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Reviewed by Delene Vrey for Readers' Favorite
Stormheart by Julia Makin is the story of Tan, a princess treated as a slave and locked in a tower. She dreams of freedom not only for herself but for the people of Elira. When pirates attack Anzara, she seizes the chance to flee, but she ends up in the hands of the unscrupulous Captain Blackthorn. He immediately recognizes her for what she is and sets out to enslave her with a blood-pledge. She refuses to be a slave again, and through her stubbornness, she ends up placing herself and her friends in trouble. During her time on the Revenge, she discovers her heritage and the hope that she brings to the people of Stormheart. If she could destroy the books with blood-pledges, she could set many people free and bring back the dream of a home for everyone displaced by the Eluthurian Empire. However, Sinjon, her brother, and Blackthorn join forces to hunt her down. Will she escape them once again, or will she have to face the consequences of leading a rebellion against the Empire?
This action-packed, thrilling fantasy by Julia Makin is written in a style that conveys the intricacies of different peoples, from the Katuk, who are seen as less than human, to the Nobles and the pirates. Stormheart is presented as an idealistic place of equality and freedom, but it has a secret route that not everyone can navigate. When you look past the fantasy aspect, many relevant topics are dealt with, from slavery and dominion over others to the destruction of the biome and desecration of the islands where no one can survive anymore. The notion of hurt people hurting others is also dealt with in great detail. Each character has their background that influences their actions, which makes their deceit and betrayal so much worse. In the end, what stood out to me was never to give up, to fight for what is important, and to be the best person you can be, no matter your past; you can be redeemed. Stormheart is the first chapter in this new Pirate Fantasy by Julia Makin and promises to develop into an engaging and thrilling series.
