This is a dark and heavy book as to be expected with war, genocide, indoctrination/propaganda, and child soldiers. The subjects were handled seriously and didn’t feel like shock value was the only goal. I would argue this could be Adult due to the level of violence. This isn't the usual, cookie-cutter "YA assassin." There's actual graphic killing here, and each one has an emotional weight.

The narrative voice was very strong! Sloane is warring within herself with the truth of her heritage, her fire powers, and the violence she must commit just to survive. I felt every heart-wrenching disappointment and frustration this girl experienced.

There’s some fantasy, Orishas, and mystery along the way with glimpses of romance, but none of it detracts from being Sloane’s story. It's controversial 'do the means justify the ends,' but an excellent portrayal of a (forced) anti-hero. The plot twists are out for blood and will knock you silly once you realize everything.

Despite the heavy themes, I had a stellar reading experience. I was engulfed.

Of course, I’m reading book 2. ( )

This book is a roller coaster. It is dark. It is a hard read (about as hard as I've read in YA), but it's also a very important book. This is an exquisite debut, my one gripe is that it's marketed as YA. ( )

There's a ton of violence and cruelty here, not a bit of it gratuitous. Characters are intriguing, the plot addictive and with numerous surprises. I couldn't help but reflect on how this must mirror in some ways, the reality of child soldiers in Africa over the past few decades. I look forward to more from this author. ( )

Blood Scion is the first book from Deborah Falaye’s series, also, named Blood Scion. It is, also, the first book I have by this author. I am not a huge fantasy genre reader but I thought this one was a pretty good read. Even though there were a few scenes I was confused but once I caught on as to what was going on, I was hooked again. Overall, I found it to be entertaining from the start to finish. I liked it.

Blood Scion will be getting four stars from me. I recommend it for readers who enjoy reading young adult fantasy fiction. I am interested in finding out what will happen in the next installment from the Blood Scion series, a planned 2023 release.

I received a digital copy of Blood Scion from the publisher, but was not required to write a positive review. This review is one hundred percent my own honest opinion. ( )