Emily Eve Blackthorn Review: A Fast-paced Fantasy with a Fierce Heroine
Blackthorn by Emily Eve is an adventure story about a young and brutal assassin. She lost her memory due to a head injury, and now working with the rebels to overthrow the king and avenge her murdered family.
From the first page, the book pulls you into the life of this rebel. It’s a fast-paced fantasy with a fierce heroine. And if you love stories with action, emotion and magic... you're in for a ride.
My Rating:
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
“A fast-paced fantasy with a fierce heroine.”
What the Book is About
Blackthorn is the story of Bonnie, a twenty-year-old assassin raised by the Amlucen rebellion after surviving a violent head injury. With her memory and language skills lost, she has only one focus... bringing down the cruel King Aborn.
But when her mission to plant evidence on Lord Frederick Stonewood doesn’t go as planned, she’s forced into a reluctant partnership with the very enemy she meant to destroy. Together, they must work against time and tide to save rebel lives. Along the way, Bonnie begins to unravel the secrets of the life she can no longer remember.
What Works
The pacing is fluid... as best as you can get. With cliffhangers at the end of nearly every chapter, Blackthorn keeps you glued to the page. Bonnie is a strong protagonist who feels both dangerous and vulnerable. Her interactions with Freddie bring tension, making their chemistry addictive.
Emily has managed to strike a balance between magic, politics and emotion. The world-building flows naturally. You learn about the kingdom as Bonnie does, and it's never overwhelming or too dense. It’s also refreshingly readable, with vivid but easy-going descriptions that help you see the world without slowing the story.
What Falls Short
There’s little to complain about here. If you’re looking for an expansive lore, you may find this world a bit simplified. It still is vast with several regions and towns, all with their own rulers. It’s still quite accessible. For a debut fantasy, it’s confident and cleanly executed.
Who Should Read It
Perfect for fans of female-led fantasy, fast-paced rebellion plots, and mystery lovers. It also has a hint of warmth and slow-burn affection. So, even if you aren’t typically into fantasy, this one might surprise you with how easy and cosy it is.
Final Thoughts
Blackthorn is the kind of book that sneaks up on you... emotional, action-packed and full of twists. It also has themes of identity, loyalty and survival. With sharp writing and cliffhangers that won’t let you rest, it’s a strong start to what could be a standout series.
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