Heather’s Bookshelf: Firefax
Author: AM Vergara
Released: 10/01/23
Genre: Historical Fantasy Thriller
“Firefax” introduces the Firefax family- a family of assassins that have been around and taking out people for centuries. The current regime (set during the American revolution) is full of their problems which only worsen when the patriarch of the family is killed in an accident.
Their father’s death leads to more family infighting and the return of Murdoch, the long-lost and brutal brother. The five siblings are all assassins with the exception of Cara who the rest of the family has sheltered due to the fear of her turning another Murdoch. Their profession draws enemies and leads the family to more tragedy, again tearing the remaining family members apart.
When one of the surviving family members falls ill, it brings them all back together to seek answers and safety. They follow a legend of the island of Lubrerum, rumored to be a city of gold and to hold other treasures as well, including the cure they need. Will the remaining Firefax’s find the cure they are looking for or will they all meet their demise on Lubrerum?
Trigger Warning: violence, animal death, adult language, murder, attempted rape
Overall, I enjoyed this story. This dysfunctional family is full of distinctive and eclectic characters. Each one is more and more compelling and they continue to develop throughout the story in both complexity and depth. I cared about these characters in a relatively short amount of time, which is a testament to the author. I especially enjoyed the growth of Murdoch & Cara’s characters. The pacing of the story is excellent, with frequent action interspersed with sequences geared at emotionality or character development. The premise of a family of assassins moving through some of history’s more tumultuous times is intriguing, to say the least. Unfortunately, the events of the book really move away from this premise and more towards what occurs on Lubrerum. And while an interesting read, I found myself wishing for more of the original premise. The ending wraps everything up nicely and the epilogue adds an extra layer of completeness.
I received a copy of this story in exchange of a fair and honest review.
The book was accessed in a combination of audiobook and ebook. The narrator does such a good job in changing his tones and pattern of speech. Between the pacing and the narration, I recommend the audiobook version as a great format.
OVERALL REVIEW:
Amazing depth and connection to complex characters is hindered a bit by an unfulfilled premise.
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