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4.4 AVERAGE
4.4 AVERAGE
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
dark
emotional
sad
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
First I’d like to thank The Nerd Fam for the eARC and to Elise Fry.
I liked the book but as a vibes reader I will say it was a little long and slow paced for me. And I was a little confused on the practices in the village. I’m not sure if that’s a me issue or if the book did not flesh it out enough.
I thought the plot was really interesting and the ending had my jaw dropped. I didn’t like that every man in the book seemed to be in love with her when I imagined her to be like Madam Mim. Again, could be a me issue. I am wondering if that’s is part of her powers or if she’s genuinely drawing in that many men.
Overall I thought it was a great read and I would definitely read the next one.
I liked the book but as a vibes reader I will say it was a little long and slow paced for me. And I was a little confused on the practices in the village. I’m not sure if that’s a me issue or if the book did not flesh it out enough.
I thought the plot was really interesting and the ending had my jaw dropped. I didn’t like that every man in the book seemed to be in love with her when I imagined her to be like Madam Mim. Again, could be a me issue. I am wondering if that’s is part of her powers or if she’s genuinely drawing in that many men.
Overall I thought it was a great read and I would definitely read the next one.
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Wren was not raised like the other children of her village. That’s because she is the youngest Keeper the bones have ever chosen. Bones are everywhere where she comes from, making up the very walls they live within. Many still have their souls inside them, and those that do whisper to a single chosen one every generation. They chose Wren as soon as she was born.
The Bones also choose who will become an Offering to the gods at the BoneKeeper’s hand. At least, that’s what is supposed to happen. Some on the Council saw Wren’s youth and gender as weakness. They saw that as opportunity. They have worked hard to bend her – and the very laws of nature – to their will.
This first installment of the trilogy is a fully immersive, gritty and riveting dystopian fantasy with a lot of pain and anger inside of it. At the same time, it’s weaving a number of lovely stories about community and tradition and the ways we interact with death and grief. The magic system is downright macabre, but it draws you in in a way you can’t turn away from.
The content warnings deserve careful review, but the darkness never feels forced for the sake of brutality and shock value. Instead, it serves as a contrast to highlight the enduring slivers of joy, wonder, love that can still slip through the cracks of even the harshest of worlds. It tells powerful stories of grief, including aspects of it far less ugly than those that typically spring to mind with the topic.
Using this lens of grief, we see the necessity of community in daily life. It teaches us hard lessons about protecting our communities. It beautifully demonstrates the complexity and messiness of humans. Readers see how a good person can become a person who believes themselves to be the only good one when everyone else disagrees. We see how this affects the community as a whole when an individual is not correctly supported early enough. The damage that can be done by seemingly small actions of intentional misinformation or looking the other way is achingly clear here.
This book has a listed print length of 716 pages for the paperback version. Typically when I read books of that length, the pacing is slower than I prefer. Or, when there are multiple POVs, there’s usually one or two I’m less fond of. At no point during The BoneKeeper’s Daughter did I feel that way. I was on the edge of my seat the whole way through, eager to know what came next. I spent nights reading until 3 or 4 in the morning when I needed to get my daughter up for school in the morning.
Yes, there were moments where I had to put the book down and process for a while, but I never wanted a moment to rush. I’m already hungry for the next installment of this trilogy, which will be called The BloodLetter’s Sister. I have not found any announcement yet of a release date, but I’m sure I’ll be giving you an update. I’ll be trying to get my hands on an ARC of that one too.
(Review notes originally published to writing.hallidaynelson.com)
Content Warnings
Graphic: Ableism, Animal death, Body horror, Child abuse, Child death, Confinement, Deadnaming, Death, Drug use, Emotional abuse, Gore, Misogyny, Panic attacks/disorders, Physical abuse, Racism, Self harm, Sexism, Sexual assault, Sexual violence, Suicidal thoughts, Suicide, Torture, Toxic relationship, Violence, Blood, Medical content, Kidnapping, Grief, Cannibalism, Death of parent, Murder, Gaslighting, Toxic friendship, Sexual harassment, Injury/Injury detail, Classism
Moderate: Animal cruelty, Body shaming, Infidelity, Slavery, Abandonment, Alcohol
DNF after 100 pages (12%)
The concept of this book sounded amazing and the premise seemed unique, but unfortunately I just couldn’t get into the story and felt confused about what was going on.
