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Camilla Crim #1
The Sacrifice of One
Camilla Crim runs her calloused fingers over the mutilated skin on the inside of her arm. This is where she’s been branded with the Warwick W – marking her as little better than a slave. It’s been twelve years since Quinten Warwick invaded her territory and turned its vast wooded land into a national, standardized farm big enough to feed the whole country.
Now seventeen, Camilla’s days waste away on the farm, where discipline is enforced with whippings and beatings. Her reward? A pitiful payout of money rings, most of which goes to cover her father’s drinking habit. Camilla’s life is bleak, but it’s all she knows.
When her only real family, her brother, Tuor, is arrested by Warwick Militia for a heinous crime she knows he didn’t commit, Camilla is shaken. She must discover the truth and free her brother. But as Tuor’s demise draws near, will Camilla find relief in learning the truth surrounding her brother’s crime? Or will she accept that one must be sacrificed for the good of many?
Now seventeen, Camilla’s days waste away on the farm, where discipline is enforced with whippings and beatings. Her reward? A pitiful payout of money rings, most of which goes to cover her father’s drinking habit. Camilla’s life is bleak, but it’s all she knows.
When her only real family, her brother, Tuor, is arrested by Warwick Militia for a heinous crime she knows he didn’t commit, Camilla is shaken. She must discover the truth and free her brother. But as Tuor’s demise draws near, will Camilla find relief in learning the truth surrounding her brother’s crime? Or will she accept that one must be sacrificed for the good of many?
255 pages, ebook
Published September 26, 2016
92 people are currently reading
249 people want to read
About the author
Emily Fortney
5 books22 followersEmily has come a long way from building forts in the woods behind her childhood home. She’s the author of the The Sacrifice of One, the first book in a thrilling, young adult fantasy series. Although born and raised in central Pennsylvania, Emily currently resides in Memphis, TN with her husband and shelter cat, and is vigilant about keeping her house well stocked with dark chocolate.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 67 reviews
July 27, 2022
I received a complimentary copy of the book to review and am giving my honest review. The story is well written and the introduction of characters is sudden, but in the end their stories make sense and connect with each other. It is a good beginning to the series and does a good introduction to the world and what is going on as well as what the characters are fighting for. It shows the strong bond between siblings that even in a hard situation it's reassuring to have at least someone have your back when not many will.
June 17, 2020
WOW! This was a breathtaking read! Emily Fortney has the same knack for cliffhanger chapter endings as Suzanne Collins does. This story is definitely addictive in all the best ways.
And the heroine, Camilla Crim, is the feisty, persistent, troublemaking protagonist everyone craves in a YA adventure story. She was easy to root for; a great narrator for this book! My only complaint (and it's a minor one) is that I wish there had been a few slower moments to get to know all of the characters a bit more, namely the side characters who don't get as much attention as Camilla. But it was a small price to pay for a book that delivered on non-stop action.
This book is perfect reading if you're looking for something to escape into (which we could all probably use a little of these days): there's action, adventure, rebellion, family secrets, murder, runaways, political intrigue, corrupt governments, jail breaks, courtroom tensions, brother-sister bonds, found families, plot twists, mystery, fight scenes, and much, much more. Clearly this story has everything! Don't hesitate to get your own copy to find out for yourself! I'm definitely looking forward to the sequels.
And the heroine, Camilla Crim, is the feisty, persistent, troublemaking protagonist everyone craves in a YA adventure story. She was easy to root for; a great narrator for this book! My only complaint (and it's a minor one) is that I wish there had been a few slower moments to get to know all of the characters a bit more, namely the side characters who don't get as much attention as Camilla. But it was a small price to pay for a book that delivered on non-stop action.
This book is perfect reading if you're looking for something to escape into (which we could all probably use a little of these days): there's action, adventure, rebellion, family secrets, murder, runaways, political intrigue, corrupt governments, jail breaks, courtroom tensions, brother-sister bonds, found families, plot twists, mystery, fight scenes, and much, much more. Clearly this story has everything! Don't hesitate to get your own copy to find out for yourself! I'm definitely looking forward to the sequels.
June 18, 2020
In The Sacrifice of One, Camilla's character is transformed from a quiet rule-follower who blends in with the suffering townspeople around her to an up-and-coming hero whom you just know is going to end up saving the day in Braveheart style. This is a fascinating read--the kind where you suddenly realize you're holding your breath in the heat of the moment or talking out loud to the characters in the pages! It was refreshing to be transformed to another time and place in such detail without having to wade through profanity and details of illicit encounters. The Sacrifice of One completely drew me into a genre that has not been my typical choice. Now I want--no, need--to make up for lost time and discover more of Emily Fortney's work!
