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Heromaker #1
Champion of Fate
Behind every great hero is an Aristene.
Aristene are mythical female warriors, part of a legendary order. Though heroes might be immortalized in stories, it’s the Aristene who guide them to victory. They are the Heromakers.
Ever since she was an orphan taken in by the order, Reed has wanted to be an Aristene. Now, as an initiate, just one challenge stands in her way: she must shepherd her first hero to glory on the battlefield. Succeed, and Reed will take her place beside her sisters. Fail, and she’ll be cast from the only home she’s ever known.
Nothing is going to stop Reed--until she meets her hero. Hestion is fiery and infuriating, but what begins as an alliance becomes more, and as secrets of the order come to light Reed begins to understand what becoming an Aristene may truly cost. Battle looming, she must choose: the order and the life she had planned, or Hestion, and the one she never expected.
Aristene are mythical female warriors, part of a legendary order. Though heroes might be immortalized in stories, it’s the Aristene who guide them to victory. They are the Heromakers.
Ever since she was an orphan taken in by the order, Reed has wanted to be an Aristene. Now, as an initiate, just one challenge stands in her way: she must shepherd her first hero to glory on the battlefield. Succeed, and Reed will take her place beside her sisters. Fail, and she’ll be cast from the only home she’s ever known.
Nothing is going to stop Reed--until she meets her hero. Hestion is fiery and infuriating, but what begins as an alliance becomes more, and as secrets of the order come to light Reed begins to understand what becoming an Aristene may truly cost. Battle looming, she must choose: the order and the life she had planned, or Hestion, and the one she never expected.
480 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 19, 2023
253 people are currently reading
37473 people want to read
About the author
Kendare Blake
42 books55.3k followersSo, I write books. The Anna Dressed in Blood duo is horror, The Goddess War trilogy is mythology, and Three Dark Crowns is fantasy, because the world don't move to the beat of just one drum. What might be right for you, may not be right for some. Love to read, too. Fiction, philosophy, good books, bad books, because you take the good you take the bad you take them both and there you have a stack of books and stuff. I mean, you've got to be adventurous. There's more to life that what you're living, so take a chance and face the wind.
There's more coming soon like ALL THESE BODIES and a new fantasy series, so don't waste another minute on your cryin. We're nowhere near the end.
My likes include animals, food, and nostalgia. I mean, whatever happened to predictability? The milkman, the paperboy, the evening TV? Used to be everywhere you look, there's a heart, a hand to hold on to.
Anyway, I love to hear from readers so drop me a line here or at my website and we'll talk about friends to know, and ways to grow, and how if you threw a party you would see that the biggest gift would be from me and the card attached would say, thank you for being a friend.
We can also talk about all the sitcom theme songs in this bio. Sha la la la.
There's more coming soon like ALL THESE BODIES and a new fantasy series, so don't waste another minute on your cryin. We're nowhere near the end.
My likes include animals, food, and nostalgia. I mean, whatever happened to predictability? The milkman, the paperboy, the evening TV? Used to be everywhere you look, there's a heart, a hand to hold on to.
Anyway, I love to hear from readers so drop me a line here or at my website and we'll talk about friends to know, and ways to grow, and how if you threw a party you would see that the biggest gift would be from me and the card attached would say, thank you for being a friend.
We can also talk about all the sitcom theme songs in this bio. Sha la la la.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 541 reviews
November 4, 2025
*cups hands around mouth to imitate a bullhorn*
Attention fantasy horse girlies! Please line up in an orderly fashion to claim your immortal steeds alongside warrior women who are everything and he's just Ken!
Attention fantasy horse girlies! Please line up in an orderly fashion to claim your immortal steeds alongside warrior women who are everything and he's just Ken!
April 13, 2023
An absolute masterpiece! CHAMPION OF FATE cements Kendare Blake as one of the best fantasy authors writing today. I was enthralled by the worldbuilding and cast of characters. Reed's struggle with her sense of duty and the yearnings of her heart will have readers racing to the end and screaming for the sequel!
Read
November 16, 2023DNF @36%
Although the idea was great, unfortunately, I couldn't connect with the characters or storyline as I progressed through the story.
Overall, not for me.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Kendare Blake, HarperCollins Children's Books, and Quill Tree Books for graciously sending me the E-Book to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
Although the idea was great, unfortunately, I couldn't connect with the characters or storyline as I progressed through the story.
Overall, not for me.
***Thank you to NetGalley, Kendare Blake, HarperCollins Children's Books, and Quill Tree Books for graciously sending me the E-Book to review. As always, all thoughts are my own.***
July 28, 2024
the premise was so good. i loved the original concept of powerful warrior women leading heroes to glory and fame. i really loved reed as a heroine too.
but this was BORING. the pacing was unimaginably slow. things happened, conversations happened, characters were introduced, and yet i still felt as if nothing was happening. the ‘chemistry’ between hestion and reed was nonexistent and flimsy.
how do u make a book with this cool of a concept AND with forbidden romance so goddamn boring??
but this was BORING. the pacing was unimaginably slow. things happened, conversations happened, characters were introduced, and yet i still felt as if nothing was happening. the ‘chemistry’ between hestion and reed was nonexistent and flimsy.
how do u make a book with this cool of a concept AND with forbidden romance so goddamn boring??
August 24, 2023
Check out this review and more on The Quill to Live!
After dropping Kendare Blake’s Three Dark Crowns series, I wanted to see what the cards held for me in her newest book, Champion of Fate. I thought the premise of immortal women sent to turn men and women into heroes was intriguing, and I was more than ready to follow them into battle, but ultimately the book’s issues were too many, and it couldn’t win me over.
The immortal Aristene warriors are sent out into the world to make heroes of men and women. Through their heroes' incredible feats, the Aristene create glory that honors and sustains their goddess, Kleia Gloria. Reed, Lyonene, and Gretchen have been marked by the goddess and have spent their entire lives training as Aristene initiates. When the time comes for their hero trial, the initiates find themselves sent to allying heroes on the brink of war. Reed has found a home among the Aristene and will stop at nothing to make her hero shine in glory, but this trial will become more than a test for Reed, and her failure could put the entire Aristene order in danger.
