In Jules Conrad's Suziri, Rielle's life implodes when her longtime boyfriend dumps her, only to be further shattered by her four best friends – including her ex – staging a rebellion against the king and leaving her in the dust. Initially content with a life outside the turmoil, Rielle finds herself adrift in a world turned upside down. But amidst the chaos and uncertainty, a dragon emerges, introducing a dramatic shift in her circumstances and forcing her to confront the upheaval and the unexpected consequences of loyalty, betrayal, and a life she never planned. Prepare for a thrilling journey of self-discovery and unlikely alliances in this captivating fantasy.
Review Suziri
Suziri, by Jules Conrad, completely swept me away! I'm usually a picky reader, often finding myself putting down books halfway through, but this one? This one held my attention from the very first page to the satisfying conclusion. The premise itself – a heartbroken woman facing betrayal and upheaval only to find her life irrevocably changed by a dragon – is captivating enough, but Conrad executes it with such skill and charm that you're instantly invested in Rielle's journey.
I loved the way the author crafted Rielle's character. She's not your typical damsel in distress, or even your typical strong female fantasy lead. Rielle is flawed, vulnerable, and relatable; she's grappling with a recent heartbreak and unexpected betrayal from her friends, making her journey all the more compelling. She's thrown into extraordinary circumstances, facing a world turned upside down, and her reactions feel authentic and emotionally resonant. The supporting characters are just as well-developed, each with their own unique personalities and motivations. Donia's sassy attitude, as another reviewer mentioned, is a particular highlight – she adds a perfect dose of wit and humor to the story.
The world-building in Suziri is fantastic. Conrad creates a rich and believable fantasy setting, populated with intriguing characters and a unique magic system that feels both familiar and fresh. The dragon aspect, of course, is central to the plot, but it's not just a typical "dragon rider" trope. The bond between Rielle and her dragon is complex and nuanced, developing organically throughout the story, and I found myself utterly captivated by their interactions. It reminded me a little of Anne McCaffrey's Pern series in the sense of the deep connection between human and dragon, but the story itself is entirely original and distinct.
What truly impressed me was the pacing. Conrad expertly builds suspense and intrigue, weaving together romance, action, and political intrigue without ever feeling rushed or overwhelming. The plot twists kept me guessing, and I found myself constantly eager to know what would happen next. I devoured the book in practically one sitting; it was impossible to put down. The writing style is engaging and easy to follow, making the story both immersive and enjoyable. I found myself completely lost in Rielle’s world, and I didn’t want the experience to end.
The only downside? The inevitable feeling of wanting more once I finished. I’m eagerly anticipating the next book in the series, because this one left me with so many questions and a desperate need to know what happens next for Rielle and her newfound companions. If you’re looking for a captivating fantasy read that will keep you hooked until the very last page, with a strong female lead, a captivating dragon, and a plot that will leave you breathless, then Suziri is absolutely a must-read. Honestly, if you're tired of predictable fantasy stories, this book is a breath of fresh air, a truly unique and delightful adventure.
Information
- Dimensions: 6 x 1.07 x 9 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 471
- Publication date: 2024
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