June 20, 2020
The Sacrifice of One is a captivating story that follows the incredibly harrowing fight young Camilla must fight to save her brother from execution. As if that’s not enough, she fights this fight in a dystopian slave camp that is very well built by the author. It had me cringing multiple times, wondering how this type of system could possibly sustain life. Poor Camilla! Loved the setting.
I struggled a bit relating to Camilla at first, but by the end I found the evolution of her character truly inspiring.
I was drawn in by the horrible circumstances, and stayed for the surprising twists. It was a good read, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the rest of the series.
I struggled a bit relating to Camilla at first, but by the end I found the evolution of her character truly inspiring.
I was drawn in by the horrible circumstances, and stayed for the surprising twists. It was a good read, and I can’t wait to see what happens in the rest of the series.
June 10, 2020
Prepare to stay up way past your bedtime and ignore your to-do list. I found myself promising I'd "just read for ten more minutes," then pushing on to the end of the chapter, and starting the next. Fortney does a great job of building and managing tension and suspense. She also develops the character or Camilla, who begins timid and uncertain but ends confident and strong, really nicely. There are times Camilla slips back into her self-doubting ways, and you find yourself telling her, "No girl, you've got this. Remember when. . ." and then your realize you're talking to a book. Great read. Can't wait to start the next in the series.
June 21, 2020
This story is set in a medieval-esque time and follows a young female protagonist whose perception of her world slowly begins to change and crumble around her. The characters were varied and engaging making me become really invested in what happened to them. I also really enjoyed that the author didn't include any unnecessary romance or sexual scenes. Highly recommend for young adults and adults alike!
I received a complimentary copy of this work through Voracious Readeres Only in exchange for my honest opinion.
I received a complimentary copy of this work through Voracious Readeres Only in exchange for my honest opinion.
November 22, 2020
I was sent this book free in exchange for an honest review.
Amazing. A real page turner. I read this book in less than 24 hours. Each chapter was exciting and had me second guessing myself, but not only that, at the end of each chapter I was left wanting to read more. I honestly could not put this book down. It was full of twists and surprises. Some I guessed and some I didn’t.
Camilla was a great protagonist but it was difficult to guess exactly who to trust, which made the book even more enjoyable to read.
I don’t give spoilers in my reviews but just say how I enjoy a book, and for me this was definitely a great read. I look forward to reading more in the series to find out what happens to Camilla and her brother.
Amazing. A real page turner. I read this book in less than 24 hours. Each chapter was exciting and had me second guessing myself, but not only that, at the end of each chapter I was left wanting to read more. I honestly could not put this book down. It was full of twists and surprises. Some I guessed and some I didn’t.
Camilla was a great protagonist but it was difficult to guess exactly who to trust, which made the book even more enjoyable to read.
I don’t give spoilers in my reviews but just say how I enjoy a book, and for me this was definitely a great read. I look forward to reading more in the series to find out what happens to Camilla and her brother.
December 8, 2020
I received a copy of The Sacrifice of One through Voracious Readers Only and let me start by saying that I loved this story! I thought the story was really well written, the characters were relatable and strong, and I'm excited to see where Emily Fortney takes this adventure next. While I didn't need to read the prequel, The Faintly Beating Heart, I felt that it really did help me to have some backstory while reading The Sacrifice of One especially when it came to the scenes with Mirabelle and Knox. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a strong female lead with a rebellious spirit!
June 28, 2020
A great read with plenty of action, mystery abounds which keeps you guessing where things are headed. There are several major characters involved who all seem to have their own issues.
Camilla the main character seemed to be erratic in her reactions to events but some clarity arrives.
An excellent start to a series, would definitely look to the future books to round off the adventures.
Camilla the main character seemed to be erratic in her reactions to events but some clarity arrives.
An excellent start to a series, would definitely look to the future books to round off the adventures.
May 17, 2021
I wasn’t sure where I thought this book was going so I was super excited to keep reading! The characters are well-rounded and Camila Crim is a great heroine! I look forward to reading more from this series and this author!
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only.
September 18, 2021
I was given a copy of this book in return for a fair and honest review.
