The Cost of Duty (The Desolate Islanders) – Book Review

by Joyce Ly

I was very excited to receive a review copy of this new release, The Cost of Duty. This recently released coming of age fantasy tells the story of Kayla, an eight-year-old Oracle who has a unique talent called The Sight. It combines great fantasy worldbuilding with the emotional depth of character-driven storytelling set around a theme that “Power can be a gift or a curse”.

Kayla has visions that drag her between the unforgiving weight of the past and the unsettling realities of the present, along with unseen futures that haven’t materialized yet. This is a gift that requires sacrifice from the young protagonist, rather than bringing her peace.

Ly transports readers to the Desolate Isles from the first page on, a place rich in cultural diversity, unwritten moral rules, and the unsung hardships of its inhabitants. When Kayla meets Skye and his brothers – three street-bound survival on the verge of starvation – her trip takes a significant turn. Their encounter seems predestined, and Ly portrays their hesitant relationship with such emotional genuineness that it’s difficult to resist getting sucked in right away.

This book’s portrayal of duty as a concrete, frequently agonizing expense rather than an ideal is one thing I loved about it. Although it is great that Kayla is prepared to endure the emotional toll of her visions for the sake of others, it is Skye’s unexpected generosity that starts to teach her another truth: burdens can be lessened when they are shared.

What I Loved:

1. Emotional Depth and Relatable Themes – The novel’s exploration of sacrifice, compassion, and chosen family is heartfelt and deeply resonant. Even in a fantasy setting, the characters’ struggles feel achingly real.
2. Rich Worldbuilding – The Desolate Isles are described with subtle, vivid detail, immersing the reader without overwhelming them. The cultural nuances make the setting feel lived-in and authentic.
3. Tender Character Dynamics – The relationship between Kayla and Skye is especially touching. Their connection is built on empathy and mutual understanding, providing a hopeful counterbalance to the book’s heavier themes.

Joyce Ly tells a story that strikes a balance between adversity and optimism in her poetic and approachable style. It’s more than just a story of a young Oracle’s dreams. The Cost of Duty explores how kindness can change not just the individuals we assist, but also ourselves.

The Cost of Duty is a worthwhile experience for those who enjoy emotionally charged fantasy with endearing characters and deep connections.

Short summary:

“A beautifully written tale of sacrifice, compassion, and unexpected bonds.”
Joyce Ly creates a moving and engrossing fantasy in The Cost of Duty, which takes place in the Desolate Isles. When Skye and his siblings are on the verge of famine, eight-year-old Kayla, a talented but troubled Oracle, meets them and it will transform them all. This emotional tale of the ability of kindness to ease even the most difficult burdens is filled with sophisticated worldbuilding, touching themes, and intimate character connections. Ideal for readers who enjoy character-driven, emotionally complex fantasy.