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The Lights of Isarn
Skye has always been smart, and she knows that, but for the first time in her life, she was starting to wish she wasn't.
At the age of 16, students in the nation of Isarn are tested to see if they have what it takes to become a Light, the new generation of politicians and soldiers. It's an honor to be one, but dangerous. And Skye isn't sure she's ready when she finds out she's just become a Light.
Joined by her newly formed Squadron, hopelessly unqualified Mentor, and a creature she shares a strangely strong connection with, Skye is thrust into a new way of life.
And in a time where war seems like a sudden possibility, Skye is forced to decide if she's ready to step up, and take on the role of a Light of Isarn.
At the age of 16, students in the nation of Isarn are tested to see if they have what it takes to become a Light, the new generation of politicians and soldiers. It's an honor to be one, but dangerous. And Skye isn't sure she's ready when she finds out she's just become a Light.
Joined by her newly formed Squadron, hopelessly unqualified Mentor, and a creature she shares a strangely strong connection with, Skye is thrust into a new way of life.
And in a time where war seems like a sudden possibility, Skye is forced to decide if she's ready to step up, and take on the role of a Light of Isarn.
389 pages
Published May 9, 2021
1 person is currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Naomi Grace King
4 books30 followersNaomi King is a young author who has been writing and publishing novels since the age of fourteen. Since the publication of her first novel, 'Raven Rose', she has written and released the first three installments in her YA fantasy/sci-fi series 'The Lights of Isarn'. Naomi currently lives in New Jersey with her family.
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Displaying 1 - 11 of 11 reviews
May 19, 2021
Maybe I'm really biased, but the team of vastly different characters, forced to work together, and slowly become close over it is legit my favorite trope. (Again...I wonder why, LDF)
I had the honor of beta-reading TLOI way back in December, and I can, with confidence, say that this book only got BETTER.
Not only does it have that classic school YA setting set in a unique science-fantasy world (hey look, another favorite genre of mine!) with a really in depth organization of governments, classes, and politics. The world really feels so lived in and still is thee BEST part of this book.
CHARACTERS
Skye - Skye is a precious MC and reminds me of so many classic YA MCs. She's a genius, and apparently is really bad at following orders (seriously Skye, listen to my boi Zaith). She's a good POV point for the rest of the story. I hope to able to get more into her in future books in the series.
Jayla - Hands down, most well developed character out of the main 5. It's obvious King has spent so much on this character, and maybe I'm a sucker with comedic reliefs with a tragic backstory (Seriously,why does this book have every single one of my favorite tropes?? All we're missing is a redemption arc. **nudge, nudge**). Jayla not only made me LAUGH OUT LOUD (just let this girl eat her dougnuts), but this girl is the freaking reason Skye didn't die by like page 30. Jayla's not given enough credit. True hero of TLOI.
Also, her and Luken speaking sign language together?? MY STONE COLD HEART WAS SCREAMING. SO CUTE.
Zaithrian - Is it obvious he's my favorite character yet? DUDE. KING DID IT AGAIN. She made the "leader" NOT the main character. **screams with joy** Watching Zaith, sass and all, learn to be a leader from Skye's POV was such a cool thing I rarely see, and he's best boi. I love him, and his confidence. I'm pretty sure King has plans to hurt him/has hurt him so FINE HURT ME. Seriously every scene with him was so good. His character is so calm and cool (and angry when he needs to be. That one scene? I'm Team Zaith. He was right.), and bro, he's too good for this world.
Luken - A DEAF CHARACTER? *faints* Luken is probably the character who made the biggest jump in improvement since I beta read, and WOW, lemme tell you he is no "token disability character". This boi's got brains and spunk. I love him. He's taking over the world everyone.
Daria - Daria also got so much more love, and I'm so so glad. Her ominous character is begging for another book to explore her. Like she's so chill about the idea of killing and works with weapons?? She's terrifying, and we don't know too much about this blue haired gal, and I'm scared for what King has in store.
Daken Claw- ....Oh so I might have lied saying Zaith was my favorite character. What the frick Daken?? Why are you so awesome??? Like legit, I can see where he's coming from and I AGREE with him. We've had some hinting change needs to happen... but obviously the way Daken's going about it isn't great. Our boi was given a major disservice by the government, and being a genius has plans to 'save' Isarn.