Reading Champion was difficult for many reasons, but one of the biggest hurdles was the clunky prose. The writing is focused on moving the plot forward, and the story suffers for it. The scenes bump up against one another uncomfortably because there is no connective tissue that builds up to each main plot point. The reader moves from scene to scene ungracefully, and this makes it impossible for the story to have any meaningful substance. All of the characters have flimsy connections to one another and their “development” comes in jumps and starts that don’t make sense. It also makes their actions appear irrational in the context of the story, swinging from love to vile hatred in a matter of paragraphs if it is convenient for the plot. The pacing is moving at such a rapid speed that instead of becoming immersed in the story, I was dragged along behind it and it wasn’t an enjoyable experience.
The premise of this book sounded interesting in theory, but the execution was disappointing. The entire plot centers on women who are selected to train and become powerful, immortal Aristene. They are incredible warriors who have the skills to prop up other people and turn them into heroes. Even as an initiate on her first hero trial, Reed is a talented warrior with incomprehensible fighting prowess. Yet at every turn, Reed’s champion is constantly worrying about her safety in battle. Initially, this feels like a lean into the doubt surrounding a woman’s strength trope. However, the champion is always the first one to come to Reed’s defense when other men question her purpose. Alternatively, this may be an attempt to show that the champion cares for Reed, but again, this is a weird choice because he often remarks that he wants a fierce and capable woman at his side. Maybe we are supposed to be learning something about his internalized sexism through his inconsistencies, but if that’s true Champion doesn’t do enough to capitalize on the theme for it to stick.
All of this is to say that many of my issues with this book stem from the same place. Champion says one thing but fails to back up its claims time and time again. It’s Reed being hyped up as a badass yet she doesn’t demonstrate the feats of a heromaker. It’s the gravity given to the Aristene lore and rules, but they are easily broken to create an easier pathway for Reed. It’s all of the major battles and action scenes that begin and end within a matter of pages. Even with the fast-moving plot, I felt directionless and lost in this volatile story that struggled to stay rooted in the world that was created.
Champion of Fate fails to follow through on so much and by the 50% mark, I was tired of being let down. I pushed forward to finish the book but unfortunately, my feelings did not change, so here is where my time with the Heromaker series ends.
Rating: Champion of Fate - 4.0/10
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. The thoughts on this story are my own.
After dropping Kendare Blake’s Three Dark Crowns series, I wanted to see what the cards held for me in her newest book, Champion of Fate. I thought the premise of immortal women sent to turn men and women into heroes was intriguing, and I was more than ready to follow them into battle, but ultimately the book’s issues were too many, and it couldn’t win me over.
The immortal Aristene warriors are sent out into the world to make heroes of men and women. Through their heroes' incredible feats, the Aristene create glory that honors and sustains their goddess, Kleia Gloria. Reed, Lyonene, and Gretchen have been marked by the goddess and have spent their entire lives training as Aristene initiates. When the time comes for their hero trial, the initiates find themselves sent to allying heroes on the brink of war. Reed has found a home among the Aristene and will stop at nothing to make her hero shine in glory, but this trial will become more than a test for Reed, and her failure could put the entire Aristene order in danger.
Reading Champion was difficult for many reasons, but one of the biggest hurdles was the clunky prose. The writing is focused on moving the plot forward, and the story suffers for it. The scenes bump up against one another uncomfortably because there is no connective tissue that builds up to each main plot point. The reader moves from scene to scene ungracefully, and this makes it impossible for the story to have any meaningful substance. All of the characters have flimsy connections to one another and their “development” comes in jumps and starts that don’t make sense. It also makes their actions appear irrational in the context of the story, swinging from love to vile hatred in a matter of paragraphs if it is convenient for the plot. The pacing is moving at such a rapid speed that instead of becoming immersed in the story, I was dragged along behind it and it wasn’t an enjoyable experience.
The premise of this book sounded interesting in theory, but the execution was disappointing. The entire plot centers on women who are selected to train and become powerful, immortal Aristene. They are incredible warriors who have the skills to prop up other people and turn them into heroes. Even as an initiate on her first hero trial, Reed is a talented warrior with incomprehensible fighting prowess. Yet at every turn, Reed’s champion is constantly worrying about her safety in battle. Initially, this feels like a lean into the doubt surrounding a woman’s strength trope. However, the champion is always the first one to come to Reed’s defense when other men question her purpose. Alternatively, this may be an attempt to show that the champion cares for Reed, but again, this is a weird choice because he often remarks that he wants a fierce and capable woman at his side. Maybe we are supposed to be learning something about his internalized sexism through his inconsistencies, but if that’s true Champion doesn’t do enough to capitalize on the theme for it to stick.
All of this is to say that many of my issues with this book stem from the same place. Champion says one thing but fails to back up its claims time and time again. It’s Reed being hyped up as a badass yet she doesn’t demonstrate the feats of a heromaker. It’s the gravity given to the Aristene lore and rules, but they are easily broken to create an easier pathway for Reed. It’s all of the major battles and action scenes that begin and end within a matter of pages. Even with the fast-moving plot, I felt directionless and lost in this volatile story that struggled to stay rooted in the world that was created.
Champion of Fate fails to follow through on so much and by the 50% mark, I was tired of being let down. I pushed forward to finish the book but unfortunately, my feelings did not change, so here is where my time with the Heromaker series ends.
Rating: Champion of Fate - 4.0/10
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. The thoughts on this story are my own.
October 7, 2024
Calling booktok! I found an incredible book that needs to be read!!
Champion of Fate is just phenomenal! The plot...*book lovers kiss*. I have simply never read something that is just this jaw dropping!
This gorgeous cover just called to read so I took my chances! First things first, there is so much information! Lots of names you got to remembers and I often flipped back.
The romance is very, very, VERY insta-love (but I didn't mind really)...throw in some forced proximity..and a huge heaping of 'we can't be together'..well it had me giggling non-stop!
Every. Single. Character was just amazing! I loved them all, especially Sar and his crazy humor and personality. Gotta love those side characters!
It was a little slow in the beginning, mostly because it started out with a backstory but after a bit it's pretty fast paced. And I can't wait for book 2!
*Ahem* I'm just saying but...tiktok needs to get a grip on this book! (and everyone else).
~4.5
Champion of Fate is just phenomenal! The plot...*book lovers kiss*. I have simply never read something that is just this jaw dropping!
This gorgeous cover just called to read so I took my chances! First things first, there is so much information! Lots of names you got to remembers and I often flipped back.
The romance is very, very, VERY insta-love (but I didn't mind really)...throw in some forced proximity..and a huge heaping of 'we can't be together'..well it had me giggling non-stop!
