As Colors Coalesce is a work of fiction in the epic fantasy genre, and serves as a prequel to the Dreambreath Trilogy. It is aimed at young adults and was penned by author Kristyn Van Cleave. The story follows reluctant royal Saryn Nightingblade, who is keen to leave behind her duties as a princess, in particular those duties involving marriage. Her world is turned upside down when a visitor from another world lands on her world with a mission to unite the worlds. Torn between her duties to her kingdom and the opportunity to adventure through the universe, Saryn must make the biggest decision of her life.

Author Kirstyn Van Cleave delivers a highly engaging fantasy novel that follows Saryn Nightingblade as she explores what she really wants from her life. One of the things I most enjoyed about this novel was the plot, which I found compelling and exciting and I felt the unique twists and motivations of the characters set this book apart from others within the same genre. The novel combines many factors which make up an intriguing fantasy novel such as coherent magical lore, beings from other worlds, and a diverse and interesting cast of characters. As Colors Coalesce is a thoroughly enjoyable read from start to end, and Saryn is a fierce female lead in whom you are completely invested from the start. Van Cleave’s attention to detail adds to your investment in the characters and the world. I would happily recommend this book to those who enjoy epic fantasy novels and strong female leads.

Kristyn Van Cleave writes a prequel to the Dreambreath Trilogy in As Colors Coalesce. It centers on the pressure-filled life of Saryn Nightingblade, a princess whose every move is measured against the standards of royal protocol and decorum. She has no need to feel the demands of royalty for her brother is the one who should learn how to be king. She may not be the next in line to the throne, but she must choose and marry a royal man as part of her duty as a princess. But Hoartunim Dreambreath enters the scene, an alien conjurer whose spaceship crash-lands in Saryn’s kingdom. As Saryn learns more of Hoartunim’s plans of uniting the worlds, she wants to be a part of it all but at a time when her parents have made the choice for her to marry Benji Whitsinger. It sounds like an easy choice, but the path she chooses will take a significant toll on her memories.

Saryn Nightingblade has a pitiful yet enviable royal charm. Van Cleave has written a more mature novel, with gritty scenes designed to appeal to teenagers. As Colors Coalesce is a subtle transition that works because the characters are defined within themselves. Saryn is a sheltered princess, yet despite all the love given to her, she is lonely. There is an I Can Show You The World element in the plot, as she is inevitably drawn to everything that Hoartinum stands for, and she wants a piece of the action. As young adult fantasy tales come and go, this is a unique offering. It focuses on characters and their relationships that become a vital force in pushing the plot forward. There are many dialogues, but they are focused enough to keep the story moving. Consider this prequel as a must-read for you to be prepared in tackling the Dreambreath Trilogy.