3.5 stars

In a world where magic and gods exist, Auraya has become one of the legendary, immortal 'Whites' - people chosen by the Gods to be their voices, and granted magical gifts and immortality. But Auraya doesn't have long to get used to her new position as Black Sorcerers from a neighboring land are intent on invading her world and killing those who impose them.

I enjoyed the quality of the writing in this, the care taken to unveil each character we follow and their personality and thought processes and the magic and wonder in this world that Trudi Canavan created. I can see a lot of the same style of writing and imagination as I adored in The Black Magicians trilogy though unfortunately the slower pace of story didn't capture me quite as much.

I felt this story quite slow, and there were times when I could describe myself as slightly bored. I was never rearing to get back to the book and pick it up which isn't a great sign. But this book is a real 'introduction' book to the world, the magic and the complex relationships between the different types of magic users as well as references to the history between them and occasionally resurfaces. I truly appreciate Trudi Canavan's slower, more expansive fantasy writing style and there were times in this book were I did feel anxious - such as during the big battle.

I also really appreciate all the different creatures and types of races in this book from the Siyee to the Elai as well as adorable dog-like creatures like Mischief the veez (I need one so bad as a pet!).

While this book didn't rock my socks off, I still enjoyed it and will be eager to pick up the rest of the series.