Reading a book always begins with a blank canvas. When starting the first chapter of The Name-Bearer, readers will experience descriptive language that brings the realm of Andala to life. You will discover the main character, her role within society, and how she interacts with others. Even though this is the author’s debut novel, her skills in language, world-building and character development are on display.
The novel is of the fantasy genre and it’s set in an inventive Latin world. It features Spanish language that speakers will find familiar, as well as some original concepts and ideas the author uses Spanish to express.
Key themes within this novel include the plight and non-stereotypical depiction of Queer characters, issues of identity, war, and friendship.
At the beginning of the book, readers can examine a scroll of The Royal Decree and view a world map that shows the placement of each territory. These elements prove to be a strong, creative way to start off the novel.
While the story features several different themes, friendship as it relates to the main character’s life growth and development strongly resonates with me as a reader. It is enjoyable to discover who the main character decides to trust while carrying a secret that could change everyone’s lives.
The main character is essential in the process of naming the new Prince of the kingdom. As a Name-Bearer, it is her sole responsibility to communicate with The Flowers of Prophecy to uncover the name. Only she can conduct this royal process. However, the character is spun into a different journey to find the name of the true Prince, as she ultimately finds herself preparing for this mission while training with an elite sect of warrior women known as the Danrayens.
Being the chosen one has high stakes and many obstacles. The main character must go through the process of becoming stronger and accepting her identities to fulfill her destiny. War complicates these struggles as a rival territory is in conflict with Andala.
Her training with the Danrayens gives the author the opportunity to introduce an ensemble cast. There are five warrior women, each with their own emotions, motivations, and experiences. It is interesting to learn about them and gauge the main character’s experiences with them. To keep her identity a secret, the main character sheds the title of “The Name-Bearer,” for the moment, and changes her name twice later in the novel. The imagery of her transition is represented by the butterfly and other aspects of nature in the story.
One standout interaction is between the main character and Damika, who become friends after Damika expresses her loyalty in helping the MC develop into the strongest warrior she can possibly be.
Throughout the story, there is the constant juxtaposition between being who you truly are and the identities you have taken over time. The book provides a good opportunity for readers to experience what the main character learns on her journey and how it changes her as a person.
The Name-Bearer is a phenomenal novel. It can be purchased in a variety of places, check out some of them here.