Thank you author Elise Fry for the eARC! Receiving ARC didn’t affect my opinion of the book.
challenging
mysterious
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Complicated
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
I had to really pay attention reading this as there is a lot going on and I got lost more than once. I struggled with some of the exposition at the beginning as although I did find the mythology really fascinating, it was a little overwhelming having to remember all the moving parts. I also found it slow to start however Raek and Nikolas are excellent villains and Nikolas in particular genuinely made me shudder. He is awful and the sense of foreboding and tension is palpable.
I liked Wren as a character and her development towards the end was really interesting; I loved how she started to lean into her relationships with people after being isolated for so long and how genuine she was. I knew going into this it would be slow burn on the romance side but it is glacial. I like a bit of yearning but this felt a little one-sided as Wren doesn't really appear to be in the same book, let alone the same page as a couple of the MMCs, and I'm not sure any of them are end-game with one exception. I like Kaden and Rann the most of the MMCs however Tahrik had my favourite storyline handsdown. Didn't see it coming and thought it was excellent. Lorcan's unique situation was another stand out and the scene where he asked to be removed broke my heart. The third act is a total game changer and despite this being a slow paced book the conclusion came out of nowhere at a rate of knots and knocked me for six. My head is still spinning!
I received a free copy of this book via the Nerd Fam and the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
I liked Wren as a character and her development towards the end was really interesting; I loved how she started to lean into her relationships with people after being isolated for so long and how genuine she was. I knew going into this it would be slow burn on the romance side but it is glacial. I like a bit of yearning but this felt a little one-sided as Wren doesn't really appear to be in the same book, let alone the same page as a couple of the MMCs, and I'm not sure any of them are end-game with one exception. I like Kaden and Rann the most of the MMCs however Tahrik had my favourite storyline handsdown. Didn't see it coming and thought it was excellent. Lorcan's unique situation was another stand out and the scene where he asked to be removed broke my heart. The third act is a total game changer and despite this being a slow paced book the conclusion came out of nowhere at a rate of knots and knocked me for six. My head is still spinning!
I received a free copy of this book via the Nerd Fam and the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
My interpretation of the star system;
3 stars - I enjoyed it; would read the author again
4 stars - I really liked it; I am invested and definitely want more from this author/series
5 stars - I loved it; I engaged with this book completely until I finished it and it is one I will re-read
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
I’m still trying to find the words for this book. I finished it last night, and I haven’t stopped thinking about it since! I’ll legit be thinking about this story for days, weeks, months to come.
This is Book 1 in the Blade and Bone trilogy, and I’m already dying to get my hands on Book 2. This story concept was so unique, and it was a delightfully dark romantasy with the slowest of slow burns. Book 1 is definitely setting us up for this to be an epic why choose series, but be prepared for there to be mostly only yearning throughout The Bonekeeper’s Daughter. I don’t know about you, but I love some good yearning. 🖤
It’s a rather large book at 700+ pages, and the pacing is more on the slow side. I’m not complaining at all though because we got incredible world building throughout, multiple POVs, and all the plot. None of these 700+ pages felt like fluff or filler, so don’t let the size of this one scare you off from starting what will no doubt be an amazing series.
I loved our dear Keeper, Wren. She grew so much as a character throughout the book, and I can’t wait to see what’s in store for her throughout the rest of the series. I also can’t wait to see how her different relationships play out as well! Especially how her relationship will likely change with a certain Protector. 👀
Be sure to read the trigger warnings on this one before diving in because there are definitely some topics and themes that will be difficult for some readers.
Thank you so much to Elise Fry for the opportunity to read this as an ARC! I need everyone else to read this book ASAP, and I’ll be recommending it to everyone I know for sure. 🖤
adventurous
challenging
dark
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Complicated
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
I found a new trilogy for my god-tier list and only the first books is out! This book is a Dark, Epic Romantasy. The world-building and word weaving are prolific. I have never encountered a book that flips my fantasy expectations on its head quite like this. I am hooked. The romance is a slow slow SLOW burn, with men who YEARN for the FMC and its why choose!!! Even though this book is dense and took some time to get through, I would recommend this to anyone who's looking for a book that will completely change what you thought the Romantasy genre could be!
This book. THIS FREAKING BOOK. It was actually insane?? And I'm so obsessed??
