Title: Cast in Firelight
Author: Dana Swift
Performers: Priya Aayar & Assaf Cohen
Length: 11 hr, 54 min
Series: Wickery, Book 1
Publishing Date/Publisher: January 4, 2022 by Listening Library
Format: eAudiobook
Review: The imaginative world that was introduced in this series was a real joy to immerse myself in. So rich in color (literally) and built upon a fascinating magic system. We see many of the stereotypical things associated with wizardry & witchcraft, but they are modified with their own creative spin. For example, the flying brooms….loved what Swift did there. There were certain aspects of the story that seemed a little far fetched, (i.e. why would her future father-in-law be ok with Aadra putting herself in dangerous situations on the reg??), but I was willing to overlook those little details because I enjoyed the rest of the story so much. The “enemies” to lovers and mistaken identity tropes are executed well and the spark between the two characters is fun to watch ignite (can’t help the puns).
The two readers were excellent for the eAudiobook. Priya in particular I could listen to all day. I was eager to start the second book in the duology.
Reader: Bekah
Rating: 4 Stars
Title: Bound by Firelight
Author: Dana Swift
Performers: Priya Ayyar & Assaf Cohen
Length: 11 hr, 14 min
Series: Wickery, Book 2
Publishing Date/Publisher: January 18, 2022 by Listening Library
Format: eAudiobook
Review: This sequel did not quite carry the momentum of the first book, but I still enjoyed it. Aadra and Jatin get almost no page time together, and a new character is introduced in Jatin’s POV that I don’t feel was particularly well-written. In fact, I don’t even really understand why the addition of this character was necessary. She added almost nothing of value to the story and the relationships between her and the other characters were confusing.
Aadra’s storyline had potential that I don’t think was fully realized. Her friendship with her cell mate was interesting, and I loved the incorporation of sign language. I don’t think I have ever seen signing described in a fantasy novel like this before, or ever really.
This book wasn’t as tightly written or fast paced as the first in the duology, but it wrapped up nicely and I was satisfied with the ending.
Reader: Bekah
Rating: 3.5 Stars
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