Heir of Lies, the first book in the re-released Black Dawn series by Mallory McCartney, is a spellbinding fantasy tale that leaves readers eagerly anticipating more. This revamped edition, combining her previous novels Renegade and Black Dawn, offers not only fresh edits but also exclusive bonus content, making it a must-read for both new and returning fans.
The story revolves around Emory Fae, a young woman raised at The Academy, a school for individuals with extraordinary abilities. Emory, burdened by her parents' dreams, and her friend Adair Stratton, an outcast yearning to break free from societal expectations, find themselves questioning the true nature of The Academy as dark magic rumors spread across Kiero.
“Hope was a dangerous thing. It could consume every dream and make them take flight, becoming wild daydreams in one’s heart and mind.”
The narrative takes an exciting turn when King Tadeas Maher and his heir, Marquis Maher, infamous for their pirating and wrath from the Shattered Isles, arrive in Kiero. Their demand for a new treaty thrusts Emory and Adair, along with their loyal friends Brokk and Memphis, into the intricate web of political intrigue. Their quest for truth becomes paramount as tensions escalate.
Mallory McCartney's storytelling prowess shines in Heir of Lies. Having followed her career from her debut novel, "Black Dawn," I was already captivated by her writing. However, this re-imagined version elevates the entire reading experience. The meticulous editing, enriched story line, and the inclusion of additional scenes breathe new life into this beloved series.
One of the standout features of Heir of Lies is its multiple perspectives. The story unfolds through the eyes of Emory, Adair, Brokk, and Memphis, offering readers a multifaceted view of the plot. This narrative choice not only deepens our understanding of the characters but also allows us to witness their flaws and vulnerabilities, making them incredibly relatable. Mallory expertly portrays the imperfections that define both fictional and real-life personalities.
As a reader, I was completely immersed in the world of Kiero. The vivid descriptions and expertly crafted scenes transported me, making me feel like an active participant in the unfolding events. The richly developed characters leave a lasting impression, and my attachment to them is sure to grow throughout the series.
Heir of Lies is a thrilling start to what promises to be an epic fantasy journey. I eagerly anticipate diving into Queen to Ashes to continue this enchanting adventure. If you're a fan of fantasy, political intrigue, and well-drawn characters, I highly recommend you pick up the Black Dawn series.
Related: Queen to Ashes Review
RATING: 5/5
★★★★★
Disclaimer: I received an ARC from the author as a thank you for designing her website and in exchange for an honest review.