You might be thinking, LDF, isn't this something done so many times before? Villains thinking they're doing the right thing by taking over?
Broski, let me stop you right there. I don't know how my lil' sis pulled it off, but Daken actually felt...genuine? Like legit in one scene, I was like "these kids are only screaming at him b/c of his rep...he's being really chill". I love that. I love that he feels REAL. He's sympathetic, and he really is doing what he feels is right.
Also maybe I'm too hopeful or reading too much into it, or did Naomi King hint a little to his rep being blown out proportion? Like yeah, Daken's doing some crazy stuff, but like he mentioned, he hasn't murdered anyone yet.
I'm so freaking excited to see more of him, and why the heck people in politics hated him so much???
PLOT
The plot for the first 100 so pages is gosh darn SOLID. It follows a basic "takes test, enters magic/sci-fi school" formula, but it works so well.
It's pretty muddled and unproductive up until around 400, where the freaking epic climax hits.
There are no doubt some STELLAR scenes (the 'capture the flag'?? scene? SO GOOD.), but the middle felt really mixed, and not the strongest part of TLOI. None of the characters have defined 'arcs' either, which being the first in a series by a teen author is pretty excusable, and they're till enjoyable even though they don't change much by the end of the story besides their stellar relationship. It didn't feel like too much really HAPPENED, but I'm hoping that will change in future books, because again GUYS ITS A SERIES AHH!!
But the book is relatively short, and has some fun writing, worldbuilding, and golden characters to carry you through.
OVERALL
One thing the teen indie author community lacks? Series.
Naomi King? The answer.
No doubt at the rate this girl is going, this series is going to be phenomenal. The ending of the book played on ANOTHER fave trope (SERIOUSLY NAOMI, HOW???), the 'happy' ending, even though danger still looms.
They're ready for whatever comes after them.
Everything's okay....for now.
AUGH. I'm SORRY. I LOVE IT.
There are some typos, but only like 3?? I caught, and am only mentioning it because in my own experience, people get really bothered by typos if you don't warn them. But it's REALLY well edited otherwise!!
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Trigger/Content Warnings: This book was REALLY REALLY clean. There's some SUPER clean violence, and mentions of blood, but besides that, I would hand this to my 9-year-old sister feeling comfortable.
***
Easily my most anticipated read of 2021.
I beta read this book back in December, and from the looks of it, King is shaping up an INCREDIBLE series that's going to knock you off your feet! I'M SO EXCITED!!
I had the honor of beta-reading TLOI way back in December, and I can, with confidence, say that this book only got BETTER.
Not only does it have that classic school YA setting set in a unique science-fantasy world (hey look, another favorite genre of mine!) with a really in depth organization of governments, classes, and politics. The world really feels so lived in and still is thee BEST part of this book.
CHARACTERS
Skye - Skye is a precious MC and reminds me of so many classic YA MCs. She's a genius, and apparently is really bad at following orders (seriously Skye, listen to my boi Zaith). She's a good POV point for the rest of the story. I hope to able to get more into her in future books in the series.
Jayla - Hands down, most well developed character out of the main 5. It's obvious King has spent so much on this character, and maybe I'm a sucker with comedic reliefs with a tragic backstory (Seriously,why does this book have every single one of my favorite tropes?? All we're missing is a redemption arc. **nudge, nudge**). Jayla not only made me LAUGH OUT LOUD (just let this girl eat her dougnuts), but this girl is the freaking reason Skye didn't die by like page 30. Jayla's not given enough credit. True hero of TLOI.
Also, her and Luken speaking sign language together?? MY STONE COLD HEART WAS SCREAMING. SO CUTE.
Zaithrian - Is it obvious he's my favorite character yet? DUDE. KING DID IT AGAIN. She made the "leader" NOT the main character. **screams with joy** Watching Zaith, sass and all, learn to be a leader from Skye's POV was such a cool thing I rarely see, and he's best boi. I love him, and his confidence. I'm pretty sure King has plans to hurt him/has hurt him so FINE HURT ME. Seriously every scene with him was so good. His character is so calm and cool (and angry when he needs to be. That one scene? I'm Team Zaith. He was right.), and bro, he's too good for this world.
