The Lost Kingdom
**Sent a copy by the author in exchange for an honest review.**Stunning story!
The Lost Kingdom is a fabulous first book to a trilogy. Stephanie Beerden has created a marvelous fantasy/paranormal novel. The world building, characters and pacing was great!
This book follows sixteen year old Arima. She was born as a fallen star to be the new Lady Spirit. She was found by White Witch Bryeia and Wizard Gideon. When she was found Bryeia and Gideon decided to cast a spell that would mask her true identity, but at the age of 16 her awakening occurred and Arima knew she was definitely Lady Spirit because of her magical abilities, snow white hair and her violet eyes. Arima's goal as Lady Spirit: unlock the Lost Kingdom, reunite with her sisters and defeat the demon king Ahriman.
Along her journey she lost her only family (Bryeia, Gideon and Rowan) and in a way foun a new one among her followers and friends. Arima was such a fabulous character. For her age she handled her responsibilities so well and her snarky attitude to the demon king and his followers were awesome. Arima definitely looked like a girl, but her maturity was that of a true queen. She definitely surprised me every time an obstacle was in her way.
I totally loved Blythe and Sabre. They were amazing characters that I will never forget! They both had similar backgrounds when it comes to working for Ahriman and losing their families because of Ahriman.
Blythe is an amazing vampire from the moment he met Arima in Glynn. He swore to protect her and he definitely did. He stayed be her side through thick and thin. Helped her learn to battle with both hands and when she's injured. Blythe seemed like an older brother during the journey always warning her to becareful and being.protective of Arima. I loved it! Even the ending for what Arima gave him in return...I surely cried.
Sabre, the white wolf, seemed a little antsy and annoyed at first when hefirst met Arima because of his past efforts to help the Numinal. I completely understand his distrust, but as the story progressed he realized his error in making Arima pay for something she did not do and helped her along side Blythe.
Characters I couldn't stand: Ahriman the denon king, Myoni, Enchantra and Crimson. Ahriman just seemed to be the one to have everyone's family killed and hitting a 16 year old is just ridiculous!! Enchantra just was a snarky b*tch for no reason and I have no idea what she is. Myoni took everything away from Arima and didn't care at all. I'm glad she died and her death was awesome! Crimson I simply cannot even express my rage and disgust for what she's done to Blythe and anyone else. Anyone Ahriman's army is just annoying.
The ending was by far amazing and it shocked me because of my own doubts. I can't wait to find out what happens next for the other four Ladies.
PS: I love the dictionary/ translation for the magical holy language.