Every. Single. Character was just amazing! I loved them all, especially Sar and his crazy humor and personality. Gotta love those side characters!
It was a little slow in the beginning, mostly because it started out with a backstory but after a bit it's pretty fast paced. And I can't wait for book 2!
*Ahem* I'm just saying but...tiktok needs to get a grip on this book! (and everyone else).
~4.5
February 1, 2024
Rating: 3.8 to 4 stars
(1) I admit I have been skipping through the book, the plots and the characters are just boring. I don't hate these characters but I am not very engaged with them.
(2) The concepts are good, but so far, let me repeat myself, the plots and the characters are just uninteresting.
(3) I wish I was reading 'All These Bodies' by the same author because this one sounds more interesting but sadly it isn't in the library system.
(4) I warn you, things only pick up around page 220.
(5) Well, I am at page 300 and the part about the upcoming war isn't bad, so I will hang around for a while.
(6) The ending really boosts the rating from 2-3 stars to 4 stars. It is...untraditional to say the least...
(7) To be honest, I don't feel the brutality and horror of the war and the monstrous king is fully driven home to us readers, I still like there is no woman-on-woman hating or stupid love triangle going on when people are preparing for a war.
(8) This book isn't perfect, it has it ups and downs, but I will stay tuned for the sequel.
(9) I must hope against hope that in the next book.
(10) It is refreshing to see the heroine's bonding with her beloved horse although I don't feel their bond is so amazingly written, it's okay-ish, but still.
(11) I do enjoy the sisterly bonds among the girls, though! I hope to see more interaction among those three!
(1) I admit I have been skipping through the book, the plots and the characters are just boring. I don't hate these characters but I am not very engaged with them.
(2) The concepts are good, but so far, let me repeat myself, the plots and the characters are just uninteresting.
(3) I wish I was reading 'All These Bodies' by the same author because this one sounds more interesting but sadly it isn't in the library system.
(4) I warn you, things only pick up around page 220.
(5) Well, I am at page 300 and the part about the upcoming war isn't bad, so I will hang around for a while.
(6) The ending really boosts the rating from 2-3 stars to 4 stars. It is...untraditional to say the least...
(7) To be honest, I don't feel the brutality and horror of the war and the monstrous king is fully driven home to us readers, I still like there is no woman-on-woman hating or stupid love triangle going on when people are preparing for a war.
(8) This book isn't perfect, it has it ups and downs, but I will stay tuned for the sequel.
(9) I must hope against hope that in the next book.
(10) It is refreshing to see the heroine's bonding with her beloved horse although I don't feel their bond is so amazingly written, it's okay-ish, but still.
(11) I do enjoy the sisterly bonds among the girls, though! I hope to see more interaction among those three!
July 3, 2024
When the premise is so good but execution is so boring.
September 29, 2023
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
That book was PHENOMENAL 🤩
THE CHARACTERS the story plot THE PACE
Such a find can't wait for book 2 omg
That book was PHENOMENAL 🤩
THE CHARACTERS the story plot THE PACE
Such a find can't wait for book 2 omg
Want to read
July 24, 2023Kendare Blake is probably the FIRST author that comes to mind when I think of horror/dark fantasy. So stoked for this!
💖 Anna Dressed in Blood: 5 stars
💖 Girl of Nightmares: 5 stars
💖 Three Dark Crowns: 3 stars
💖 Antigoddess: 4.5 stars
💖 Anna Dressed in Blood: 5 stars
💖 Girl of Nightmares: 5 stars
💖 Three Dark Crowns: 3 stars
💖 Antigoddess: 4.5 stars
September 13, 2023
I really enjoyed this book! I actually didn't realize that this was the same author as Anna Dressed in Blood until I was almost finished with this one, but I'm so glad that I read it. This author has a way of creating worlds that is so interesting. I pretty much read this one in one day because I couldn't put it down. I liked the characters and the plot. I enjoyed the world building, and I'm excited to read the next one in this series! If you enjoy YA Fantasy, then definitely check this one out.
August 31, 2023
I was extremely excited to receive a digital advanced copy of Champion of Fate! Kendare Blake is one of the few young adult authors that I still read on a regular basis because I love her darker and more unpredictable stories that tend to keep the pace moving and my interest level high. As a bonus we have sentient horses here too, from a KB other than Kristen Britain!
I think my favorite thing about Champion of Fate is that I was expecting it to follow “the YA formula”, and it started to, but then didn’t. Blake isn’t afraid to go off the beaten path, break a few hearts, kill people off, wreak mayhem, and keep things generally interesting.
I also love that she doesn’t fall into the YA trap of repetitive inner monologue. Reed and Hestion both have great character arcs without dwelling repetitively on their issues. The story is fast paced and stays fresh throughout which created a book that felt much shorter than 480 pages and was hard to put down.
“Wait WHAT, you couldn’t put a YA book down!?!?”
“You heard me!”
Anyone who knows me also knows that I’ve got a lifelong obsession with the Green Rider series, and the magically enhanced sentient horses. I wondered at times while reading the Three Dark Crowns series if Blake was a rider, but now we know for sure. I was so happy to see snarky, sentient, immortal horses in the book. *Quick, add this one to Kristen’s book list*!
I liked Reed and her Aristene training
I mean there’s a lot to say but what you guys need to know is that if you like warrior women, magical orders with secrets, sentient horses, happy-sad endings and fast paced books where you’re never quite sure who the villain is going to be or what’s going to happen, this is a good one for you.
Blake can get more than a little dark and occasionally gorey too so I do recommend this one for upper/mature teens. There is also a little more promiscuity and references to multiple partners that I would give to a teen without parental guidance, although the main character does not partake in this.
There’s a lot to say but what you guys need to know is that if you like warrior women, magical orders with secrets, sentient horses, happy-sad endings and fast paced books where you’re never quite sure who the villain is going to be or what’s going to happen, this is a good one for you. I think adults can easily enjoy it too.
Thanks for checking out my book review of Champion of Fate by Kendare Blake. I received a free digital advanced copy via NetGalley and as always, all opinions are my own ❤️
I think my favorite thing about Champion of Fate is that I was expecting it to follow “the YA formula”, and it started to, but then didn’t. Blake isn’t afraid to go off the beaten path, break a few hearts, kill people off, wreak mayhem, and keep things generally interesting.