Luken - A DEAF CHARACTER? *faints* Luken is probably the character who made the biggest jump in improvement since I beta read, and WOW, lemme tell you he is no "token disability character". This boi's got brains and spunk. I love him. He's taking over the world everyone.
Daria - Daria also got so much more love, and I'm so so glad. Her ominous character is begging for another book to explore her. Like she's so chill about the idea of killing and works with weapons?? She's terrifying, and we don't know too much about this blue haired gal, and I'm scared for what King has in store.
Daken Claw- ....Oh so I might have lied saying Zaith was my favorite character. What the frick Daken?? Why are you so awesome??? Like legit, I can see where he's coming from and I AGREE with him. We've had some hinting change needs to happen... but obviously the way Daken's going about it isn't great. Our boi was given a major disservice by the government, and being a genius has plans to 'save' Isarn.
You might be thinking, LDF, isn't this something done so many times before? Villains thinking they're doing the right thing by taking over?
Broski, let me stop you right there. I don't know how my lil' sis pulled it off, but Daken actually felt...genuine? Like legit in one scene, I was like "these kids are only screaming at him b/c of his rep...he's being really chill". I love that. I love that he feels REAL. He's sympathetic, and he really is doing what he feels is right.
Also maybe I'm too hopeful or reading too much into it, or did Naomi King hint a little to his rep being blown out proportion? Like yeah, Daken's doing some crazy stuff, but like he mentioned, he hasn't murdered anyone yet.
I'm so freaking excited to see more of him, and why the heck people in politics hated him so much???
PLOT
The plot for the first 100 so pages is gosh darn SOLID. It follows a basic "takes test, enters magic/sci-fi school" formula, but it works so well.
It's pretty muddled and unproductive up until around 400, where the freaking epic climax hits.
There are no doubt some STELLAR scenes (the 'capture the flag'?? scene? SO GOOD.), but the middle felt really mixed, and not the strongest part of TLOI. None of the characters have defined 'arcs' either, which being the first in a series by a teen author is pretty excusable, and they're till enjoyable even though they don't change much by the end of the story besides their stellar relationship. It didn't feel like too much really HAPPENED, but I'm hoping that will change in future books, because again GUYS ITS A SERIES AHH!!
But the book is relatively short, and has some fun writing, worldbuilding, and golden characters to carry you through.
OVERALL
One thing the teen indie author community lacks? Series.
Naomi King? The answer.
No doubt at the rate this girl is going, this series is going to be phenomenal. The ending of the book played on ANOTHER fave trope (SERIOUSLY NAOMI, HOW???), the 'happy' ending, even though danger still looms.
They're ready for whatever comes after them.
Everything's okay....for now.
AUGH. I'm SORRY. I LOVE IT.
There are some typos, but only like 3?? I caught, and am only mentioning it because in my own experience, people get really bothered by typos if you don't warn them. But it's REALLY well edited otherwise!!
Overall Rating: 4.5/5
Trigger/Content Warnings: This book was REALLY REALLY clean. There's some SUPER clean violence, and mentions of blood, but besides that, I would hand this to my 9-year-old sister feeling comfortable.
***
Easily my most anticipated read of 2021.
I beta read this book back in December, and from the looks of it, King is shaping up an INCREDIBLE series that's going to knock you off your feet! I'M SO EXCITED!!
September 24, 2022
The Lights of Isarn is a fun and smart fantasy story about friendship, facing your fears, and finding your gifts. It is full of mythical creatures, ingenious technology, enchanting world-building, family secrets and suspense.
The characters are incredibly unique and full of personality, and I felt the strength of their bond as a squadron. The main characters are age 16 and I would classify this book as YA, but it is a clean read and I had no concerns reading it aloud with my younger children. They absolutely loved the story and characters. Lots of laughter and surprises!
I hope that The Lights of Isarn is just the beginning of a fun and exciting series!
The characters are incredibly unique and full of personality, and I felt the strength of their bond as a squadron. The main characters are age 16 and I would classify this book as YA, but it is a clean read and I had no concerns reading it aloud with my younger children. They absolutely loved the story and characters. Lots of laughter and surprises!
I hope that The Lights of Isarn is just the beginning of a fun and exciting series!
June 4, 2021
A fun and exciting read!
