In Fiona Fenn's The Crack at the Heart of Everything, the first book in the Cursed Mage series, meet Orpheus, a dark sorcerer who accidentally cursed himself. His actions, which helped his friend conquer a realm, lead to his exile to the very land he helped terrorize. Betrayed and alone, Orpheus finds himself unexpectedly drawn to his handsome, irritating rival, a charismatic ex-general. This LGBTQ+ fantasy romance follows Orpheus’s journey of redemption as he grapples with his past, his burgeoning feelings, and the difficult choice between his dark magic and a path towards heroism. With snarky humor and a compelling character arc, The Crack at the Heart of Everything offers a charming and swoon-worthy tale of unlikely love and well-earned happiness.
Review The Crack at the Heart of Everything
"The Crack at the Heart of Everything" completely charmed me! From the very first page, I was swept away by Fiona Fenn's captivating world-building. It's a post-apocalyptic landscape, but with a unique steampunk/clockpunk twist that felt both familiar and utterly fresh. The level of detail in the inventions, particularly the Netherflame-powered horse, Achates, was breathtaking; I could practically see Da Vinci nodding in approval. The author's descriptions are vivid and evocative, painting a picture so clear I felt immersed in the barren wasteland alongside Orpheus.
Orpheus himself, the cursed mage, is a wonderfully complex character. He's initially presented as a brooding, sorrowful figure – a "goth daddy" as someone aptly put it – but underneath that exterior lies a surprisingly soft heart. He's not inherently evil; he's a product of his circumstances, a victim of his own fear and a rough upbringing. This made him incredibly relatable, even sympathetic, despite his actions. I found myself constantly rooting for him, hoping for his redemption and happiness. The author expertly balances his flaws with his vulnerabilities, making him a truly compelling protagonist.
Then there's Fenrir, the sunshine to Orpheus's storm clouds. His unwavering optimism and dazzling charm are infectious, and their enemies-to-lovers dynamic is pure magic. The banter between them is witty and hilarious, providing much-needed levity amidst the darker elements of the story. While the romance does take center stage towards the end, it never overshadows the overarching plot. The pacing is perfect; it allows for both the slow burn of their burgeoning feelings and the thrilling action sequences. I did find myself whispering "just say it!" more than a few times, as the miscommunications between them occasionally felt a bit drawn out, but their eventual understanding was all the more satisfying.
Beyond the central romance, the plot itself is brilliantly crafted. The mystery surrounding Orpheus's curse, the political intrigue within the kingdom, and the ever-present threat of hellbeasts kept me hooked from beginning to end. There's a satisfying twist near the climax that I partially anticipated, yet still managed to surprise me. The way the story unfolds, revealing more about the world and its mechanics alongside Orpheus's own journey of self-discovery, was masterful. It felt like watching a beautifully orchestrated opera, with interludes of backstory providing depth and context.
The overall tone of the book is a delightful blend of dark fantasy, romance, and humor. It’s emotional, poignant, and even heartwarming at times, despite the post-apocalyptic setting. There are moments of intense action and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat, followed by quieter, more intimate moments that allow you to connect with the characters on a deeper level. "The Crack at the Heart of Everything" is a stunning debut novel, and I eagerly anticipate the next installment in this captivating series. It deserves all the praise it receives; a truly unforgettable read.
Information
- Dimensions: 5.5 x 0.75 x 8.25 inches
- Language: English
- Print length: 336
- Publication date: 2024
- Publisher: Tiny Fox Press LLC