Ruinous Creatures
by Jessi Cole Jackson
Blurb:
Adela spends her days meticulously preparing these skulls to be matched, ensuring the magic endures and the valley sustains. But when she discovers two phoenix skulls—creatures she had believed only legend—she can’t resist the pull of their dormant magic. Defying the warnings of her mentor, Adela awakens the skulls, unleashing a shockwave of power that throws the valley into chaos.
Meanwhile, determined novitiate Kian prepares for the upcoming matching ceremony, but harbors a he is only participating in order to destroy the magic of the skulls to avenge the death of his parents at the hands of this tradition of power.
As Adela and Kian’s fates intertwine in the matching hut, the connection between them grows deeper and the power of the phoenix skulls grows louder. An impulsive kiss seals their fate—to each other and each to one of the phoenix skull masks. As they grapple with the consequences of their powerful new magic, their fated connection becomes the key to either the valley’s salvation or its ultimate collapse.
My Review:
This debut standalone fantasy delivers a strikingly original concept that
immediately sets it apart. The magic system is inventive and immersive,
centered on a ceremonial bond between humans and magical creatures, where power
is channeled through the creatures’ skulls. What truly elevates this idea is
the way the story preserves the creatures’ lingering essence, emotions,
presence, and identity, which adds depth and an almost haunting beauty to every
magical interaction.
The pacing is brisk and engaging, making it an
easy book to devour while still feeling complete. As a standalone, it succeeds
in telling a full, satisfying story without leaving loose ends or relying on
sequel bait. The narrative remains focused, allowing the worldbuilding and plot
to unfold efficiently while maintaining momentum.
The romance is woven into the story as a
secondary thread, adding emotional stakes without overwhelming the larger
fantasy elements. The storytelling remains accessible and fluid, making the
book approachable for both seasoned fantasy readers and those looking for
something fresh and self-contained.
What stands out most is how confidently this
novel avoids familiar fantasy tropes. Rather than echoing existing stories, it
introduces a magic system and mythology that feel genuinely new. The world,
creatures, and lore are imaginative, and the author’s creativity shines
throughout.
Overall,
this is a strong and promising debut that offers originality, fast pacing, and
a complete narrative arc. Readers seeking a standalone fantasy with a fresh
magical premise, vivid concepts, and an engaging plot will find much to enjoy
here.
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