REVIEW: Looking for Dei by David A. Willson

Summary

When Nara was a toddler – only two years old – she lived in an orphanage. Children like her were usually killed, but instead she was cast off. Forgotten.

But Nara’s arrival in the world was special. Prophesied. And Bylo had spent years trying to find a child like her. When he found her, he carted her away. The orphanage hardly noticed.

Raised by Bylo, Nara grew into a sweet young woman. At 15, she loved nature and animals. She spent most of her free time with her best friend Mykel. And she hid her magic.

Usually magic was only discovered at the Announcement. Teens would participate in a ceremony that would reveal the magic. No magic had been found in Dimmitt in years. And Nara’s magic was so unusual, she and Bylo weren’t sure what would happen to her at the ceremony.

But it’s Mykel’s turn in the ceremony that sets events in motion. Soon the three are on the run, desperate to stay alive and stay hidden. They don’t realize that someone else has been searching for Nara for years – and they know exactly where she is. And what she is.

Review

I received a request from the author to consider reviewing his new book. As I enjoy reading fantasy and the story sounded interesting, I said I would give it a try. I am so glad I did. This is an excellent fantasy world. The set up is well done. I was completely engrossed.

Nara and Mykel and Bylo are great characters. I cared about what happened to them. I especially liked Nara in contrast to Kayna. Nara was loved – Bylo raised her as if she was his own. And it made a huge impact on her character development. She truly loves and cares for others.

I loved the story line. The magic of this world is really interesting. I have some theories about how things work, but I’ll have to wait for book 2 to see if I am right. Elements of the magic system – and the story – reminded me of other great fantasy series which made this feel comfortable and familiar while still being original. There’s a faith/religious thread to the story – prophecy, prayer, faith, etc. – that was interesting. I am curious to see how that piece might develop in the next book, too.

Thanks to Netgalley and David A. Willson for an electronic review copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.

Rating: ♥♥♥♥½