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Dark Intent
"you can either live in the world that surrounds you, or you can fight for the world you want."
Many years after the brutal Kade takeover of the Third Country, healer Freya Kuch has succeeded when many Pious have failed: she is a perfect Kade citizen. However, this life of willing subjugation is torn apart when she is caught in an attack perpetrated by the anarchic followers of the Dark Gods and is assigned to care for Zarech, their captured leader. Contrary to her expectations, he is not a raving madman but charismatic and rational. As she unwillingly becomes closer to Zarech and he reveals knowledge the Kade has deliberately repressed, she begins to reconsider everything.
Her obedience to the strict Kade regime is further complicated by her attraction to Ashtyn, whose bold comments against the Kade frighten and compel her in equal measure. She tries to ignore her feelings knowing full well the brutal punishments for adultery and dissidence. But soon, she is forced to decide: will she maintain her life of careful safety, or give in to her heart’s dark desires and fight against the Kade’s regime?
Many years after the brutal Kade takeover of the Third Country, healer Freya Kuch has succeeded when many Pious have failed: she is a perfect Kade citizen. However, this life of willing subjugation is torn apart when she is caught in an attack perpetrated by the anarchic followers of the Dark Gods and is assigned to care for Zarech, their captured leader. Contrary to her expectations, he is not a raving madman but charismatic and rational. As she unwillingly becomes closer to Zarech and he reveals knowledge the Kade has deliberately repressed, she begins to reconsider everything.
Her obedience to the strict Kade regime is further complicated by her attraction to Ashtyn, whose bold comments against the Kade frighten and compel her in equal measure. She tries to ignore her feelings knowing full well the brutal punishments for adultery and dissidence. But soon, she is forced to decide: will she maintain her life of careful safety, or give in to her heart’s dark desires and fight against the Kade’s regime?
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About the author
A.B. Endacott
9 books43 followersAlice Jane Boer-Endacott was born and raised in Melbourne, Australia, amid a home filled with books and cats. From her earliest days as a bored young child she has always used her imagination to escape the drudgery of reality by creating works of fiction. Her first manuscript was a gripping saga involving a ghost horse creatively named Ghost, written at the tender age of nine.
After procrastinating assignments during her Masters degree in Executive Management and Corporate Anthropology, and discovering that she had accidentally written three novels, in a not-so-shocking-twist, she decided to become an author.
Her first book, QUEENDOM OF THE SEVEN LAKES, was written at a time when she was playing Dragon Age Inquisition (and is thus living proof that computer games are socially valuable activities). Alice’s hobbies include eating, reading, writing, woodworking, and having deeply analytical discourses about contemporary media with her three cats.
Queendom of the Seven Lakes can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077GTFNG6
Its sequel, King of the Seven Lakes, is available at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BB35CD3/
And the standalone novel (set in the same world), The Ruthless Land, is available at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DK57KX2/
After procrastinating assignments during her Masters degree in Executive Management and Corporate Anthropology, and discovering that she had accidentally written three novels, in a not-so-shocking-twist, she decided to become an author.
Her first book, QUEENDOM OF THE SEVEN LAKES, was written at a time when she was playing Dragon Age Inquisition (and is thus living proof that computer games are socially valuable activities). Alice’s hobbies include eating, reading, writing, woodworking, and having deeply analytical discourses about contemporary media with her three cats.
Queendom of the Seven Lakes can be found at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B077GTFNG6
Its sequel, King of the Seven Lakes, is available at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07BB35CD3/
And the standalone novel (set in the same world), The Ruthless Land, is available at: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DK57KX2/
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews
December 20, 2018
Wasn't too sure what to expect but was pleasantly surprised. The characters are well built and complex in a good way; there are blurred lines between good and bad; lust and love. There is action, adventure, and so many amazing things combined into a great read. Took me less than a shift at work (8hrs) to get through this from start to finish.
Would definitely recommend!
Would definitely recommend!
November 17, 2018
This was phenomenal. I adored this book. The characters are complex and conflicted, there are blurred lines between good and bad. There's action and religious undertones. Ugh I just loved it. There's so much going on.
Alice is a brilliant writer and honestly a brilliant person. Everyone should get behind her. xx
Alice is a brilliant writer and honestly a brilliant person. Everyone should get behind her. xx
February 1, 2019
I did enjoy this but I’m left a bit conflicted with it. I enjoyed the start and middle but felt the end tailed off a bit and was then abrupt. I liked Freya and understood her reasons for the way she was but felt her changes were quite sudden, even with the reasons. I did enjoy this but the end dropped it to a three .
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest review
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for a free copy for an honest review
November 13, 2018
This was an interesting read. I felt as though the affair Freya had with Ashtyn was a little much. And so many questions went unanswered. Freya was quite the wimp. She’s scared of being who she really is because of the Kade. Overall the writing was great and I will read the next book in the series because I wanna know what happens.
November 8, 2018
I absolutely loved this book. Total read time was about 6 hours because it was so so good. I enjoyed seeing the main character grow. The ending of this book was just right in my opinion. It had to end that way or else the main characters motivations for the future books would lack conviction. Also the ending just makes you want more. I am so excited to continue reading about this wonderful world that A. B. Endacott has created.
November 4, 2018
I highly recommend the work of AB Endacott, and this book is no exception. She’s creative and working on building a literary world worth visiting.
December 4, 2018
Rating 4.5/5 (only because it wasn't long enough)
Dark Intent is another novel in the Godskissed Continent series by A.B Endacott. If you have been following my reviews this is the fourth book i have reviewed in this series and i am loving it! the synopsis as displayed on Goodreads is as follows:
Many years after the brutal Kade takeover of the Third Country, healer Freya Kuch has succeeded when many Pious have failed: she is a perfect Kade citizen. However, this life of willing subjugation is torn apart when she is caught in an attack perpetrated by the anarchic followers of the Dark Gods and is assigned to care for Zarech, their captured leader. Contrary to her expectations, he is not a raving madman but charismatic and rational. As she unwillingly becomes closer to Zarech and he reveals knowledge the Kade has deliberately repressed, she begins to reconsider everything.
Her obedience to the strict Kade regime is further complicated by her attraction to Ashtyn, whose bold comments against the Kade frighten and compel her in equal measure. She tries to ignore her feelings knowing full well the brutal punishments for adultery and dissidence. But soon, she is forced to decide: will she maintain her life of careful safety, or give in to her heart’s dark desires and fight against the Kade’s regime?
