Of Spirit & Hope (Forsaken By The Gods #1) Review

 


Mood:

Have you ever picked up a book when you were in a reading slump and been so absorbed in it that you finished it in one sitting? Well, in this book, that's what happened to me. And I kind of anticipated it. I've now read five books by the author, and I've adored each and every one of them.

Summary:

We are introduced to the world, which is mostly divided into five sections and one island. In this world, everyone has power, and when children reach the age of twelve, they are blessed with powers by God. Thaeia and Nor are planning to explore the world together with their powers. It's Thaeia's twelfth birthday tomorrow, and Nor has already received his power a few months back. Now all that is left to do is wait and see.

Thaeia is anxious and eager for the ceremony, but when her ability doesn't manifest at the stroke of midnight on her twelfth birthday, her society—including her best friend, Nor—brands her as a curse. In addition to not having power, she found that she has the ability to sap the power of others if they step near her; they only get their powers back when they are away. The Void, is what they have started to call her.

Nor, Thaeia's best friend, abandoned her, called her names, and teased her endlessly. But when he discovered that Thaeia had planned to leave the island for some unknown reason, he realized that he could not let her go.

Plot, world-building, and magic system:

Since this is the first book in the series, we are given an introduction to the world and its magic in addition to receiving the map. The magic here was wonderful. I loved the magic here. The magic system in this world is kind of unique; people have different kinds of powers, such as the ability to manipulate the threads of the fabric they are touching, the ability to shine brilliantly, the ability to behave like a siren, etc. I had so much fun discovering everyone's power.

Writing

It is written beautifully; the words flow evenly, and the pacing is maintained throughout. We have two points of view, one from Thaeia and another from Nor. I loved both of their voices, sometimes preferring Thaeia over Nor, other times vice versa.

Characters

All of the characters were great, and many of them made my list of favorites, but I also found myself attempting to decipher their motivations and self-interests. And I believe the author did this on purpose.

Relationships and spice:

This is the most amazing part of the book. In her characters, the author has crafted deep emotions that result in equally complicated and healthy relationships. And the romance is on another level; I was shipping the characters throughout and was wishing to read their scenes together again and again. The spice in this book will likely appeal to readers who prefer their books spicy, but non-spice readers won't find anything repulsive about it.

ARC:

I received an ARC of this book for an honest opinion.

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