Traces of Sulfur

Blade Keeper Academy #1

by Madeline Freeman

I’m not who they think I am. If they learn the truth, I’ll pay with my life.

Blakethorne Academy is the premier training ground for warriors. Every person here will one day be a member of the angelic Guard.

As a demon, it’s the last place I should ever step foot. But I couldn’t exactly say no when they handed me an engraved invitation to attend. Access like this doesn’t come around every day.

My people are in peril, and walking among these angels could give me what I need to save them. I just need to keep my true identity a secret.

But that gets harder by the day when the lead Keeper, Nate Kouri, sets my heart galloping every time he draws near. Getting close to him is dangerous, but I’ve never been one to turn down playing with fire.

They think I’m a Blade Keeper—one of five elite warriors destined to defeat whatever evil rises. If they learn I’m a demon, I’ll pay with my life.

My name is Eden Everdell. Saving my people has always been my mission, but ensuring the survival of my brethren might destroy me.



Enter a fast-paced world of angels and demons! Click to buy Traces of Sulfur today.

Genres: Fantasy, Paranormal, Young Adult, Demons, Ebooks, Angels

228 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 3, 2020

Reviews

[Cassey · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great premise, well executed...and just dang. I'm sure there's more to Eden than has been hinted, well actually more to all of the blade members. It's going to be interesting finding out what exactly happened to her mom and aunt; what is afoot and what the deal is Nate - I'm sure there is so so much more he's not shared.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lesley Barklay]

There was a bit of a Robin Hood vibe in the beginning, and I like starting with a heist, but the tonal shift from the opening two scenes to the scenes in Blackthorne Academy was jarring.

Just be aware going into this, that the story isn't resolved in this book. You need to read the sequels to get a full story.

[Alex · Rating 3 out of 5]

Really short. More of an introduction to the story rather than a story on its own. It doesn't have much in the way of conflict. What little world building is revealed is done as an infodump near the end.

The book could have used some proper editing. The beginning was fine, but errors became fairly common about 35-40% of the way through.

The plot was formulaic, not throwing any surprises at us. It is a good formula though, so I will give the next book a try at some point. The second book would have to be better if it has some decent conflicts.

[Tonja Drecker · Rating 4 out of 5]

While I've picked up a handful of academy stories over the last years, I tend to steer away from them thanks to the heavy tendency toward cliches. This one did surprise me.

After her parents' deaths thanks to the angels' lack of interest as to what happens to anyone with demon blood, she's spent her years in the underground, planning on raids to acquire the desperately needed medicine, which heals certain deadly diseases. When a raid leaves her stranded in a building of angels, the last thing she expects if for them to mistake her as one of them and lead her to join others in a test to join the elite warriors. Since this is the perfect chance to finally get information from the inside, the rebellion urges her to continue the charade. And while it's the chance they've been waiting for, she also knows it could very well cost her life.

While this book does involve an academy, there's much more to it. The first chapters allow Eden and her place in the rebellion along with the problem between demons and angels to really sink in. The academy angle is more of a side plot. Even when Eden does enter the academy and is forced to secretly train among the angels, the cliches which do arise don't hit quite as horribly. There is a 'mean girl' and the hot guy who instantly likes her...and I really could have done without either of these, but it is an academy book, and I'm not sure fans of this genre would be happy if these things didn't exist. But thanks to the wider concept in this book and broader world building, it doesn't irritate quite as much as other books I've read in this genre. This book simply has more than just the academy scene.

There's a nice build-up in this pages, which promises a potentially more complex plot with intrigue, secrets and scenes which go beyond the cold brick, school walls. Demons and angels are at odds but there's more to it than the usual good vs. evil. This one is grayed and almost seems to flip-flop stereo-types...maybe. And the rebellion along with Eden's mother's death are also promising some more twists to come. There was quite a bit of foreshadowing on the rebellion's leader...which I'm hoping won't turn out too predictable and still has some surprises in wait. Plus, I'm hoping this one does allow the world to stay expanded and doesn't suddenly shrink. So far, so good. But we'll see. And I will see because this one was good enough to have me happily awaiting book two.

