Hello friends! Recently, I shared my book review for Trimarked in by C.K. Sorens. Well, Afflicted came out on March 1st! Travis and I got to help with the editing last year and so we wanted to share our review today. Although I got to edit the book and I’m friends with the author, I will be offering an honest review. Okay, let’s dive in!
Rating: 4 Stars
Synopsis
Hope was dangerous for the Trimarked girl.
It’s been five weeks since Nicu saved Ember from the barrier, and she doesn’t know how long until he tells the Fae about her growing powers. She soon discovers the small openings she can create in the impenetrable barrier around the city of Trifecta no longer snap shut but now ease closed at her command.
Ember already balances on a fine line between accident and purpose; using her power intentionally will certainly bring the wrath of all three races. Though she doesn’t belong anywhere, she’s not willing to become a prisoner to any of the factions.
When a Witch Queen arrives in Trifecta with the goal to enslave the minds and bodies of magic users, Ember must take a different path: use without control. As the Queen gathers new followers, Ember may not have a choice whether she’ll expose her newfound strength if it means saving the few people she dares to call friends.
What I Enjoyed
If you thought Ember’s abilities were intriguing in Trimarked, just you wait until you learn more in Afflicted. As you can tell from the synopsis, Ember and the rest of the characters learn more about her abilities and her role in Trifecta. My favorite part was that Ember becomes more confident in her voice and her position among these factions—instead of avoiding everyone so she doesn’t invoke their wrath or resentment, she starts to stand up for herself and her needs.
The Queen/Charlah is also a fascinating antagonist. Her voice, actions, and personality is so different from the rest of the cast. Whether or not you agree with her agenda, you can’t help but find her compelling and fun.
If you’re a fan of Nicu, Aaron, Chase, or Devi, these characters come back and change things up. Sorens has a handle on everyone’s character arc and takes you on a journey that isn’t always easy to predict.
My Final Thoughts
As I mentioned in my other review, the world of Trifecta is rough; while the book is appropriate for YA readers, it might be a little too much for some. Sorens has an excellent reader’s advisory on her website if you’re interested in learning more. I’ll just say that the town holds a lot of trauma, hardship, and struggles. It’s ideal if you’re a fan of dystopian aesthetics.
Hopefully, I shared enough to pique your curiosity. Want to get reading? If so, I highly recommend you look up C.K. Sorens on social media:
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