Non-Heir
This was supposed to be a novella for the Black Mage series, but it might as well be a novel since it’s quite lengthy for novella. But I’m not complaining here though; I was hooked from the first chapter to the end.
So truth be told, I didn’t like the first part that much. It was like someone narrating the scene in a dull voice. Darren did this and that and whatnot. It was all confusing, maybe because “Darren” has been mentioned a lot.
Characters
During the first part, I thought Darren has a dark side. He talked about bullying servants, even girls, to express his anger, and I thought he’s going to be an antagonist in this series. (I haven’t read the first book yet). He’s a version of a damaged kid gone wild, until the night he fought with his father. The setup was weird at first; how can a father have his child study under a knight after he stabbed him in the back? But it turns out to be Darren’s destiny – a way to channel all his anger and issues and make it proactive.
I like Eve’s character. If I were to be in their world I’d like to be just like Eve – she’s honest, a breath of fresh air for Darren and she’s feisty.
Priscilla is an intriguing character; I’m not sure if I like or hate her just yet. There were times that she may be annoying to Darren and Eve, but what she said about her marrying Darren for her freedom – it is irony in its best. I want to know more about her character and I can’t wait to read the next books to find out more.
Ella is another intriguing character. I used to think she’ll be a good match for Darren but things went a different way when Darren’s brother interrupted their dance.
Speaking of the brother, I don’t like Blayne’s character; he’s malicious and manipulative, and he hurts everyone around him. Though I can’t blame him because of what he went through with his father.
Plot and Pace
I haven’t read any of the books; I have the first book but I decided on reading this first to get the backstory of the characters. So far I love the plot. I was hooked, didn’t put the book down until I finished it, and can’t wait to start reading the Book 1. It gave me a sort of Game of Thrones vibe, where everyone’s exposed to everything despite their age.
I love the ending as well; I can’t wait to find out who that mystery girl is and what art she’s going to play in Darren’s life.
Overall, this book is amazing – I loved it and can’t wait to start reading the next books in the series.
I found another magical world aside from Harry Potter that got me hooked.
5 stars.
