4 out of 4 stars
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In the fantasy novel, The Devil's Fool (Devil Series Book 1) by Rachel McClellan, the reader is introduced to a magical world full of power-hungry and backstabbing witches and vampires. The one thing that will be most challenging to find in this novel is love and true friendship.
Unwilling to utilize magic, Eve's malicious and power-driven parents use any form of torture to crack her. After years of torment and abuse, she meets the powerful and attractive vampire, Boaz. This young girl falls into Boaz's open arms in hopes of finding the love and care she never received as a child. However, as time progresses, Eve's internal darkness, that she's been so fearful of, surfaces. She now finds joy and pleasure from the darkness within and is convinced this is the way to live. As she continues on this path, it leaves the reader questioning, will she be able to find her sweet and innocent side again?
The author's character development and plot descriptions are impeccable. I felt I was right there with Eve throughout all her sorrows and troubling times. Her feelings were relatable to those who have had a rough childhood that leads to a tough adulthood, and is trying to find salvation. Every scene in McClellan's world was very accessible and I was never left bored. Themes of love, friendship, trust, and loyalty are all woven into this fantasy world.
My overall impression of this book was dark. One particular way was the abuse that Eve endured from her parents, Erik and Sable. Eve's parents are convinced that their daughter has extreme magical powers and her refusal to use them brings her parents into a sort of rage. They would throw their only child into a torture room of sorts. The scenes depicted in this room were described so graphically, my skin crawled and I admit in cringing a bit, especially when a starving rat was used. Another way this book was dark were the scenes that showed Eve's darkness. These scenes, that include harming others, were full of evil and hatred that the reader wonders if Eve will be able to break through her darker side.
Throughout this read, there were many changes that occurred. For instance, weeks, then months, and even years passed by to show Eve's growth overtime. However, I can see how this quick passage of time can be troubling to some readers. Being the first book in a three-part series, the reader also gathers much information about this new world. However, there was a point in the book when I questioned if it was too much information.
Even with all the changes and amount of plot content, I happily give this book a 4 out of 4 stars. The graphic scenes, I feel, added to Eve's confusion of who she was, and the progression of time was an aspect I enjoyed. I recommend this read for those who enjoy dark fantasy books that show growth of its main character.
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The devil's fool
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