First the freaking world itself is DARK. Like dark dark. It's gritty and depressing any everything sucks for pretty much everyone but there's also so much background politics going on and friends who really aren't friends 👀. Amazing.
The plot? 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻. This book is thicc but I was so engaged literally the entire time. I wanted to basically do nothing but read it. Even with the length it never felt drug out there was always something happening making you say what the heck.
The men I have a love hate relationship with because like men are dumb and do dumb things 😅. Wren is incredible though. She can freaking talk to bones. I loved watching her really decide that enough is enough and the people were going to learn that she isn't a doormat anymore because I think they forgot that she is terrifying and should be respected.
That cliffhanger is CRIMINAL AND I AM DISTRAUGHT.
First the freaking world itself is DARK. Like dark dark. It's gritty and depressing any everything sucks for pretty much everyone but there's also so much background politics going on and friends who really aren't friends 👀. Amazing.
The plot? 🤌🏻🤌🏻🤌🏻. This book is thicc but I was so engaged literally the entire time. I wanted to basically do nothing but read it. Even with the length it never felt drug out there was always something happening making you say what the heck.
The men I have a love hate relationship with because like men are dumb and do dumb things 😅. Wren is incredible though. She can freaking talk to bones. I loved watching her really decide that enough is enough and the people were going to learn that she isn't a doormat anymore because I think they forgot that she is terrifying and should be respected.
That cliffhanger is CRIMINAL AND I AM DISTRAUGHT.
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
mysterious
reflective
sad
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
Sit down and get comfortable because this book will suck you in from the beginning! This is a true fantasy and there is a LOT of world building! Luckily for us it’s extremely well-written and immersive and doesn’t feel like a chore to read. She’s THICC, but don’t let that deter you, every page really is worth it.
This is a slower paced book but it’s refreshing to truly get to know our FMC, Wren, and really learn the world in which she lives in. Throughout the story you will grow with Wren and cheer for her along the way. I found the storyline and world very unique, and I loved the way the bones were included and portrayed.
TRUE slow burn! When I say slow, I mean this is an actual slow burn and you’re going to have to wait until book two! I appreciated the lack of spice in this book as it really had me focusing on different characters and how Wren’s relationship with possible love interests bloomed. Just be prepared for the amount of yearning and visceral need you’ll be feeling!
A bit of a warning, this does end on a cliffhanger, but please trust me when I say it’s a good one. It really leaves you wanting more.
I received this book as an ARC from Elise & The Nerd Fam and I’m so glad I did! Thanks again for the chance to read & review this book ahead of release!
This is a slower paced book but it’s refreshing to truly get to know our FMC, Wren, and really learn the world in which she lives in. Throughout the story you will grow with Wren and cheer for her along the way. I found the storyline and world very unique, and I loved the way the bones were included and portrayed.
TRUE slow burn! When I say slow, I mean this is an actual slow burn and you’re going to have to wait until book two! I appreciated the lack of spice in this book as it really had me focusing on different characters and how Wren’s relationship with possible love interests bloomed. Just be prepared for the amount of yearning and visceral need you’ll be feeling!
A bit of a warning, this does end on a cliffhanger, but please trust me when I say it’s a good one. It really leaves you wanting more.
I received this book as an ARC from Elise & The Nerd Fam and I’m so glad I did! Thanks again for the chance to read & review this book ahead of release!
adventurous
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
This book....I don't have words. But I'm a book reviewer and I also really want to talk about this book, so be prepared for a ton of words and exclamation marks! First though,THANK YOU to The Nerd Fam and Elise Fry for my ARC, you have blessed my eyes and mind and I'm so excited to leave this honest review!
I 👏🏻 love 👏🏻 the 👏🏻 Keeper👏🏻! She is an AMAZING FMC and narrator, she is complex and has amazing depth! Her story and journey is unique and beautiful and perfect, filled with raw emotions. It's just a gorgeous story, I could not put it down and it just kept 👏🏻 getting 👏🏻 better!!!
ELISE FRY'S WRITING IS FANTASTIC!!!! No notes. I loved her every word, she made me laugh and snort out loud, I cried real tears, sometimes it felt like my heart was breaking. Her writing both made the character's emotions visceral to me, and made me feel emotions for what was happening to/for/with the characters. THE BANTER!?!?! Perfection. The characters?!?!? Perfection. My Kindle highlights are numerous and some are LONG! I've never highlighted a full page before, but sometimes you need to highlight a full page of banter!