I loved Freya she is so dedicated and i absolutely love seeing strong dedicated female characters. Before i go in talking about the two characters i loved in this book, i'm going to discuss how i love how Endacott plays on religion. These books focus on religion (made up religions) but you can connect them to real life ones. What i love about this is not the fact that it is religious i could really care less about that, i love this because they match up to real world problems that religion have caused. In this particular novel (i don't know if it was on purpose or not) but the relationship between the pious and the Kade i found very much similar to the holocaust with the Jews also having to display a patch on their clothes and being the "lessor" people. Anyway enough about religion and on to other things!
I loved Freya as said but i also very much liked Ashtyn. This wouldn't be an Endacott book without some betrayal thrown in and yes its there, and yes it hurts; but i still love said character (spoilers i'm not going to tell you who). This book also explored what i like to call magic, its probably not really magic but i call it magic so it's magic and i loved seeing it in there. I did have my suspicions about Ashtyn and were so glad they were right. i love how this series touches on every part of the Godskissed Continent and we get to see stories from every part of the continent. Which is amazing world building as we get to experience the whole world and picture how the GodsKissed continent works.
I also have a new favourite quote thanks to this book and its:
"you can either live in the world that surrounds you, or you can fight for the world you want."
I think this is a very, very powerful quote and is incredibly accurate quote that we should all live by, not just Freya and Zarech. I have two hopes for the next book (they are a little spoilery so you've been warned):
Freya PLEASE find Ashtyn and join together again, please.
Freya kick Symon out.
I recommend this book if you love: fantasy, romance, plot twist and betrayal.
Also thank you Alice for letting me read this yet again another amazing book in your series!
Dark Intent is another novel in the Godskissed Continent series by A.B Endacott. If you have been following my reviews this is the fourth book i have reviewed in this series and i am loving it! the synopsis as displayed on Goodreads is as follows:
Many years after the brutal Kade takeover of the Third Country, healer Freya Kuch has succeeded when many Pious have failed: she is a perfect Kade citizen. However, this life of willing subjugation is torn apart when she is caught in an attack perpetrated by the anarchic followers of the Dark Gods and is assigned to care for Zarech, their captured leader. Contrary to her expectations, he is not a raving madman but charismatic and rational. As she unwillingly becomes closer to Zarech and he reveals knowledge the Kade has deliberately repressed, she begins to reconsider everything.
Her obedience to the strict Kade regime is further complicated by her attraction to Ashtyn, whose bold comments against the Kade frighten and compel her in equal measure. She tries to ignore her feelings knowing full well the brutal punishments for adultery and dissidence. But soon, she is forced to decide: will she maintain her life of careful safety, or give in to her heart’s dark desires and fight against the Kade’s regime?
I loved Freya she is so dedicated and i absolutely love seeing strong dedicated female characters. Before i go in talking about the two characters i loved in this book, i'm going to discuss how i love how Endacott plays on religion. These books focus on religion (made up religions) but you can connect them to real life ones. What i love about this is not the fact that it is religious i could really care less about that, i love this because they match up to real world problems that religion have caused. In this particular novel (i don't know if it was on purpose or not) but the relationship between the pious and the Kade i found very much similar to the holocaust with the Jews also having to display a patch on their clothes and being the "lessor" people. Anyway enough about religion and on to other things!
I loved Freya as said but i also very much liked Ashtyn. This wouldn't be an Endacott book without some betrayal thrown in and yes its there, and yes it hurts; but i still love said character (spoilers i'm not going to tell you who). This book also explored what i like to call magic, its probably not really magic but i call it magic so it's magic and i loved seeing it in there. I did have my suspicions about Ashtyn and were so glad they were right. i love how this series touches on every part of the Godskissed Continent and we get to see stories from every part of the continent. Which is amazing world building as we get to experience the whole world and picture how the GodsKissed continent works.
I also have a new favourite quote thanks to this book and its:
"you can either live in the world that surrounds you, or you can fight for the world you want."
I think this is a very, very powerful quote and is incredibly accurate quote that we should all live by, not just Freya and Zarech. I have two hopes for the next book (they are a little spoilery so you've been warned):
Freya PLEASE find Ashtyn and join together again, please.
Freya kick Symon out.
I recommend this book if you love: fantasy, romance, plot twist and betrayal.
Also thank you Alice for letting me read this yet again another amazing book in your series!
December 8, 2018
I was given this ARC by the Author for an honest review, Thank you Alice!
"But fear wasn't sufficient to excuse doing nothing. Not anymore"
Freya is a Pious healer living under strick Kade law and constantly fearful of being punished her for not worshiping their gods enough. She has spent the past 6 years being the perfect kade citizen.. Until one day the market square is blown up by the Dark Gods followers. In the aftermath of the attack Freya is put in charge of healing the man who planned the attack and meets Ashtyn, a pious who wants to be able to worship the Pious goddess freely. Suddenly she is questionening everything she has worked towards for safety and whether going against the Kades rule would be worth her happiness and her life.
✅Australian Author
✅Wonderful writting
✅Beautifully blurred lines between the good and the bad
✅Secret romance
✅Religious elements
❌Ending was a bit anticlimactic but I'm sure this will be resolved in the next book.
I enjoyed this read very much. Alice has a wonderful writting style that pulls you right in. I had a little trouble understanding what was going on at 1st as i havn't read the books before but they went necessary to read this. I really liked the religious side if the book and the way it was implemented into the world. My favorite parts were when freya was with Zarech, i really wanted to know more about him and the dark gods followers! The affair between Freya and Ashtyn was very sweet and the pull between Ashtyn and Symon represented more than just a love affair. I'm really looking forward to the next book to see whats going to happen!!
"But fear wasn't sufficient to excuse doing nothing. Not anymore"
Freya is a Pious healer living under strick Kade law and constantly fearful of being punished her for not worshiping their gods enough. She has spent the past 6 years being the perfect kade citizen.. Until one day the market square is blown up by the Dark Gods followers. In the aftermath of the attack Freya is put in charge of healing the man who planned the attack and meets Ashtyn, a pious who wants to be able to worship the Pious goddess freely. Suddenly she is questionening everything she has worked towards for safety and whether going against the Kades rule would be worth her happiness and her life.
✅Australian Author
✅Wonderful writting
✅Beautifully blurred lines between the good and the bad
✅Secret romance
✅Religious elements
❌Ending was a bit anticlimactic but I'm sure this will be resolved in the next book.
