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Review: Truth in Cinders – Denise Tanaka

Truth in Cinders - Denise Tanaka

Genre: Action-Adventure, Epic Fantasy, Sword & Sorcery

Reviewer: Rari

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About The Book

Condrie the tavern maid befriends a man on the run only to discover he is a firebird disguised in human form. Together they must elude the tyrant king’s relentless forces while seeking the truth of who massacred other firebirds enslaved to the king.

The Review

This book gripped me from the start, and didn’t let go till the end. 

It revolves around Condrie, a tavern maid who happens to save a stranger named Wegdell, on the run from the king’s guards. He’s a firebird in disguise, and she helps him leave the city, but the tavern is burned down by the soldiers in retaliation. Condrie is forced to seek work at a farm, with foreigners who are kind and accept her for who she is. 

The soldiers come to the farm with another firebird, whose magic forces Condrie to reveal Wegdell’s whereabouts. But he’s one step ahead of them, and has left by the time the soldiers reach the place. He comes to the farm and disguises himself among the foreign workers, who hate firebirds. He sets about solving the mystery behind the deaths of the others like him, and Condrie’s own heritage.

Though the book does slow down a little in parts, it was quite an enjoyable read. Condrie is a relatable character with her flaws, insecurities, fears, and hopes. She tries to do what is right and to help others, but it’s not always possible.

This book gave me Russian folktale vibes with the firebirds, the mysterious Athel refugees, and the overall countryside descriptions. Idk if that was intentional or not.

If you love fantasy, especially with mythical creatures, relatable characters, and a deepening mystery, you will love this book.

The Reviewer

Rari is an author and editor writing under the name of Niranjan K. She is an avid reader of all things fantasy, and loves to discourse at length about her favourite books as well as shows. This blog is the space where she will be sharing her views and insights of the books, shows and movies that she likes.