes are excellently choreographed.
I can well imagine cosplayers outfitting themselves as Isaura or Karan or Beldev or Asha and striding around a con in full battle gear.
If you're of analytic frame of mind, you'll probably be interested in how Tracy handles issues of racism, gender relations, sexism, bullying, and grief. It's all there and really shows this as a modern story pushing through barriers. If you've picked up the book and just want to jump right in to a rollicking read, you have exactly the right book in your hands.
Here's the disclaimer. Tracy and I are fellow authors at Odyssey Books and friends. That hasn't influenced my review though. I was brought up on the premise that if you haven't got anything nice to say then just keep your bloody trap shut. Asena Blessed is definitely worth opening my trap about.
Now that you've read my review, you'll want to know where you can purchase a copy for yourself. Aussies can download it from Amazon.com.au and everyone else from the Amazoned country where you have your account. It's also available from Booktopia, Book Depository and, probably, whichever is your online book store of choice, including the Odyssey Books website. If you prefer the experience of shopping in a real world bookshop where you can see, touch and smell books of all shapes and sizes, you may have to ask for it. Don't be shy. Ask away!
Tracy often appears at book expos, Supanova and other cons. Look for the Odyssey Books stand and drop by for a chat.
Publisher: Odyssey Books, Canberra
Epic fantasy book 2 of a series and before you start, book 3 isn't due out until 2017. If you're reading this review and it is 2017; perfect! You won't have long to wait. If you're in 2018, even better, no wait at all. You may as well buy book 3 at the same time as no. 2 because waiting is terrible! You are not going to want to wait.
I'm starting with the end in this review. I approached the last few chapters of Asena Blessed with trepidation. You know the feeling when you just don't want the story to end? As the number of pages left to read dwindled at an increasingly rapid rate, I realised that the end was way too close. But I couldn't stop reading or even slow down. I had to know what happened.
Tracy is such a great writer. If you love epic fantasy, you are going to love the Chronicles of Altaica of which Asena Blessed is the second in the series. The characters and the journeys they take in life are well thought out and the actions scenes are fabulous!
To get back to the beginning: Asena Blessed carries on from Altaica (book one) with the story of Isaura. Isaura has grown up as the outsider in her close knit village. Different colour skin, different background, and family from a different part of the world all together. She has a small group of friends who protect and are wary of her at the same time. When war comes to the village (as inevitably it must, this is epic fantasy after all), the villagers including Isaura and friends must flee. In so doing, they all become refugees in a strange land. Asena Blessed takes up their story of rescue and forced assimilation and the rising of Isaura from isolated outsider to someone who finds power. She is the Asena Blessed.
This is the part where I want to gush about what happens, Isaura nearly dies, is brought back, discovers she has new power, can talk to wolves.... But I really don't want to give it all away.
Needless to say, Tracy has produced a story with plenty of action and enough detail for readers to be swept into a whole new world. The characters have plenty of flaws (perfect characters are so boring), the descriptions are spot on (no exposition), and the fight scenes are excellently choreographed.
I can well imagine cosplayers outfitting themselves as Isaura or Karan or Beldev or Asha and striding around a con in full battle gear.
If you're of analytic frame of mind, you'll probably be interested in how Tracy handles issues of racism, gender relations, sexism, bullying, and grief. It's all there and really shows this as a modern story pushing through barriers. If you've picked up the book and just want to jump right in to a rollicking read, you have exactly the right book in your hands.
Here's the disclaimer. Tracy and I are fellow authors at Odyssey Books and friends. That hasn't influenced my review though. I was brought up on the premise that if you haven't got anything nice to say then just keep your bloody trap shut. Asena Blessed is definitely worth opening my trap about.
Now that you've read my review, you'll want to know where you can purchase a copy for yourself. Aussies can download it from Amazon.com.au and everyone else from the Amazoned country where you have your account. It's also available from Booktopia, Book Depository and, probably, whichever is your online book store of choice, including the Odyssey Books website. If you prefer the experience of shopping in a real world bookshop where you can see, touch and smell books of all shapes and sizes, you may have to ask for it. Don't be shy. Ask away!
