Book Review: Rising: A Teen & Young Adult Epic Fantasy (The Custod Chronicles Book 1) by Charity Mae
When I first stumbled upon Rising: A Teen & Young Adult Epic Fantasy, I was drawn in by its promise of magic, rebellion, and the coming-of-age journey of a young hero named Cedrick. I’ve always had a soft spot for stories about underdogs discovering their hidden potential—especially when woven into a richly crafted fantasy world. Charity Mae’s debut didn’t just meet my expectations; it exceeded them in the most delightful ways.
At the heart of Rising is Cedrick, a character who—let’s be honest—many of us can relate to at some level. He’s the overlooked son in a lineage rooted in heroism, struggling against the weight of his family’s expectations while grappling with feelings of inadequacy. The dynamic between him and his father, who sees him as the "weak link," resonates deeply. It perfectly encapsulates that universal struggle of wanting to prove oneself, all while facing the daunting shadows of both family legacy and personal failure.
What strikes me about Mae’s writing style is how effortlessly she combines vivid world-building with genuine character development. The landscapes she paints feel alive, drawing the reader into a realm where sorcery isn’t just a skill but a vital part of existence. The pacing of the story darts between moments of breathtaking tension and heartfelt reflection, keeping the reader on their toes and invested in Cedrick’s journey. I particularly enjoyed how Cedrick’s awkwardness—his "adorkable" heroism—adds a layer of authenticity that is often overlooked in fantasy protagonists.
Mae’s ability to depict magic is another highlight of Rising. It’s not candy-coated or simplistic; magic here carries the weight of responsibility and danger. The allure of learning from a powerful but dangerous sorceress adds an element of suspense and moral ambiguity that propels Cedrick’s journey. As I turned the pages, I couldn’t help but ponder whether the pursuit of power comes with too high a price.
One line that stood out to me was when Cedrick muses about being “not just a flickering light in the darkness, but a flame yearning to burn brighter.” It encapsulates the essence of his journey: the struggle to find inner strength amidst trials and tribulations. It’s a reminder for all of us that even in moments of uncertainty, we might just be on the verge of our own awakening.
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly recommend Rising to anyone who loves epic fantasy, layered characters, and magical adventures with a dash of humor. Whether you’re a teen seeking your next page-turner or an adult who enjoys a well-spun tale of bravery and self-discovery, this book will resonate with you. It reminds us that our backgrounds do not dictate our futures, and sometimes it takes a dangerous leap into the unknown to find out just how powerful we can become. I eagerly await the next installment in The Custod Chronicles—after all, Cedrick’s journey is just beginning, and I can’t wait to see where it leads us!
You can find Rising: A Teen & Young Adult Epic Fantasy (The Custod Chronicles Book 1) here >>