Dark Rise
by C.S. Pacat
Violet and Will discover a secret society called the Stewards, devoted to protecting the world from dark magic, leading to a battle against a rising Dark King.
Tropes & Themes
About This Book
In 1821 England, 17-year-old Will Kempen is an orphan on the run from the men who killed his mother. Captured and imprisoned aboard Lord Crenshaw's ship, Will witnesses a magical sword wreak havoc, leading to his rescue by Violet, the illegitimate half-Indian daughter of a lord. Together, they uncover the Stewards, an ancient society dedicated to protecting the world from dark magic. The Stewards believe a powerful Dark King is destined to rise again, and they seek to train Will, who may possess a bloodline with potent magic, to confront this looming threat.
As Will and Violet delve deeper into the Stewards' world, they face escalating dangers from dark forces intent on resurrecting the Dark King. The narrative is rich with themes of destiny, magic, and the struggle between light and dark, set against the atmospheric backdrop of early 19th-century England. The story's tension builds as Will and Violet confront their own fears and uncertainties, leading to a suspenseful and intense journey.
What Readers Say
Readers praise the immersive world-building and complex character development in 'Dark Rise'. Many appreciate the novel's exploration of themes like fate, free will, and the nature of heroism. Fans note the slow pacing in the beginning, which may challenge some readers' engagement. Some readers find the portrayal of the Stewards as overly righteous and hypocritical. Content warnings include depictions of death, violence, and romantic coercion; reader discretion is advised.
