I stumbled upon this book via an ad, comparing it to Mistborn.
Well, it's not a good comparison, because honestly, Mistborn is not only very different, but it is better, imho. Still, I liked this book. I liked the language, it certainly seems to fit the world we're finding ourselves in. I liked the characters, even though I don't claim to understand them and their motivations. I hope it will be explained in the sequels.
The world building is nice as far as it goes, and I think there's more to expect.
However, books that clearly aren't finished are my pet peeve. I know that it is very common nowadays to publish three books and the whole story only comes together in the last sequel, but I really don't like that, and that's a star less right from the start. And although I liked the book, it's not outstanding in any way, which is why I rate it three stars. As far as young adult fantasy goes, it's a nice, easy read with enough of a mystery to keep the attention. Apart from the open ending, there isn't anything I disliked about this story, so I can recommend it. In case you wonder why it took me so long to read the book: I moved house, so I had to put the book aside for quite some time. ( )

Loren dreams of a life of adventure....fighting the wicked and helping the downtrodden as the brave Nightblade. She finally escapes her abusive parents by running into the forest after a fugitive wizard. The wizard disappears, and the young girl joins a merchant caravan,determined to form her own destiny. The merchants have secrets and nefarious plans though. When she crosses them, Loren finds herself alone in a large city, pursued and in danger. Will she survive to become Nightblade?

I have mixed feelings about this book.

On the one hand, the action starts immediately and the story is interesting. I like the characters for the most part. The book kept my attention until the end because I wanted to know what happened. Loren is a bit childish -- but she IS a child. So that's perfectly understandable. She's never been away from home before....and she's suddenly on her own in some very dangerous situations. I think she did pretty well for herself.

But..... (there's always a "but'' isn't there lol) on the other hand, the writing style was a bit of an issue for me. Most of the dialogue is written using unnecessarily formal, stilted language, even when the characters speaking are uneducated. People -- not even fantasy characters -- speak like that in conversation. It became a bit annoying. There isn't much world building either. Lots of action -- enjoyable characters -- and the basics of the story are enjoyable. But some important details about the fantasy world are just missing and never really explained at all.

So, middle of the road rating for me. Interesting story. Writing style just not my cup of tea. ( )

DNF. I just couldn't handle Loren's self righteousness.

I'm sorry I dragged my feet and waited so long to read this. I am that person who got a free copy and then let it sit for nearly two months. And once I cracked it open I kept going, "One more chapter," until I couldn't keep my eyes open any longer (I started reading at a ridiculous hour). When I woke, I took care of my animals and then proceeded to power read to the end.

I've seen some people say they didn't like it, but that could be because the first in a series is always about setting the background and leading up the the climax. There was a lot of travel and backstory given. This book was wrapped in mystery, and not a lot of it was answered. But that just kept my interest. I just wanted to know what was going to happen. And there was some good action, so I'm not sure what more the naysayers want.

Who is Loren? What secret is her past hiding from even her? Who is Jordel? Is he really a friend? Xain...is he a jerk, or is it just a matter of self preservation? And why the hell is Loren such a magnet for trouble?! Will her horrible father keep his promise and find her again? And I adore Gem and look forward to seeing where his story goes.

There are so many questions that need answering, and I'm eager to learn, which is exactly what a good series does. Loren has the potential to be an epic (female) protagonist. I am truly anxious to get to the next book. Applause to you Garrett Robinson for hooking me. I'll see you again at the end of book two, sir. ( )