I enjoyed this read very much. Alice has a wonderful writting style that pulls you right in. I had a little trouble understanding what was going on at 1st as i havn't read the books before but they went necessary to read this. I really liked the religious side if the book and the way it was implemented into the world. My favorite parts were when freya was with Zarech, i really wanted to know more about him and the dark gods followers! The affair between Freya and Ashtyn was very sweet and the pull between Ashtyn and Symon represented more than just a love affair. I'm really looking forward to the next book to see whats going to happen!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 16, 2020
Welcome to the Third Country! Yet another book by the amazing AB Endacott, I have adored reading her works lately! This follows the woman councillor seen in Queendom of the Seven Lakes who is a healer named Freya Kuch. She lived in the Third country where a brutal takeover has occured from the Kade population which has left the Pious people as second class citizens. Freya, through determination, has managed to become the perfect Kade citizen. This is torn apart, however, when she is caught up in an explosion detonated by those less happy to be subjugated. From this point onwards her view of the world and her place in it is to be tested to the limits.
I adored this book, getting to delve into yet another section of this beautifully imagined world was a delight and I was quickly fully invested in Freya's life and seeing her open her eyes to the truth in her country was so engrossing. I love how fleshed out all of the characters are and how much I was able to imaging the world in my head without there being any info-dumping.
The blurred lines between good and bad that are ever present in our day to day life are explored within this fantasy text in a way that can be extrapolated to real life. The contrast starts out quite strong, but quickly delves into the deep greys that come with life and show that nothing can quite fit neatly into a box. I love how Alice showed this and how it was interwoven into the story.
Freya's relationships with both Simon and Ashtyn were really interesting and so different. I won't tell you the nature of them in order not to spoil anything but I loved seeing the two very different sides to her and how she reacts differently to them both as the story goes on and she learns more about the country that they are living in and how they are all complicit.
The ending of this book is quite the cliffhanger! I've seen some reviews where people love it and some where they don't. Me? I loved it! It turns out that it was actually an accident when this was uploaded and the ending was originally intended to be a little further into the story but I love the need to continue that this left me with and I'm so excited to pick up Dark Purpose soon and carry on with the series!
I adored this book, getting to delve into yet another section of this beautifully imagined world was a delight and I was quickly fully invested in Freya's life and seeing her open her eyes to the truth in her country was so engrossing. I love how fleshed out all of the characters are and how much I was able to imaging the world in my head without there being any info-dumping.
The blurred lines between good and bad that are ever present in our day to day life are explored within this fantasy text in a way that can be extrapolated to real life. The contrast starts out quite strong, but quickly delves into the deep greys that come with life and show that nothing can quite fit neatly into a box. I love how Alice showed this and how it was interwoven into the story.
Freya's relationships with both Simon and Ashtyn were really interesting and so different. I won't tell you the nature of them in order not to spoil anything but I loved seeing the two very different sides to her and how she reacts differently to them both as the story goes on and she learns more about the country that they are living in and how they are all complicit.
The ending of this book is quite the cliffhanger! I've seen some reviews where people love it and some where they don't. Me? I loved it! It turns out that it was actually an accident when this was uploaded and the ending was originally intended to be a little further into the story but I love the need to continue that this left me with and I'm so excited to pick up Dark Purpose soon and carry on with the series!
December 15, 2018
Plot
Alice needs to stop writing such good books but also to keep writing such amazing books. Dark Intent is the fourth book in the Godskissed Universe and the first in the Third Country's trilogy. This trilogy is set before the events in Queendom of the Seven Lakes, King of the Seven Lakes, and The Ruthless Land. The trilogy will end about a year or few years before Queendom according to Alice. So to put it into perspective the timeline is as follows: Dark Intent (third country), Dark Purpose, Book 3 of the trilogy, Queendom of the Seven Lakes (second country), King of the Seven Lakes, and The Ruthless Land (fourth country). Then we will get a final standalone featuring the first country before we get a final book in the universe that includes all the main characters from each of the different books.
So, as the synopsis says Dark Intent is about Freya a Pious healer in the Third Country. She has a good life for a Pious but only because she and her joined Symon are the perfect Kade citizens who don't do anything to stand out. After witnessing the deaths of her family, Freya was determined to do everything right to survive. But there has been talk of resistance and an attack on the city by a group known as the Dark Gods throws her life off balance. For one she meets Ashtyn another Pious man who follows the old Pious ways and makes her hearts beat faster. She knows she shouldn't grow closer to him but Symon is always more interested in his clothes making than her and they are only joined in the name (joined is not the same as bound). As she grows closer to him she learns some things about him that could be dangerous to her but will allow her to live life the way she wants to. Secondly, after a major attack by the Dark Gods she is made to heal their leader Zarech and as she works on him he talks to her. She begins to learn things and question the Kade government. Everything comes to head and at the end, Freya must decide if she wants to just survive in life but live afraid of making a mistake or if she wants to really live and not worry about looking over her shoulder.
As always, Endacott weaves a world that completely draws me in. While all these books live in the same universe each country feels so different from the next. The Ruthless Land was a whole country that was filled with evilness and Queendom had a country that wasn't used to change while this book deals with a corrupt government. Her plots always completely draw me in and I can't put the book down. The pace was so good and I felt on edge for Freya and the dangerousness always lurking around.
Characters
Freya excites me because she is portrayed as this perfect Pious Kade citizen but as the book goes on we see her question everything and unravel. It is almost like the author built up this character only to work backward to rebuild her character. I love that because it leaves so much room for character growth/development in the other books. It sucks when a character stops growing early on the series. We met Freya and Ashtyn in Queendom and King so we know she reaches her full ability but I am excited to SEE that come to fruition. Freya right now is afraid and basically relearning who she can trust. She is a great healer but not doing all she can. It is silly for some to expect her to be her full badass self when she is so used to her strict government. Of course, she is a wimp right now. She saw her family brutally murdered and left all alone. She lives in a country where if they even think you are resisting them you could die. So, she is learning to have that strength and I can't wait to see more of that growth.
Ashtyn is literally so sweet and although I am not one for affairs I am in love with them. Symon just doesn't care and it frustrates me. I want them to break up because that is something I don't like but I can't help but root for Ashtyn because omg does this man care and love Freya. From the moment we meet him we see his strength, his care for others, his devotion to his faith, and how much he wants his people to be free from the Kade oppression. As the story progresses, his love and devotion just grows and I just want my own Ashtyn.
Writing/Romance
Obviously, I am addicted to her writing. I can't get enough of it and I already said she is one of my favorite authors. I am always drawn into the worlds and I forge such a connection with the characters. Both the plot and characters feature a lot of depth and each shapes the other. Her writing is intricate and features just the right amount of detail. The romance as always is not too much. It is second to the importance of the plot and I love that because we are trying to see if they will survive not just makeout. But, when we do get those times it is nicely placed and done. I enjoy the romance and I am excited to see the love blossom between Freya and Ashtyn.