[Kaye · Rating 5 out of 5]

👾👾ONE SENSATIONAL TREAT👾👾
Daring demons! Madeline cranks up the intensity with this thrilling dynamo, making bank and seizing control, exposing this action packed, heart pounding, pulse racing, adrenaline pumping, block buster, wrapping this baby up sleek, shiny and tight. Repressions are amplified and sustained, laying out all the fervent facts, deals and fiascos, igniting a fierce protectiveness and practiced precision with such passion and zeal, riding the currents and breaching waves, blasting this jewel into a frenzy with a mind-blowing culmination. Stumbling through a minefield of perilous drama, intense intrigue, chilling danger and electrifying suspense, maneuvering through the cunning manipulations and daring machinations of malicious intent, blasting this jewel to life spectacularly. Presentation and dynamics in layer upon layer that you peel back with each page your drawn into this web so deep until everything else ceases to exist. Tempting, tangled and tightly entwined, baring the frivolous quirks and defying bents, putting our characters through their paces, testing them in ways they could have never envisioned. The characters, dialogue, interactions and charged atmosphere along with relatable qualities and individual traits, blend and flow, transforming into genuine outstanding personalities. The scenes are strikingly sharp with abundant details and depictions creating a colorful backdrop that makes the storyline pop. Remarkable job Madeline, thanks for sharing this little guy with us.

[Mayhem-RW · Rating 5 out of 5]

In a realm of angels and demons, it is no surprise that they look down upon one another, but the angels have all the power, and the demons have formed a resistance. Her name is Eden Everdell, she was a demon, and all her life, all she has known was being in the resistance. And they have learned the location of much-needed medication. It was up to her and Derek, a former boyfriend and fellow resistance member, to get the medicine, but something went wrong. Derek got away with the medicine, but Eden got caught, played dumb, and, thanks to the security guard, she was placed in line with the rest of the public, who came to see if the Aether Blade would choose them. The Aether Blade was an angelic artifact and was one of five such blades, and these blades would not let just anybody hold them let alone use them. They required someone special, and the Aether Blade chose Eden when it was her turn, but she was a demon.

The world-building had me envisioning part of the described environment, so well done, Mrs. Freeman. Then the character interaction was believable. Their backgrounds were filled in nicely, so their motivations were not a surprise.

There are a lot of different things going on here. Racism is one of the big ones to point out, but there is love & romance. I don’t see interracial relationships, and I have no idea if there is such a genre or subgenre. However, I did like this story and want to read the next in the series. I give this tale five stars out of five stars.

[Meche · Rating 4 out of 5]

It is a good book, Eden is a compelling protagonist, she is forced to always be secretive since it is difficult to live as a demon in an angel controlled world. There is a moment she is trying to get a medicine for her uncle when she gets caught and she passes as an angel trying to go to a test for a magical blade. The blade suddenly chooses her and she is given the opportunity to act as a spy so she can save and improve the conditions of the demons. She is then thrust into a world of angels where she has to train and prove she is worthy for it.
The book is very interesting, I was never bored, the antagonist although one dimensional was understandable since we all know a spoiled brat that thinks everything should be hers. The romance between her and Nate I didn't buy since it seems a little bit forced. "we need some romance, lets choose one of the other keepers because he has to be as strong as her" and that is how it they chose Nate. I dont hate them together, i just don't feel comfortable with her being all "OMG I AM GETTING LOST IN HIS EYES" Meh, if it wasn't for that i would like them since they aren't already proclaiming their love for each other
I really like how she is always stressed over her situation, and she is realistic, there is no "i am gonna save the world", it is more of a sacrifice to save lives but she is still anxious about it

[Katheyer · Rating 5 out of 5]

“Traces of Sulfur” by Madeline Freeman marks the start of the “Blade Keeper Academy” Series, featuring Eden Jensen Everdell, a demon girl with by chance finds herself in between angels. Set in a realm independent of Earth the series conveys a dystopian feeling mixed with the eternal angels vs. demons’ struggle and elements of YA academy.