I also love that she doesn’t fall into the YA trap of repetitive inner monologue. Reed and Hestion both have great character arcs without dwelling repetitively on their issues. The story is fast paced and stays fresh throughout which created a book that felt much shorter than 480 pages and was hard to put down.
“Wait WHAT, you couldn’t put a YA book down!?!?”
“You heard me!”
Anyone who knows me also knows that I’ve got a lifelong obsession with the Green Rider series, and the magically enhanced sentient horses. I wondered at times while reading the Three Dark Crowns series if Blake was a rider, but now we know for sure. I was so happy to see snarky, sentient, immortal horses in the book. *Quick, add this one to Kristen’s book list*!
I liked Reed and her Aristene training
I mean there’s a lot to say but what you guys need to know is that if you like warrior women, magical orders with secrets, sentient horses, happy-sad endings and fast paced books where you’re never quite sure who the villain is going to be or what’s going to happen, this is a good one for you.
Blake can get more than a little dark and occasionally gorey too so I do recommend this one for upper/mature teens. There is also a little more promiscuity and references to multiple partners that I would give to a teen without parental guidance, although the main character does not partake in this.
There’s a lot to say but what you guys need to know is that if you like warrior women, magical orders with secrets, sentient horses, happy-sad endings and fast paced books where you’re never quite sure who the villain is going to be or what’s going to happen, this is a good one for you. I think adults can easily enjoy it too.
Thanks for checking out my book review of Champion of Fate by Kendare Blake. I received a free digital advanced copy via NetGalley and as always, all opinions are my own ❤️
May 31, 2023
5/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
I LOOVEEEEE fantasy book with a strong female mc and Kendare Blake delivered. I have her “Three Dark Crowns” series sitting on my bookshelf in my bedroom and now I’m thinking I need to immediately read that series. Also, how am I supposed to wait possibly several years for the next book to be released????
I hate a love/hate relationship with long fantasy books like this one because SO MUCH happens, but also SO MUCH happens and I just want to know how it ends!!! I could not have seen this ending coming, but it was so worth it.
Found family, FMC character development!!!, a little romance, everything you could ever want. Delivered. 4+4= ATE.
I LOOVEEEEE fantasy book with a strong female mc and Kendare Blake delivered. I have her “Three Dark Crowns” series sitting on my bookshelf in my bedroom and now I’m thinking I need to immediately read that series. Also, how am I supposed to wait possibly several years for the next book to be released????
I hate a love/hate relationship with long fantasy books like this one because SO MUCH happens, but also SO MUCH happens and I just want to know how it ends!!! I could not have seen this ending coming, but it was so worth it.
Found family, FMC character development!!!, a little romance, everything you could ever want. Delivered. 4+4= ATE.
Want to read
January 19, 2020Okay, I just finished Five Dark Fates and it was really really good, so I'm craving some new Kendare Blake. (I mean, to be fair, I could finally read Girl of Nightmares or the Antigoddess series, but... nah.) And I love In Cold Blood, so this sounds cool! Here's hoping...
March 9, 2024
Champion of Fate
by Kendare Blake
Heromaker #1
YA Fantasy
Scribd Audio
Kindle
Ages 14+
Taken in by the Aristene, a legendary order of female warriors who help the people destined to become heroes become them, orphan Reed grew up wanting to be one. After all of her training, she gets her first hero, and if she succeeds and he becomes a hero, she will become one of the mythical Aristene, but if she fails, she'll be cast out.
But she never expected to have so many feelings for her hero, Hestion, the second born of a king, but when she finds out how she will make him a hero, she wonders if the plans she made for her future may not be those she wants.
Within the first few pages, I was curious about where Reed's life would take her. At a young age, she showed strength, though I feel there needed to be a little more about why the elder of the village shunned her as a child because the woman acted as if Reed was from a different race than her parents.
And while the pacing slowed down while being introduced to Reed's young adult life as an initiate, it picked up again as her quest began, but it slowed down again. That pacing, going from fast to slow, happened a lot. One minute I was in the story, and the next I was looking at words.
One confusing thing was Reed's Aristene's gift'. I wish it had been explained better when first introduced, because it would have made more of an impact.
But I still liked the story, plot, characters, and the intriguing world. Hopefully, the next book in the series, which I am waiting for, will have more details of the Arstene's history, world, and magic.
Almost reached the next star.
3 Stars
by Kendare Blake
Heromaker #1
YA Fantasy
Scribd Audio
Kindle
Ages 14+
Taken in by the Aristene, a legendary order of female warriors who help the people destined to become heroes become them, orphan Reed grew up wanting to be one. After all of her training, she gets her first hero, and if she succeeds and he becomes a hero, she will become one of the mythical Aristene, but if she fails, she'll be cast out.
But she never expected to have so many feelings for her hero, Hestion, the second born of a king, but when she finds out how she will make him a hero, she wonders if the plans she made for her future may not be those she wants.
Within the first few pages, I was curious about where Reed's life would take her. At a young age, she showed strength, though I feel there needed to be a little more about why the elder of the village shunned her as a child because the woman acted as if Reed was from a different race than her parents.
And while the pacing slowed down while being introduced to Reed's young adult life as an initiate, it picked up again as her quest began, but it slowed down again. That pacing, going from fast to slow, happened a lot. One minute I was in the story, and the next I was looking at words.
One confusing thing was Reed's Aristene's gift'. I wish it had been explained better when first introduced, because it would have made more of an impact.
But I still liked the story, plot, characters, and the intriguing world. Hopefully, the next book in the series, which I am waiting for, will have more details of the Arstene's history, world, and magic.
Almost reached the next star.
3 Stars
October 5, 2023
*Source* Publisher
*Genre* Young Adult / Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Champion of Fate, by Kendare Blake, is the first installment in the authors Heromaker duology. When Reed (not her real name) was 8 years old, she was treated as though she was already dead by the village wise woman. "She's not ours, so why should we get attached?" Moments later, her villain is raided and wiped out by Ithernan Raiders who try to take her back to their ship as a sacrifice since the eyes are the pathways to the soul.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
*Genre* Young Adult / Fantasy
*Rating* 4.0
*Thoughts*
Champion of Fate, by Kendare Blake, is the first installment in the authors Heromaker duology. When Reed (not her real name) was 8 years old, she was treated as though she was already dead by the village wise woman. "She's not ours, so why should we get attached?" Moments later, her villain is raided and wiped out by Ithernan Raiders who try to take her back to their ship as a sacrifice since the eyes are the pathways to the soul.
