Ever Darkening

by Janeal Falor

Check it out on Goodreads!

*I received a free copy of this book via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.*

Cover- B

I like the cover, but I am struggling to see the relevance of the image. I might have read it too fast and missed an explanation (I briefly remember , but it still got my attention before I started the book.

Plot A+

I was not expecting such an epic fantasy tale! 

In a classic tale of good versus evil, Kaylyn has trained her entire life to eliminate the evil Malryx of the world. But when she finally accomplishes all she has set out to do, Kaylyn has no purpose left in a  world without evil. Then, the skies get darker, and a stranger arrives and reports strange happenings occurring in his village. Kalyn is eager to help and secretly happy she has a purpose again. Once Kaylyn and her comrades reach the village, Kaylyn soon realize that the new darkness may have been released because of her. This quest will challenge Kaylyn's leadership, friendship, and self in every possible way. This book has so many twists, there is no way you will be able to guess the ending!

Characters- B

First of all, I really liked the naming of all the characters in this book. I always like when the author creates her own names, because it helps with the world building. Kalyn might just be one of my favorite characters ever! She is a smart leader, a fierce friend, and an even better warrior. Kalyn has two very close friends: Marsa, who Kaylyn has become to know as her sister (and kind of got on my nerves); and Jorrin, who is a loyal friend. The trio have been friends since they were young. Kaylyn made a promise to Marsa to help her win Jorrin's affections when they were young, and breaking a promise in this world could mean turning evil.

Writing- A+

When I was reading about this book on Goodreads, a lot of reviewers were saying it was a badly written love story. Honestly, the main focus was not even romance (even the nature of the kiss was't intended to be romantic)! I would say this story is one of friendship, self-sacrifice, and a small portion of romance (not being an overwhelming factor, but enough that it is pleasant to the storyline).

The story building in this book was beautiful. There is such a distinct difference between the places bound by darkness and those still good. Magic was never mentioned, because it is considered more than magic, it is power. The power is derived from good or evil. Zophasken is the power that is from the good Zophas. But when a Zophas turns evil or commits a horrid sin, he or she turns into a Malryx.

Overall Rating: 3.5 stars