Tracy often appears at book expos, Supanova and other cons. Look for the Odyssey Books stand and drop by for a chat.
September 27, 2016
Isaura is back, and she’s even more badass than ever! I waited anxiously to get my hands on this sequel, and it didn’t disappoint. Joyce delivers with her usual blend of intrigue, politics and balls to the wall action. I was on the edge of my seat from start to finish.
After a secret ritual brings her back from another realm, Isuara wakes to a new and intriguing world. She quickly becomes immersed in the raging war between the Horse, Bear and Boar clans. When High Lord Ratilal sets his sights on her, Isuara unleashes her inner powers to protect herself and those around her. But will there be casualties as she embraces what it truly means to be blessed by the Asena?
Once again, Joyce delivers my style of pacing. The reader is thrown straight back into the action, and it does not let up from there. The battle scenes have just the right amount of action to carry you forward, and I had to stop myself skimming ahead to find out who lives and who dies. One thing is for sure – Asena Blessed does not have any draggy bits.
One element I praised Altaica for was its representation of women, and I’m going to get straight back into that with Asena. The novel is full of representations of women that feel real – you’ve got good women and bad women, self-serving ones and nurturing ones. None of Joyce’s characters are one-dimensional, so getting into the nitty gritty of each is a delight. Isaura herself is everything I could want a YA female protagonist to be. She’s a strong, independent women who doesn’t need any man. I’m always stoked when a female character’s plotline doesn’t centre around a man, and Asena continues the trend that Altaica started. But neither does Joyce deny her readers romantic interludes. By blending in a love interest in an empowering manner – and indeed, giving Isaura a partner whose ass she can kick! – doesn’t deny the existence of love, but instead reminds young readers that it’s not the only part of their story.
Those unaccustomed to action-heavy writing may find fault with the many short and sharp sentences Joyce uses. While it may not be for everyone, I find that it lends a great tone to the novel. There’s swearing and there’s interruptions, and it all just feels very realistic.
Strap yourself in for a fantastic ride and get sucked even deeper into this fantastic fantasy world. I can promise you won’t regret it. Especially with that ending!
After a secret ritual brings her back from another realm, Isuara wakes to a new and intriguing world. She quickly becomes immersed in the raging war between the Horse, Bear and Boar clans. When High Lord Ratilal sets his sights on her, Isuara unleashes her inner powers to protect herself and those around her. But will there be casualties as she embraces what it truly means to be blessed by the Asena?
Once again, Joyce delivers my style of pacing. The reader is thrown straight back into the action, and it does not let up from there. The battle scenes have just the right amount of action to carry you forward, and I had to stop myself skimming ahead to find out who lives and who dies. One thing is for sure – Asena Blessed does not have any draggy bits.
One element I praised Altaica for was its representation of women, and I’m going to get straight back into that with Asena. The novel is full of representations of women that feel real – you’ve got good women and bad women, self-serving ones and nurturing ones. None of Joyce’s characters are one-dimensional, so getting into the nitty gritty of each is a delight. Isaura herself is everything I could want a YA female protagonist to be. She’s a strong, independent women who doesn’t need any man. I’m always stoked when a female character’s plotline doesn’t centre around a man, and Asena continues the trend that Altaica started. But neither does Joyce deny her readers romantic interludes. By blending in a love interest in an empowering manner – and indeed, giving Isaura a partner whose ass she can kick! – doesn’t deny the existence of love, but instead reminds young readers that it’s not the only part of their story.
Those unaccustomed to action-heavy writing may find fault with the many short and sharp sentences Joyce uses. While it may not be for everyone, I find that it lends a great tone to the novel. There’s swearing and there’s interruptions, and it all just feels very realistic.
Strap yourself in for a fantastic ride and get sucked even deeper into this fantastic fantasy world. I can promise you won’t regret it. Especially with that ending!
Displaying 1 - 30 of 35 reviews