Oh my heck! I love Camilla Crim! Camilla was ripped from her predictable, yet miserable, life because of the actions of others. But way to own it, girl. Camilla has spunk. She grabbed onto the reins and ran with everything that was thrown at her. She refused to give up when situation after impossible situation was thrown at her. Camilla is strong, tenacious, and willing to sacrifice everything for her family. I will definitely be following the rest of her story in this book series!
Oh my heck! I love Camilla Crim! Camilla was ripped from her predictable, yet miserable, life because of the actions of others. But way to own it, girl. Camilla has spunk. She grabbed onto the reins and ran with everything that was thrown at her. She refused to give up when situation after impossible situation was thrown at her. Camilla is strong, tenacious, and willing to sacrifice everything for her family. I will definitely be following the rest of her story in this book series!
September 9, 2021
The author was kind enough to reach out and put me on this AMAZING book series in exchange for my honest review. Thank you so much!
When reading “The Sacrifice of One” just think what “The Hunger Games” would look like if it took place solely in District 12 (For some reason I kept picturing Katniss’s village and the woods surrounding it?). Instead of reaped tributes and televised slaughter, the author creates a story revolving around a murder mystery, an innocent man unlawfully accused, and his sister who would stop at nothing to save his life.
This book kept me on my toes from start to finish while also slowly introducing me to the complex world of Elymyra and more specifically the rural town of Bear Gap. I really enjoyed watched Camilla’s character go from a subservient, shy girl to a badass rebel out for revenge! I liked how there were some fantasy elements, but as far as I know our main characters are all just your average working class citizens. It made you root for Camilla and Johnny more because their efforts were without any magical aid! BADASS.
The politics intrigue in the story also was introduced frequently but not dumped on the reader all at once which is something I appreciated.
All in all, “The Sacrifice of One” really grabbed my attention and gave me a fast paced, enjoyable read. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I will be posting a further review of “The Sacrifice of One” on my Booktok (Book related Tiktok page) @ evebetweenthelines !!!
When reading “The Sacrifice of One” just think what “The Hunger Games” would look like if it took place solely in District 12 (For some reason I kept picturing Katniss’s village and the woods surrounding it?). Instead of reaped tributes and televised slaughter, the author creates a story revolving around a murder mystery, an innocent man unlawfully accused, and his sister who would stop at nothing to save his life.
This book kept me on my toes from start to finish while also slowly introducing me to the complex world of Elymyra and more specifically the rural town of Bear Gap. I really enjoyed watched Camilla’s character go from a subservient, shy girl to a badass rebel out for revenge! I liked how there were some fantasy elements, but as far as I know our main characters are all just your average working class citizens. It made you root for Camilla and Johnny more because their efforts were without any magical aid! BADASS.
The politics intrigue in the story also was introduced frequently but not dumped on the reader all at once which is something I appreciated.
All in all, “The Sacrifice of One” really grabbed my attention and gave me a fast paced, enjoyable read. I can’t wait to see what happens next!
I will be posting a further review of “The Sacrifice of One” on my Booktok (Book related Tiktok page) @ evebetweenthelines !!!
February 22, 2021
This gritty, dystopian fantasy tale introduces the reluctant hero Camilla Crim as she fights to save her brother who has been accused of a dastardly crime.
Full of complicated relationships, unexpected twists, and just a hint of magic, The Sacrifice of One will have you on the edge of your seat as you are drawn into the world of Elmyra and learn the deadly, dangerous lengths some will go to in order to maintain power.
I can’t wait to see where Camilla’s story goes from here!
(As a note, I purchased the box set which includes the first two books as well as the prequel.)
Full of complicated relationships, unexpected twists, and just a hint of magic, The Sacrifice of One will have you on the edge of your seat as you are drawn into the world of Elmyra and learn the deadly, dangerous lengths some will go to in order to maintain power.
I can’t wait to see where Camilla’s story goes from here!
(As a note, I purchased the box set which includes the first two books as well as the prequel.)
June 19, 2020
Great world building. You feel like you are in Camilla’s world a slave on the Governor’s farm oppressed by an alcoholic father, and fighting for your brothers life. I started reading and the next thing I knew hours had passed. I can’t wait for the next book.
June 15, 2020
Camilla lives in a dystopian world, she is a slave supporting her drunk father. When she f8nd put her brother is being framed for murder she does everything she can to free him.
Lots of twist and turns, and a cliffhanger but very well written.
Lots of twist and turns, and a cliffhanger but very well written.
