The Emperor's War by RA Denny ~ a Review

by MK French

The Tzoladian army is fighting the Karsonian confederation. The three teens from various tribes that we had come to know in earlier novels are embroiled in this war now. Amanki is fighting when the Tzoladians would want him dead, Brina no longer has her seal and is surrounded by Sparaggi tribes, Tuka has to work as a spy. Metlan is now just as important as our three chosen ones, as he is king of the Samalitans and holds Brina's seal. Faith and trust will be tested over the course of the war.

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October 2018; ebook (258 pages); YA, fantasy

As with any book taking place during war, there is a lot of intrigue and tension within the characters. They don't know who they can trust, and sometimes even those they think they can trust turn out to have their own motives. The intrigue means that various commanders are each jockeying for power, and the teens don't know who to trust or what will happen to them. There are frequent battles, as is the nature of war, and even though the story jumps around between all the different points of view, the reader can easily keep track of where the action is. We also see the development of each of the teens; they make mistakes and have to course correct as they go, making the best decisions that they can at the time, especially given the intrigue all around them.

This novel ends on a much happier note than the previous ones in the series, and it's not quite a cliffhanger. It does promise more to come for everyone involved, and we get a very pleasant surprise I don't want to spoil for readers of the series.

Buy The Emperor's War at Amazon

Born and raised in New York City, M.K. French started writing stories when very young, dreaming of different worlds and places to visit. She always had an interest in folklore, fairy tales, and the macabre, which has definitely influenced her work. She currently lives in the Midwest with her husband, three young children, and golden retriever.

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