Scan barcode
bettysbookishworld's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
5.0
I would like to thank the publisher for providing me with an eARC of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Bonesmith is a gem among YA epic fantasy novels! I loved it and I just need more of it!
The reason why I enjoyed it so much is that it's a still complex and very well though-out story with wonderfully crafted world and magic system. The story has political intrigues, mysteries and secrets to be revealed. The magic system with different branches of smiths is built and explained in a quite original way, too. The magic brings a lot of complexity to the world and is a crucial part of the story. All of these make an interesting epic fantasy for me. Also, the necromancy and ghosts gave it a sinister atmosphere that I enjoyed. On the other hand, it's written simply but immersively. The plot development is very fast-paced, that's why the book sucked me in immediately and I could stop only when I actually finished reading it.
As it's an YA fantasy, there is romance, too. Even though I usually find any romance annoying and distracting, it isn't the case for Bonesmith. A huge part of it is that I loved the main characters a lot. The tension between them was gradually built and even though it's enemies to lovers, it wasn't toxic at all. Their personalities matched and were my jam. And another reason is the romance is truly only a subplot, and the main focus is the actual story, politics, magic, worldbuilding and character development.
So if you like YA epic fantasy done right, this is a perfect read for you!
Bonesmith is a gem among YA epic fantasy novels! I loved it and I just need more of it!
The reason why I enjoyed it so much is that it's a still complex and very well though-out story with wonderfully crafted world and magic system. The story has political intrigues, mysteries and secrets to be revealed. The magic system with different branches of smiths is built and explained in a quite original way, too. The magic brings a lot of complexity to the world and is a crucial part of the story. All of these make an interesting epic fantasy for me. Also, the necromancy and ghosts gave it a sinister atmosphere that I enjoyed. On the other hand, it's written simply but immersively. The plot development is very fast-paced, that's why the book sucked me in immediately and I could stop only when I actually finished reading it.
As it's an YA fantasy, there is romance, too. Even though I usually find any romance annoying and distracting, it isn't the case for Bonesmith. A huge part of it is that I loved the main characters a lot. The tension between them was gradually built and even though it's enemies to lovers, it wasn't toxic at all. Their personalities matched and were my jam. And another reason is the romance is truly only a subplot, and the main focus is the actual story, politics, magic, worldbuilding and character development.
So if you like YA epic fantasy done right, this is a perfect read for you!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence, Kidnapping, and Murder
Minor: Genocide
leahjanespeare's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
5.0
If Pirate King Elizabeth Swann was a book, it would be this one. This edgy fantasy-adventure sucked me right in and by the end, spat my heart out along with my bones. Wren is rash and brave, qualities that often get her into trouble but also end up saving the day. I couldn't help but admire her audacity and lengths she is willing to go in her quest for the truth— about her world, but also herself. You'll be screaming, "Wren NO" as she runs into battle, bone blades slashing revenants in delight. With a unique lore and magic system, and a simmering romance like two opposing magnets, you'll fall in love with this dark nightmare. Bring on the sequel.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Violence and Gore
More...