Review: Good Introduction to New Dark Fantasy Trilogy
Rating: 4 out of 5
Date: 01 17, 2012
Unleashed Fury, the first in Cole's Blood Runes trilogy, introduces the protagonist, Layna, a seemingly-simple maid working for a sadistic, spoiled megalomaniac of a mistress.  While the nation's readiness for war increases, secret societies plot, spies and conspirators abound, and dark forces begin to gather.  In the midst of this, Layna is forced to flee and begin to come to grips with her magical powers and history, before it comes to grips with her.The story is generally well written, with few awkward moments in dialogue.  The world building is solid, and I liked many of the implementations of the magic; the magical system, though, particularly the blood magic aspects, could have done with a bit more explanation, and the world could have been a bit grimmer and harsher (I was left with the feeling that Cole, the author, couldn't commit as to whether the book should be a dark fantasy, or more approachable for YA readers).  The characters were generally believable, except for the most apparent villain of the first book, Layna's mistress Jezebel, who was a bit two-dimensional.  There were enough plot twists and surprises to entertain, and the overall plot was well thought out.Overall, a good book that just falls short of being truly great.  Recommended for dark fantasy readers, those that like female protagonists.  Well worth reading at the current price of free.