Storm and Fury (The Harbringer #1)
Jennifer L. Armentrout
Genre: YA Fantasy / Romance
Published: June 11, 2019 (Inkyard Press)
Rating: 
Eighteen-year-old Trinity Marrow may be going blind, but she can see and communicate with ghosts and spirits. Her unique gift is part of a secret so dangerous that she’s been in hiding for years in an isolated compound fiercely guarded by Wardens—gargoyle shape-shifters who protect humankind from demons. If the demons discover the truth about Trinity, they’ll devour her, flesh and bone, to enhance their own powers.
When Wardens from another clan arrive with disturbing reports that something out there is killing both demons and Wardens, Trinity’s safe world implodes. Not the least because one of the outsiders is the most annoying and fascinating person she’s ever met. Zayne has secrets of his own that will upend her world yet again—but working together becomes imperative once demons breach the compound and Trinity’s secret comes to light. To save her family and maybe the world, she’ll have to put her trust in Zayne. But all bets are off as a supernatural war is unleashed…
I confess, I did the unthinkable and judged a book by the cover (and blurb) when I sent my request to the publisher for this book. As always, I need to give the disclaimer that I do not usually read young adult because it is a tough genre for me to enjoy. I spend so much time cringing or being angry and hoping beyond hope that I wasn’t as obnoxious as Trinity when I was eighteen. I almost certainly was and that’s a tough pill to swallow.
It is clear that Armentrout has a talent for creating authentic voice and actions for her characters. This is my first foray into her writing and I had no problem sinking into the story. The world building was excellent. Even though I haven’t read The Dark Elements series, I had no problem picking up on plot points relevant to this story line.
The story moves at a comfortable pace and peppered with exciting fight scenes, average teenage angst, and, of course, young romance. Trinity was a fun heroine, if a bit over the top like Brandon Sanderson’s Spensa in Skyward. I am hoping that we see a more grown version of Trinity in the next book as most of the early fight scenes I was hoping for her to receive a solid beating just to knock her down a peg. That said, her limited eyesight made her a unique character and it was inspiring to see her acceptance and determination to continue on living her best life. I can’t imagine a version of myself that can’t see the stars at night.
Zayne was an interesting hero but I can’t say I was swooning over him. Maybe it was the long hair description. There are very few instances when I can abide man bun hair. I’m hoping that I feel more attached to him when I read the next book. My highlight, aside from the world building would have to be Peanut. The trolling antics had me laughing out loud each time he was on scene.
Overall, this is a fantastic start to Armentrout’s new series. The looming danger/mystery is exciting and who wouldn’t love the combination of gargoyles, demon, angels, humans, and those inbetweeners. Armentrout has certainly earned her place on my to-watch list! I don’t have firsthand experience with most books in young adult fantasy, but I am confident that this will be well received among YA SFF fans. Readers of paranormal romance will enjoy it too. If you loved Olivia Wildenstein’s The Boulder Wolves series then definitely give Storm and Fury a try!
Love your review Alana. I can understand you wanting it for the cover, it is gorgeous.
It really is! I’m excited to see what the second book will look like 😊