I LOVED this book! The characters stole my heart (especially Revin) the world building was done very well, and the pacing was perfect! I really felt like I was right there learning with these characters, their friendship and bond grew with every chapter and so did my attachment to them. And when you're not expecting it a twist slaps you in the face! The tension hits hard because of the connections made between the characters. I can't wait for the next book!
I LOVED this book! The characters stole my heart (especially Revin) the world building was done very well, and the pacing was perfect! I really felt like I was right there learning with these characters, their friendship and bond grew with every chapter and so did my attachment to them. And when you're not expecting it a twist slaps you in the face! The tension hits hard because of the connections made between the characters. I can't wait for the next book!
August 25, 2021
I am not really a big reader, but once I started, I could not put this book down! The characters are definitely the main thing that makes this story come alive. The way the author worded certain scenarios and some of the descriptions are also great for getting the feel of the story. The plot will keep you on edge as new things are discovered about characters. The creativity of the places and creatures of this book are another great reason to read it!
March 27, 2022
"Electrical mechanics is my strong suit, I've been doing stuff like this for as long as I can remember."
The Lights of Isarn by Naomi King was an excellent, middle grade dystopian novel. This author and I are the same age, so for this to be her second published book is astonishing. Plus, it truly was a fun, fast, and extraordinary read.
Genre: Middle Grade/Younger YA Science Fantasy
Type: 1st in a trilogy
POV: 1 POV, first person, past tense
Age Rating: 8+ years old
(correct me if I'm incorrect on any of these things)
~Synopsis~
At the age of 16, students in the nation of Isarn test to see if they have what it takes to become a Light, the new generation of politicians and soldiers. It is an honor to be one, but extremely dangerous. Skye questions if she is ready to become a light when she is accepted. With her newly formed Squadron, hopelessly unqualified Mentor, and a creature she shares an odd connection with, she starts a new life training as a Light. When rebellions and war brim the surface, Sky is forced to decide if she's ready to step up and take on the role as a Light of Isarn.
“You're a good kid, Skye. A little odd, but I guess the best ones are.”
~Writing and Setting~
King's writing style is very simple and easy to read. My 8 year old cousins would have no trouble reading this, while it still lives up for an older reader. Some of the sentence structure was basic and the editing could've been stronger, but honestly it doesn't take away from the amazing scenes King was able to produce. I wish the academy was described a little more in depth. I also wish she explained other students there. The writing makes it feel as though its only the 5 main characters, when there are hundreds of students going there. The island was interesting too, but again, under built. I loved reading about the different guilds and the different creatures as well. While some of the scenes were a white wall, others were colorful and full of imagery. King is an excellent writer, especially for her age.
"You are Squadron 999."
~Plot~
This story was so fun and very well paced. The first 50 pages was nonstop and done so well. The ending was a bit abrupt but thankfully there is another book coming soon. I loved the training scenes and all the work they put in for the skills they got by the end. It was a good idea that was well executed.
"Well, let's hope that Skye Zareb is as smart as she says she is, or it could end badly for her."
~Characters~
There are 5 main character, a mentor, and a villain, so this section might be a bit long but its worth it. Skye Zareb, the main character, is extremely smart. She was accepted into the Ingenuity Guild. She has gifts with electrical mechanics and loves science. I love strong STEM girls in books! She was perfect as the POV as she had so much thrown her way, but she never gave up and persisted through it all. Jayla Payge, Agility Guild, was one of my favorite characters. She was energetic, loyal, and and added so much sass that I never knew was needed. She had so much development by the end. Daria Tallon, Stealth Guild, was the only character who I though needed more. In the beginning, she always made comments about how her Squadron was childish and seemed annoyed at them all, but by the end she loved them and never made another comment like that again. We only got 1 line of backstory of her and that's it. I hope for the next book she gets more as she is such a cool character. Luken Noro, Intelligence Guild, was one of my favorite characters. Also known as 'Smart Boy', he is quick witted and smart. He also gives disability representation as he's deaf. But, he doesn't let his disability stop him and he actually uses his brains to build himself a unique hearing aid. Lastly, Zaithrian Delainey, Leadership Guild, was a great leader. He had a strong voice, well rounded ideas, and lead the group well. All these characters are 16 but, I did feel as though they acted like they were twelve. Their way of going about things, dialogue, and everything about it made them very immature. This novel feels definitely more Middle Grade than YA, because of how immature the characters were.
