Thorn Season: A Journey of Magic and Revenge
Ever pick up a book that you just know is going to stick with you long after you turn the last page? That was my experience with Thorn Season by T. M. Lando. From the moment I learned about Alissa, the badass wielder navigating a world rife with danger, I knew this would be an unforgettable adventure. Huge thanks to NetGalley and HarperCollins for the chance to dive into this captivating ARC!
Exploring Alissa and the Dark World She Inhabits
Alissa, the fierce protagonist, is not just a simple daughter of a Lord; she’s intricately woven into a world where wielders—those with magic—are hunted with frightening determination. Her journey begins with a quest to find a mystical compass that supposedly guarantees safety for wielders like her, setting the stage for a narrative brimming with tension and suspense. Lando does a tremendous job capturing the conflicting emotions Alissa faces; from her grief over her father’s murder to her ardent desire for vengeance against those responsible. While I found her at times impulsive and a bit hard-headed, this complexity made her feel real.
The supporting cast shines as well, although I felt some of their deeper backstories could have enriched the narrative further. Still, characters like Kiel, who displays kindness when Alissa seems overwhelmed by her sense of duty, offer heartwarming moments that balance the darker themes woven into the tapestry of the story.
A Fast-Paced Plot with a Touch of Betrayal
The pacing of Thorn Season is notably engaging. The first half unfolds smoothly, allowing readers to digest the magic system—even if it’s a tad confusing at times. The specters, the source of power for wielders, piqued my curiosity but left me craving more clarity. The transition from a courtly debutante ball to a life-or-death chase was exhilarating. However, the narrative seemed to shift gears in the second half, particularly after the shock of Alissa’s father’s demise. At moments, she felt more mature than her eighteen years, which disrupted the balance of her character.
That said, Lando’s knack for riveting dialogue kept me glued to the page. I found myself chuckling at Alissa’s witty exchanges, especially this gem: “You’re inviting me to stab you?” “I’m inviting you to try.” It encapsulates the playful tension that weaves through Alissa’s interactions, even against the backdrop of impending doom.
Magic, Romance, and the Weight of Choices
While a touch of romance flirts with the plot—particularly regarding the ‘hot ambassador’—the story remains grounded in its fantastical elements. I appreciated the absence of overwhelming spice; it allowed the political intrigue and the looming threat to take center stage. This isn’t strictly a romance but rather a multi-faceted exploration of duty, revenge, and survival.
The ending left me both satisfied and yearning for more. The thought of Stockholm syndrome crossed my mind as I processed the complex dynamics between Alissa and her captors. It’s a reflection of the intricate emotions that Lando has crafted, leaving readers eager for the next installment.
Final Thoughts
Thorn Season is a captivating initiation into a world filled with magic, betrayal, and complex characters. While it features a few bumps along the way—particularly in character depth and clarity—the overall experience is undeniably rewarding. If you’re a fan of Powerless, Red Queen, or a hint of Bridgerton-esque tension mixed with mystery, you’ll find a lot to appreciate in this tale. The book’s themes of resilience and self-discovery resonated with me, reminding us of the strength we can find within the chaos. I can’t wait for the sequel—and the anticipation is nearly unbearable!
Discover more about Thorn Season (Thorn Season, #1) on GoodReads >>