July 25, 2021
2.5 Stars
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy via Voracious Readers Only of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Good
Premise
The premise of The Sacrifice of One should have made for a decent read. The making of a rebellion against the tyranny of a truly terrible regime? One so insidious that many of its citizens don’t even realise just how oppressed they are? Emily Fortney earned two stars just for coming up with that and making me believe in it.
World-Building
Fortney’s world-building is also notable. While it’s impossible to get a clear idea of Elmyra as a whole since the story is told in first-person from the perspective of someone who has never left the rural Bear Gap region, eventually a picture of how things work just in that part of the country emerges. Combined, the descriptions of the region and the country’s money system earned another half star.
Everything Else
Characterisation
The character descriptions, unfortunately, leave a lot to be desired. Not only is the protagonist, Camilla Crim, extremely unlikeable, but she is also inconsistently depicted. She starts off as quietly surly, but hard-working and resigned. She’s naïve to the ways of the world, but as she’s never left her tiny part of the world, that, at least, is understandable. Still, in dealing with her brother, her naïveté comes off as arrogant rather than endearing. (This is one area where she remains the same; her inability to accept that she knows nothing endangers her supporters again and again.) Then she abruptly changes to become ragingly surly, which only magnifies the cost of her errors of arrogance. She adds recklessness to her host of other foibles, and that serves to make bad situations worse – only everyone in her orbit is affected far worse than she is.
Since the book is told in Camilla’s voice, Fortney could have written the emotional transitions in a far more believable way than she did. Instead, the progression reads more like Camilla is hitting preplanned plot points and reacting as prescribed without giving any indication of how she got to C from A. It felt lazy and inauthentic.
The other characters are all either caricatures, cardboard cutouts, clowns or some combination of the aforementioned lack of depth. But as shallowly as they have been written, several are nearly as unevenly depicted as Camilla. I would not have thought it possible, but Fortney proved that it most certainly is.
Pacing
The pacing was headache-inducing. There are long stretches of nothing happening, filled with what I expect was supposed to be Camilla’s introspection. But as her inner self is written so thinly, those (very many) passages read a lot more like filler than character development. There are a couple of scenes that are filled with intense (and highly implausible) action, but even they fell flat, as, by the time they arrived, I was already bored silly and my suspension of disbelief was hanging by a thread.
Since the book is clearly not meant to be character-driven, a faster pace would have made it far more tolerable.
Nitpicks
There were a few grammar fails and some odd adjective ordering, but these were so minor as to have been hardly noticeable had I been enjoying myself. Fortney either has a decent-enough grasp of sentence mechanics, or she has an editor that primarily excels in that area.
There were also a few passages written in unnecessarily flowery language that was far from being in keeping with the rest of the story and Camilla’s voice, but I just took them as ill-advised attempts at further padding (and as more evidence of inconsistent characterisation) rather than as being indicative of Fortney’s style.
Final Thoughts
While a lot of my issues with the book sre likely due to the story being told by an underdeveloped, ignorant character who isn’t particularly interested in any sort of enlightenment, it made for a tedious read. Fortney could have written a much better – possibly even great – book had a content editor helped her clean it up and tighten it up. She’s by no means a terrible writer, but I doubt that I will give her another chance as an independent author.
Full Disclosure: I received a free copy via Voracious Readers Only of this book in exchange for an honest review.
The Good
Premise
The premise of The Sacrifice of One should have made for a decent read. The making of a rebellion against the tyranny of a truly terrible regime? One so insidious that many of its citizens don’t even realise just how oppressed they are? Emily Fortney earned two stars just for coming up with that and making me believe in it.
World-Building
Fortney’s world-building is also notable. While it’s impossible to get a clear idea of Elmyra as a whole since the story is told in first-person from the perspective of someone who has never left the rural Bear Gap region, eventually a picture of how things work just in that part of the country emerges. Combined, the descriptions of the region and the country’s money system earned another half star.
Everything Else
Characterisation
The character descriptions, unfortunately, leave a lot to be desired. Not only is the protagonist, Camilla Crim, extremely unlikeable, but she is also inconsistently depicted. She starts off as quietly surly, but hard-working and resigned. She’s naïve to the ways of the world, but as she’s never left her tiny part of the world, that, at least, is understandable. Still, in dealing with her brother, her naïveté comes off as arrogant rather than endearing. (This is one area where she remains the same; her inability to accept that she knows nothing endangers her supporters again and again.) Then she abruptly changes to become ragingly surly, which only magnifies the cost of her errors of arrogance. She adds recklessness to her host of other foibles, and that serves to make bad situations worse – only everyone in her orbit is affected far worse than she is.
