Wow, this book is so amazingly good. If you’re fond of epic fantasy, political machinations, and soulmates this is a book you should absolutely read!
Dèmi grew up having to keep her abilities secret because just before her birth the kingdom of Ìfe was conquered and all Oluson persecuted for fear of what their abilities could do against the Eingardan. One day, though, a young boy is brought to Dèmi and her mother, poisoned, and the act of saving his life condemns Dèmi’s mother. Dèmi is able to escape with her life and find family and home, but nine years later the events and people who led to Dèmi’s mother’s death are coming back to demand a price.
The writing of Forged by Blood is so beautiful and utterly engrossing. I loved the world and the way magic worked, how much of it is spiritual and a blessing. But also that there is always a price to magic, and rules about how it can be wielded. The family and community aspects were also especially good. There are such complex interpersonal dynamics at play, and so many secrets that keep changing the reality once revealed. Once I got sucked in, I found this hard to put down. And that ending! I cannot wait to see what is going to happen next because big changes have occurred. The political machinations really come to a head in the last quarter, but all the pieces have been moving since the beginning. Which, to me, really shows a strong handle of the world and the goals because for all the moving parts, they create a really amazing whole!
All around this is a fantastic read that I highly encourage picking up!