Thank you to K.L. Kolarich and BOMM Tours for my free arc in exchange for an honest review!
Rating: 4⭐️
House of Bastiion is a gripping new adult fantasy full of political intrigue, intricate world building, action and adventure, and packed with racially diverse characters. The author definitely did not abstain from spilling all the tea of this world she so meticulously built. The plot is also driven by multiple POV's which in my opinion was well done.
When I first stepped into this world I was lost and a bit overwhelmed because of the complexity of the world. Being that each house has its own languages, systems, members, and culture, it was a lot to take in and keep up with. However, once I was able to understand everything, I fell deep into this story and was fascinated by all the details it brought with it.
Aforementioned there are multiple characters but we follow the PoV's of Luscia and Zaethan. Who I might add are some kickass characters. Luscia is everything I want and love in a protagonist. I absolutely loved her! She's a badass, fierce, daring, loyal, brave. I also love how strong she was in the face of prejudice and hate, which is very seen in this world. I mean and if she wasn't badass enough, she is always accompanied by her giant lycran (wolf hound-esque) Aksel. Need I say more... I think not. Zaethan oh Zaethan... *sighs* Is sexy af! I mean he has all the right male qualities I love in a character; did I mention he's sexy, headstrong, loyal. He can be an a**hole at times, especially when it comes to his outwardly blunt prejudices. However, despite his mantics and impetuous ways, he is a great character with a lot of heart and is loyal...and I totally loved him! Might I add, the banter between Luscia and Zaethan was great! They were at each other's throat from the start. The tension between these two was fun and keeps you hooked.
While this book wasn't heavy on romance, it sets up multiple potential relationships for future books. That is something I enjoy in a sort of enemies to possible lovers trope. It is so rewarding and fun once the romance does kick off, because we've become more invested in who the characters are and how they got to the romance.
I also appreciate K.L. Kolarich for putting together such an amazing website full of fun resourceful stuff. It has a glossary, playlist, and a quiz to see what house you belong to. I'm #teamboreal 👏 She even answered any questions I had about the world when I was lost in it. I can tell she is so passionate about her story and the world she built. Just like her characters, she has a lot of heart and I can't wait to continue this journey.