*Full Review @ Gizmos Reviews*
https://gizmosreviews.blogspot.com/20...
September 28, 2023
rep: sapphic side characters
okay the first chapter or two was genuinely sooo good and then it was all downhill from there. I feel like the three dark crowns series was not that well-written but it was compelling at least!! the characters and the writing made your feel SOMETHING.
that is not the case here; just so boring and underdeveloped in every area but particularly the romance. hestion is barely a character!! I did my worst habit of reading bad reviews when I start not feeling a book and a lot of ppl said that this was instalove, which I’m usually okay with. in this book though, they fall in love after like three small interactions with each other so I understand everyone else’s issues here.
the pacing was also bad but ngl I started skimming around the 40% mark. still, I feel like we shoved a whole war into the backend of the book while at least the first 20% was dedicated to the worldbuilding. by that I mean we learn a lot about the aristenes blah blah blah but the war itself felt like an afterthought.
anyways I think I could’ve gotten through this if anything about it was compelling even just the characters (like three dark crowns) but honestly by the end I wish I had dnf’ed instead.
okay the first chapter or two was genuinely sooo good and then it was all downhill from there. I feel like the three dark crowns series was not that well-written but it was compelling at least!! the characters and the writing made your feel SOMETHING.
that is not the case here; just so boring and underdeveloped in every area but particularly the romance. hestion is barely a character!! I did my worst habit of reading bad reviews when I start not feeling a book and a lot of ppl said that this was instalove, which I’m usually okay with. in this book though, they fall in love after like three small interactions with each other so I understand everyone else’s issues here.
the pacing was also bad but ngl I started skimming around the 40% mark. still, I feel like we shoved a whole war into the backend of the book while at least the first 20% was dedicated to the worldbuilding. by that I mean we learn a lot about the aristenes blah blah blah but the war itself felt like an afterthought.
anyways I think I could’ve gotten through this if anything about it was compelling even just the characters (like three dark crowns) but honestly by the end I wish I had dnf’ed instead.
November 25, 2023
Set in the same universe as her best selling series, Three Dark Crowns (which I have STILLLLLLL not read), Champion of Fate is the first in a duology that follows Reed and her horse, Silko, as they become members of an ancient mythical order of female warriors called the Aristene. Think Amazon women or Valkyrie who are assigned heroes to train and guide, hence the name of this series being called Heromakers.
I don’t know if it’s me or everyone, but I kept imagining this book in full movie mode with Amandla Stenberg as Reed and a backdrop similar to HBO’s Game of Thrones. It was epic in my head, because it was an EPIC fantasy!!
I am the person who LOVES an animal companion. Give me a pet with personality any day over a man (morally grey or not!) and I’m a happy boy. Silko was one of the BEST parts of this book. The fact that the entire time, she was fighting for her horse to become an honored member of the order even though they didn’t see him as being good enough showed her character even more.
I am really interested to see how this story ends in the second book. 🤔 Should I read all of Three Dark Crowns before it’s out?
I don’t know if it’s me or everyone, but I kept imagining this book in full movie mode with Amandla Stenberg as Reed and a backdrop similar to HBO’s Game of Thrones. It was epic in my head, because it was an EPIC fantasy!!
I am the person who LOVES an animal companion. Give me a pet with personality any day over a man (morally grey or not!) and I’m a happy boy. Silko was one of the BEST parts of this book. The fact that the entire time, she was fighting for her horse to become an honored member of the order even though they didn’t see him as being good enough showed her character even more.
I am really interested to see how this story ends in the second book. 🤔 Should I read all of Three Dark Crowns before it’s out?
September 21, 2023
Author: Kendare Blake
Genre: Fantasy
Age Range: Young Adult
Format: E-Book (ARC)
Published: 21st September 2023 (UK)
Pages: 467
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Goodreads Synopsis
Behind every great hero is an Aristene.
Aristene are mythical female warriors, part of a legendary order. Though heroes might be immortalized in stories, it’s the Aristene who guide them to victory. They are the Heromakers.
Ever since she was an orphan taken in by the order, Reed has wanted to be an Aristene. Now, as an initiate, just one challenge stands in her way: she must shepherd her first hero to glory on the battlefield. Succeed, and Reed will take her place beside her sisters. Fail, and she’ll be cast from the only home she’s ever known.
Nothing is going to stop Reed--until she meets her hero. Hestion is fiery and infuriating, but what begins as an alliance becomes more, and as secrets of the order come to light Reed begins to understand what becoming an Aristene may truly cost. Battle looming, she must choose: the order and the life she had planned, or Hestion, and the one she never expected.
Review
Trigger Warning: Violence, Death, Murder, Loss of a Parent, Blood, and Injury.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, however, this in no way influenced my opinion. Thank you to the publisher Rock the Boat for providing me with a copy.
This was one of my most anticipated releases of the year as I absolutely loved Kendare Blake’s Three Dark Crowns series – in fact, it’s one of my favourite series of all time. When I saw was this was available on Netgalley I knew I had to request it and I was thrilled when I was approved. I am delighted to say that this absolutely lived up to my expectations and it’s one of my favourites I’ve read this year.
From the very first page of this novel, I was completely sucked into this world and the plot, and I was kept gripped throughout by the engaging plot and trying to guess what would happen next. There were some truly great twists in here, there was one in particular that genuinely left me shocked. One of the things I Ioved about the Three Dark Crowns series was the worldbuilding and Champion of Fate was no different, the worldbuilding in this book is truly fantastic and it’s sprinkled throughout the narrative and not info dumped in big paragraphs. By the end of this book, I felt like I had a really good grip on the world and history thanks to the great worldbuilding throughout the book. Another aspect of Champion of Fate that I loved was the characters – especially our main character Reed she is such a great character, and it was so fun to follow along her journey as she tried to guide her hero Hestion. She grapples a lot throughout the book with different challenges – there was one scene in particular close to the end between her and Hestion that was heart-breaking to read and I’m wondering what will happen next with their characters. I also loved Aster and Veridian and their relationship and I am hoping that they will appear in the sequel. I am very excited to read the sequel which is due to be published next January and find out what happens to Reed next.
Overall, this was a fantastic and gripping YA Fantasy novel with great world-building and a loveable cast of characters. I highly recommend picking this one up!
