Ink of Blood

(I received a free copy of this book in exchange for a review).

(This review may contain spoilers).

The blurb of this book was one that really drew me in. Although I wasn’t sure how well-written it would be, I still gave it a chance; and I’m really glad I did.

The plot of this book isn’t one that looks very unique at first glance… but I found myself drawn into the storyline almost from the first. It’s not always easy to connect emotionally with POV characters, but I found it impossible not to empathise with Gwen.

I liked the family relationships with Gwen and her siblings, as well as her parents. It was nice to see the way they all cared about each other, even when they were forced to become rivals. I really liked the opportunity to learn about different aspects of Atlantis and bits and pieces of the culture and technology.

I have to say… I didn’t much like the characters from Atlantis for quite a while. A number of them seemed harsh and lacking compassion. While I could understand not wanting to get emotionally attached, it made it very hard for me to trust they would keep their word.

I really liked the fact that Gwen wasn’t a perfect character. The fact that her intelligence was her greatest strength came through really well and I felt that the leaps of logic she made had thought processes that were shown correctly.

I really liked Blayne’s character. It was interesting to see a person without the full use of his legs trying to compete for his spot… and I thought he came across as a really strong person, despite the fact that he was so closed-off most of the time.

Even though I hate love triangles with a passion, the hints at one through this book aren’t too bad, especially since I didn’t feel Gwen got special treatment. And I’d like for her to ultimately end up with the other person and not the obvious one in this book.

There were parts of this book that were violent and savage and did in fact put me in mind of the Hunger Games. Then again, I’m not sure this kind of plot could be written any other way. And it was good there were good and bad people in both races.

I enjoyed this book so much, I’ve bought the second in the trilogy. I plan to read it in the near future.