I was pleasantly surprised by Air Awakens! That sounds like I went in with low expectations, which I didn't. 
 Maybe 3.5 stars instead of 4. I can't decide. 
 This is a read that requires a certain level of commitment - near the beginning, even though the plot is intriguing and had already pulled me in, it slowed down a bit. But man, oh man, am I glad I persevered. 
 "I want a place you hardly dare to even whisper. I want the bravery to not only read, but to do. I want a man, not a library boy. A man who is tall and witty and knows more about the world than you would ever dare dream." 
 I will be honest - this is not a brilliantly written book. 
 The first half is pretty slow and the story takes a while to start rolling. But it is worth sticking with it for the story line. 
 I loved the concept of the sorcerers - how they each have a major Affinity as their main 'power' as well as another affinity. However, there could have been more detail regarding the fantasy element. I am hoping for a more fleshed out magic system in the following books! (view spoiler)[I am also very keen to hear about the Bond (hide spoiler)] 
 Vhalla starts off as a kind of blank canvas, she has led a somewhat sheltered life and is very indecisive and cautious in the beginning. By the end of the book she knows what she wants and takes a stand - I came to be quite fond of her. 
 "They wanted to kill her, so this Vhalla would die, she resolved and a new Vhalla would be born from the Ashes" 
 Prince Aldrik.. I am a big fan!! So very different from the usual love interests. He is sarcastic and unsure of himself and surprisingly honest. He isn't a sweetheart, winning everyone's love by his admirable actions. Far from it, he is called the Fire Lord and the Dark Prince. Best of all, no insta-love! And he is far from perfect. As is Vhalla. And this story isn't perfect, it's messy. 
 (view spoiler)[I also enjoyed how it was the guy in the royal position, the girl in the 'servant' role, and she is aware of these roles! She does not push and is unassuming as to what his actions may mean. Her head is not in the clouds. (hide spoiler)]. 
 The story gained so much strength by the end, the characters had fleshed out and with the way it ended, the stage has been set for something that I really think could be great. I am very keen to see where this story goes, more details on the magic and a real start for Vhalla and Aldrik!