Review ~ Trial by Fire (The Worldwalker Trilogy #1) by Josephine Angelini

eARC received via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review

Release Date: August 28th 2014

Publisher: Macmillian Children's Books

Description:
Love burns. Worlds collide. Magic reigns.
This world is trying to kill Lily Proctor. Her life-threatening allergies keep her from enjoying many of the experiences that other teenagers take for granted...which is why she is determined to enjoy her first (and perhaps only) high-school party. But Lily's life never goes according to plan, and after a humiliating incident in front of half her graduating class Lily wishes she could just disappear.

Suddenly Lily is in a different Salem - one overrun with horrifying creatures and ruled by powerful women called Crucibles. Strongest and cruellest of all the Crucibles is Lillian . . . Lily's identical other self in this alternate universe. This new version of her world is terrifyingly sensual, and Lily is soon overwhelmed by new experiences.

Lily realizes that what makes her weak at home is exactly what makes her extraordinary in New Salem. It also puts her life in danger. Thrown into a world she doesn't understand, Lily is torn between responsibilities she can't hope to shoulder alone, and a love she never expected.

But how can Lily be the saviour of this world when she is literally her own worst enemy?

My Opinion

I will admit that when I first saw this book announced, I didn't really care what it was about, I knew I'd read it. Despite having drawn mixed emotions in me throughout her Starcrossed series, Josephine Angelini is one of the authors whose books I'd just buy without reading the blurb. However, I am glad this book went up on NetGalley and I was given the chance to read/trial it in advance to see if it was for me. It's no secret that I'm not really a fan of witches in novels so I was a little wary going into this book as to whether I'd like it. However, I decided to give the author a chance because I've loved her writing in the past and I'm so glad I did--I will definitely be buying the paperback!

Trial by Fire surprised me. It was different yet similar in ways to other books I've read. But, overall it was a refreshing and original book that combined a lot of elements into an interesting world. I loved how the author link in different dimensions that play out every alternative, spirit walking and created a location that felt both modern and medieval. I really wasn't expecting what I got and it kept me hooked all of the way through. I would have liked a little more in the world building as I did feel some parts lacked detail in the overall creation but in general things were explained well, in great detail--especially explanations.

Similarly I thought the characters were crafted well. I grew to like Lily and Rowan and thought how their bond developed was believable. I also liked that the book started in our version of a world before Lily was transported into another Salem. It didn't throw you into anything and built intrigue into what was happening with her. I found the crucible concept and using certain materials and energy to create something an interesting premise and the science behind it felt believable.

Overall, I really didn't expect to like Trial by Fire as much as I did. I went in interested because of the author but I only though it would be an okay read due to my past experiences with witches. However, it turned around my opinion very quickly and had me glued to the pages. I will definitely be waiting for book 2 as that ending was just mean! I would highly recommend any book by this author.

4.5