Eden has just got an engraved invitation to attend training at the renowned Blade Keeper Academy, the training ground for future members of the Angelic Guard. A veritable honor, the only problem being Eden has demonic blood running to her veins, which factually makes the Academy the latest place in the universe, she should be attending to… but this not only the opportunity of a live time, it also Eden’s chance to save her own kind.

A fast-paced story, action-filled, rich in detail and description, with good characters and interesting plots that could make a good base for a TV script. Eden is a great character, never faltering in the face of adversity, quick to react, witty and always good-intentioned in her choices.

[Palak · Rating 4 out of 5]

Rating ~ 4 / 5 stars

This book is really good! I loved how fast-paced it is and despite the speed, I was still able to keep up with the events and understand what was happening. The author used the theme, Angels vs Demons, and turned it something unique that you can only find with this book. I've read a lot of Angel vs Demon themed books and this book did not remind me of one of them at all. I loved how there was a scene in the book where we were able to see the main character's noble intentions, she showed compassion when others would have shown hatred. That stood out to me because that was the first scene that gave me a deeper insight into who Eden is. There were a lot of mysteries left and I'm really excited to see them unveiled!

[Kari Shick · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’ve enjoyed the authors previous books, so I wanted to read the first book in this new series. The things I have enjoyed about her other books hold true here: well developed fantasy world that is both believable and allows us to step away from the real world, characters who inspiring while not being perfect, situations that are nail biting and others that are recognizable in our own life and so much more! The main character, Eden, is telling the story from her point of view and she is likable, relatable and I find myself continually rooting for her. I enjoy the fact that this story is written for young adults and is written without sex and drugs allowing it to be read by a wide audience. I strongly recommend this book and look forward to reading the rest of the series.

[Linda Thomas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eden Jensen is the new Blade Keeper! The Blade said so didn”t it?

Eden Jensen Everdell is my full name but i’m not fool enough to tell that to a room of angels after I was mistakenly hustled into the line to try for the Aether Blade. What I get for being in the wrong place at the wrong time. After all I am a demon. If they discover this I will be dead in seconds. But if I try for the Blade I could be dead or damaged also. But it is a better chance than announcing my birth to thousands of angels waiting for these trials.
I’m in shock, I don’t know what happened! How did it claim me. How did it hide me? I felt at peace when it was in my hand. Now what do I do?

[Anastasiia Nesterenko · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have mixed impressions of this one. On one hand, the world building is great. There is apparently some separate dimension, there are demons, angels and in-between. There is inequality and intrigue. There is the main protagonist - always with dead parents and yearning for kindness, justice and attachment. On the other hand - it gets predictable really quickly, and also the different groups and politics of it all is rather murky. As an introduction to the world it is good enough, I suppose, but in terms of the plot - it just establishes everyone and then you have to get next books to get to the conflict and actual adventure.

[Amber Christiansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved reading this book and I'm anxious to read the next book. This fascination world of angels and demons was nothing like anything I've seen before. The world was rich, the characters were well rounded and evocative. The book has a great balance between action and character development. And the beginnings of a romance was sweet.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review, but my opinions are my own.

[Mari C · Rating 5 out of 5]

A refreshing take on Angels and Demons that have their own realm. The world has a rich history and great potential for expanding the lore in following books. The story keeps the reader engaged in Eden’s misadventure on the wrong side of the tracks. You can feel the secrets and change that are on the horizon soon to come. I can’t wait to dive further into this world.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Scarolet Ellis · Rating 5 out of 5]

Traces of Sulfur by Madeline Freeman is an amazing story that I have had the privilege to read. This is book number one in this amazing start to a brand new series that I have loved reading. I can not wait to read the rest of this amazing series and to see what this author will write about next. I highly recommend this story to everyone who loves reading about fantasy and paranormal romance.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Christina Luberts · Rating 4 out of 5]

I fell teens and young adults will really like this story. We have some suspense and action. We get some of Eden’s background story, and how she lives. Eden is on a mission for her Aunt when things turn. What will she do? The Keepers are nice to her, it we have one that wants her out? Can she keep her secret or will they find out? Can she help her family and others? Can’t wait to see what happens? What will happen to Shonda now?

