I chose this book from an ARC program after having read another of the author’s books, “The Girl Who Talks To Ashes” as I really enjoyed that one.

The Premise

THE AWAKENING: Aspen awakens with no recollection of her prior life and leads a lonely life keeping to herself — until, that is, strange and dangerous things begin to happen around her in response to her emotions. When she meets Aiden, she learns that she is a Pentamancer, a powerful and rare being that can wield and control the elements. As she struggles to deal with her new powers, she faces the Asterian Order, led by Savannah, who is intent on controlling her power and hiding her true past.

THE ENLIGHTENING: Aspen — or Rowan, her real name — is now aware of her past though she doesn’t remember it, and embarks on a journey to find her mother who she learns is being held hostage at a Containment Center by the Asterian Order. As her powers intensify — along with her feelings for Aiden — she questions who to trust, even Aiden himself. As he himself searches for his sister, who is also being held captive, Aspen realises that family ties are entangled with dark secrets that can tear them apart.

THE CHRISTENING:
It’s two months after the Day of Enlightenment, the day a true Pentamancer emerged once more on the world stage after centuries of extinction. Aspen agrees to cooperate with the Inner Circle in hopes that her radical visions for the Elementalist community can be realized. Political divisions are simmering, and the fate of the Community now rests on the shoulders of the so-called “Prophet”; it’s up to Aspen to decide whether to embrace her newfound status, or refuse it.

THE RECKONING:
Four years after the collapse of the Inner circle, the stakes have never been higher for Aspen and her friends… and losing has never been more dangerous.

The Pros

This was an epic fantasy that aptly captures the reader’s interest. Having read another book by the author before, I knew what to expect, and I was glad to see this live up to that expectation. I admit I would certainly have been rather unlikely to pick up an entire 4-book series from an ARC program, had I not had faith in the author! Fantasy is not my go-to genre (many authors just do it poorly, or without a clear vision) but I do love and appreciate when it is well executed, and this thankfully does not disappoint. The world-building was really well done, and I could easily imagine every scene as the descriptions are vivid.

I also loved the relationships it explores, which are not just romantic (thank God!) — there’s also family ties and friendship alliances and loyalty among the characters, mentor/mentee relationships with Aiden and Robert as well as those who train Aspen, and even the zealous quasi-religious following of those who adhere to the legend of the Pentamancer. The dialogue was also well written and kept the story lighthearted all the way though. Jumping from action, to romance, to suspense, to drama — the writing really takes you on a fantastic journey, suspending your disbelief and diving into their world of magic and power.

The Cons

There was a bit of a slow start at the very beginning as the author set up Aspen’s day-to-day life, but this soon fades away once it gains its strength. Though important to explain, there was a lot of detailed background information about the tattoos, including images and detailed explanations that I wished were a wee bit less. These are extremely, extremely, extremely tiny niggles though.

Also — not a con, but worth mentioning: though it is split into 4 books, it’s really one long book as there is no recap between books if you were to pick it up out of order. You need to read this in order!

Conclusion

Overall this was an epic journey from beginning to end and I am thrilled to recommend to readers of all ages who enjoy a good fantasy series. There is a lot to love here, and the characters are brilliantly created and brought to life by the author. Once you get into the swing of things, the action is nonstop from beginning to end with rarely a pause for breath to think. I look forward to reading more by this author.

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