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Reviewed by Liz Konkel for Readers' Favorite
Cinders of Yesterday by Jen Karner is the first book in the Legacy of Shadows series. Dani is driven by one mission: revenge. She vowed that when the Necromancer Spectre killed her partner that she would kill him no matter what the cost. The existence of a weapon capable of ending Spectre began to circulate, and Dani has every intention of making it hers. Nothing can get in her way. That is, until she encounters the lovely Emilie, a young woman with ties to Spectre. As Emilie struggles to deal with trauma from her past, she discovers not only is magic real, but her own abilities are awakening. As the two grow closer, Dani begins to question what she’s willing to lose. The two are drawn together in their quests for answers, and quickly realize that they must work together if they’re going to free Emilie from what binds her and finally stop Spectre before it's too late.
Confronting the past is a prominent theme in the story, and is something that both Emilie and Dani must deal with. The emotional obstacles are relatable and add a richness to the story that goes deeper than simply getting the bad guy. The events in their pasts are what drive them in the present and draw them together as they seek answers. They find common ground through these experiences and slowly build a dynamic at a realistic pace as they each experience a journey of self-discovery in which they must understand and heal from their past. Their relationship has everything readers will love about a slow burn with delightful banter, a reason they have to work together, genuine friendship, and allure. These elements make the bond they share feel earned and help to create a lovely relationship between them. The initial interactions between them have a blend of humorous attitude and banter, which gives the tone a fun lightheartedness that is appreciated. Jen Karner breathes life into this world where creatures roam, a Necromancer terrorizes, and anything is possible. The world is a fascinating backdrop to the character-focused plot with a snake creature, wraiths, and more lurking as potential threats along their journey. Cinders of Yesterday is a charming journey about loss, tragedy, self-discovery, connection, and healing.
