Title: Resist: A Blood Inheritance Novel

Author: M. Ainihi

Genres: Epic fantasy / Dark fantasy

 

Resist: A Blood Inheritance Novel, is the fourth and final novel in a series by M. Ainihi that brings to conclusion the journey of half-bloods Amanda, Emily, and Kiami. Although they are slated to bring about the destruction of the world, they go up against an ancient power called the Celestial. Time is running out, and the stakes are high as the final battle rests on the precipice of everything everyone holds dear.

The reader’s experience would definitely be enhanced by starting from the beginning, and anyone interested in reading Ainihi’s books would likely do so, anyway. However, the author does a satisfactory job peppering in backstory throughout to help a reader who is just picking up book four, and as the reader gets further into the narrative, the clues and the plot come together for a rousing and thrilling climax.

Ainihi uses dialogue to great effect to help us get to know the characters. In a novel with so many characters, the author is able to avoid the pitfall of confusing us or even having bland characters who don’t add any depth. Through how they speak, their mannerisms, and their beliefs, each character is well defined.

Besides compelling and complex characters, Resist is surprisingly character-driven for a fantasy novel. Many lovers of fantasy will no doubt enjoy the journey through the pages here and may be surprised to find the pacing equally character and plot-driven, whereas most fantasies are plot-driven. That Ainihi can both worldbuild and create three-dimensional characters with care, precision, and depth speaks of the author’s strengths.

Of all the characters, Amanda is the most complicated and conflicted. She spends a good portion of the story alone in another realm, and we are left wondering why she is there. When she reunites with the others, both she and the reader are surprised by the welcoming embrace she receives. Herein lies an example of why the earlier books ought to be read to fully appreciate the dynamics between the characters and such important plot points. Amanda alone is a character worthy of commanding the reader’s attention over the duration of her journey.

The chapters are well organized and labeled by the character who they are about and which realm they are in. By changing points of view, we can dive into each character more and really get a solid understanding of what makes them who they are and what their motivations are. Despite the fantastical backdrop, the characters are relatable. Amanda, for instance, has the most internal struggles, yet she also overcame much in her past to better herself. The balance between selfish motives and sacrificing for the greater good is evident and realistic throughout.

Resist is sure to speak to lovers of epic fantasy because Ainihi is a master worldbuilder and paints with broad brush strokes to keep the tale going over several books. Likewise, Ainihi knows how to craft deep and genuine characters and add the finishing touches. For a solidly paced, engaging fantasy that aims high, Resist delivers and more.

 

 

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