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clown_the_basking_shark's review against another edition
2.0
Books to finish before June 4/4, June 30th
Regular Review Style:
1. Too much talking not enough doing, like stop talking about doing shit and go do shit
2. Too much political nonsense for a dragon book
3. Rowan kissing Kouris made me uncomfortable (25 and 58), like I know it's not technically illegal but ehh
4. Micheal was a yapper about nothing, too much history dumping instead of showing it slowly
5. Isn't it just so convenient that everyone who found out Rowan was a necromancer didn't care? Especially in a kingdom where necromancers are burned or exiled?
Regular Review Style:
1. Too much talking not enough doing, like stop talking about doing shit and go do shit
2. Too much political nonsense for a dragon book
3. Rowan kissing Kouris made me uncomfortable (25 and 58), like I know it's not technically illegal but ehh
4. Micheal was a yapper about nothing, too much history dumping instead of showing it slowly
5. Isn't it just so convenient that everyone who found out Rowan was a necromancer didn't care? Especially in a kingdom where necromancers are burned or exiled?
suziegon's review against another edition
5.0
I'm not going to lie to you and say this book had me hooked from page one. It starts off fine; it's interesting enough to keep reading with a good amount curiosity, but not "Oh my gosh! Who is this person?! I must know more about them ASAP!" But hey, that's perfectly alright because it's a story that steadily burrowed into my heart, so unassuming that it caught me off-guard when I realized I'd been thinking about it all day, at work, for the several days. Opportunity to read it became my main reason for anticipating breaks. I spent time mulling over characters, shipping them, daydreaming about them, grinning to myself over their interactions and reflecting on the various dynamics between them...
Friends recommended this book to me ages ago, and I only just remembered to read it last month. I've come to see the error of my procrastination. I've been missing out. Like I said before, the start isn't anything to obsess over. It's how I felt and what I read as I continued that separates this from other fantasy novels - and all novels in general.
The world building is fantastic. This is a rich world that boasts different cultures, various political views, races, social hierarchies, architecture, and resources. Every presented culture is distinct from the others, with its own similarities and differences in values, tradition, beliefs, and so on.
There are also different races inhabiting the world, with the pane (a race of horned giants with tusks protruding from their lower jaw) being the most prominent in the story so far. Human races come in a variation of skin tones that tend to originate from specific regions.
And yes, this world has dragons.
Dragonoak - by far - has the greatest rate of inclusion for underrepresented character types, particularly when it comes to sexual orientation and gender identity. Numerous trans/agender/gender fluid characters are shown, and written with respectful "they" pronouns. Polyamorous characters are also around, with a polyamorous relationship shown in the sequels, according to the author. This is no monochromatic world, and it shows. Even the protagonist, Rowan, is homoromantic but leans towards the asexual side sometimes. Sexuality and gender are never questioned, but accepted as part of the character.
I also really appreciate the dynamics between characters and their different types of relationships. There are a lot of women in this book, and a lot of them aren't exclusively heterosexual. Thankfully, there isn't the problem of all-the-women-like-each-other-romantically, because Farren, well, isn't an idiot. Some have romantic feelings for others, yes, but there are also sibling-like relationships, mother-daughter type relationships, and more. Character interactions and relationships are fascinating to read. As characters develop and grow closer together, their behavior shifts to reflect that. And this is written in a way that feels natural - not forced or rushed. Claire's slow warming up to Rowan is noteworthy for Farren's patience and ability to withhold premature bonding. In contrast, Rowan's relationship with Ran (sorry, I don't know how to put an accent on the "a") becomes warm quite quickly and their dynamic is delightful.
Like I said earlier, things happen gradually in this book. Characters learn about themselves and each other over time, and through shared experiences. The stakes start off low because we're only given Rowan's perspective, but as things play out, she finds out more about the situation, the stakes rise, and so does the reader's emotional investment. There are slower sections where Rowan basically waits around for everyone, but that's not something I'd fault the writing for. Rather, it reflects how Rowan feels about what's going on around her, and helps readers understand her boredom and feeling caged in. There are also times when your heart will ache for characters, and moments when you'll giggle with them. And then there's that chaotic, heart-wrenching ending.
