Book Review: The Blackened Blade (The Blackened Blade, #1) by Isla Davon
Is there a feeling more exhilarating than diving into a new fantasy world, especially when you feel an instant connection with the characters and story? That’s precisely what I experienced with The Blackened Blade by Isla Davon. With the second book just twenty-three days away—yes, I’m counting down the minutes—I can hardly contain my excitement! 🤩 This book has taken hold of my mind and made itself a permanent resident of my thoughts.
From the very first pages, I was captivated by the depth of Micai, our fearless protagonist. The novel delicately explores themes of bullying, self-discovery, and redemption as Micai battles not only the external forces closing in on her but also the scars from her past. What struck me most was how Davon painted Micai’s journey to self-acceptance and love, all while weaving a lush tapestry of friendship and betrayal among the Infernal Four.
Now, let’s talk about the boys. Annex and Ezra, the leading male characters, had me all sorts of emotional. Their complex backstories, entwined with Micai’s life, create an intense dynamic that left me breathless and—dare I say it—a little obsessed! I mean, who doesn’t love a slow-burn romance where the stakes feel genuinely high? The quote, “You are the reward, Red,” perfectly encapsulates the yearning and emotional depth we crave in our narratives.
Of course, there’s room for critique. While the pacing and emotional beats were fantastic, I noticed a fair few grammar hiccups and repetitive phrases. Editing aside, though, I didn’t care in the least! The vibes, as I like to call them, were on point! There’s something about entering a story that resonates with you on a personal level—even if it’s not packing perfect prose. In the end, I gave it five stars because I couldn’t ignore the heart and effort imbued in every chapter.
I found that the pacing of the story was a refreshing change. Micai doesn’t just glide into relationships; they take time to develop naturally, almost like we’re watching real-life relationships bloom. I appreciated that we didn’t meet the entire cast—all four of the male leads—until about halfway through. It gave the reader a rich context around Micai’s struggles before introducing the potential love interests. What a relief that context matters!
I’ve got to say, the tension with Micai’s childhood bullies? Delicious. The angst is palpable, and I can’t wait to see how their story unfolds. I’m practically begging for an emotional reckoning for those boys—the kind that makes them realize just how much they’ve lost. If they could just have a moment or two of painful pining while dealing with their feelings for Micai, I would be in heaven. 🤞
The Blackened Blade isn’t just another fantasy novel; it’s an experience with a heart. If you’re someone who relishes the slow burn, character-driven stories, and unapologetic angst, then this one is undoubtedly for you. I regret waiting so long to read it, but I’ll spend the next few weeks dreaming of what’s next for Micai and the intriguing possibility of the Infernal Four.
So here’s to Isla Davon—you’ve got me hooked, and I won’t forget the moments I experienced within these pages! 🖤📚
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