Book: City of Promise and Light by M. B. Atkins
Reviewed by Kayleigh
Rating: 5/5
When I was first invited to ARC read this book, I was so excited! The blurb hooked me instantly and this excitement continued to grow once I started reading the book. Each chapter unfolded like a treasure map, guiding me through intricate plots and captivating characters that made it hard to put down. I loved that the book started in the modern world and then moves into a world of magic and intrigue.
From the get-go, you cannot help but feel empathy towards Sybil’s plight, as the author carefully crafts her backstory and motives, drawing you into her emotional struggles, and this only evolves as the plot does, revealing layers to her character that are both relatable and complex. However, I found a lot of her choices really frustrating; her naivety held her back in situations where quick thinking was crucial. While I can understand that some of her reactions stemmed from not being from that world, she really should have picked up certain vibes way before she did! There were pivotal moments where it felt like she was almost blind to the obvious, and I had to take a lot of deep breaths at one point so I didn’t start shouting at her through my Kindle! This tension kept me engaged, but also made me wishing for her growth and awareness to come sooner rather than later.
There was just enough spice in this book to keep me on my toes, creating an exhilarating reading experience that held my attention throughout. The complex dynamics between the characters added depth and intrigue, weaving a tapestry of emotions that made every twist and turn feel impactful. I really hope the relationships we have been introduced to continue to grow and evolve as the plot unfolds. And also, Samain is the ULTIMATE green flag and I love him. His kindness, authenticity, and loyalty shine brightly amidst the chaos, making him a beacon of hope in this intricate narrative. I’ll be really upset if anything bad happens to him in future books, as seeing such a genuinely good character suffer would be a heartbreak I’m not prepared for!
I thoroughly enjoyed that this story was told through multiple points of view, as I have always loved delving into different perspectives within a narrative. Each character brought their own unique lens through which to view the events unfolding, deepening my engagement with the plot. I especially enjoyed the chapters that explored the villain’s perspective, as it provided a profound look into their psyche and motivations, effectively showing both sides of the same coin. This duality in storytelling not only enriched the overall experience but also made me hate the villain even more, as their hidden motives and intentions were laid bare This allowed me to understand the motivations behind their actions while simultaneously fueling my animosity toward them. It was fascinating truly how these insights could elevate my emotional reaction and create a more compelling and complex narrative experience. I must have said “what a pr*ck” under my breath at least 47 times!
The world building is detailed, with an interesting magic system that feels both original and immersive, yet familiar enough to engage even those who may not be avid fantasy fans. I appreciated how the author skillfully intertwines fantasy elements with modern technology, creating a unique setting where spellcasting exists alongside digital devices, resulting in a thrilling juxtaposition.
That ending has left me excited for more and I cannot wait to read City of Shadow and Bone. Overall, this was a truly enjoyable read and I would wholeheartedly recommend it for fans of dark fantasy and romantasy.