[Dana Wood · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thoroughly enjoyable read. I think the author did a decent job with world building. I still have lingering questions about the place the angels and demons actually were. But I liked Eden a lot. She was a little too fixated on Nate but otherwise she was well developed character. The supporting characters were fun and added just the right mix to the story. Didn't like her Aunt Liza. She did not have Edens best interest at heart.

[Tanya · Rating 5 out of 5]

She is not who they think she is, she is a demon in an angel school. She was given an invite to join and she will do it to save her people. One problem is if she is found out she will be killed. She is getting close to one and this could spell the end. Will she save her people? Will she be found out? Will she lose her heart? See just what will happen

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Wendy · Rating 4 out of 5]

A really good YA Urban Fantasy. This book I am assuming is really the set up for the rest of the series, but you get a good backstory for the MFC, which is important, I think. You need to know where she is coming from in her thoughts and actions. The 2nd half of the book sets up the Blade Keeper Academy world. You get to know the characters and storyline there as well, so while it's slow to get to action, it feels necessary. I am excited to read the next book.

[Phthon · Rating 5 out of 5]

What an exciting first book to what promises to be a phenomenal series! I was completely enthralled immediately and only got more engrossed as the pages turned! This is an action packed thrilling adventure with twists and turns that keep you guessing all the way through! The characters are awesome andI look forward to more of Eden’s adventures! Take a chance and you won’t be disappointed.

[Lisa Rector · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sweet read!

This is a fun story! This is a world separate from Earth, like another realm or something. The story has a dystopian feel. Angels against demons. I liked the whole premise, how Eden gets accepted into the academy. That was really cute and fun. I wanted to see more abilities and powers and more heat between her and Nate, but still really cute!

[deeann linford · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fast paced fantasy showing positive goals

Very active story , shows how courage, wanting to help others, and positive actions lead to good solutions. Not giving in to mistakes, continuing to work hard, and being willing to learn helps everyone. Throw in some fantasy, handsome heroes, conflicts, villains and let the storyteller begin! Very good.

[T. · Rating 4 out of 5]

I downloaded Traces of Sulfur as a free ebook from Amazon. This first book of the Blade Keeper Academy was a good series starter. The author created an interesting dilemma creating a demon who is accepted by a magical blade, historically wielded by angelic guards. There were some ploy holes I could hope get cleared up in upcoming stories, but I enjoyed the pacing.

[Grace Hankinson]

I absolutely love the character Eden and this book is just another reason why I’m obsessed with madeleine freeman. I’m really excited for the next book!

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great start of a new series from Madeline Freeman. I was hooked from the start. Can’t wait to see what happens next...

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kimberly Kleinman · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book kept me engaged and was a quick read. I enjoyed the story, even if it was a little light and fluffy. It was a bit repetitive with the main characters concerns constantly, though, so 4 stars.

[Ladonn Bostic · Rating 5 out of 5]

Who knew

This book was captivating. It grabs you at the very beginning an is very hard to put down. I read it in less than 24 hours. There isn't anything I didn't like about the book. Very enjoyable. Keep up the great work Author Freeman.

[Zoey · Rating 5 out of 5]

this book explains the dangers of being a demon in this world and how it is crumbling from within how angles underestimated demons because they have one right under their noses and they don't even notice.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

This academy book was very well written she is a demon and studying in an angelic guard school, what possibly could go wrong. She is trying to help her people and this storyline was totally exciting on how it goes. Amazing characters

[Tracy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. What a great story that shows that one race is not all good or all bad. We are all individual that get to choose to do good or bad. I enjoyed the amazing characters, especially Eden and Clio. I look forward to reading the next book in the series.