Banshee's Reviews > Blood Awakens

General impressions
At the beginning of my journey into the world of the novel, I had some doubts. The story started rather slow, and the concept, though one I usually enjoy, was not new. I don't know know how and and when, however, but by the time I reached half of the book I was completely hooked. I wanted to learn more about the characters and witness their interactions. My curiosity about this new world spiked and I wanted to have answers to all my questions NOW. That's always a good sign. In the end, obviously I was left with many questions still unaswered upon reading the epilogue, and I can't wait for the second volume.

Worldbuilding
At the beginning, it seemed like another story about people with superpowers. I actually got a similar vibe as from one my favourite tv series, "Heroes", with the exception that in the book the powers were much more widespread and it took place in the distant future, in post-apocalyptic setting. Don't get me wrong, I love superpowers and it was a sheer pleasure to explore what this world had to offer in respect to different powers. "Blood Awakens" didn't stop at that, though. It became more nuanced as the story progressed, with more and more new concepts added. It turned out to be much deeper then I expected and I have a feeling that some more twists are coming in the sequel(s).

Characters
The characters, both the protagonists and the antagonists were well-rounded and flawed each in their own way. And when I say "flawed", I mean it in a positive way, as I enjoy characters in different shades of grey. Graciela was a bit too naive, Mara had a bad taste in guys and Sean had to struggle with controlling a difficult power. The only character I found completely annoying, unlikable and irredeemable was Santiago: stubborn, arrogant, short-sighted, selfish and with surprising lack of regard for other people's feeling for an empath.

Language
The language was smooth and it kept the story flowing in the right way. It was neither too complex, nor too simple (as it often happens in many bigshot YA novels). At times it felt a bit "wooden" and awkward, but since we're talking about a debut author, that's completely to be expected. Finding one's voice takes time and experience.

Final verdict
In the end, the book gave my a captivating story, some fresh ideas sprinkled on top of existing tropes, interesting characters and the need for more of this world. There were flaws, sure, but I can definitely see a big potential for the debut author.

*I received a free copy of the novel in exchange for an honest review.