I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a fair and honest review. All opinions are my own.
A young woman with a fascinating yet deadly power must decide what her place in the nations of Ilmar and what kind of person she wants to be in author J.M. Landels’ “Allaigna’s Song: Overture”, the first in the Allaigna’s Song series.
The Synopsis
You can’t hide from magic when it’s in your blood …
When Allaigna was seven she almost sang her baby brother to sleep — forever. She may be heir to neither her mother’s titles nor her secrets, but she has inherited her grandmother’s dangerous talent for singing music into magic. As her education proceeds from nursery to weapons ground to the rank of royal page, it becomes increasingly hard to keep her heritage and abilities hidden.
Secrets, it seems, are stock-in-trade for her family, and as Allaigna works to keep her own, she uncovers two that will affect both her life and the unstable peace of the Ilmar nations. One is the fate of her grandmother, who married a prince, turning the gift of the Sight into a double-edged weapon of state. The other is the truth behind her mother’s two-week disappearance following an ambush by outlaws en route to her wedding.
As she discovers who she is, Allaigna must decide what to become: the skilled courtier her mother wants her to be, the political chess piece her father bargained on, or the hero her grandmother foresaw.
Allaigna’s Song: Overture is a love story, a family saga, and a coming-of-age novel that braids together the stories of daughter, mother, and grandmother into a rich and deftly woven narrative.
Readers are saying
“Beautiful writing and gripping storytelling throughout.”
“Allaigna, Lauresa, and Irdaign are tough, flawed, and appealing heroines.”
“Great tension, big world, perfect pacing, intriguing politics and lovely magic.”
“Magically unputdownable!”
The Review
This was a truly fascinating read. Immediately what stands out is how the author’s tale takes readers into an already established world from author Scott Fitzgerald Gray, set within the nations of Ilmar within the larger world of the Endlands. However, despite the author’s deep dive into this richly established fantasy world, this original story stands out on its own feet.
The core of this story is the amazing character development of three generations of women. Between protagonist Allaigna, her mother Lauresa, and her grandmother, the characters showcase a powerful, women-driven narrative that becomes the foundation of this new chapter in the fantasy realm. A healthy blend of magic, adventure and emotional storytelling set against the backdrop of family and political drama allow this story to be elevated to all new heights as well.
The Verdict
Powerfully written and lengthy yet engaging throughout the entirety of the novel, author J.M. Landels’ “Allaigna’s Song: Overture” is a must-read epic fantasy. The story is entertaining and driven by strong emotions, allowing the reader to become invested in the characters throughout this tale. By the book’s end, an open-ended final chapter allows readers to hang on the author’s every word and promises a strong sequel in the process. If you haven’t yet be sure to grab your copy of this fascinating book today.
Rating: 10/10
About the Author
JM Landels divides her professional time between writing, editing, drawing, and teaching people to swordfight from horseback. She has no hobbies, since they all tend to turn into professions.
Author Anthony Avina's Blog 