Revin, Skye's mentor, was my favorite character. He's truly underrated and I love him so much. Once I found out his backstory, I just wanted to give him a hug. He's so funny while also caring, and I love his dynamic with Skye. Lastly, is Daken Claw, the villain. We don't really see much of him until the end, but I do wish he was a little scarier. We also don't know any of his motives, so we'll have to wait to the next book. He is more so a misunderstood person than the villain of this story.
“If I'm going to die, I want to have my donut.”
~Overall~
The Lights of Isarn was a quick and lighthearted read. There is a level of immaturity to it, especially with the age of the characters and the simple writing, but it is still an amazing story that I would definitely recommend to anyone. King has all my respect as a writer and author and I can't wait to read more of her work.
"But her mind only wanted to focus on the part where she would be a solider. A teenager being trained so that one day she could help shape the world."
4.5/5 stars
The Lights of Isarn by Naomi King was an excellent, middle grade dystopian novel. This author and I are the same age, so for this to be her second published book is astonishing. Plus, it truly was a fun, fast, and extraordinary read.
Genre: Middle Grade/Younger YA Science Fantasy
Type: 1st in a trilogy
POV: 1 POV, first person, past tense
Age Rating: 8+ years old
(correct me if I'm incorrect on any of these things)
~Synopsis~
At the age of 16, students in the nation of Isarn test to see if they have what it takes to become a Light, the new generation of politicians and soldiers. It is an honor to be one, but extremely dangerous. Skye questions if she is ready to become a light when she is accepted. With her newly formed Squadron, hopelessly unqualified Mentor, and a creature she shares an odd connection with, she starts a new life training as a Light. When rebellions and war brim the surface, Sky is forced to decide if she's ready to step up and take on the role as a Light of Isarn.
“You're a good kid, Skye. A little odd, but I guess the best ones are.”
~Writing and Setting~
King's writing style is very simple and easy to read. My 8 year old cousins would have no trouble reading this, while it still lives up for an older reader. Some of the sentence structure was basic and the editing could've been stronger, but honestly it doesn't take away from the amazing scenes King was able to produce. I wish the academy was described a little more in depth. I also wish she explained other students there. The writing makes it feel as though its only the 5 main characters, when there are hundreds of students going there. The island was interesting too, but again, under built. I loved reading about the different guilds and the different creatures as well. While some of the scenes were a white wall, others were colorful and full of imagery. King is an excellent writer, especially for her age.
"You are Squadron 999."
~Plot~
This story was so fun and very well paced. The first 50 pages was nonstop and done so well. The ending was a bit abrupt but thankfully there is another book coming soon. I loved the training scenes and all the work they put in for the skills they got by the end. It was a good idea that was well executed.
"Well, let's hope that Skye Zareb is as smart as she says she is, or it could end badly for her."
~Characters~
There are 5 main character, a mentor, and a villain, so this section might be a bit long but its worth it. Skye Zareb, the main character, is extremely smart. She was accepted into the Ingenuity Guild. She has gifts with electrical mechanics and loves science. I love strong STEM girls in books! She was perfect as the POV as she had so much thrown her way, but she never gave up and persisted through it all. Jayla Payge, Agility Guild, was one of my favorite characters. She was energetic, loyal, and and added so much sass that I never knew was needed. She had so much development by the end. Daria Tallon, Stealth Guild, was the only character who I though needed more. In the beginning, she always made comments about how her Squadron was childish and seemed annoyed at them all, but by the end she loved them and never made another comment like that again. We only got 1 line of backstory of her and that's it. I hope for the next book she gets more as she is such a cool character. Luken Noro, Intelligence Guild, was one of my favorite characters. Also known as 'Smart Boy', he is quick witted and smart. He also gives disability representation as he's deaf. But, he doesn't let his disability stop him and he actually uses his brains to build himself a unique hearing aid. Lastly, Zaithrian Delainey, Leadership Guild, was a great leader. He had a strong voice, well rounded ideas, and lead the group well. All these characters are 16 but, I did feel as though they acted like they were twelve. Their way of going about things, dialogue, and everything about it made them very immature. This novel feels definitely more Middle Grade than YA, because of how immature the characters were.
