The Illumination: Izol by Mescal

Vanessa Bettencourt
13 minutes ago
2 min read

GIVEAWAY LINK: Author-signed copy of THE ILLUMINATION: IZOL (USA and Canada) (ends Feb 9) https://gleam.io/sInEF/the-illumination-izol-by-mescal-book-tour-giveaway

4 Stars

Very interesting one. At first, I thought the author was using anachronistic terms, but soon we realize this is a medieval background-inspired novel after a future that provided all the knowledge and technology. It has a great female lead, and the lore and mythology give us a refreshing take on usual tropes like chosen one (prophet, messenger), with Mesopotamian, Abrahamic, and Turkish aesthetic. A bit slow, but it makes it easier to follow.

She went into the woods an ordinary young woman. She returned marked by destiny.

When Izol crosses the boundary of the forbidden forest, she encounters a terror that should have ended her life. Instead, she is not only spared, but chosen. A mysterious messenger reveals a truth that will shatter everything she thought she knew about her family, her people, and her purpose.

Found bloodied and half-conscious, Izol returns home changed. But not everyone is ready for a young woman touched by the divine.

As tensions rise within the keep and dangerous eyes turn toward her, Izol must choose between who she was raised to be—and the powerful, terrifying truth of who she is. As the verity of her awakening begins to spread, those with something to lose will do anything to silence her.

Izol: The Illumination is a sweeping story of awakening, devotion, and betrayal. The first book in a bold new fantasy series, Izol: The Illumination is perfect for readers who love epic storytelling grounded in emotional intimacy, myth, and wonder.