Awakening: The Commune’s Curse Book 1 by Lucy A. McLaren

The Kingdom of Septima is ruled in all but name by the Commune, a ruthless cult that seeks control of an ancient power that has taken root in unsuspecting children in Septima. To maintain their hold on the kingdom, the Commune will stop at nothing to capture children who show signs of this power, to be weaponised or eliminated. 18-year-old Evelyn Folksman is in hiding. Taken in by a tavern-owner, she is haunted by the horrific events that drove her from her home years before. Evelyn is forced to face her past when two wayward children, Raif and Rose Huntsman, arrive at the tavern, pursued by Commune soldiers. The children fall under Evelyn’s reluctant care as the trio narrowly escape a raid. Relentlessly hunted by Commander Jonah Sulemon and Commune agent Lord Eirik Torrant, Evelyn and Raif cannot fathom why they pose such a threat to the Commune, until six-year-old Rose unwittingly reveals a terrible secret: she possesses powers more fearsome than any the Commune has unearthed in decades. There are only two options: to be captured and imprisoned, or to run for the rest of their lives.

Young Adult • Children’s Fiction/Science Fiction and Fantasy • Fantasy/Sword and Sorcery • Diversity Representation/Mental Health • Fantasy/Dark • Diversity Representation/LGBTQ+

kevinscorner book blogger

Held up by a diverse cast and compelling storytelling, Awakening is a good series opener for an epic fantasy series that feels more adult than the YA it’s supposed to be.

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CJDaley author

This journey originally started with me pretty much spamming the author’s page with likes because of how much I loved this cover. I was then very graciously offered an e-ARC, so how do you like them apples. Still love the cover, now I get to love the novel.

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JBaker

Bookwormandy

A fast paced adventure with powerful themes and strong characters. Truly feels like the beginning of big new world. An air of mystery remains, this book will leave you eagerly awaiting the next instalment.