Since the book is told in Camilla’s voice, Fortney could have written the emotional transitions in a far more believable way than she did. Instead, the progression reads more like Camilla is hitting preplanned plot points and reacting as prescribed without giving any indication of how she got to C from A. It felt lazy and inauthentic.
The other characters are all either caricatures, cardboard cutouts, clowns or some combination of the aforementioned lack of depth. But as shallowly as they have been written, several are nearly as unevenly depicted as Camilla. I would not have thought it possible, but Fortney proved that it most certainly is.
Pacing
The pacing was headache-inducing. There are long stretches of nothing happening, filled with what I expect was supposed to be Camilla’s introspection. But as her inner self is written so thinly, those (very many) passages read a lot more like filler than character development. There are a couple of scenes that are filled with intense (and highly implausible) action, but even they fell flat, as, by the time they arrived, I was already bored silly and my suspension of disbelief was hanging by a thread.
Since the book is clearly not meant to be character-driven, a faster pace would have made it far more tolerable.
Nitpicks
There were a few grammar fails and some odd adjective ordering, but these were so minor as to have been hardly noticeable had I been enjoying myself. Fortney either has a decent-enough grasp of sentence mechanics, or she has an editor that primarily excels in that area.
There were also a few passages written in unnecessarily flowery language that was far from being in keeping with the rest of the story and Camilla’s voice, but I just took them as ill-advised attempts at further padding (and as more evidence of inconsistent characterisation) rather than as being indicative of Fortney’s style.
Final Thoughts
While a lot of my issues with the book sre likely due to the story being told by an underdeveloped, ignorant character who isn’t particularly interested in any sort of enlightenment, it made for a tedious read. Fortney could have written a much better – possibly even great – book had a content editor helped her clean it up and tighten it up. She’s by no means a terrible writer, but I doubt that I will give her another chance as an independent author.
August 10, 2021
I received an advance reader's copy from the Author and VoraciousReads.
The writting style is quite good, I just wish there had been a lot more world building. For the most part this reads like a historical novel, and fantastical elements are only introduced at about the 70% mark.
I also wish that there was more character development, I don't feel like I was able to develop much of an interest in Camilla as well as either Mirabelle, Tuor, Johnny and Knox.
A pretty decent first novel all in all.
The writting style is quite good, I just wish there had been a lot more world building. For the most part this reads like a historical novel, and fantastical elements are only introduced at about the 70% mark.
I also wish that there was more character development, I don't feel like I was able to develop much of an interest in Camilla as well as either Mirabelle, Tuor, Johnny and Knox.
A pretty decent first novel all in all.
April 5, 2022
Great read and definitely had me glued to the pages!
Camilla Crim is only a teenager, but her life is far from ideal. Ever since Quinten Warwick procured over her territory, she has had to work as a slave, toiling day after day on the national farm just to have her alcoholic father take the lion’s share of her earnings to feed his addiction. Her only brother, Tuor, is a member of the Warwick Militia and the only person she truly loves. When he is accused and subsequently arrested for murder, Camilla sets out to find the truth, but who can she turn to? Who is willing to help? More importantly, who can she really trust?
I quite enjoyed this novel. The world Fortney built was solid and well-written, and I felt fully immersed in Camilla’s journey. I liked that there was constant development, but there were also lulls so the reader got the chance to “catch up” a little. Camilla, I found to be a great main – she’s feisty, stubborn and fights for what she believes in. I do admit there were moments where I was frustrated with her choices, but her character is 17 and who makes all the right choices at 17? Clearly, there's been a lot of care in crafting her, and while I really liked how the novel was in her perspective, I also wish I learned more about the other characters – specifically Knox, Mirabelle and Portia. Their relationship definitely piqued an interest and I wanted more! Perhaps in the later novels…
Thank you Voracious Readers and Emily Fortney for my copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Camilla Crim is only a teenager, but her life is far from ideal. Ever since Quinten Warwick procured over her territory, she has had to work as a slave, toiling day after day on the national farm just to have her alcoholic father take the lion’s share of her earnings to feed his addiction. Her only brother, Tuor, is a member of the Warwick Militia and the only person she truly loves. When he is accused and subsequently arrested for murder, Camilla sets out to find the truth, but who can she turn to? Who is willing to help? More importantly, who can she really trust?
