Violet Knight, heir to Merrydian the world’s most powerful wizard, finds herself in an unconceivably difficult position. Having unwittingly awoken the witch she must master the magic within to fight the forces of evil that conspire against her in an attempt to steal her heart.
Merrydian knows that Violet is too inexperienced and that Agrona’s power is too great. The only solution Merrydian can find is a spell. A spell that will increase Violet’s magical ability, giving her a fighting chance against Agrona but that spell is also a hex. Not only will the spell curse Violet but the three essential ingredients to perform the spell are protected by dangerous creatures not easily overcome by a teenage girl and her elderly wizard ancestor. Just how far is Violet willing to go in order to right her wrongs, free the people of Falinn Galdur and stop Agrona before she can turn her attention toward the rest of the world.
My Review
Following the events of the first book, White Heart, Violet and her companions witness the enslavement of the Worlen people and after the devastation of the confrontation under the Worlen stronghold each is reeling from the consequences of Violets actions. Balthus has lost the love of his life as well as his leg. Merrydian has to live with the fact that the killer of his most beloved is reeking devastation on the people of Falinn Galdur. Prince Jestin has lost his mother, home and is missing after a failed attempted to free his people. Written from the first person narrative, the reader is engrossed in Violet’s mind through her internal monologue. She assesses the turmoil of her actions, her guilt and her sense of duty to fix things as both Violet and the belligerent Merl search for the antidote to the poisonous witch Agrona. Violet is a selfless character who willingly throws herself into harm’s way in an attempt to save those she cares about. She is also strong and doesn’t seek the help of others but will instead take the full responsibility on by herself which can evidently lead to unintentional and devastating costs.
With a cast comprising of the original characters and new equally as enchanting characters introduced throughout, Amy has you routing for the heroes not only because of the unfathomable circumstances they find themselves in but because of their loveable and individual personalities. From the cantankerous wizard Merrydian to the mothering and caring Bobbin Bettery each character is well developed and each has had a piece of their lives negatively impacted upon by the evil witch Agrona. Within this story we hear more of the back stories from the time during a great war involving her dark forces. Violet is again decisive and independent but with a greater sense of purpose and magic she has learnt from her mistakes and has developed into more of a selfless and strong heroine.
Falinn Galdur is as captivating as the first instalment and more details are unveiled about the magical and mystical island which was created as a sanctuary for magical beings and creatures of folklore. The different races are easily distinguishable by their customs and characteristics as well as habitats and magical abilities. The threats throughout the book have increased a notch in terms of the malevolence and this instils an increased sense of danger throughout the book. Action scenes are as prevalent and enthralling as book one and coupled with the fact that Violet is becoming more accustomed and skilful with her magical powers create a fast paced read.
A fantasy book filled with compelling characters and a captivating and imaginative setting. A story filled with action, romance, mystery and sorrow. An enjoyable read which I highly recommend.