The Lost Princess of Aevilen (Kingdom of Aevilen Book 1) by D.C. Payson

The Lost Princess of Aevilen is a YA fantasy book that will be released on May 12th. This book was sent to me by the publisher. Today is the Cover Reveal- and I must say, it is gorgeous! After seventeen-year-old Julia's home in California is destroyed by a wildfire, she must move in with her grandmother, who escaped a war-torn world with her life decades ago. When Julia finds a beautiful necklace in an old trunk, it transports her to the land of Aevilen, where her grandmother was a princess. Now, she must join a rebellion and help free her people.

The power of the necklace is mesmerizing, and I loved the imagery of its warmth and guidance; it felt truly alive, a character nonetheless. Speaking of characters, I admired Julia's strength to fight for a world that is not her own. The amount of fear and sadness felt very realistic and expected given the circumstance. I loved the contrast between her emotions near the beginning and when she is powerful and strong with its power. Thezdan’s bravery to risk his life for Julia was astonishing, and not many men would have the kindness he shows.

I liked the relevant issue of the California wildfires, and how even though this is a fantasy book, there are still themes of reality, such as ever-present social inequality. I also enjoyed how the setting was still partial to the main world, only outside modern reality. That opens a hypothetical premise of being more to the universe than we could have imagined. the imagery of the forestry was beautiful and calming. The ending was sharp and unexpected, and I cannot wait to read the next book sometime in the coming years and find out what happens to Julia!

I recommend this book! (And no, I did not only enjoy the book since the main character shares my name- that's just an added bonus.)

Title: The Lost Princess of Aevilen
Author: D.C. Payson
Publisher: Month9Books
Pages: 302
Series: Yes, Book 1
Rating: 5 Stars
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