Scan barcode
A review by trivial_reads
Diamond City by Astrid Cole
4.0
I was immediately captivated by the engaging blurb and the striking cover of "Diamond City," but reading it turned out to be an entirely immersive adventure. Astrid Cole has created a fascinating world where enhanced beings, immortals, and hybrids intersect in a futuristic, post-apocalyptic landscape. The main character, Sage, is a century-old immortal warrior who dreams of a peaceful life running her pizza shop—and that idea is everything I never realized I was missing.
Sage is a beautifully complex character: fierce, empathetic, loyal, and commanding, yet relatable with her teenage crushes and longing for life's simple joys. She is a formidable presence, but someone you can't help but support as she grapples with her conflicting desires for peace, romance, and responsibility. The Warlord serves as the perfect morally ambiguous counterpart—flamboyant, egotistical, and vulnerable all at once. His quick wit and unpredictable nature make him one of the most engaging and dynamic characters I've encountered. The electric tension between Sage and the Warlord comes alive through their banter, power struggles, and emotional openness.
What sets "Diamond City" apart is its seamless fusion of genres. Astrid expertly intertwines sci-fi, dystopian fantasy, action, romance, humour, and even a hint of spice. The world-building is rich and intricate, filled with political intrigue, shifting loyalties, and a diverse cast of characters, each with their own agenda. The plot twists kept me on my toes, and the stakes remained high from beginning to end.
Astrid's storytelling is exceptional. She effortlessly balances explosive action with tender, heartfelt moments. The humour and banter are hilarious, the romance is swoon-worthy, and the spicy scenes have just the right amount of heat.
I have officially entered my Astrid Cole era and have no intention of leaving. I'm eager to explore Sage's world—teetering between peace and chaos, loyalty and betrayal, love and war—again. With "Emerald City" next on my list, I can’t wait to continue this unforgettable journey. "Diamond City" is an absolute must-read for anyone seeking a book that's as unique and layered as one of Sage's gourmet pizzas.
Sage is a beautifully complex character: fierce, empathetic, loyal, and commanding, yet relatable with her teenage crushes and longing for life's simple joys. She is a formidable presence, but someone you can't help but support as she grapples with her conflicting desires for peace, romance, and responsibility. The Warlord serves as the perfect morally ambiguous counterpart—flamboyant, egotistical, and vulnerable all at once. His quick wit and unpredictable nature make him one of the most engaging and dynamic characters I've encountered. The electric tension between Sage and the Warlord comes alive through their banter, power struggles, and emotional openness.
What sets "Diamond City" apart is its seamless fusion of genres. Astrid expertly intertwines sci-fi, dystopian fantasy, action, romance, humour, and even a hint of spice. The world-building is rich and intricate, filled with political intrigue, shifting loyalties, and a diverse cast of characters, each with their own agenda. The plot twists kept me on my toes, and the stakes remained high from beginning to end.
Astrid's storytelling is exceptional. She effortlessly balances explosive action with tender, heartfelt moments. The humour and banter are hilarious, the romance is swoon-worthy, and the spicy scenes have just the right amount of heat.
I have officially entered my Astrid Cole era and have no intention of leaving. I'm eager to explore Sage's world—teetering between peace and chaos, loyalty and betrayal, love and war—again. With "Emerald City" next on my list, I can’t wait to continue this unforgettable journey. "Diamond City" is an absolute must-read for anyone seeking a book that's as unique and layered as one of Sage's gourmet pizzas.