Spin Of Fate

 By: A A Vora

Location: FIC

Location: Fantasy

Magnificent Beasts. Buried Gods. Unforgiving Magic. Epic Battles.

Perfect for fans of Avatar: The Last Airbender and Naruto, this propulsive high fantasy debut features intricate world-building, and a scientific hard magic system inspired loosely by the law of karma.

The world is governed by Toranic Law, an ancient magical force that segregates people into upper and lower realms based on their morality. It’s said that if the sinful lowers commit themselves to kindness, their souls will lighten, allowing them into the blissful upper realms.

But Aina, one of the few lowers to ever ascend, just wants to go back. Desperate to reunite with her mother, who remains stuck in their horror-infested homeland, Aina joins the Balancers—a group that defies Toranic Law by bringing aid to those condemned to a life of suffering in the lower realms.

Alongside Aina are two new recruits: Aranel, a spoiled noble spying for the upper authorities; and Meizan, a ruthless fighter trying to save his clan from extinction.

Before long, Aina, Aranel, and Meizan find themselves in the midst of a brewing war. On one side, a violent lower king is bent on destroying Toranic Law; on the other, the upper authorities will do anything to stay on top.

The trio must face both sides head-on if they want to stop a conflict that could break not only Toranic Law... but the universe itself.

"An exhilarating series opener." - Kirkus (Starred Review)

Review by Chloe:

Now this is a book that kind of broke my brain wide open.

The character dynamics are beyond excellent, with each of their worldviews clashing to create the examination of the effects of oppression that runs throughout the book. It also makes for some wonderful tension and banter, because while this book delves deeply into its themes in a very philosophical way, it is also such a blast to read with its completely realized characters and starkly beautiful worldbuulding. There are giant, stunning creatures such a snake like peacocks and winged dolphins, with a few evil monkeys thrown in there too.

There is also a deep emotional core, one where there is such a yearning for love, and goodness, to prevail, but the result of violence and imperial forces unlock such an anger.

All of it, it is truly magnificent to behold.