So, the summarized version? Dragonoak is a well-written, accessible fantasy that has more representation than I've ever seen or read. From the characters, to the world they live in, to the plot around them, this book is memorable in the best ways. You just have to give it time to show you. It's not perfect, but I can't think of anything big enough to complain about, and the mountain of feels result in higher ratings from me.
4.5/5 stars
Friends recommended this book to me ages ago, and I only just remembered to read it last month. I've come to see the error of my procrastination. I've been missing out. Like I said before, the start isn't anything to obsess over. It's how I felt and what I read as I continued that separates this from other fantasy novels - and all novels in general.
The world building is fantastic. This is a rich world that boasts different cultures, various political views, races, social hierarchies, architecture, and resources. Every presented culture is distinct from the others, with its own similarities and differences in values, tradition, beliefs, and so on.
There are also different races inhabiting the world, with the pane (a race of horned giants with tusks protruding from their lower jaw) being the most prominent in the story so far. Human races come in a variation of skin tones that tend to originate from specific regions.
And yes, this world has dragons.
Dragonoak - by far - has the greatest rate of inclusion for underrepresented character types, particularly when it comes to sexual orientation and gender identity. Numerous trans/agender/gender fluid characters are shown, and written with respectful "they" pronouns. Polyamorous characters are also around, with a polyamorous relationship shown in the sequels, according to the author. This is no monochromatic world, and it shows. Even the protagonist, Rowan, is homoromantic but leans towards the asexual side sometimes. Sexuality and gender are never questioned, but accepted as part of the character.
I also really appreciate the dynamics between characters and their different types of relationships. There are a lot of women in this book, and a lot of them aren't exclusively heterosexual. Thankfully, there isn't the problem of all-the-women-like-each-other-romantically, because Farren, well, isn't an idiot. Some have romantic feelings for others, yes, but there are also sibling-like relationships, mother-daughter type relationships, and more. Character interactions and relationships are fascinating to read. As characters develop and grow closer together, their behavior shifts to reflect that. And this is written in a way that feels natural - not forced or rushed. Claire's slow warming up to Rowan is noteworthy for Farren's patience and ability to withhold premature bonding. In contrast, Rowan's relationship with Ran (sorry, I don't know how to put an accent on the "a") becomes warm quite quickly and their dynamic is delightful.
Like I said earlier, things happen gradually in this book. Characters learn about themselves and each other over time, and through shared experiences. The stakes start off low because we're only given Rowan's perspective, but as things play out, she finds out more about the situation, the stakes rise, and so does the reader's emotional investment. There are slower sections where Rowan basically waits around for everyone, but that's not something I'd fault the writing for. Rather, it reflects how Rowan feels about what's going on around her, and helps readers understand her boredom and feeling caged in. There are also times when your heart will ache for characters, and moments when you'll giggle with them. And then there's that chaotic, heart-wrenching ending.
So, the summarized version? Dragonoak is a well-written, accessible fantasy that has more representation than I've ever seen or read. From the characters, to the world they live in, to the plot around them, this book is memorable in the best ways. You just have to give it time to show you. It's not perfect, but I can't think of anything big enough to complain about, and the mountain of feels result in higher ratings from me.
4.5/5 stars
restless's review against another edition
3.0
A "nope, won't continue" from me.
What it's about: Rowan lives on the edge of the village with her father and brother. She has done a Terrible Thing and now all the villagers are scared of her. At night, Rowan dreams of pitchforks and torches, during the day, she wrestles with wolves.
It is a pretty bleak life, until one day, a knight appears in the village. Can Rowan get out before it's too late?
What I thought: this should have been SO good. There's a sapphic poly romance, there are dragons, there are hulking non-human characters with own their lore, language, and personalities. Heck, it is fantasy! This book should have been catnip.
