Review: Definitely makes the list
Rating: 5 out of 5
Date: 02 1, 2014
Hats off to the author. It was beautifully written! It's probably the best, new book I have read in awhile. The names are a little difficult, but if you are a fan of Tamora Pierce or Kristen Cashore then you'll enjoy this. There is some abuse and mild intimacy, so not exactly the same category as the other authors, but nothing so racy to bump it up to Adults Only.The story starts with Kael, Warlord of Krull, and Ishtaer, a emancipated and abused slave whose been ordered to please him. He is portrayed as heartless and borderline evil even while rescuing her for her possible gifts. In this world  like in the Graceling, certain people have abilities. These abilities are visualized in the types of marking they receive. This is a love story in that there is no instant romance, Kael is slowly unveiled to be a complicated and love man who protects what is his and uses his reputation as a shield for his lands and family. Ishtaer works to overcome her past and train her gifts. The romance between the two builds and has its hiccups. The author did rush the very end just a bit. Or rather ended it a little to soon, I would have like to have seen more interaction with Ishtaer's family.All around this is a book I will read over again and will bug the author for more! More Kael and Ishtaer......maybe another storyline that touches on these two but with all new characters?! Just more! Great job!