this was a wonderfully written novel, it had that element that I was looking for and enjoyed from the description and genre. I was invested in what was happening and how well the overall concept was. The characters were so well written and enjoyed the element of the world building and how they were used in this universe. I was engaged with what was happening and glad worked together in the way U. M. Agoawike wrote this.

I really liked this. The vibes were eerie and I could practically feel the tension with every passing page. I really enjoyed the author's prose, it was very lyrical and not stiff.

Epic, emotional, and full of heart, this story soars with high-stakes magic, reluctant allies, and a love that might doom or save the world.

A fantasy with extensive worldbuilding and complex characters and relationships! Love the cover art as well!

4.5 stars

This one is Bold but memorable... The narrative follows Asaru, a winged soldier bound by duty and curse, and Wren, a healer whose defiance blurs the line between salvation and destruction. Together, they navigate a world where history, identity, and power collide in unexpected ways. Agoawike builds a setting rich in tension and consequence, where every choice matters.

The author’s approach to fantasy is refreshingly grounded. There are themes of guilt, power, and belonging. These fore the characters to confront uncomfortable truths about themselves and the world they’re trying to save. The result is a story that feels epic but deeply personal in tone.
The relationship between Asaru and Wren unfolds with complexity but also restrain. It felt more than just a simple romance or partnership. I think the relationship was more of a layered bond formed under pressure, filled with doubt, anger, and fragile hope.

Black as Diamond is dark, imaginative, and strikingly original. This fantasy also questions what are the costs that come with survival and what it means to be truly free.

For readers looking for something that challenges the familiar characteristics of the genre, but also something that offers power and emotion... this one might be for you.

Thank you NetGally, Bindery Books, and Ezeekat Press for the ARC. Can't wait to get my hard copy!

Black as Diamond is a fantasy book following four main characters: a human alchemist, a half human failed healer, an eresh keyel warrior (winged humanoid creature with tail) and a priestess, working together to break a curse and save the realm. While I enjoyed the story, at times I had to stop and re-read parts because they wording didn't make sense. The world building was vast and intriguing, but missing some details leaving me a little confused at times. I felt that the relationships were a little rushed since most of the time the characters were snapping at each other and in stressful situations. I would have liked a little more building of the relationships.

Overall, good fantasy book. Interesting characters, world, and magic.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bindery Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I love epic fantasy. This is a great start to a multi-book series and I'm excited to see where the story goes. I think I should have referred to the glossary more often because there is a ton of new vocab/lore that could have been explained a little more.

A huge thanks to Bindery and Net Galley for the EARC!