Want to know about the world building?!?!?! COMPLEX. TERRIFYING BUT GORGEOUS. A NEW HOME BUILT FROM PAPER AND INK. I want a NatGeo documentary about this world and then I need more documentaries about the cultures.
THE ROMANCE?!?!?! I can't talk about how great the romance aspect of this book is without spoiling so many things, so here are the bullets: SLOOOOOOOW burn, 0.2 on the spicy scale, YEARNING, why choose, men who would do ANYTHING for The Keeper, forbidden romance.
Please read this book!!!! I need more people to read this book so I can talk about it!!! This is the first ARC I couldn't spoil for my wife because I need her to read it once it is published. It is living in my head rent free, and has the dangerous potential to but me into a slump because it feels like no book will ever be as good again.
Is it long? Yes. Over 700 pages is a lot for a first book in a series. But it is soooo worth every word, and every word in this book is purposeful. There aren't bits that are just fluffy filler, you're getting 700 pages of plot and romance and world building, and after 700 pages I. want. more!!!
Look, I didn't write much about the plot or what actually happens in this review because I hate spoilers. And after experiencing it myself, if I were to go up to an in person bestie and try to convince them to read this book, here is what I'd say: "YOU HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK! It's a fantastic fantasy novel about a girl with the ability to encapsulate a soul into its bone, but it's a good thing because her whole culture is kind of built around people having this ability. Everything around her is super complicated and kind of dark in the beginning, but it gets better and even in the dark it is so beautiful. I won't tell you any more, read the description if you want, but I'm telling you this is a 6 STAR BOOK and if you don't like it we can't be book besties anymore. Yes, I feel that strongly about this book."
I 👏🏻 love 👏🏻 the 👏🏻 Keeper👏🏻! She is an AMAZING FMC and narrator, she is complex and has amazing depth! Her story and journey is unique and beautiful and perfect, filled with raw emotions. It's just a gorgeous story, I could not put it down and it just kept 👏🏻 getting 👏🏻 better!!!
ELISE FRY'S WRITING IS FANTASTIC!!!! No notes. I loved her every word, she made me laugh and snort out loud, I cried real tears, sometimes it felt like my heart was breaking. Her writing both made the character's emotions visceral to me, and made me feel emotions for what was happening to/for/with the characters. THE BANTER!?!?! Perfection. The characters?!?!? Perfection. My Kindle highlights are numerous and some are LONG! I've never highlighted a full page before, but sometimes you need to highlight a full page of banter!
Want to know about the world building?!?!?! COMPLEX. TERRIFYING BUT GORGEOUS. A NEW HOME BUILT FROM PAPER AND INK. I want a NatGeo documentary about this world and then I need more documentaries about the cultures.
THE ROMANCE?!?!?! I can't talk about how great the romance aspect of this book is without spoiling so many things, so here are the bullets: SLOOOOOOOW burn, 0.2 on the spicy scale, YEARNING, why choose, men who would do ANYTHING for The Keeper, forbidden romance.
Please read this book!!!! I need more people to read this book so I can talk about it!!! This is the first ARC I couldn't spoil for my wife because I need her to read it once it is published. It is living in my head rent free, and has the dangerous potential to but me into a slump because it feels like no book will ever be as good again.
Is it long? Yes. Over 700 pages is a lot for a first book in a series. But it is soooo worth every word, and every word in this book is purposeful. There aren't bits that are just fluffy filler, you're getting 700 pages of plot and romance and world building, and after 700 pages I. want. more!!!
Look, I didn't write much about the plot or what actually happens in this review because I hate spoilers. And after experiencing it myself, if I were to go up to an in person bestie and try to convince them to read this book, here is what I'd say: "YOU HAVE TO READ THIS BOOK! It's a fantastic fantasy novel about a girl with the ability to encapsulate a soul into its bone, but it's a good thing because her whole culture is kind of built around people having this ability. Everything around her is super complicated and kind of dark in the beginning, but it gets better and even in the dark it is so beautiful. I won't tell you any more, read the description if you want, but I'm telling you this is a 6 STAR BOOK and if you don't like it we can't be book besties anymore. Yes, I feel that strongly about this book."