A Blog of Books and Tea

(ARC – New cover re-release)

Tropes:

• Ancient Magic 🪄
• Memory Loss 🤯
• Time Travel ⌚
• Reborn
• Divided People ⛓️‍💥
• Chosen One?
• Enemies to Allies
• Forced Teamwork 🔗

Stars – ⭐⭐⭐⭐

Synopsis – The 200th Game of Champions is about to begin, an event that echoes through the annals of history as a grand spectacle of valor and skill. For one week, this ancient tournament of magic, strength, and survival challenges its contestants, pushing them to their limits through a series of brutal trials designed to weed out the weak. “Glory is promised, but survival isn’t“.

When the time-travelling Captain awakens from a mysterious slumber, he unexpectedly finds himself thrust into a series of perilous games . Here, he meets Wander – a determined princess with a fierce spirit and unwavering resolve. Together, they must work as a team to navigate the games, filled with treacherous obstacles and unexpected allies. As the Captain confronts the challenges ahead, he realizes that he must rely not only on his own wit, skill, and courage but also on the unique strengths that Wander brings to their partnership. Throughout their journey, he learns the importance of trust and camaraderie, understanding that only by embracing their differences can they hope to succeed and triumph over the tournament.

Can they overcome the dangers of a dark curse that begins to plague the games, or will the tournament derail?

Thoughts – Overall, I really enjoyed reading this book. The world building was rich, the characters were intriguing, and the plot was fast paced.

The only thing I struggled with was the beginning, as it was really heavy with information, which seemed to stint the story a little and create a sense of overwhelm. This initial complexity made it challenging to immerse myself fully in the narrative right away. However, as the story unfolds, it becomes clear that all that detailed exposition was definitely necessary. It helps you to understand not only the characters’ motivations but also the intricate world they inhabit. As you progress through the plot, this foundational knowledge enriches the experience, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the twists and turns that follow, ultimately making the journey all the more rewarding.

At the beginning of the story, there are a number of intriguing time shifts that weave between the past and present day. These shifts can be a bit confusing at first glance, mirroring the experience of watching season one of The Witcher, where viewers often found themselves questioning whether the scene was set in the present or the past. This layered sense of confusion is not merely a narrative device; it serves a deeper purpose by immersing the audience in the character’s tumultuous psyche. Such disorientation effectively conveys the emotional landscape and internal struggles of the characters, providing insights into their feelings, choices, and motivations, enriching the storytelling experience as a whole.

As the story progresses, the pace increases, heightening excitement with each chapter’s new twists that keep readers on the edge of their seats. The relationship between Captain and Wander begins with undeniable tension, their witty, sarcastic exchanges providing humor amidst intense circumstances. Their growth from almost enemies to close friends showcases the complexities of trust and loyalty developed through shared trials. Captain’s high walls, built from past betrayals, add depth to his character progression, making his evolution from suspicion to camaraderie a poignant testament to the transformative power of friendship.

I would recommend this book to others, as it is a true gem within its genre. The plot is exciting and intricately woven, with unexpected twists that keep readers engaged. The characters are unique and lovable, each with their own compelling backstory that draws you deeper into their lives. The world is richly detailed, filled with fascinating lore and vivid settings that enhance the storytelling. I find myself wanting to know more about this universe and feel a genuine connection to the unfolding events. I will eagerly read the rest of the series to see what happens to Captain and observe Wander’s development, hoping that each installment brings new adventures and insights into these well-crafted characters.