Title: Air Awakens
Author: Elise Kova
Publisher: Silver Wing Press
Synopsis: The Solaris Empire is one conquest away from uniting the continent, and the rare elemental magic sleeping in seventeen-year-old library apprentice Vhalla Yarl could shift the tides of war.
Vhalla has always been taught to fear the Tower of Sorcerers, a mysterious magic society, and has been happy in her quiet world of books. But after she unknowingly saves the life of one of the most powerful sorcerers of them all--the Crown Prince Aldrik--she finds herself enticed into his world. Now she must decide her future: Embrace her sorcery and leave the life she’s known, or eradicate her magic and remain as she’s always been. And with powerful forces lurking in the shadows, Vhalla’s indecision could cost her more than she ever imagined.
Review: Air Awakens started out SLOW, like watching water boil slow. The plot dragged, and the characters bored me to pieces. I almost DNF book one in the series until the Heartbreaker Prince whisked Vhalla to his bedchamber. (Get your minds out of the gutter, folks. It’s not what you think.) This event snagged my attention, and Prince Aldrik’s reaction to said event gave me an excuse to sit down and binge read. The world came alive, the external and internal conflict increased, as well as the sexual tension.
The graphic content toward the end of the novel surprised me in a good way. I had my suspicions about a certain character’s agenda, but I never imagined the scene that unfolded. This disturbing event shocked me just as it did Vhalla. What unfolded afterward had me wanting to throw my Kindle across the room. ;-)
Kova’s writing is easy to read. Her characters, once you get to know them, are engaging and flawed. I thoroughly enjoyed the first installment in the Air Awaken Series and I can’t wait to dive into book two.
Triggers/Warnings: graphic content, physical abuse
Plot: 4/5
Pacing: 4/5
Escapism Factor: 4/5
Emotional Connection: 4/5
Character Development: 4/5
Star Rating:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Completed Read: July 2021