Julia Eshbaugh's Crown of Oblivion is a captivating dystopian novel that left me with a massive reading hangover, a testament to its gripping narrative and compelling characters.
The story revolves around Astrid, an Outsider who is forced to serve as a surrogate for Princess Renya, enduring the physical punishment for the princess's transgressions. However, Astrid sees a glimmer of hope for her family's future in the deadly Race of Oblivion, a high-stakes competition where contestants must solve clues while under the influence of a memory-wiping drug. Winning this race promises freedom, citizenship, and much-needed healthcare for Astrid's loved ones, compelling her to take the risk.
The book's premise is reminiscent of a thrilling blend of The Hunger Games and The Amazing Race, creating a dystopian narrative that is both familiar and fresh.
As a fan of The Hunger Games series, I was delighted to discover strong parallels between the two stories, and these similarities added an extra layer of excitement and engagement to the reading experience. Astrid, the main character, shares similarities with Katniss from The Hunger Games. Like Katniss, Astrid is driven by her love for her family and her determination to succeed in a society that oppresses her class. Both characters possess forbidden skills, with Katniss being an illegal hunter and Astrid secretly wielding magic in a world where it's believed to be non-existent among Outsiders.
However, what sets Astrid apart is her more open and less sullen demeanor. Her willingness to form friendships and embrace teamwork adds depth to her character, making her relatable and endearing to readers. Both Katniss and Astrid share a belief in repaying debts, yet Astrid's openness to forming connections distinguishes her as a unique and refreshing heroine.
Crown of Oblivion excels in its world-building, immersing readers in a society divided by magic and class. The Race of Oblivion serves as an enthralling backdrop, rife with danger and mystery, as contestants navigate treacherous challenges and decode cryptic clues. The stakes are high, and Eshbaugh skillfully maintains a relentless pace throughout the narrative, ensuring that readers are constantly on the edge of their seats.
This is a must-read for fans of dystopian fiction, offering a compelling story filled with action, suspense, and memorable characters. Julia Eshbaugh has crafted a narrative that pays homage to the beloved elements of The Hunger Game while introducing a fresh and exhilarating take on a dystopian world. Prepare for a reading experience that will leave you craving more long after you've turned the final page.