Champion of Fate, the first installment of a new duology by bestselling author Kendare Blake, is a captivating read that left me eagerly anticipating what's to come. From the intricate worldbuilding to the cast of complex characters, this book delivers a mesmerizing fantasy experience.

One of the standout aspects of this book is the author's talent for creating strong and multifaceted female characters with rich relationships. Reed, the headstrong protagonist, grapples with the conflict between her sense of duty and remaining true to herself. Her journey is one of self-discovery and growth, as she navigates a world filled with unexpected people and desires that challenge everything she thought she wanted. I appreciated the depth of her character and how her sometimes impulsive decisions have far-reaching consequences, making her journey all the more compelling.

Blake's worldbuilding prowess shines throughout the narrative. The battle scenes are executed with precision, showcasing her skill in crafting tense and thrilling moments. Each encounter leaves a sense of anticipation, propelling the reader forward and fueling curiosity about the bigger story yet to be unveiled. The Aristene, with their desire to bring glory to their goddess while maintaining political neutrality, are particularly intriguing. The divide between the world of men and the mysterious power of the Aristene sets the stage for a larger conflict that promises to unravel in future books. The threads of the story are masterfully woven, setting up a solid foundation for an epic fantasy series.

I requested this as Kendare Blake is an auto buy author for me, and as usual I’m not disappointed. Reed, an orphan has been training for most of her life as an Aristene, and is about to take part in her hero trial so she can be a fully fledged member of the order.
The world building is absolutely stunning, the battle scenes are full of thrilling and tense moments and the characters are very likeable. It’s definitely an epic fantasy and I can’t wait for the next instalment