Genre: Fantasy
Age Range: Young Adult
Format: E-Book (ARC)
Published: 21st September 2023 (UK)
Pages: 467
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Goodreads Synopsis
Behind every great hero is an Aristene.
Aristene are mythical female warriors, part of a legendary order. Though heroes might be immortalized in stories, it’s the Aristene who guide them to victory. They are the Heromakers.
Ever since she was an orphan taken in by the order, Reed has wanted to be an Aristene. Now, as an initiate, just one challenge stands in her way: she must shepherd her first hero to glory on the battlefield. Succeed, and Reed will take her place beside her sisters. Fail, and she’ll be cast from the only home she’s ever known.
Nothing is going to stop Reed--until she meets her hero. Hestion is fiery and infuriating, but what begins as an alliance becomes more, and as secrets of the order come to light Reed begins to understand what becoming an Aristene may truly cost. Battle looming, she must choose: the order and the life she had planned, or Hestion, and the one she never expected.
Review
Trigger Warning: Violence, Death, Murder, Loss of a Parent, Blood, and Injury.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher, however, this in no way influenced my opinion. Thank you to the publisher Rock the Boat for providing me with a copy.
This was one of my most anticipated releases of the year as I absolutely loved Kendare Blake’s Three Dark Crowns series – in fact, it’s one of my favourite series of all time. When I saw was this was available on Netgalley I knew I had to request it and I was thrilled when I was approved. I am delighted to say that this absolutely lived up to my expectations and it’s one of my favourites I’ve read this year.
From the very first page of this novel, I was completely sucked into this world and the plot, and I was kept gripped throughout by the engaging plot and trying to guess what would happen next. There were some truly great twists in here, there was one in particular that genuinely left me shocked. One of the things I Ioved about the Three Dark Crowns series was the worldbuilding and Champion of Fate was no different, the worldbuilding in this book is truly fantastic and it’s sprinkled throughout the narrative and not info dumped in big paragraphs. By the end of this book, I felt like I had a really good grip on the world and history thanks to the great worldbuilding throughout the book. Another aspect of Champion of Fate that I loved was the characters – especially our main character Reed she is such a great character, and it was so fun to follow along her journey as she tried to guide her hero Hestion. She grapples a lot throughout the book with different challenges – there was one scene in particular close to the end between her and Hestion that was heart-breaking to read and I’m wondering what will happen next with their characters. I also loved Aster and Veridian and their relationship and I am hoping that they will appear in the sequel. I am very excited to read the sequel which is due to be published next January and find out what happens to Reed next.
Overall, this was a fantastic and gripping YA Fantasy novel with great world-building and a loveable cast of characters. I highly recommend picking this one up!
March 13, 2024
4.5 ⭐️ rounded to a 5
As expected, this was such a good book! I mean, Kendare Blake does not let me down. I can't stop thinking about Reed and the other Aristene even though it’s been days after I finished it. Although the start felt a bit slow, the whole premise alone kept me going and could’ve kept me going regardless of how I felt. The descriptions, the plot, the suspense, the fighting… it was all so *chefs kiss*. Honestly, I thought the slower beginning helped build up the story really well, so I did not mind it and appreciated it so much as I kept reading.
I really loved the friendship between Reed, Lyonene, and Gretchen. They had each other's backs while balancing what's right for themselves and the greater good. It was heartwarming to see. Reading this book made me realize that not every nice girl in a story has to turn out to be a backstabber lol It’s truly crazy how many books and movies show girls backstabbing other girls after being nice or pretending to be nice. Of course, none of the girls were perfect and had their humaness, but in the end they stuck by each other.
Without spoiling the ending, I do want to say, I love the ending even though it’s not the choice I found myself wanting Reed to choose in the moment. That is to say, I’m not sure I would’ve really been happy had Reed gone towards the direction I was rooting for 🤷🏻♀️ ? All this vague beating around the bush to say, when I compare to Blake’s Three Dark Crown series, I find it so interesting how she can make us understand and fleshes out choices that might’ve been different from what we would’ve chosen.
As expected, this was such a good book! I mean, Kendare Blake does not let me down. I can't stop thinking about Reed and the other Aristene even though it’s been days after I finished it. Although the start felt a bit slow, the whole premise alone kept me going and could’ve kept me going regardless of how I felt. The descriptions, the plot, the suspense, the fighting… it was all so *chefs kiss*. Honestly, I thought the slower beginning helped build up the story really well, so I did not mind it and appreciated it so much as I kept reading.
I really loved the friendship between Reed, Lyonene, and Gretchen. They had each other's backs while balancing what's right for themselves and the greater good. It was heartwarming to see. Reading this book made me realize that not every nice girl in a story has to turn out to be a backstabber lol It’s truly crazy how many books and movies show girls backstabbing other girls after being nice or pretending to be nice. Of course, none of the girls were perfect and had their humaness, but in the end they stuck by each other.
Without spoiling the ending, I do want to say, I love the ending even though it’s not the choice I found myself wanting Reed to choose in the moment. That is to say, I’m not sure I would’ve really been happy had Reed gone towards the direction I was rooting for 🤷🏻♀️ ? All this vague beating around the bush to say, when I compare to Blake’s Three Dark Crown series, I find it so interesting how she can make us understand and fleshes out choices that might’ve been different from what we would’ve chosen.
January 26, 2024
4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Champion of Fate
Author: Kendare Blake
Heromaker #1
This book was captivating and immersive from the very beginning. Our FMC Reeds village is destroyed and she is left for dead when she is taken in by the Aristene who are mythical bad a$$ female warriors! To fully become one you must guide a hero to victory. I have been having a hard time with YA fantasy lately and I didn’t feel that way with this book at all. It kept me hooked and wanting to know more. There was world building but it wasn’t too confusing and slumpy like some fantasy can tend to be. I enjoyed all the characters and especially all the 🐎🐎🐎! I did not read this authors other series yet but after this one I’m interested. Add it to your TBR!
Champion of Fate
Author: Kendare Blake
Heromaker #1
This book was captivating and immersive from the very beginning. Our FMC Reeds village is destroyed and she is left for dead when she is taken in by the Aristene who are mythical bad a$$ female warriors! To fully become one you must guide a hero to victory. I have been having a hard time with YA fantasy lately and I didn’t feel that way with this book at all. It kept me hooked and wanting to know more. There was world building but it wasn’t too confusing and slumpy like some fantasy can tend to be. I enjoyed all the characters and especially all the 🐎🐎🐎! I did not read this authors other series yet but after this one I’m interested. Add it to your TBR!