I quite enjoyed this novel. The world Fortney built was solid and well-written, and I felt fully immersed in Camilla’s journey. I liked that there was constant development, but there were also lulls so the reader got the chance to “catch up” a little. Camilla, I found to be a great main – she’s feisty, stubborn and fights for what she believes in. I do admit there were moments where I was frustrated with her choices, but her character is 17 and who makes all the right choices at 17? Clearly, there's been a lot of care in crafting her, and while I really liked how the novel was in her perspective, I also wish I learned more about the other characters – specifically Knox, Mirabelle and Portia. Their relationship definitely piqued an interest and I wanted more! Perhaps in the later novels…
Thank you Voracious Readers and Emily Fortney for my copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own.
September 26, 2021
This is book 1 in the Camilla Crim Series by Emily Fortney and this just set the tone to what looks like is shaping up to be a great series.
Camilla is little more than a slave working on a grand farm where she is regularly whipped for no reason at all. She doesn’t understand that this life she is living is hell as she has never known any other way. She lives with her worthless drunk of a father who also beats her and takes all her earnings for booze. Again she thinks this is just the way life is and excepts her place always following the rules and getting punished regardless. That is until her brother comes back to town. He is on the run for a murder he didn’t commit or did he? This book is Camilla doing all she can for her brother and never giving up no matter how many time she is beaten down and treated like scum. There is more to this murder her brother is apparently accused of committing and this unravels more and more every time you turn the page. Can she save him from being executed? You need to read it and see.
I honestly can’t wait to see where this series goes as I feel Camilla is a little caterpillar that won’t just transform into a butterfly but into a Phoenix and a force to be reckoned with.
I received an advanced reader copy in return for a non biased review.
4/5 girls never give up stars.
Camilla is little more than a slave working on a grand farm where she is regularly whipped for no reason at all. She doesn’t understand that this life she is living is hell as she has never known any other way. She lives with her worthless drunk of a father who also beats her and takes all her earnings for booze. Again she thinks this is just the way life is and excepts her place always following the rules and getting punished regardless. That is until her brother comes back to town. He is on the run for a murder he didn’t commit or did he? This book is Camilla doing all she can for her brother and never giving up no matter how many time she is beaten down and treated like scum. There is more to this murder her brother is apparently accused of committing and this unravels more and more every time you turn the page. Can she save him from being executed? You need to read it and see.
I honestly can’t wait to see where this series goes as I feel Camilla is a little caterpillar that won’t just transform into a butterfly but into a Phoenix and a force to be reckoned with.
I received an advanced reader copy in return for a non biased review.
4/5 girls never give up stars.
April 7, 2021
I received a copy of this book through the Voracious Readers Only Scheme…
To be completely honest when I first read the blurb of this book I wasn’t sure it was something that I would enjoy but I am trying to have more of an open mind when I read so decided to give it a go and I am very pleased that I did. My favourite part of the book was seeing the female protagonist grow throughout the story - both individually and through her relationships with other characters. I was absolutely hooked right from the very beginning and read the book in only a couple of days. Although this isn’t something I would usually choose to read I am so glad I did and I feel like this book would suit anyone with an open mind, but particularly someone who enjoys a mystery/thriller type story. The story is written so well that you can’t help wanting to read on to find out what happens next in the story. The story evokes so many emotions in the reader and makes you feel sympathetic for many characters throughout. This is something that definitely contributes to me wanting to read the next story in the series due to the fact that I feel emotionally connected with the characters and would love to see what happens next!
To be completely honest when I first read the blurb of this book I wasn’t sure it was something that I would enjoy but I am trying to have more of an open mind when I read so decided to give it a go and I am very pleased that I did. My favourite part of the book was seeing the female protagonist grow throughout the story - both individually and through her relationships with other characters. I was absolutely hooked right from the very beginning and read the book in only a couple of days. Although this isn’t something I would usually choose to read I am so glad I did and I feel like this book would suit anyone with an open mind, but particularly someone who enjoys a mystery/thriller type story. The story is written so well that you can’t help wanting to read on to find out what happens next in the story. The story evokes so many emotions in the reader and makes you feel sympathetic for many characters throughout. This is something that definitely contributes to me wanting to read the next story in the series due to the fact that I feel emotionally connected with the characters and would love to see what happens next!
