A Dance of Power and Intrigue: A Review of Thorn Season by [Author’s Name]
Ever pick up a book that instantly whisks you back to your younger self? That’s exactly what happened when I opened Thorn Season, the first in a promising new YA fantasy series. As I turned the pages, I was reminded of the captivating worlds I dove into as a pre-teen—think The Selection or Red Queen. While those nostalgic vibes kept me engaged, I also realized that some elements felt a tad familiar in a way that made me wish for a bit more originality.
Set in the kingdom of Daronda, we meet Alissa Paine—a noblewoman burdened with a dangerous secret. Born a Wielder, she possesses telekinetic-like powers in a world hell-bent on eradicating her kind. Ironically, her own family hails from a lineage of Hunters, the very group tasked with hunting Wielders. This duality creates a rich backdrop filled with tension and danger, and Alissa’s desperate need to conceal her identity is palpable, making her journey all the more riveting.
While the world of Daronda is gritty, I felt the worldbuilding leaned a bit toward generic. The classic tropes are here: political intrigue, a brooding king, and the palpable danger of being discovered. Yet, the author executes these elements well, weaving them into an overall atmosphere that grips you. Who can resist the allure of balls, balcony dramas, and gossipy courtiers? Alissa’s transformation from sheltered noble to a woman who learns to wield—pun intended—her powers was one of the book’s highlights.
However, the romantic subplot tripped me up a bit. With three distinct male characters vying for Alissa’s affection—Garrett, the childhood best friend; Keil, the mysterious Wielder; and Erik, the cold king—I found myself feeling as if the romantic tension was more formulaic than thrilling. It quickly became apparent who the endgame would be, rendering the other interactions as mere distractions. The romance felt akin to reading a pre-packaged manhwa, where the love interests lack depth and simply serve as stepping stones.
Yet, in terms of character diversity, I appreciated that Alissa’s world isn’t painted with a broad brush. The women around her feel layered, each bearing their own struggles and aspirations. Yet, I found Tari, Alissa’s best friend, disappointingly underdeveloped. She came across more like a plot device than a real character, which was a bummer given the vibrant personalities surrounding her.
The stakes elevate as we near the climax, culminating in emotional moments that truly landed and fostered an authentic connection between me and Alissa. After all is said and done, her journey from a sheltered life to someone who possesses and understands her power felt genuinely satisfying.
Thorn Season closes on an intriguing note, setting the stage for a sequel I’m already eager to dive into. It’s a rollercoaster of emotions, political maneuvering, and affirmation of self that many YA readers will enjoy, particularly fans of fantasy romance.
If you have fond memories of reading those nostalgic titles from the 2010s or simply enjoy a well-crafted tale of intrigue and self-discovery, Thorn Season may just be your next favorite read. I found it entertaining, and while it didn’t blow me away, it offers a delightful escape into a world filled with possibilities.
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins for providing the ARC, allowing me to share my thoughts on this engaging debut!
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