In Ross Hightower’s and Deb Heim’s Desulti, an epic fantasy that is part of the Rebels Rising series, Tove elevates to one of those indelible characters who stays in the reader’s memory long after the book has been closed. Her utter lack of guile, her wondrous instincts, and her kind vulnerabilities serve as a terrific counterpoint to the nest of intrigue that is Desulti society. Upon first glance, life among the Desulti appears to be the ideal environment for Tove to thrive, one of defiant women from many classes who have made their own place in this world filled with prejudices. Unfortunately, those independent and unbiased values have faded, particularly under the leadership of Lyssa. As the first Alle’oss woman to join the Desulti, Tove confronts challenges well beyond the shunning that greets her arrival.
As with Argren Blue, Hightower and Heim have delivered another richly detailed cultural vision, with the layers of the Vollen castes, economic calculations, and social nuances given subtle and wry explorations. That includes elaborate chess moves by the triumvirate of leaders – Lyssa, Siofra, and Nessa – working at cross purposes. True to the best fantasy, Desulti presents resonant echoes of present-day society, particularly the subtle, often paradoxical perceptions of rebellious women. The reader’s evolving understanding of one of those Desulti leaders is heartening.
Hightower and Heim ground this fantasy world in an earthiness that imbues the novel with warmth, particularly through the members of the perceived underclass and through a protective Alle’oss hunter. The Tavern at Ka’ton becomes the scene of intense and occasional joyous moments, not only for Tove, but for numerous young Desulti women she brings along, moments of growth and liberation.
Hightower and Heim manage a rare feat: through the inwardly and outwardly damaged character of Tove, they have infused joy and hope in a hardened, cynical society.
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Amazing!
Book Review Day! Desulti Ross Hightower Desulti is a prequel story to a deeper series but this novel can be read as a standalone and then you can dig in more story from there! This is a story for you if you enjoy a cast of strong willed female characters both heroines and villians. The author really flexes his creative muscles with a story this intricate and the world building shown in between these pages is a master class on how to pull readers into place of escapism! The political intrigue of this journey is very complex and volatile and is played out over the course of the story with many twists and turns to keep the reader on their toes with jaw dropping moments! Lots of rich culture is created and historical background woven in to give the characters a feeling of depth and connection. This a read not to miss!
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