December 24, 2020
I received a complementary copy of this book from the author via voracious readers only in exchange for an honest review
Within the 1st two pages, I knew for certain that I was absolutely HOOKED! Pretty much everything on my to-do list went out the window until the end. The author has a beautiful way of writing that makes you feel as if you've been absorbed right into the story. The characters are absolutely fantastic. I love them all but Camilla is my favorite. She is beyond brave. There were so many times that I found my own heart racing, afraid to look at the next page because I was just sure she was going to get caught doing one thing or another. This book has it all--a murder mystery, family drama, dirty politicians and oppression of the working class. But most importantly, it is about a sisters willingness to do anything to save her brother. And the end, well lets just say I did not see that coming! I highly recommend this book to everyone! I would love to say more about it but I can't wait one more second to start on the next book!
Within the 1st two pages, I knew for certain that I was absolutely HOOKED! Pretty much everything on my to-do list went out the window until the end. The author has a beautiful way of writing that makes you feel as if you've been absorbed right into the story. The characters are absolutely fantastic. I love them all but Camilla is my favorite. She is beyond brave. There were so many times that I found my own heart racing, afraid to look at the next page because I was just sure she was going to get caught doing one thing or another. This book has it all--a murder mystery, family drama, dirty politicians and oppression of the working class. But most importantly, it is about a sisters willingness to do anything to save her brother. And the end, well lets just say I did not see that coming! I highly recommend this book to everyone! I would love to say more about it but I can't wait one more second to start on the next book!
March 7, 2024
Fortney’s The Sacrifice of One tells the story of Camilla, a young woman that resides in a dark world where class structure and slavery are abound. Her life is rife with difficulty and unpleasantness, and one of her few positive connections is that she shares with her brother. He is flung into a state of threat, and she, the heroine of the story, follows suit to try to right the wrong.
The Sacrifice of One does a good job of world building, painting a realistic mural of what a class based society might entail, with those who are on top, and those unfortunate enough to be on the bottom. There are a few instances where the plot relies on certain liberties in order to move forward, but this, surprisingly, does not diminish from the overall enjoyment of the book, which reflects the protagonist’s struggles and the world around her.
Overall, a recommended title, albeit could have been reigned in slightly tighter, but definitely something most YA readers will enjoy.
https://www.editorsweekly.com/book-re...
The Sacrifice of One does a good job of world building, painting a realistic mural of what a class based society might entail, with those who are on top, and those unfortunate enough to be on the bottom. There are a few instances where the plot relies on certain liberties in order to move forward, but this, surprisingly, does not diminish from the overall enjoyment of the book, which reflects the protagonist’s struggles and the world around her.
Overall, a recommended title, albeit could have been reigned in slightly tighter, but definitely something most YA readers will enjoy.
https://www.editorsweekly.com/book-re...
December 27, 2021
Fantastical action and adventure
What a grand story in The Sacrifice of One by Emily Fortney. I haven't read work from this author before, and I enjoyed this story. This author brings the story to life. The characters had a lot of depth, and were very realistic. It's not just about survival, but also the past that haunts Camilla. She was once a labor slave. This YA fantasy is worth the read by young adults and adults alike. Camilla is a survivor, and she needs to try to save her brother, if he's really in the trouble she thinks he is. It is a very well-written title, and I enjoyed it. It’s one of those embraceable stories. This book was very intriguing and unpredictable. The Sacrifice of One is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author.
What a grand story in The Sacrifice of One by Emily Fortney. I haven't read work from this author before, and I enjoyed this story. This author brings the story to life. The characters had a lot of depth, and were very realistic. It's not just about survival, but also the past that haunts Camilla. She was once a labor slave. This YA fantasy is worth the read by young adults and adults alike. Camilla is a survivor, and she needs to try to save her brother, if he's really in the trouble she thinks he is. It is a very well-written title, and I enjoyed it. It’s one of those embraceable stories. This book was very intriguing and unpredictable. The Sacrifice of One is a definite recommendation by Amy's Bookshelf Reviews. I look forward to reading many more stories by this author.
June 23, 2020
I thought that this book was interesting. I loved Camilla, the protagonist. She is fierce, stubborn, and fights for the people she loves. Even when it looks like she's going to lose, she fights to the end. The setting is very detailed and descriptive and the worldbuilding of this story really brings the book to life. It was refreshing to read a book with such a great world without having extensive profanity and things like that. My main note was that I wish more attention was given to the side characters and that for some of them I feel like they had conflicting personality traits but that could be addressed in later novels so I'm hoping the side characters get more attention in the second book. Overall, it was a good read!
