Rating: 5 stars
Headline: Full of clever storytelling, this is a fantasy novel that will leave you hankering for more
Review:
The debut novel from American, Michigan-based, author Theophany Juhn, Forsaken Flowers is a gripping fantasy read with plenty of high stakes action and colourful world building.
It tells the story of Aelyta Aurelianus, an Elemental who at her coronation ceremony is unexpectedly bestowed the Rite of Divinity by the High Priestess. This twist in tradition results in Aelyta having the right to become Queen of Ospheria over and above other figures who might have laid claim to the throne. With barely any time to react to the news, Aelyta finds herself that same evening at the hands of a would-be assassin, only to find her body rejecting the very dagger that is pierced through her chest, wound healing over instantaneously. In what should have been a day marked by the lore and tradition of her people, for Aelyta this day marks the start of even more dramatic events yet to come, involving love, loss, and a kingdom in peril. To defeat her foes, Aelyta must embrace the power of her inner magic, and the poison deep within.
Everything about Forsaken Flowers is pitched perfectly. From the beautiful cover design (and use of background design/imagery on each opening chapter page), through writing style and the flow of the story itself. It is hard to not become invested in Aelyta’s plight, just as much as it is hard to not come away from each chapter entrenched in all the characters that surround her (both good and evil). Every element of the plot is fully developed and the world building is as strong as any other fantasy novel this reviewer has seen in other published novels. And, coming in at just over 300 pages, Forsaken Flowers is a nice length within the fantasy genre, making it a lot more accessible to readers who can feel daunted at the prospect of taking on a competing 500+ page behemoth.
An enjoyable read, through and through, Forsaken Flowers is most definitely a book for any fantasy-loving reader, as much as it is someone wanting to dip their toe in the genre. It is also the perfect title for anyone looking to support independent publishing and authorship. A prime example of when self-publishing works, it really works. 5 stars.
AEB Reviews
Links:
Reedsy Discovery Review: AEB Reviews – “Forsaken Flowers” by Theophany Juhn
Purchase Link: “Forsaken Flowers” by Theophany Juhn (Amazon)
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