Favorite Quotes
"Aren’t you just the most exquisite thing I’ve ever seen.” His voice was warm and low, but also without any hint of glib charm. It was just a statement as if he’d commented on the progress of the rescue efforts. Freya knew she should have moved her hands, but she found herself compelled to stay."
"Because you are exceptional. I like exceptional things.” He leaned forward. “You have a fire and a fear coexisting within you that intrigues me.” When she didn’t reply, he added, “I also like puzzles."
"The truth was that she did. But she didn’t want to admit the strange pull she felt toward him. Not because it felt disrespectful to Symon – she hadn’t even thought of Symon during any of the time she had been with Ashtyn – but because of the way in which Ashtyn looked at her: an intense, naked frankness, that made her feel as though she would tell him anything. She was afraid of that."
"Because you ran into an area that was filled with danger without a care or thought for your own safety. Because you are so beautiful that the memory of your face makes me want to recreate the curve of your nose or your lips in my own work. Because you are charming, and I want to know what you have to say on so many things. I guess I’m an artist first and foremost, and something about you just…inspires me.”
"It was a dark intent that drove such callousness."
"Freyanna, I decided six years ago that you can either live in the world that surrounds you, or you can fight for the world you want.”
"Do you want me?” she asked, as though she didn’t know his answer. In response, he put his arms around her, pulling her closer to him. “You know I do. What do you want, Freya?” His eyes didn’t leave hers."
"All right then, if that’s what you want. But know this. I will love you until the last,” he said."
"She was a healer. Her first duty was to heal those who were most in need, not those who were most important. It was an ethos she had grown up believing, and it was now one she had been made to betray in order to live a comfortable life – because she was afraid of what would happen if she didn’t obey. But fear wasn’t sufficient to excuse doing nothing. Not anymore."
Alice needs to stop writing such good books but also to keep writing such amazing books. Dark Intent is the fourth book in the Godskissed Universe and the first in the Third Country's trilogy. This trilogy is set before the events in Queendom of the Seven Lakes, King of the Seven Lakes, and The Ruthless Land. The trilogy will end about a year or few years before Queendom according to Alice. So to put it into perspective the timeline is as follows: Dark Intent (third country), Dark Purpose, Book 3 of the trilogy, Queendom of the Seven Lakes (second country), King of the Seven Lakes, and The Ruthless Land (fourth country). Then we will get a final standalone featuring the first country before we get a final book in the universe that includes all the main characters from each of the different books.
So, as the synopsis says Dark Intent is about Freya a Pious healer in the Third Country. She has a good life for a Pious but only because she and her joined Symon are the perfect Kade citizens who don't do anything to stand out. After witnessing the deaths of her family, Freya was determined to do everything right to survive. But there has been talk of resistance and an attack on the city by a group known as the Dark Gods throws her life off balance. For one she meets Ashtyn another Pious man who follows the old Pious ways and makes her hearts beat faster. She knows she shouldn't grow closer to him but Symon is always more interested in his clothes making than her and they are only joined in the name (joined is not the same as bound). As she grows closer to him she learns some things about him that could be dangerous to her but will allow her to live life the way she wants to. Secondly, after a major attack by the Dark Gods she is made to heal their leader Zarech and as she works on him he talks to her. She begins to learn things and question the Kade government. Everything comes to head and at the end, Freya must decide if she wants to just survive in life but live afraid of making a mistake or if she wants to really live and not worry about looking over her shoulder.
As always, Endacott weaves a world that completely draws me in. While all these books live in the same universe each country feels so different from the next. The Ruthless Land was a whole country that was filled with evilness and Queendom had a country that wasn't used to change while this book deals with a corrupt government. Her plots always completely draw me in and I can't put the book down. The pace was so good and I felt on edge for Freya and the dangerousness always lurking around.
Characters
Freya excites me because she is portrayed as this perfect Pious Kade citizen but as the book goes on we see her question everything and unravel. It is almost like the author built up this character only to work backward to rebuild her character. I love that because it leaves so much room for character growth/development in the other books. It sucks when a character stops growing early on the series. We met Freya and Ashtyn in Queendom and King so we know she reaches her full ability but I am excited to SEE that come to fruition. Freya right now is afraid and basically relearning who she can trust. She is a great healer but not doing all she can. It is silly for some to expect her to be her full badass self when she is so used to her strict government. Of course, she is a wimp right now. She saw her family brutally murdered and left all alone. She lives in a country where if they even think you are resisting them you could die. So, she is learning to have that strength and I can't wait to see more of that growth.
Ashtyn is literally so sweet and although I am not one for affairs I am in love with them. Symon just doesn't care and it frustrates me. I want them to break up because that is something I don't like but I can't help but root for Ashtyn because omg does this man care and love Freya. From the moment we meet him we see his strength, his care for others, his devotion to his faith, and how much he wants his people to be free from the Kade oppression. As the story progresses, his love and devotion just grows and I just want my own Ashtyn.
Writing/Romance
Obviously, I am addicted to her writing. I can't get enough of it and I already said she is one of my favorite authors. I am always drawn into the worlds and I forge such a connection with the characters. Both the plot and characters feature a lot of depth and each shapes the other. Her writing is intricate and features just the right amount of detail. The romance as always is not too much. It is second to the importance of the plot and I love that because we are trying to see if they will survive not just makeout. But, when we do get those times it is nicely placed and done. I enjoy the romance and I am excited to see the love blossom between Freya and Ashtyn.
Favorite Quotes
"Aren’t you just the most exquisite thing I’ve ever seen.” His voice was warm and low, but also without any hint of glib charm. It was just a statement as if he’d commented on the progress of the rescue efforts. Freya knew she should have moved her hands, but she found herself compelled to stay."
"Because you are exceptional. I like exceptional things.” He leaned forward. “You have a fire and a fear coexisting within you that intrigues me.” When she didn’t reply, he added, “I also like puzzles."
"The truth was that she did. But she didn’t want to admit the strange pull she felt toward him. Not because it felt disrespectful to Symon – she hadn’t even thought of Symon during any of the time she had been with Ashtyn – but because of the way in which Ashtyn looked at her: an intense, naked frankness, that made her feel as though she would tell him anything. She was afraid of that."
"Because you ran into an area that was filled with danger without a care or thought for your own safety. Because you are so beautiful that the memory of your face makes me want to recreate the curve of your nose or your lips in my own work. Because you are charming, and I want to know what you have to say on so many things. I guess I’m an artist first and foremost, and something about you just…inspires me.”
"It was a dark intent that drove such callousness."
"Freyanna, I decided six years ago that you can either live in the world that surrounds you, or you can fight for the world you want.”
