An Ember in the Ashes (Book 1)

An Ember in the Ashes is an original and gripping storyline that is carefully filled with a wide cast of characters and page-turning moments that will have readers unexpectedly blown away. There’s always a danger in creating a character who is overwhelmed by fear and is forced into bravery but Tahir crafts our protagonist Laia beautifully. She’s not your typical heroine instead she is a scared and lonely girl going against every instinct to save her brother and we as the reader have the pleasure of joining her on her adventure and character development. And then we have Elias, who’s dark and mysterious exterior masks his kind and honest heart, and again is another character who exhibits masterful development. Along with loveable protagonists Tahir is brilliant at creating characters that are equally villainous and cruel, brace yourselves as the Commandant will have your blood boiling! Tahir again masters the fluidity and distinctiveness of multiple perspectives, allowing the narrative to stay face paced and engaging. A perfect example of new-aged YA, that subverts the overused and cliched tropes whilst providing us with a wonderfully exhilarating read.

A Torch Against the Night (Book 2)

Picking up right where we left off, Tahir has once again crafted a wondrous story and book I found nearly impossible to put down. I thought I knew where this story was going but I kept being pleasantly surprised and shocked. Tahir’s writing leaves you hanging on to every word and has mastered the ability in crafting a well paced storyline that although may not be perfect, it is one which is certainly entertaining. Laia is more determined than ever to free her brother, a determination that fuels her own courage and fight. As much as I like Laia, Helene was my favourite perspective to read, her internal battles make her a more dimensional and layered character with a narrative that is nail-bitting and heart-breaking.

A Reaper at the Gates (Book 3)

This book was beyond intense, it was an exhilarating and wild read pocketed with moments of pure shock. I devoured this book in a couple days as Tahir made it so easy to be transported back into the world and it’s gripping storyline. I enjoyed the fact we were able to discover more of this fictional world and meet more characters I know will play an important role in the next book! Tahir’s use of prophecies is relevant throughout the series but in particularly in this book. They are all nearly thought-out and disguised by a shroud of unexpectedness, leaving gaping moments of surprise. Admittedly I found Ellis’s’s struggles a bit repetitive and I wish we had more time to explore Darin’s character but aside for that i really enjoyed joining these characters on their on their ongoing quest.