While not as all-seeing as her mentor, Brack (a character I wish we had seen more of in this novel), Bristal is patient and introspective willing to put in the time and sacrifice to do what is needed for Nissera. These secondary stories play out on a larger stage as Bristal comes to terms with her newfound immortality and learns to control her magic while facing an elicromancer who would rather rule over humans than serve and protect them. West’s novel is informed by numerous fairy tales (most notably Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty) positioning a reluctant Bristal in the role of fairy godmother.īristal’s ability to shape shift and disguise herself informs much of the story as she begins to change her appearance to manipulate individuals and, indeed, entire courts pushing Nissera toward peace and prosperity. Kingdom of Ash and Briars introduces a richly layered world with a unique magic system. (A companion short story, Fields of Fire, can also be read for free online.)
Kingdom of Ash and Briars is West’s debut novel and the first book in the Nissera Chronicles which continues in Realm of Ruins. With so much potential power at her command Bristal will have to accept her magic and embrace her destiny despite the dangers in Kingdom of Ash and Briars (2016) by Hannah West. Immortal and able to wield powerful magic, Bristal is meant to take her place as a peacekeeper and kingmaker. Now Bristal is an elicromancer-one of only three people over the centuries to have survived the Water intact. Her humble life as a kitchen maid ends the moment she survives touching the Water and receives an elicrin stone. Bristal’s life changes forever when she is kidnapped.
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