"Do you want me?” she asked, as though she didn’t know his answer. In response, he put his arms around her, pulling her closer to him. “You know I do. What do you want, Freya?” His eyes didn’t leave hers."
"All right then, if that’s what you want. But know this. I will love you until the last,” he said."
"She was a healer. Her first duty was to heal those who were most in need, not those who were most important. It was an ethos she had grown up believing, and it was now one she had been made to betray in order to live a comfortable life – because she was afraid of what would happen if she didn’t obey. But fear wasn’t sufficient to excuse doing nothing. Not anymore."
December 9, 2018
Usually most people will automatically write great reviews for their friends or for their favourite authors. Though this can be a massive sign of support for their friend or the author you have a hard on for but honestly, your review will certainly be misleading to anyone else. Regardless if my friend wrote a book or not I would always give my honest opinion of the book as I hope they would do the same. While I am friends with A. B. Endacott, what I have written below is how I honestly feel about the book, regardless of the fact we are friends.
I fucking loved it.
Dark Intent is the first in a soon to be released series about Freya who is an extremely devoted and gifted healer who spends her days caring about others. Living in a world taken over by The Kade government, forced to follow their way of life and pray to their gods. A world controlled by fear and hate, where the punishment of disobeying would mean your life and the life of your loved ones. We learn how harsh the Kade is early on by the loss of Freya’s family and this is continuously brought to the surface when others share their painful stories of loss with Freya.
Though Freya silently questions the life that the Kade provide, her questions soon get voices when there is an attack on the city from those that distaste the Kade. In the midst of the debris and chaos, Freya meets Ashtyn. A young man that slowly opens her eyes to the bigger picture of a free life a helps her find her voice for her beliefs. The security and safety of her once dull life begin to slip through her fingers as the truth of her life being a lie rises to the surface.
In this particular book I found Freya completely relatable and the questions she raised about her life and how it got to that dull point of repetitiveness. I also loved her willingness to dive head first into danger to try and save lives, which is what I tend to do, act first and think later. Though I have to admit I have never saved a life. Freya’s conflicted thoughts are what I do admire her about her most, and they are portrayed without her being a whiney mess that I want to stab in the face.
Ashtyn was mysterious and I liked that about him and I am sure to him than meets the eye. I do adore his infatuation with Freya and ultimately giving a woman he loves what she needs and will protect her at all cost.
Symon I wanted to grab by the shoulders and shake a brain into his skull. Come on boyyyy lift your game!
Though there religion and political notions throughout the book, it isn’t enough to make a non-political and anti-god hater like me roll my eyes, there is only just enough of my least two favourite topics to explain the story and set up the situation our characters find themselves in.
Now down to my favourite part, writing about the writing. Like I said I am a fan. What I love about the way Alice writes, first and foremost, is the fact she doesn’t over describe situations or items. There is literally no need EVER to spend three paragraphs describing a characters outfit. If you can’t describe it a sentence or less… well we can’t be friends. Alice has a way of using a few descriptive words smoothly in her writing that you get the gist of what something should look like and then your imagination takes over and completes the rest of the work.
Alice also doesn’t spend too long writing our characters thoughts and feelings. I don’t know it reading pages of thoughts and feelings from a character is less or more irritating than a crying/screaming child in public. Both of them are nails into the brain for me. Don’t get me wrong I don’t mind a few thoughts here and there, they assist in setting up the story. What I don’t like is pages upon pages of thoughts. I don’t like my own thoughts let alone a characters, whether they are tall, brooding and inked or not. Also I just hate kids.
Also though there is some aspects of love in Dark Intent. It wasn’t enough to make you want to throw up 50 shades style out the front of your house but bearable with few details to elude to love. Which to me is perfect! #antilove
I have already messaged Alice and told her I want the second book already. It will be interesting to read the journey and see how it all pans out. Brilliant work chick. I think 2019 will be your year.
I fucking loved it.
Dark Intent is the first in a soon to be released series about Freya who is an extremely devoted and gifted healer who spends her days caring about others. Living in a world taken over by The Kade government, forced to follow their way of life and pray to their gods. A world controlled by fear and hate, where the punishment of disobeying would mean your life and the life of your loved ones. We learn how harsh the Kade is early on by the loss of Freya’s family and this is continuously brought to the surface when others share their painful stories of loss with Freya.
Though Freya silently questions the life that the Kade provide, her questions soon get voices when there is an attack on the city from those that distaste the Kade. In the midst of the debris and chaos, Freya meets Ashtyn. A young man that slowly opens her eyes to the bigger picture of a free life a helps her find her voice for her beliefs. The security and safety of her once dull life begin to slip through her fingers as the truth of her life being a lie rises to the surface.
In this particular book I found Freya completely relatable and the questions she raised about her life and how it got to that dull point of repetitiveness. I also loved her willingness to dive head first into danger to try and save lives, which is what I tend to do, act first and think later. Though I have to admit I have never saved a life. Freya’s conflicted thoughts are what I do admire her about her most, and they are portrayed without her being a whiney mess that I want to stab in the face.
Ashtyn was mysterious and I liked that about him and I am sure to him than meets the eye. I do adore his infatuation with Freya and ultimately giving a woman he loves what she needs and will protect her at all cost.
Symon I wanted to grab by the shoulders and shake a brain into his skull. Come on boyyyy lift your game!
Though there religion and political notions throughout the book, it isn’t enough to make a non-political and anti-god hater like me roll my eyes, there is only just enough of my least two favourite topics to explain the story and set up the situation our characters find themselves in.
Now down to my favourite part, writing about the writing. Like I said I am a fan. What I love about the way Alice writes, first and foremost, is the fact she doesn’t over describe situations or items. There is literally no need EVER to spend three paragraphs describing a characters outfit. If you can’t describe it a sentence or less… well we can’t be friends. Alice has a way of using a few descriptive words smoothly in her writing that you get the gist of what something should look like and then your imagination takes over and completes the rest of the work.
Alice also doesn’t spend too long writing our characters thoughts and feelings. I don’t know it reading pages of thoughts and feelings from a character is less or more irritating than a crying/screaming child in public. Both of them are nails into the brain for me. Don’t get me wrong I don’t mind a few thoughts here and there, they assist in setting up the story. What I don’t like is pages upon pages of thoughts. I don’t like my own thoughts let alone a characters, whether they are tall, brooding and inked or not. Also I just hate kids.
