Book Review: Spark of the Everflame (Kindred’s Curse, #1) by A.L. Graham
From the moment I stumbled upon Spark of the Everflame, I felt a spark myself—a flicker of hope stemming from its tantalizing premise and the promise of an enchanting journey through the realm of Lumnos. What could be more intriguing than a fearless healer who finds herself in the middle of a dangerous world filled with political intrigue and dark magic? So naturally, I couldn’t resist diving into the pages penned by A.L. Graham, a name I’ve seen echoed among book enthusiasts eager for rich fantasy narratives.
Upon entering the world of Lumnos, we meet Diem Bellator—our spirited protagonist navigating the complexities of her life marked by the mysterious disappearance of her mother. With an earnest desire to find her place amid the tumult, she’s drawn toward the dangerous allure of the Descended and the brooding figure of Prince Luther. Central to the book’s themes is the struggle for agency and self-discovery, a sentiment beautifully encapsulated when Diem is reminded: “Don’t choose a mediocre life for a mediocre man. Go be exceptional.” This quote resonates, pushing readers to reflect on their paths while rooting for Diem to rise above her challenges.
Graham’s approach to world-building is commendable; the lore of Lumnos is presented at a digestible pace, setting the foundations for what promises to be an expansive series. I appreciated how the author offered just enough detail without overwhelming us with exposition. However, the pacing suffers in some stretches, especially when the political dynamics take a backseat, rather than engagingly propelling the plot forward. There were moments that felt like a drawn-out introduction to a story yearning to unfold more rapidly.
Characters bring flavor to any tale, and I found myself torn with Diem’s portrayal. On one hand, her determination is admirable; on the other, her poor decision-making and naivety often left me exasperated. It’s hard not to feel a protective urge toward a character who seems persistently oblivious to the dangers surrounding her. My patience was genuinely tested at times—her choices screamed “what are you thinking?” louder than her internal monologues.
Then there’s Luther, cloaked in potential yet frustratingly elusive. He embodies the archetype of the dark prince, but I craved more depth to his character beyond the brooding exterior. I can already sense the complex dance that awaits in the next installment, and I live for that tension, even if it wasn’t fully explored this time around.
The conclusion? I face-palmed hard. Though I predicted the ending, I wished for a twist to surprise me. Instead, I was left thinking, “Oh, dear, this could go wildly off-course.” Yet, in the spirit of optimism (and fervent hope for the next book), I’m willing to give Diem some grace as she navigates the aftermath of her choices.
For those who enjoy a blend of whimsical world-building, fierce female protagonists, and an undercurrent of romance dusted with intrigue, Spark of the Everflame might just ignite your interest. While it fell short of regal heights for me, the embers of possibility flicker brightly, urging me to turn the page toward the next book with hope for something that truly dazzles.
In a season filled with so much anticipation, I am left reflecting: Sometimes, the journey to a story’s heart can be bumpy, but with a little faith, the destination can still lead us to wonderous places. Here’s to hoping Diem’s next steps are as exceptional as her potential!
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