Revin, Skye's mentor, was my favorite character. He's truly underrated and I love him so much. Once I found out his backstory, I just wanted to give him a hug. He's so funny while also caring, and I love his dynamic with Skye. Lastly, is Daken Claw, the villain. We don't really see much of him until the end, but I do wish he was a little scarier. We also don't know any of his motives, so we'll have to wait to the next book. He is more so a misunderstood person than the villain of this story.
“If I'm going to die, I want to have my donut.”
~Overall~
The Lights of Isarn was a quick and lighthearted read. There is a level of immaturity to it, especially with the age of the characters and the simple writing, but it is still an amazing story that I would definitely recommend to anyone. King has all my respect as a writer and author and I can't wait to read more of her work.
"But her mind only wanted to focus on the part where she would be a solider. A teenager being trained so that one day she could help shape the world."
4.5/5 stars
December 23, 2021
okay I read this a few months ago and I'm forgetful so I don't remember all my thoughts BUT. This is DEFINITELY going to be a reread at some point. I'm not usually a huge fan of books that take place in an academic sort of setting, but this one is truly an exception. I loved the animals (I have a newfound obsession with animal companions), and I loved the fun fictional foods Naomi King came up with. I still need to come up with an actual powdercake recipe. But that's a tangent: what I really, really liked about this academic setting was the way King managed to put lots of technical info in without bogging it down and making it confusing. I'm also just a nerd, but the bits where Skye is going into specific details of things is just wonderful. I really loved Skye, but that doesn't mean the rest of the characters are bad! Not at all.
June 19, 2022
I loved this book! the characters were wonderful and unique, and the world was fascinating. I need a squad like their’s. I can’t wait for book 2!!
July 24, 2021
HONESTLY, I THOUGHT I'D WRITTEN A REVIEW FOR THIS WHEN I FIRST FINISHED IT. I GUESS NOT.
Right, here we go with a review of one of my favourite books of the year so far.
The first thing to clear up, after thinking about this book every day since I've finished it, I think it's safe to say that it is a 5 star rather than my initial 4-star rating. Your characters have no right to live in my head rent-free, but here they are, running my brain!
The Lights of Isarn is an exceptional novel from a great young voice that I'm excited to see develop over the next few years! (And King is definitely on my list of insta-buy authors, from this book alone)
The plot of TLOI is honestly charming, following what we would expect of a 'magic school' trope, but it is so much more than simply that. The worldbuilding is insanely detailed and already carries such a wide scope, the mystical creatures are amazingly well realised! Especially Kade! And the selling point of this book is definitely the TECH, it is implemented perfectly into the book and not only works to benefit the plot, characters, and world in being an all-around fun thing, but it also works as a way for King to work some wonderful representation in the book through Luken. The book is marvellously well-paced with fun twists and beats that will keep you up long into the night (or in my case, through school).
Right then, onto the best part of the books!
King has provided us with a stellar cast of characters that you can't not like! From our genius protagonist Skye Zareb who is essentially the group's optimistic tech support to Jayla (the best character of the main 5) who is the overall heart and soul of the group and honestly deserves that doughnut.
Zaithrian, the leader of their squadron is also an absolute treat to read and whilst at times he is hard on his friends, we know he does it for the right reasons and with the best intentions to heart. (I'm still not happy with you conning us out of his dance...)
Even the side characters, IE, REVIN are immaculate. Like I wish I had the time to give Revin, and in truth, all of the characters, their own paragraphs where I rant about them (maybe next time) but Revin is an absolute sweetheart and I would die for him. He is such a good mentor character that we see develop a brotherly bond with Skye that honestly warms my heart whenever I read it. I'm wishing I wasn't writing this review, because I'm now planning a reread as I type and I have so many books to read for school.
But honestly, Revin is the best side character and Jayla is undeniably the best of the main cast!! It's their world and we just live in it.
The only real qualm I take with the book is Daria. Daria is a character that I felt had so much potential but didn't really get the page time to fulfil it. Though, I completely understand the restraints of storytelling have an effect on this! Still, if we would have seen some more from her, the book would have been perfect! (like her design is so cool!)
All in all, if you like found family reads in which a group of ragtag teens find where they belong and that home is where the others are, this book will always be for you!
I cannot recommend this book enough, it deserves all the praise it gets and more!