Also though there is some aspects of love in Dark Intent. It wasn’t enough to make you want to throw up 50 shades style out the front of your house but bearable with few details to elude to love. Which to me is perfect! #antilove
I have already messaged Alice and told her I want the second book already. It will be interesting to read the journey and see how it all pans out. Brilliant work chick. I think 2019 will be your year.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2018
ARC provided by Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The start of Dark Intent immediately grabbed my attention. A description of a violent takeover was given yet there were still many questions left unanswered that I hoped would become clearer throughout the book. However, a lot of it still remained very vague to me. Instead of focusing on the bigger picture, the story zoomed in on one character: Freya. Many details were given about her life, but this kept the story very small. I think things would have been so much more interesting if more information about the rest of the city or even country were involved.
Our main character, Freya, is joined with Symon. This is some strange version of a very pragmatic and loveless marriage. A bit further into the story, Freya starts a relationship with another man, Ashtyn, who it turns out actually betrayed her. Generally love triangles always work well to keep a novel interesting, but in this case I disagree. Even though there is obviously no real intimate love between Freya and Symon, it still feels wrong to cheer on the oh-so-scandalous relationship between Freya and Ashtyn. It is still a marriage after all, so Freya is nothing less than a dirty adulterer.
Another thing that put me off a bit was the fact that there were many mistakes in both grammar and spelling. As a teacher my hand quickly started aching for my red pen, which I obviously couldn’t use on my computer screen.
It might sound like I didn’t enjoy Dark Intent at all, but that is most certainly not the case. Even though I thought the plotline could have bene thicker and the love triangle was not my favourite, I did enjoy the fact that the novel showed a blurred line between good and evil. Not everything is always black and white and that shows. At the start Freya is very certain that she knows right from wrong, but as her character evolves, it becomes clear that she really doesn’t. I loved to see that evolvement.
Finally, it is very clear that there will be a sequel. The story ended much too abruptly for my liking and it has to continue to make any sense. Many loose ends were left unconnected. So much so that I felt I had read an incomplete book. Rather strange.
The start of Dark Intent immediately grabbed my attention. A description of a violent takeover was given yet there were still many questions left unanswered that I hoped would become clearer throughout the book. However, a lot of it still remained very vague to me. Instead of focusing on the bigger picture, the story zoomed in on one character: Freya. Many details were given about her life, but this kept the story very small. I think things would have been so much more interesting if more information about the rest of the city or even country were involved.
Our main character, Freya, is joined with Symon. This is some strange version of a very pragmatic and loveless marriage. A bit further into the story, Freya starts a relationship with another man, Ashtyn, who it turns out actually betrayed her. Generally love triangles always work well to keep a novel interesting, but in this case I disagree. Even though there is obviously no real intimate love between Freya and Symon, it still feels wrong to cheer on the oh-so-scandalous relationship between Freya and Ashtyn. It is still a marriage after all, so Freya is nothing less than a dirty adulterer.
Another thing that put me off a bit was the fact that there were many mistakes in both grammar and spelling. As a teacher my hand quickly started aching for my red pen, which I obviously couldn’t use on my computer screen.
It might sound like I didn’t enjoy Dark Intent at all, but that is most certainly not the case. Even though I thought the plotline could have bene thicker and the love triangle was not my favourite, I did enjoy the fact that the novel showed a blurred line between good and evil. Not everything is always black and white and that shows. At the start Freya is very certain that she knows right from wrong, but as her character evolves, it becomes clear that she really doesn’t. I loved to see that evolvement.
Finally, it is very clear that there will be a sequel. The story ended much too abruptly for my liking and it has to continue to make any sense. Many loose ends were left unconnected. So much so that I felt I had read an incomplete book. Rather strange.
November 20, 2018
Freya, a talented healer living in a world of oppression after a brutal take over, goes about her days conforming to the routine dictated to the Pious. Forced worship of Gods not their own, fear, control of information and supplies. The Kade government commands the population to obey or suffer grave consequences. Freya just wants to blend in. She doesn’t want to stand out which may draw dangerous attention to herself.
Her carefully hidden thoughts and beliefs are challenged after she’s entangled in an attack by followers of the Dark Gods. Especially after she meets a handsome green eyed man and is assigned to heal the leader of the attack. Suddenly she finds the security she thought she had by just fitting in may be a lie.
There are a lot of echoes in this book to real life oppression and how challenging forced ideals changes a person. The story is interesting and the writing draws you in. Which is partially why the ending feels so abrupt. You not only want more, but you need it too.
This is why I struggle with my rating. It’s so close between a 3 and a 4. I had to take a few days to consider before writing this review. This book is definitely worth the read and I enjoyed it, but I did have some issues with how easily Freya sacrifices some of her ideals. At the same time I understand it.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion in exchange for receiving the book copy.
Her carefully hidden thoughts and beliefs are challenged after she’s entangled in an attack by followers of the Dark Gods. Especially after she meets a handsome green eyed man and is assigned to heal the leader of the attack. Suddenly she finds the security she thought she had by just fitting in may be a lie.
There are a lot of echoes in this book to real life oppression and how challenging forced ideals changes a person. The story is interesting and the writing draws you in. Which is partially why the ending feels so abrupt. You not only want more, but you need it too.
This is why I struggle with my rating. It’s so close between a 3 and a 4. I had to take a few days to consider before writing this review. This book is definitely worth the read and I enjoyed it, but I did have some issues with how easily Freya sacrifices some of her ideals. At the same time I understand it.
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. This review is my own opinion in exchange for receiving the book copy.
June 14, 2019
Book thoughts in 300 words and 3 gifs
‘Dark Intent’ is a novel which features a piece of the fantasy world Godkissed Continent the author has set a few other books in. It’s a story about a conflicted healer and her fate in a hostile environment which is not only scary but also surprisingly appreciative of her gifts.
I liked the setting. The idea with the takeover is very well done, and as someone of Bulgarian descent, it really hit home (Bulgaria was under Ottoman rule for over 5 centuries and many people were forced to abandon Christianity and become Muslim).
It is obvious Ms Endacott was very aware of the world and navigated the characters effortlessly in it. The world-building is well-scattered along the pages and I didn’t feel lost having not read the companion novels. The pacing however, is a bit off making the book easy to put down and difficult to pick up again.
The plot is overall okay, with the ending coming quite abruptly but realistically. ‘Dark Intent’ is primarily a character story, the action happening around the protagonist in order to prompt them to think or do something. I don’t usually mind this, as long as the characters are well-developed.
This is where I feel the book failed. The characters, despite Ms Endacott’s best efforts to provide them ample opportunities for growth, remained quite simple and one-dimensional. I wanted to know more about Symon for example – he had an interesting start then was completely overshadowed by the generic beefcake that was Ashtyn. I couldn’t engage with Freya as a lot of her actions had me internally screaming. Her character was inconsistent. I hope she grows more in future books.