March 21, 2024
MY goodness. I was not attached to these characters at ALL and I will not be reading the next book. the closest I will get to that is reading a synopsis of it. I'm so sorry to all the people who loved this but it was NOT for me, I hated reading this.
September 30, 2024
Le début horriblement ennuyeux. Et puis à partir de la moitié du livre c’était rythmé, épique !
November 22, 2023
Mmmm yes fantasy girlie and horsies and heroes and glory!! Cliche and stereotypical actions that were cancelled out by just what a fun world this book is set in. Cant wait to read the rest of the series 💅
September 30, 2023
We meet Reed as a small girl in a village with her family just before they are slaughtered. She is "adopted" by a mythical warrior and taken to their magical city to train to apply as one of the Aristene (think Wonder Woman's Amazon's). In order to go from initiate to full-fledged warrior she must serve as a mercenary to lead a specific person to victory. Her hero, is of course, handsome and intriguing. But the Aristene are immortal, if she is able to become one, and she is not to make regular human bonds. So she must fight beside her hero without becoming too attached so that she can ensure her fate as an Aristene.
This is a fantasy that hits all the traditional beats but I didn't find it predictable in any way. I loved Reed as a character, she was so confident and unbending and yet completely vulnerable and open to evolving. She was a female warrior constantly looking to prove herself and yet also surrounded by other powerful women. I like the idea of challenging gender roles even when it's abundantly clear they should not still be proving themselves, it mirrors the world today. I loved the animal companions and that the secondary characters had their own backstories. Great piece of YA fantasy.
The ending was complete and clear and yet left room for more. Not one of these annoying cliffhangers that are so popular these days.
Thanks to Booksparks for the gifted copy. All opinions above are my own.
This is a fantasy that hits all the traditional beats but I didn't find it predictable in any way. I loved Reed as a character, she was so confident and unbending and yet completely vulnerable and open to evolving. She was a female warrior constantly looking to prove herself and yet also surrounded by other powerful women. I like the idea of challenging gender roles even when it's abundantly clear they should not still be proving themselves, it mirrors the world today. I loved the animal companions and that the secondary characters had their own backstories. Great piece of YA fantasy.
The ending was complete and clear and yet left room for more. Not one of these annoying cliffhangers that are so popular these days.
Thanks to Booksparks for the gifted copy. All opinions above are my own.
April 16, 2024
I loved everything except the romance.
I do not believe that Reed and Hestion loved each other. I think they were romantically attracted to each other, but I did not see enough depth to their relationship—especially since it was so rushed, despite the fact that she “knew” him, having seen him in a vision long ago—to justify her dilemma. I had this issue with An Enchantment of Ravens too—I didn’t believe Rook and Isobel were in love, so the dilemma at the end felt false to me. Maybe this is just my dislike of instalove (probably my least favorite trope) but I found myself just wanting her to ditch Hestion and be fabulous on her own.
The premise of there being behind every hero an epic woman guiding him and mentoring him was really cool. I loved Reed, our strong, broad shouldered, gruff girl. She reminded me a bit of Ziva from Blade of Secrets (whom I adore) but without the anxiety disorder. I appreciated how, like in To Best the Boys, there was validation of multiple paths for women—strong warrior, wife and mother, etc. I appreciated that there wasn’t really any girl-on-girl hate also. I thought she’d end up having to fight against her friend but it didn’t happen, which was refreshing. Overall, I very much enjoyed the book.
I just really didn’t like Reed and Hestion. Which is kind of a major point of the book so that’s unfortunate.
I’ll definitely be reading book two whenever it comes out, though!
I do not believe that Reed and Hestion loved each other. I think they were romantically attracted to each other, but I did not see enough depth to their relationship—especially since it was so rushed, despite the fact that she “knew” him, having seen him in a vision long ago—to justify her dilemma. I had this issue with An Enchantment of Ravens too—I didn’t believe Rook and Isobel were in love, so the dilemma at the end felt false to me. Maybe this is just my dislike of instalove (probably my least favorite trope) but I found myself just wanting her to ditch Hestion and be fabulous on her own.
The premise of there being behind every hero an epic woman guiding him and mentoring him was really cool. I loved Reed, our strong, broad shouldered, gruff girl. She reminded me a bit of Ziva from Blade of Secrets (whom I adore) but without the anxiety disorder. I appreciated how, like in To Best the Boys, there was validation of multiple paths for women—strong warrior, wife and mother, etc. I appreciated that there wasn’t really any girl-on-girl hate also. I thought she’d end up having to fight against her friend but it didn’t happen, which was refreshing. Overall, I very much enjoyed the book.
I just really didn’t like Reed and Hestion. Which is kind of a major point of the book so that’s unfortunate.
I’ll definitely be reading book two whenever it comes out, though!
January 10, 2024
Imagine a Themyscira warrior training island + a Mists of Avalon Veil & politics (women imbued with magic aiding great heroes doing great deeds; afraid of a “new power” on the rise that would annihilate them) + Mercedes Lackey + gladiator level fight scenes (but it’s war, not a display), and you would get a good idea of what this book is.
I loved it! It really felt nostalgic because of all of these elements, but it didn’t feel tired. I also really appreciated a lack of cliff hanger (just some light teases of what might be to come). I will definitely be picking up the sequel!
Why 4 and not 5 stars? Well, the romance didn’t quite sell me. I think I’ve grown more critical of how a romance is developed after reading Romance, so this may not bother teen fantasy readers who enjoy a romantic subplot as much. There are certainly plot elements that hinge on the romance, but I wouldn’t categorize this as a Romance. I also wouldn’t suggest it for romantasy fans, there just isn’t enough time dedicated to the relationship for it to hit that level. Which isn’t a knock at the book, more of an FYI for readers’ advisory. However, if you have a reader who wants light romance and more feelings/statements rather than steamy action, this could be a good fit.
I loved it! It really felt nostalgic because of all of these elements, but it didn’t feel tired. I also really appreciated a lack of cliff hanger (just some light teases of what might be to come). I will definitely be picking up the sequel!