Once again, King is a wonderful author who if you haven't checked out yet, you're seriously missing out on a talented young voice!
(Remind me to come back for those character essays when I have the time. I'd love to do them!)
Right, here we go with a review of one of my favourite books of the year so far.
The first thing to clear up, after thinking about this book every day since I've finished it, I think it's safe to say that it is a 5 star rather than my initial 4-star rating. Your characters have no right to live in my head rent-free, but here they are, running my brain!
The Lights of Isarn is an exceptional novel from a great young voice that I'm excited to see develop over the next few years! (And King is definitely on my list of insta-buy authors, from this book alone)
The plot of TLOI is honestly charming, following what we would expect of a 'magic school' trope, but it is so much more than simply that. The worldbuilding is insanely detailed and already carries such a wide scope, the mystical creatures are amazingly well realised! Especially Kade! And the selling point of this book is definitely the TECH, it is implemented perfectly into the book and not only works to benefit the plot, characters, and world in being an all-around fun thing, but it also works as a way for King to work some wonderful representation in the book through Luken. The book is marvellously well-paced with fun twists and beats that will keep you up long into the night (or in my case, through school).
Right then, onto the best part of the books!
King has provided us with a stellar cast of characters that you can't not like! From our genius protagonist Skye Zareb who is essentially the group's optimistic tech support to Jayla (the best character of the main 5) who is the overall heart and soul of the group and honestly deserves that doughnut.
Zaithrian, the leader of their squadron is also an absolute treat to read and whilst at times he is hard on his friends, we know he does it for the right reasons and with the best intentions to heart. (I'm still not happy with you conning us out of his dance...)
Even the side characters, IE, REVIN are immaculate. Like I wish I had the time to give Revin, and in truth, all of the characters, their own paragraphs where I rant about them (maybe next time) but Revin is an absolute sweetheart and I would die for him. He is such a good mentor character that we see develop a brotherly bond with Skye that honestly warms my heart whenever I read it. I'm wishing I wasn't writing this review, because I'm now planning a reread as I type and I have so many books to read for school.
But honestly, Revin is the best side character and Jayla is undeniably the best of the main cast!! It's their world and we just live in it.
The only real qualm I take with the book is Daria. Daria is a character that I felt had so much potential but didn't really get the page time to fulfil it. Though, I completely understand the restraints of storytelling have an effect on this! Still, if we would have seen some more from her, the book would have been perfect! (like her design is so cool!)
All in all, if you like found family reads in which a group of ragtag teens find where they belong and that home is where the others are, this book will always be for you!
I cannot recommend this book enough, it deserves all the praise it gets and more!
Once again, King is a wonderful author who if you haven't checked out yet, you're seriously missing out on a talented young voice!
(Remind me to come back for those character essays when I have the time. I'd love to do them!)
January 13, 2022
Ahhh this book was so good!! The characters and the world building are just superior 😌
Highly recommend reading it!
Highly recommend reading it!
September 11, 2024
Okay, this book is so amazing. I CANNOT believe how underrated this book is. And yet, there is not a single one star review. Or even a two star review! This book (and the next one) should be read by everyone in the world and read in schools. I’m not even kidding.
August 18, 2022
5/5 ⭐
Naomi King has an eye for creating worlds, characters, and creatures that you never want to leave.
This book reminds me of Keeper of The Lost Cities. Skye is a teenager with incredible gifts and is forced into a Squadron of highly discernable characters. One of the best aspects of this book is the distinguishable personalities which make the characters come alive on the page.
I've read this book twice and each time the characters read as middle-grade, not young adults. That, however, isn't necessarily bad. It just means that any age can read and understand it.
Overall, this book is definitely a comfort read and I'll be eagerly awaiting the next installment.
Naomi King has an eye for creating worlds, characters, and creatures that you never want to leave.
This book reminds me of Keeper of The Lost Cities. Skye is a teenager with incredible gifts and is forced into a Squadron of highly discernable characters. One of the best aspects of this book is the distinguishable personalities which make the characters come alive on the page.
I've read this book twice and each time the characters read as middle-grade, not young adults. That, however, isn't necessarily bad. It just means that any age can read and understand it.
Overall, this book is definitely a comfort read and I'll be eagerly awaiting the next installment.
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