The writing style is good. It’s easy to read. The ARC copy I got from NetGalley, however, was poorly formatted, making it very hard to read. There were some typos and repetitions which could have been cleaned in the proofreading stage.
Overall, it’s a good story which raises important questions about humanity and faith. I do not regret reading it as it made me think about my own history and experiences.
The Panda Meter
World 🐼🐼🐼🐼
Plot 🐼🐼🐼
Characters 🐼🐼
Pace 🐼🐼🐼
Writing Style 🐼🐼
An ARC of this book was kindly given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for a fair review. All views are my own.
All of my reviews and more are available on my website.
Three 'Healing’ stars 🐼🐼🐼
‘Dark Intent’ is a novel which features a piece of the fantasy world Godkissed Continent the author has set a few other books in. It’s a story about a conflicted healer and her fate in a hostile environment which is not only scary but also surprisingly appreciative of her gifts.
I liked the setting. The idea with the takeover is very well done, and as someone of Bulgarian descent, it really hit home (Bulgaria was under Ottoman rule for over 5 centuries and many people were forced to abandon Christianity and become Muslim).
It is obvious Ms Endacott was very aware of the world and navigated the characters effortlessly in it. The world-building is well-scattered along the pages and I didn’t feel lost having not read the companion novels. The pacing however, is a bit off making the book easy to put down and difficult to pick up again.
The plot is overall okay, with the ending coming quite abruptly but realistically. ‘Dark Intent’ is primarily a character story, the action happening around the protagonist in order to prompt them to think or do something. I don’t usually mind this, as long as the characters are well-developed.
This is where I feel the book failed. The characters, despite Ms Endacott’s best efforts to provide them ample opportunities for growth, remained quite simple and one-dimensional. I wanted to know more about Symon for example – he had an interesting start then was completely overshadowed by the generic beefcake that was Ashtyn. I couldn’t engage with Freya as a lot of her actions had me internally screaming. Her character was inconsistent. I hope she grows more in future books.
The writing style is good. It’s easy to read. The ARC copy I got from NetGalley, however, was poorly formatted, making it very hard to read. There were some typos and repetitions which could have been cleaned in the proofreading stage.
Overall, it’s a good story which raises important questions about humanity and faith. I do not regret reading it as it made me think about my own history and experiences.
The Panda Meter
World 🐼🐼🐼🐼
Plot 🐼🐼🐼
Characters 🐼🐼
Pace 🐼🐼🐼
Writing Style 🐼🐼
An ARC of this book was kindly given to me by the publisher via NetGalley for a fair review. All views are my own.
All of my reviews and more are available on my website.
November 26, 2021
Here I am, continuing my deep dive into the world of the Godskissed Continent with the Dark Trilogy. This time we meet Freya in the Third Country, who we have seen glimpses of in the other books. She is a smart and capable Healer, but she's a Pious in a country that has been taken over by the Kades. And she is starting to question the rules that she has made herself live under so strictly for the last six years.
I love watching a character dismantle the walls around themselves, learn hard truths and build up their backbone. Freya did all of these things and more and we're only in book one of the trilogy!
I am so excited to see how Freya's journey will unfold in the next two books, even though I know where she ends up, I can't wait to see how she gets there. I love how all these books intertwine - the whole thing has been masterfully crafted and it is a joy to get lost in this world. Bring on the rest!
I love watching a character dismantle the walls around themselves, learn hard truths and build up their backbone. Freya did all of these things and more and we're only in book one of the trilogy!
I am so excited to see how Freya's journey will unfold in the next two books, even though I know where she ends up, I can't wait to see how she gets there. I love how all these books intertwine - the whole thing has been masterfully crafted and it is a joy to get lost in this world. Bring on the rest!
May 7, 2019
Dark Intent
By: AB Endacott
Freya is a Pious healer trying to survive in a world where the Kade have taken over and she is forced to live according to their laws, forced to worship their gods, and hide thoughts and beliefs deep down to the point where she has nearly forgotten who she is. Her main focus is to fit into this new way of life and stay safe. That is until there is an attack and she meets Ashtyn, a Pious man who is tired of living under the Kade and just wants to worship the Pious Goddess freely, and Zarech a follower of the dark gods who planned the attack, whom she is tasked to heal. She begins to question her way of life, to do things like having an affair with Ashtyn that can endanger her safety.
I really enjoyed reading this novel, AB Endacott truly knows how to engage the reader into the story. I think she portrayed Freya very well and we see a lot of character growth, the only thing that I did not like was how abrupt and anticlimactic the ending was. I can’t wait to read the next book. However to be frank this is the second book I have read from AB Endacott and in the first one I read Freya does an appearance. So I know the destination of the story just not the journey. Nevertheless I will be reading the next book as soon as possible.
Thank You to NetGalley for allowing me to read this novel for an honest review
By: AB Endacott
Freya is a Pious healer trying to survive in a world where the Kade have taken over and she is forced to live according to their laws, forced to worship their gods, and hide thoughts and beliefs deep down to the point where she has nearly forgotten who she is. Her main focus is to fit into this new way of life and stay safe. That is until there is an attack and she meets Ashtyn, a Pious man who is tired of living under the Kade and just wants to worship the Pious Goddess freely, and Zarech a follower of the dark gods who planned the attack, whom she is tasked to heal. She begins to question her way of life, to do things like having an affair with Ashtyn that can endanger her safety.
I really enjoyed reading this novel, AB Endacott truly knows how to engage the reader into the story. I think she portrayed Freya very well and we see a lot of character growth, the only thing that I did not like was how abrupt and anticlimactic the ending was. I can’t wait to read the next book. However to be frank this is the second book I have read from AB Endacott and in the first one I read Freya does an appearance. So I know the destination of the story just not the journey. Nevertheless I will be reading the next book as soon as possible.
Thank You to NetGalley for allowing me to read this novel for an honest review
April 4, 2019
This was not my favorite book, and I think partly that could be due to a lot of overly descriptive, meandering attempts at creating a fully realized fantasy environment. Perhaps this is because it is a companion book to Endacott's other fantasy books set in the Godkissed Continent, which I haven't read and didn't know about when I picked up this book. But even Freya's motivations throughout the book stay fairly one-dimensional, and the insta-romance with the rebellious Ashtyn was a little eye-roll inducing.
An unchallenging fantasy that, for me, was unfulfilling.
*I received this book from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review.*
An unchallenging fantasy that, for me, was unfulfilling.
*I received this book from the publisher via Netgalley for an honest review.*
August 17, 2021
Alice once again bowls me over with her character writing skills. We follow the story of Freya, a gifted healer, who is living in a society where she is forced to worship a god that isn't hers, and serve the very government that killed her family (and many others).
