Bridge of Eternity is a work of fiction in the urban fantasy, adventure, and action subgenres. It is best suited to mature adult readers owing to the use of explicit language throughout, scenes of violence, and references to sexual scenes and torture. Penned by author Amelia Cole, this work forms the first novel of the Vela series and introduces us to Ella Dawson, a conflict photojournalist highlighting bloodshed in her world. But when Ella comes into possession of a fantastic artifact that bestows upon her a celestial gift, her purpose in the wider universe and worlds beyond her own becomes frighteningly clear.

Author Amelia Cole has crafted a gorgeous work of fantasy fiction that contains everything fans could wish for, from its cinematic vistas of devastated lands and ethereal bridges between worlds to its action-packed central plotline that combines military-style conflict scenes with ancient intrigue and paranormal thrills. For me, the highlight is the unique positioning of our central protagonist Ella, whose involvement in highlighting bloodshed and injustice through her career gives her a powerful sense of empathy and fairness as she looks upon the world through the lens of her new powers. The novel feels almost super-heroic in its origin, blending this coming-into-her-own theme with Ella’s own personal, romantic, and emotional dramas to offer us a fully rounded view of a woman put to the ultimate test. Overall, I would not hesitate to recommend Bridge of Eternity for its highly immersive and well-penned story and characters, and I can’t wait to see what happens next in Ella’s journey as the series continues.

Bridge of Eternity by Amelia Cole is the first book in the Vela series. Ella Dawson is a dedicated photojournalist whose skills have kept her alive. She will have to rely on those skills when she accidentally obtains a mysterious package. Inside the package, she finds a statue of a Mesopotamian goddess, a discovery that sparks a series of events that completely changes Ella’s life. She is tasked as a guardian, protecting a powerful secret, with abilities that she must learn to control if she is going to survive the dangers that lurk around her. Her new role comes with a catch that finds her working with an unexpected partner - her ex. Feelings are dredged up from the past and she quickly finds that some things never stayed buried.

The well-written dynamic between the characters is primarily due to how great Ella is as a personality. This is seen right away in the exchanges between Ella and Jamil, which show how well Amelia Cole blends different tones. Another great dynamic is what Ella has with Taamir who is compassionate toward her and has a familial role in her life, giving her invitations to dinner with his family. The relationship that grounds her back home is her sister Cara who is getting married in a frivolously expensive ceremony. Adding some romance to the story is Ella’s partnership with Jason, her ex, with whom she had a brief relationship that convinced her she didn’t want to settle down. Their dynamic has many layers - partnership, romance, tension, and humor. Their partnership helps to drive the action, especially with his prior experience as a mercenary, but it also adds some humor that balances the account.

Ella is an incredible protagonist - a dedicated photojournalist determined to expose the truth. This aspect of her character is what motivates her to protect the ancient power she discovers and the mysteries surrounding it. The writing style creates vivid descriptions through humor and Ella’s perspective. Bridge of Eternity takes you on an adventure right from the first page and introduces you to an incredible heroine that embarks on a journey of self-discovery, magic, danger, and possible romance.