Tuesday 8 December 2009

FANTASY REVIEW: Fire - Kristin Cashore

BOOK BLURB:

A must-read title for all fans of Patrick Rothfuss and Trudi Canavan, FIRE is an exceptional fantasy novel. From the deft characterisation to the gripping story, the fast-paced action to the evocative prose, this is one of the strongest fantasy novels of the year. Set in a world of stunningly beautiful, exceptionally dangerous monsters, Fire is one of the most dangerous monsters of all - a human one. Marked out by her vivid red hair, she's more than attractive. Fire is mesmerising. But with this extraordinary beauty comes influence and power. People who are susceptible to her appeal will do anything for her attention, and for her affection. They will turn away from their families, their work, and their duties for her. They will forget their responsibilities to please her . . . and worse, crush nations, neglect kingdoms and abuse their power. Aware of her power, and afraid of it, Fire lives in a corner of the world away from people, and away from temptation. Until the day comes when she is needed - a day when, for her king, she has to stand against not only his enemies, but also against herself . . .


REVIEW:

As you may be aware, I wasn’t the biggest fan of Kristin’s first novel Graceling. This one clearly demonstrates that Kristin has not only the talent but feels like she’s more humble and able to take constructive critism as a lot of the problems I had with the previous were fixed within.

Whilst a prequel the novel was better constructed with superior story arc, cracking descriptive text but above all a character I could really get behind. Whilst Kristin won’t appeal to everyone, this series really will have me reaching for the next novel as I truly believe that she’s found her voice. I just hope that she continues to improve as much with the next novel as this as lets be honest, she’ll be a contestant for a few awards.

1 comment:

Selestial said...

I've heard good and bad about Cashmore's books. Might give them a try.