March 4, 2021
I received this complementary copy of the book through Voracious Readers Only.
Vivid and detailed imagery powered me into this distant land where I got to witness a brave sister in action. I was hooked within the first 3 chapters by a challenging, yet mysterious ordeal. You know an author is good when they manage to grab you and keep you. I just loved the motherly figure known as Mirabelle; I wish she was my own motherly figure. I also really enjoyed envisioning her house and it’s simple grandness hidden within such a dismal world. And the fact that the house is practically a library, amazing. I really enjoyed this book.
Vivid and detailed imagery powered me into this distant land where I got to witness a brave sister in action. I was hooked within the first 3 chapters by a challenging, yet mysterious ordeal. You know an author is good when they manage to grab you and keep you. I just loved the motherly figure known as Mirabelle; I wish she was my own motherly figure. I also really enjoyed envisioning her house and it’s simple grandness hidden within such a dismal world. And the fact that the house is practically a library, amazing. I really enjoyed this book.
February 20, 2023
This was a great book! I enjoyed how Camilla grew in confidence and bravery through her defense of her brother. There was really no romance, although Mrs. Fortney did leave that option open for the future. Tuor’s behaviors/speech give the appearance of a mental disability, which I found interesting, and I would like to look into what he may have. 🙂 There was never a dull moment in this book, and I was interested to the end. The ending that some others found a cliffhanger actually left me satisfied. It wasn’t until I read the included sample of the sequel that I realized: leaving the series behind now is not an option!
Full review on my blog! https://diaryofanerdybookworm.wordpre...
Full review on my blog! https://diaryofanerdybookworm.wordpre...
June 27, 2020
Sometimes you have to fight impossible odds
This story occurs in a time and place where people are beaten down and enslaved by a corrupt government. An innocent man is arrested for a murder that he did not commit. His sister tries to prove his innocence, to free him.
When her brother receives a directed verdict of guilty and the sentence of death, read to find out what happens when the sister takes on the army and starts a revolution.
I received a free ARC and found the tale one I could not put down until I completed reading the book.
This story occurs in a time and place where people are beaten down and enslaved by a corrupt government. An innocent man is arrested for a murder that he did not commit. His sister tries to prove his innocence, to free him.
When her brother receives a directed verdict of guilty and the sentence of death, read to find out what happens when the sister takes on the army and starts a revolution.
I received a free ARC and found the tale one I could not put down until I completed reading the book.
July 6, 2020
This book has been relaunched as Book 1 in the Camilla Crim Series and I absolutely loved this book.
Follow Camilla Crim through her fast paced emotional journey to save her older brother Tuor.
This story is full of emotion, twist and turns, suspense and drama. While reading this story I was living the life of Camilla, feeling her pain, trying to help her figure out what to do next. And even lived those Really? What? Boo!?! Hooray!! Hiss!!! And No!!!! Moments.
Im so ready for book 2. (Just finished book 1)
Follow Camilla Crim through her fast paced emotional journey to save her older brother Tuor.
This story is full of emotion, twist and turns, suspense and drama. While reading this story I was living the life of Camilla, feeling her pain, trying to help her figure out what to do next. And even lived those Really? What? Boo!?! Hooray!! Hiss!!! And No!!!! Moments.
Im so ready for book 2. (Just finished book 1)
July 17, 2020
In this intriguing and exciting story Camilla is just barely living a lonely existence going to and from work as she gives her alcoholic abusive father all of her wages. Her brother Tuor left to join the militia and her mother had left them all many years ago. A mysterious man shows up an she has to show him the ropes at work that begins Camilla on a journey of self discovery and danger for her and those she cares for. Good read
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 16, 2021
I want to thank Emily Fortney for providing me with a copy of this book so I could write a review.
I liked this book. It did have a slower pace to it but it was jam packed with detail. I liked Camilla's character and think she was well written. She was strong and stood up for what she believed in even when it seemed like all of the odds were stacked against her. In the end, she still tried to do the right thing. I also think an important point was made that you don't necessarily love family just because they're family. Love, like respect, is earned.
I would recommend this book.
I liked this book. It did have a slower pace to it but it was jam packed with detail. I liked Camilla's character and think she was well written. She was strong and stood up for what she believed in even when it seemed like all of the odds were stacked against her. In the end, she still tried to do the right thing. I also think an important point was made that you don't necessarily love family just because they're family. Love, like respect, is earned.
I would recommend this book.
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