Endacott perfectly captures Freya's struggles with her morals and beliefs throughout this book. Her character growth as she is presented with situations that challenge her is beautiful to watch.
The pacing did feel slightly off at times, with some parts being too slow. But overall, the plot and the world were fantastic. And I can't wait to see what Freya does next.
Endacott perfectly captures Freya's struggles with her morals and beliefs throughout this book. Her character growth as she is presented with situations that challenge her is beautiful to watch.
The pacing did feel slightly off at times, with some parts being too slow. But overall, the plot and the world were fantastic. And I can't wait to see what Freya does next.
January 21, 2019
Slow, with a lot of fluff.
June 6, 2019
I like dystopian/fantasy type novels and was happy to receive an advanced copy of this book.
This is my first book by this author so I don’t know if this world had been mentioned in other books, but reading this book was like being late on your first day of school. Everybody has already taken their seats, has made friends and are talking about what they did over summer.
The writing was fine, but lacked drama.
I received this ebook copy from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
This is my first book by this author so I don’t know if this world had been mentioned in other books, but reading this book was like being late on your first day of school. Everybody has already taken their seats, has made friends and are talking about what they did over summer.
The writing was fine, but lacked drama.
I received this ebook copy from the publisher and NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
April 3, 2019
I found this book extremely interesting in its theme. It made me remember American Gods by Neil Gaiman and the struggle the Roman empire faced when the Christendom acquired power and was busy forcibly erasing the old gods out of other people memories and prayers. Throughout the entire book, the theme of religious and ethnic oppression is ever present in the reader's mind and that is sadly familiar to our real lives, with the rise of fascist, racist and dictatorial movements all around the world. I also found the fact that the main character is married to be quite refreshing: normally these YA novels always bring us single girls that will eventually meet the love of their lives and Freyana already has a husband and even if he is not the love of her life, the scenes in which they interact like the two people that have been living together for years they are, are really refreshing to read and are my favorites.
Thank you to Net Galley for this ARC.
Merged review:
I found this book extremely interesting in its theme. It made me remember American Gods by Neil Gaiman and the struggle the Roman empire faced when the Christendom acquired power and was busy forcibly erasing the old gods out of other people memories and prayers. Throughout the entire book, the theme of religious and ethnic oppression is ever present in the reader's mind and that is sadly familiar to our real lives, with the rise of fascist, racist and dictatorial movements all around the world. I also found the fact that the main character is married to be quite refreshing: normally these YA novels always bring us single girls that will eventually meet the love of their lives and Freyana already has a husband and even if he is not the love of her life, the scenes in which they interact like the two people that have been living together for years they are, are really refreshing to read and are my favorites.
Thank you to Net Galley for this ARC.
Thank you to Net Galley for this ARC.
Merged review:
I found this book extremely interesting in its theme. It made me remember American Gods by Neil Gaiman and the struggle the Roman empire faced when the Christendom acquired power and was busy forcibly erasing the old gods out of other people memories and prayers. Throughout the entire book, the theme of religious and ethnic oppression is ever present in the reader's mind and that is sadly familiar to our real lives, with the rise of fascist, racist and dictatorial movements all around the world. I also found the fact that the main character is married to be quite refreshing: normally these YA novels always bring us single girls that will eventually meet the love of their lives and Freyana already has a husband and even if he is not the love of her life, the scenes in which they interact like the two people that have been living together for years they are, are really refreshing to read and are my favorites.
Thank you to Net Galley for this ARC.
May 11, 2019
Characters 5
Atmosphere 5
Writing style 5
Plot 4
Intrigue 6
Logic 4
Enjoyment 4
I'm a little sad this book didn't work for me. It got everything that I love, but something didn't work. The story intrgued me enough, but the characters were really bland, there was no suspence and there was the one thing I now hate: justified cheating. A pity, it had so much potential with a story like this.
Atmosphere 5
Writing style 5
Plot 4
Intrigue 6
Logic 4
Enjoyment 4
I'm a little sad this book didn't work for me. It got everything that I love, but something didn't work. The story intrgued me enough, but the characters were really bland, there was no suspence and there was the one thing I now hate: justified cheating. A pity, it had so much potential with a story like this.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 28, 2018
The start and middle of the book had my interest, but the latter half of the book was slow and didn't build enough intense or conflicting moments to really keep me entertained until the end.
I liked Freya, the protagonist, in her healer moments and when she showed she was conflicted between her true faith and the oppressive regime of the Kade. She came across as caring, although her relationship with Symon didn't seem like a real conflict to me when she starts to have feelings for another man, Ashtyn.
The story would have also benefit more from a clearer antagonist. While i understand it was the Kade (and those who would betray others for favour with the Kade) as a whole who are the villains here, i think having someone who really represented this group and their actions would have allowed me as a reader to generate more feeling against the Kade - and imagine what kind of people the worst of them are.
I also felt like the ending of the book was a little anticlimactic. While i like that it showed Freya has had enough of the Kade putting themselves before the pious people, it didn't leave a big impression as Freya was too reserved against going against the Kade almost the entire book. I also didn't feel the scenes engaged me enough as they lacked action, i would have like to the the main character really DO something to fight back. Hopefully, if there is there is a sequel in future then Freya's actions after this story will be more daring.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book - but the most important things i would have liked to see more of are a stronger villain figure and presence, and more daring or adventurous actions from the protagonist that aren't just secret meetings.
I liked Freya, the protagonist, in her healer moments and when she showed she was conflicted between her true faith and the oppressive regime of the Kade. She came across as caring, although her relationship with Symon didn't seem like a real conflict to me when she starts to have feelings for another man, Ashtyn.
The story would have also benefit more from a clearer antagonist. While i understand it was the Kade (and those who would betray others for favour with the Kade) as a whole who are the villains here, i think having someone who really represented this group and their actions would have allowed me as a reader to generate more feeling against the Kade - and imagine what kind of people the worst of them are.
I also felt like the ending of the book was a little anticlimactic. While i like that it showed Freya has had enough of the Kade putting themselves before the pious people, it didn't leave a big impression as Freya was too reserved against going against the Kade almost the entire book. I also didn't feel the scenes engaged me enough as they lacked action, i would have like to the the main character really DO something to fight back. Hopefully, if there is there is a sequel in future then Freya's actions after this story will be more daring.
Overall, it wasn't a bad book - but the most important things i would have liked to see more of are a stronger villain figure and presence, and more daring or adventurous actions from the protagonist that aren't just secret meetings.
Displaying 1 - 23 of 23 reviews