cover image The Dying of the Golden Day: The Heartfriends Trilogy, Book 1

The Dying of the Golden Day: The Heartfriends Trilogy, Book 1

Carrie Gessner. Sky Forest, $14.95 trade paper (420p) ISBN 978-1-5372-4301-6

Loyalty and destiny collide as the death of a king presents an opportunity for feuding kingdoms to unite in the diffuse latest from Gessner (The Stroke of Thirteen). According to an ancient prophecy, Aurelia’s birth supposedly heralds the end of those born with the gift, a form of magic that comes in three types: healing, foresight, and elemental control. In atonement for the prophecy, she’s dedicated her life to a mystical bond with Renfred Osborne, the prince of Sunniva. On a mission to steal an important sword from Temidorus to help claim its throne, they meet Mira, the empress of Mydrost, who warns the kingdoms of a larger threat. Gessner’s worldbuilding is the novel’s greatest strength, with elements that keep the pages turning and incredible amounts of lore conveyed quickly without overwhelming readers. The characters have quirks, flaws, and fears, but they aren’t given a strong story to flourish in. The multiple plot threads never culminate in a singular narrative, resulting in a frustrating, unfulfilling tale. (BookLife)