I was lucky enough to get an ARC of Master of Sorrows last year and it was such a brick that I got intimidated and couldn’t quite pluck up the courage to dive into it. But then I saw it was included with my Audible membership so I decided it was time, plus the sequel is now out so I can binge back to back, which is my preference.
Master of Sorrows is a fantasy that takes place mainly in an academy where orphans are raised to defend the realm. Annev is a special acolyte, he has been shepherded by the head priest of the academy and is hiding a disfigurement that if revealed would lead to his death. He is forced to cover it with magic, the practice of which could also lead to his death.
This story is so dark and adventurous with great ethical dilemmas, unique magic and fabulous characters. I loved being in Annev’s head as he realizes just who he is and that the definitions of good and evil he has been given may not be accurate. I love that at every turn he bucks tradition and questions what is asked of him, always choosing the path least travelled and making his own way. I loved his relationships with his friends and teachers and how easily he moved through a world that was built against him.
This is an insane tome but ranks right up there with Harry Potter, The Poppy War and The Priory of the Orange Tree for me in scrappy little nobody who turns out to be the savior of the world stories. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Thanks to Blackstone Publishing for a gifted copy. All opinions above are my own.
What’s the biggest book you’ve read recently?
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