A haunting prophecy upended his identity. Now it demands his life. Once a formidable bounty hunter, Marco Dusan is plagued by insecurity as he tours the realm he now rules. This quiet, backwater planet is not as untouched as he'd once thought. Evidence of collusion between Droseran factions and the powerful Symmachians with their forbidden technology litters his encounters. Worse, all signs indicate Xisya, the alien who tortured him, is still snatching Kynigos Brethren--but to what end? Lance Corporal Eija Zacdari works hard to win a coveted place on the Symmachian hyperjump program, but instinct tells her their intel is flawed. Despite nearly failing the tests, she is assigned to the team-and lands in the middle of a bewildering conspiracy. Haunted by a prophecy that promises pain and war, Marco forges alliances to protect the primitive world against Symmachia's devastating influence. But one truth becomes painfully clear: the biggest threat to their world may be much, much closer to home.
"Sometimes, we do not get what we want, and when something good and true does come along, we are blind to that ... treasure."
Ronie Kendig somehow brings it up a notch with every book that she writes. After finishing her Book of the Wars series, I didn't think she could stun me speechless again. After reading Brand of Light, the first book in this Droseran Saga, I didn't know what will happen next. I am indeed stunned speechless and absolutely floored by how the author has brought about another intricately layered and all-encompassing second book with more depth, more characters, and more emotion to this already incredible series (but I will try to form my words so that my review is coherent).
In this space opera fantasy, the planet of Drosero feels so real and the kingdom of Kalonica so tangible. Marco is adrift, extremely vulnerable, and emotional in this book - so different from how he was in the first book and more endearing as he shows this other side of himself. His pride gets whittled down but he also matures significantly. Kersei has a lesser role in this book while Ixion, an elder of Kalonica, has a bigger role. Introduction of new characters like Isaura and Eija is delightful and seeing old characters like Jez and Tigo is equally wonderful. The series needs to be read in order since subplots and details within the overarching theme of finding justice against evil are laid down one at a time and build upon each other. The book is a delectable combination of conspiracy, betrayal, intense action, military strategy, honor, loyalty, heady romance, and great wisdom that will bring thrilling anticipation to every reader.
This book has been on my most anticipated books of 2020 list and is now one of my top 20 reads for the year. If you're looking for a can't-put-down book of honor, duty, loss, grace, and redemption, look no further. It's a must-read book.
I received a copy of the book from Enclave Publishing via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
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