Review: Dark Heart of Magic by Jennifer Estep

Dark Heart of Magic
Author: Jennifer Estep
Reviewers: Gikany and Una
Rating: A

What We’re Talking About:

Gikany and Una really enjoyed Cold Burn of Magic, the first book in the Black Blade series by Jennifer Estep. The sequel, Dark Heart of Magic, was even better. We loved it and look forward to more.

We enjoyed Lila’s humor and down-to-earth nature. Through her journey in this novel, we watched her grow in maturity. There are some world-shattering secrets Lila uncovers in Dark Heart of Magic that completely change her perspective. As Lila matures, she is able to see beyond some of the facades that easily deceived her in the first book. Despite her all consuming goal of avenging her mother, Lila finds herself a part of the Sinclair Family, not just as a bodyguard, but also as a friend and valued family member. It is fascinating how this coming of age story is entwined with the plot of murdered monsters, the Tournament of Blades, and the ongoing plot of the Draconi Family. It kept us glued to the pages, watching to see what happens next!

The supporting characters are just as loveable and memorable as Lila. We love Oscar, the pixie with “style”, who cares for Lila in his own way. Lila’s friends Felix, Mo, and Devon add variety and depth to Lila’s world. They are truly colorful characters (Mo in more ways than one), and it is captivating to see Lila slowly change from a loner into a loyal friend. It was fascinating to see Deah humanized in this sequel. We liked how she went from being an aloof, spoiled heiress to a victim trying to get by.

Dark Heart of Magic was a nail-biting and enjoyable read. Although the identity of the saboteur was easy to figure out, the saboteur’s motivations were not as cut and dry. We liked how the story played out along as the revelations were made. We are eagerly anticipating the final book in this series Bright Blaze of Magic. If you haven’t picked up the Black Blade series yet, you definitely should.

Our Rating: A, Loved It

About the Book:

As a thief, I stick to the shadows as much as possible. But when the head of the Sinclair Family picks me to compete in the Tournament of Blades, there’s no escaping the spotlight—or the danger.

Even though he’s my competition, Devon Sinclair thinks I have the best shot at winning what’s supposed to be a friendly contest. But when the competitors start having mysterious “accidents,” it looks like someone will do anything to win—no matter who they hurt.

As if I didn’t have enough to worry about, mobster Victor Draconi is plotting against Devon and the rest of my friends, and someone’s going around Cloudburst Falls murdering monsters. One thing’s for sure. Sometimes, humans can be more monstrous than anything else…

Release Date: October 27, 2015
Publisher: Kensington
Series: Black Blade #2
ISBN: #978-1617738265
Genre: Young Adult (Urban Fantasy)
Format(s): Paperback (368 pages), e-book
Book Source: Publisher/NetGalley

Purchase Info:
Dark Heart of Magic (Black Blade #2)

Reviews in the Series:
Cold Burn of Magic by Jennifer Estep (Black Blade #1)

Click HERE to enter for a chance to win Dark Heart of Magic (ends November 1, 2015)