Heir of storms by Lauryn Hamilton Murray

Blaze, born to a family that commands flames, has been hidden away following the mighty storm she summoned unwittingly at her birth. The devastating death and destruction have rendered her a disgrace in the eyes of many. Feared and shunned for her anomalous abilities, she longs to travel far, far away from it all. Her plans will, however, have to wait for she has been chosen to compete for the crown in the Choosing Rite. What will follow when the people realise that the Stormweaver’s dreaded powers have turned feeble? And what happens when Blaze meets the only other person in her world to have caused as massive a destruction as her?

Set in a fantasy world where the elements obey one’s wishes, Heir of Storms is perfect for young adults hung-over from Powerless and the Hunger Games. With a feisty heroine, bitter rivalries, and unexpected romances, Murray’s first in the Storm Weaver trilogy delivers a gripping blend of magic, politics, and emotional depth that will leave you breathless. The only drawback is that some of the characters were not explored enough. A little more insight into characters like Flint, Blaze’s brother, would have increased the story’s appeal. However, it is possible that this may have been reserved for the second book.

This book is a solid 4.5 out of 5 and definitely recommended for readers aged 13 and above.

Themes: Fire, Magic Twins, Sorcery.

Jyothika B. (Student)