Blade of Secrets
#1 in Bladesmith Series
on Goodreads (13,258)
What’s inside...
Eighteen-year-old Ziva prefers metal to people. She spends her days tucked away in her forge, safe from society and the anxiety it causes her, using her magical gift to craft unique weapons imbued with power.
Then Ziva receives a commission from a powerful warlord, and the result is a sword capable of stealing its victims' secrets. A sword that can cut far deeper than the length of its blade. A sword with the strength to topple kingdoms. When Ziva learns of the warlord’s intentions to use the weapon to enslave all the world under her rule, she takes her sister and flees.
Joined by a distractingly handsome mercenary and a young scholar with extensive knowledge of the world's known magics, Ziva and her sister set out on a quest to keep the sword safe until they can find a worthy wielder or a way to destroy it entirely.
A teenage blacksmith with social anxiety accepts a commission from the wrong person and is forced to go on the run to protect the world from the most powerful magical sword she's ever made.
Why read this book
- Engaging fantasy adventure sparks creativity and imagination.
- Strong, relatable protagonist promotes self-discovery and resilience.
- Introduces themes of friendship, trust, and responsibility.
- Encourages exploration of ethical dilemmas, enhancing critical thinking.
Character compass
Ziva
Petrik
Kellyn
Temra
Kymora
Discussion points
How do you think Ziva's ability to forge magical weapons impacts her relationships with others?
What are some of the ways that Ziva's journey can teach us about the importance of trust and honesty?
How do the characters in the book show bravery, and which actions would you consider brave if you were in their situation?
What would you do if you were in Ziva’s position and why?
How do you think the secrets in the story influence the characters’ choices and their consequences?
Tip: Role play these questions
Use open-ended questions that encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the story, rather than yes/no answers.
Draw parallels between the dilemmas Ziva faces and real-life situations your child might encounter, which can help them relate more deeply with the narrative.
Encourage your child to consider different characters’ perspectives to enhance empathy and understanding of diverse motivations.
Discuss the moral and ethical questions posed in the book to help your child develop critical thinking skills.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: The importance of trust and teamwork
Explanation: Throughout 'Blade of Secrets', the protagonist learns to rely on her companions, demonstrating how trust and teamwork are crucial for overcoming obstacles.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by learning to collaborate with peers on school projects or in team sports, understanding that teamwork can lead to greater achievements.
Example Lesson: The value of self-acceptance
Explanation: The main character struggles with her own insecurities and powers, but ultimately learns to accept herself, highlighting the theme of self-acceptance.
Real-World Application: This encourages children to embrace their unique qualities and imperfections, promoting a positive self-image and resilience in facing challenges.
Example Lesson: Courage to face the unknown
Explanation: As the characters embark on a perilous journey, they showcase the courage to face unknown challenges and uncertainties, a recurring theme throughout the book.
Real-World Application: Children can be inspired to approach new experiences or changes in life, such as moving to a new school, with courage and an open mind.
Example Lesson: The consequences of deception
Explanation: In 'Blade of Secrets', deceit plays a significant role in the plot, revealing the negative outcomes and complexities that often follow dishonesty.
Real-World Application: This lesson serves as a caution for children to understand the importance of honesty in building trust and maintaining healthy relationships.
Example Lesson: Empathy and understanding different perspectives
Explanation: The interactions between characters with differing viewpoints teach the importance of empathy and considering multiple perspectives.
Real-World Application: This can help children in developing social skills necessary for understanding and cooperating with others around them, fostering a more inclusive environment.