Why 4 and not 5 stars? Well, the romance didn’t quite sell me. I think I’ve grown more critical of how a romance is developed after reading Romance, so this may not bother teen fantasy readers who enjoy a romantic subplot as much. There are certainly plot elements that hinge on the romance, but I wouldn’t categorize this as a Romance. I also wouldn’t suggest it for romantasy fans, there just isn’t enough time dedicated to the relationship for it to hit that level. Which isn’t a knock at the book, more of an FYI for readers’ advisory. However, if you have a reader who wants light romance and more feelings/statements rather than steamy action, this could be a good fit.
February 17, 2024
This was a lovely story, and the acknowledgements are deeply sad and beautiful.
This was also my first Kendare Blake book, so I was very excited to read something by her! I'm pleased to say it was well worth it.
I would classify this as leaning more towards the atmospheric type of book, where the world and the characters come a step before the plot itself. But nonetheless, I thought this was fun, original and I didn't want it to end.
Reed was a great main character; a no-nonsense sort of girl who's doing her best to meet expectations and prove herself worthy. The concept of the Aristene was wonderfully interesting, and I loved have complex their role it and how Blake developed that. The idealisation of glory in war was surprisingly refreshing – usually I like fantasy stories where war is tragic and horrid, but there was something fun about the pursuit of glory in this book that was both palatable and intriguing. You'll have to read it to really understand what I'm trying to say.
I can't wait to read about more of Reed's adventures – and I certainly can't wait to read more of Blake's books.
This was also my first Kendare Blake book, so I was very excited to read something by her! I'm pleased to say it was well worth it.
I would classify this as leaning more towards the atmospheric type of book, where the world and the characters come a step before the plot itself. But nonetheless, I thought this was fun, original and I didn't want it to end.
Reed was a great main character; a no-nonsense sort of girl who's doing her best to meet expectations and prove herself worthy. The concept of the Aristene was wonderfully interesting, and I loved have complex their role it and how Blake developed that. The idealisation of glory in war was surprisingly refreshing – usually I like fantasy stories where war is tragic and horrid, but there was something fun about the pursuit of glory in this book that was both palatable and intriguing. You'll have to read it to really understand what I'm trying to say.
I can't wait to read about more of Reed's adventures – and I certainly can't wait to read more of Blake's books.
June 25, 2023
I've always had a thing for Valkyrie and Amazonian inspired story, so I immediately jump on Champion of Fate when I read the summary.
Let me just say, I can not express how blow away I was by this tale, and it's just the first book!
And I'm so grateful there'll be more, or I would boycott! Because I simply could not accept the deviation and grief the journey created...
Let me just say, I can not express how blow away I was by this tale, and it's just the first book!
And I'm so grateful there'll be more, or I would boycott! Because I simply could not accept the deviation and grief the journey created...
October 5, 2023
The fantasy novel for all the horse girls. And I mean that in the most positive of ways. This is one of those YA novels that feels like it's also for adults. The characters are ambitious and strong in all the best ways.
In "Champion of Fate" by Kendare Blake, the story unfolds when raiders brutally assault Reed's village, leaving her as the lone survivor, selected as a sacrifice to ensure safe travels for the very people who shattered her world. Her journey takes an unexpected turn as she finds herself in the company of a young and disgruntled colt; the raiders' second chosen offering. Rescue comes in the form of two Aristene warriors, a select group of immortal women, and their blessed steeds. Empowered by the grace of their goddess and her mystical abilities, the Aristene are bound by a solemn duty: to accompany heroes on their quests for glory, regardless of the sacrifices it entails.
Now an initiate of the order, she faces her ultimate challenge: guiding her first hero to victory in battle. Success will secure her place among her sisters, while failure would mean exile from the only home she has left. Reed's determination is unwavering until she meets her hero, Hestion. Hidden truths about the order come to light and Reed grapples with the true cost of becoming an Aristene. With a looming battle, she must make a critical choice between her planned life within the order and the unexpected connection she finds with Hestion.
"Champion of Fate" offers a richly detailed and deliberate narrative. While it may progress at a measured pace, the storytelling is expertly executed, immersing readers in a world of heroes and war, love and sacrifice. The emotional weight of Reed's decisions and the consequences resonate deeply, making for a well-crafted tale set in a complex and engaging world. The horses really made this even more endearing than it would be otherwise. The connection between the perpetually grumpy Silco and Reed was hilarious and sweet, and it felt genuine.
As Reed navigates her new and perilous path, the novel explores the unexpected twists of fate. With richly developed characters and a meticulously crafted world, "Champion of Fate" promises an immersive reading experience that delves into the complexities of destiny and the bonds forged in the face of adversity.
Thank you to Netgalley, HarperCollins Children's Books, and Quill Tree Books for the eARC. This is an honest review.
4.5/5
In "Champion of Fate" by Kendare Blake, the story unfolds when raiders brutally assault Reed's village, leaving her as the lone survivor, selected as a sacrifice to ensure safe travels for the very people who shattered her world. Her journey takes an unexpected turn as she finds herself in the company of a young and disgruntled colt; the raiders' second chosen offering. Rescue comes in the form of two Aristene warriors, a select group of immortal women, and their blessed steeds. Empowered by the grace of their goddess and her mystical abilities, the Aristene are bound by a solemn duty: to accompany heroes on their quests for glory, regardless of the sacrifices it entails.
Now an initiate of the order, she faces her ultimate challenge: guiding her first hero to victory in battle. Success will secure her place among her sisters, while failure would mean exile from the only home she has left. Reed's determination is unwavering until she meets her hero, Hestion. Hidden truths about the order come to light and Reed grapples with the true cost of becoming an Aristene. With a looming battle, she must make a critical choice between her planned life within the order and the unexpected connection she finds with Hestion.
"Champion of Fate" offers a richly detailed and deliberate narrative. While it may progress at a measured pace, the storytelling is expertly executed, immersing readers in a world of heroes and war, love and sacrifice. The emotional weight of Reed's decisions and the consequences resonate deeply, making for a well-crafted tale set in a complex and engaging world. The horses really made this even more endearing than it would be otherwise. The connection between the perpetually grumpy Silco and Reed was hilarious and sweet, and it felt genuine.
As Reed navigates her new and perilous path, the novel explores the unexpected twists of fate. With richly developed characters and a meticulously crafted world, "Champion of Fate" promises an immersive reading experience that delves into the complexities of destiny and the bonds forged in the face of adversity.
Thank you to Netgalley, HarperCollins Children's Books, and Quill Tree Books for the eARC. This is an honest review.
4.5/5
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