Friday Fiction Fix: "Half-Blood"

Although this is labeled as book 1.5, those who have not read anything in this series can easily enjoy this book. 

The Short:

Half-Blood

Ilyon Chronicles, 1.5

By: Jaye L. Knight

4.5/5 Stars

What: A young slave forced to become a gladiator struggles with his humanity.

Recommended to those who like: Christian, internal conflict, fantasy, sword fights, and quick reads.

The Long:

Although this book is labeled as 1.5, it’s really a prequel to Resistance. This would actually be a good way to try out a new author/series. Those who have read Resistance will also enjoy learning some of Jace’s backstory.

Jace has been a slave his whole life. Yet he can’t even associate with his fellows in bonds—he’s half ryrik, which gives him pointed ears, an odd appearance, and a violent reputation--though he hasn’t done anything to deserve it. He struggles with understanding how humans who could violently enslave him are considered better, even though he hasn’t done anything deserving of his treatment.

Taken to be trained as a gladiator, will he succumb to the violence in his blood to please his masters, or will he be able to become something better?

This book is a great read and it deals with some serious issues, including violence and slavery. 

However, it’s definitely a prequel-style story with less of a fleshed-out story line than a "normal" novel would have. (Hence the half star; I keep telling myself I’m not going to use those). 

I love Jace’s internal conflict throughout the story. It makes me question how I would react in a similar situation.

I would recommend this book to those who enjoy fantasy and gladiators, with some moral dilemmas thrown in. Again, it would be suitable for someone who is new to the story or someone who has read previous books in the series.

What are your thoughts on prequel novels?