Rosemarked {by Livia Blackburne}

Title: Rosemarked
Author: Livia Blackburne
Series: Rosemarked #1
Rating: 3.5 out of 5 stars 
Genre: YA Fantasy
Purchase: Amazon | Barnes & Noble
source: NetGalley

When Zivah falls prey to the deadly rose plague, she knows it’s only a matter of time before she fully succumbs. Now she’s destined to live her last days in isolation, cut off from her people and unable to practice her art—until a threat to her village creates a need that only she can fill.
A soldier shattered by war . . .
Broken by torture at the hands of the Amparan Empire, Dineas thirsts for revenge against his captors. Now escaped and reunited with his tribe, he’ll do anything to free them from Amparan rule—even if it means undertaking a plan that risks not only his life but his very self.
Thrust together on a high-stakes mission to spy on the capital, the two couldn’t be more different: Zivah, deeply committed to her vow of healing, and Dineas, yearning for vengeance. But as they grow closer, they must find common ground to protect those they love. And amidst the constant fear of discovery, the two grapple with a mutual attraction that could break both of their carefully guarded hearts.

I loved Blackburne's Midnight Thief, so when I heard about this one and read the synopsis, I was so excited. I love Blackburne's writing and the worlds she creates, and she definitely did not disappoint with this one.

One of the things I love best about Blackburne is her writing. She pulls you into the story. That, paired with her ability to worldbuild, means you never want to leave. I loved learning about this new world. It's very political, but not in a way that dragged down the story.

I loved our characters. They are very different, but forced to work together. I thought the amnesia aspect was very intriguing and I liked how the idea played out. (Was it a little too perfectly convenient? Yes, but hey. It worked.)

Honestly, the only negative thing I have to say is probably the pacing. It started off well, but lagged in the middle, which made the ending seem too rushed. Also, for some reason I thought it was a stand-alone, so I was very happy to hear that there is a sequel. I can't wait to read more about Zivah and Dineas.

Livia Blackburne:

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Poison Dance {by Livia Blackburne}

Title: Poison Dance [novella]

Series: Midnight Thief, #0.5

Author: Livia Blackburne

Purchase: Amazon / Barnes & Noble

James is skilled, efficient, and deadly, a hired blade navigating the shifting alliances of a deteriorating Assassin’s Guild. Then he meets Thalia, an alluring but troubled dancing girl who offers him a way out—if he’ll help her kill a powerful nobleman. With the Guild falling apart, it just might be worth the risk. But when you live, breathe, and love in a world that’s forever flirting with death, the slightest misstep can be poison. 

This may only be a short story, but don't be fooled. It is a complex, intricate, complete story all on its own.

James is an assassin, just wanting to do his job without getting into the politics of the Guild. Then, he is approached by Thalia, a dancing girl with a huge and dangerous request.

This is what everyone looks for in a fantasy novel. Although it is short, it was very beautifully written. The building of the world, the Assassin's Guild, and everything that is going on is explained very well, without taking up so much of the already short story. The story is engaging from the start, and will keep you glued to the pages, wanting to know how it ends up and how it plays into Midnight Thief.

James is only a supporting character in Midnight Thief, which makes me sad because I want more of him, his story. BUT this also has made me even more excited for Midnight Thief when it comes out. You're telling me I have to wait until July??

So, basically, I loved this, and you need to read it. Now.

I received an ebook copy from the author in exchange for my honest review. This does not affect my opinion in any way, except for that I need Midnight Thief even more now.

Livia Blackburne:

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