But... I just couldn't connect with Rowan whatsoever. So sorry to everyone who loved this! :(
Imagine a high-stakes mystery novel in which the MC just bobbles along with zero interest in solving the mystery. That was this book for me.
Towards the end, where (I am pretty sure) we meet the Big Bad, it became painful to read. It's like the whole premise of this book relied on Rowan not thinking for herself.
Anyway - as for the good:
- the story is actually pretty interesting
- there is some interesting commentary on prejudice and persecution
- there is a cliffhanger that nicely sets up the next book
TL;DR: pick up a sample and see if the prose gels for you. If it does, then chances are you'll enjoy this novel.
What it's about: Rowan lives on the edge of the village with her father and brother. She has done a Terrible Thing and now all the villagers are scared of her. At night, Rowan dreams of pitchforks and torches, during the day, she wrestles with wolves.
It is a pretty bleak life, until one day, a knight appears in the village. Can Rowan get out before it's too late?
What I thought: this should have been SO good. There's a sapphic poly romance, there are dragons, there are hulking non-human characters with own their lore, language, and personalities. Heck, it is fantasy! This book should have been catnip.
But... I just couldn't connect with Rowan whatsoever. So sorry to everyone who loved this! :(
Imagine a high-stakes mystery novel in which the MC just bobbles along with zero interest in solving the mystery. That was this book for me.
Towards the end, where (I am pretty sure) we meet the Big Bad, it became painful to read. It's like the whole premise of this book relied on Rowan not thinking for herself.
Anyway - as for the good:
- the story is actually pretty interesting
- there is some interesting commentary on prejudice and persecution
- there is a cliffhanger that nicely sets up the next book
TL;DR: pick up a sample and see if the prose gels for you. If it does, then chances are you'll enjoy this novel.
oonawoodbury's review against another edition
adventurous
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0
This book had some really cool elements: interesting worldbuilding with inventive creatures and political history, sapphic polyamorous relationships among others. The pacing wasn't the strongest, with a lot of jouneying and not much sense of where we were going, and why which led to low energy and low stakes in a lot of the book. I'm definitely going to read the second book to see where it goes from here.
bookperusing's review against another edition
funny
hopeful
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
alilfish's review
adventurous
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
Overall an interesting read.. bit slow...maybe pretty slow. It's very lore based. I was excited for necromancy action BABBBBYYY...and you get very little untill the end and BANG everything happens all at once within the last 50 pages.
seamtressstenny's review
3.0
I wanted this series to be better. Farren creates an exquisite world in which same-sex couples, transgender folks, and gender non-binary folks are so commonplace that it’s almost jarring when a straight cis character shows up. I can’t overstate how incredibly refreshing that is. Meanwhile, Farren weaves an intricate tapestry of messy history, deep-rooted prejudice, family secrets, slow-burn romance, adrenaline-filled action sequences, and pragmatic fantasy that is almost - almost - delightful enough to allow me to forgive the abundant and obvious flaws technical.
The books read like drafts - like really good drafts, but drafts that still need work. From the more minor copy editing mistakes (which are pervasive - typos, missing words, incorrect words, etc) to the broader thematic and structural flaws, there are just too many distractions to overlook.
One of my biggest issues is that the books are written in first person, but the narrator almost has an omniscient voice as she describes other character’s feelings, reactions, and motivations. In fact, I’d argue that she reveals more about other characters’ inner dialogue than she does her own. She is also one of the least-developed and least complex characters, although only a few of the characters have greater than one dimension that is manifested in their one dominant trait. The ones that are more developed and complex are some of the most intriguing characters I’ve come across in quite some time. I only wish Farren had given the same amount of attention to all of the characters.
Another major issue is the entire lack of exposition. Farren leaves the reader to discover the story along with the narrator, which is a great way to drive suspense, but fails to give us even a hint of the background knowledge that the main character already possesses. They leave it up to the reader to piece together the necessary information to make sense the action, and sometimes we aren’t given vital pieces of information until the very end of the book or indeed, the end of the series. For example (not a spoiler, and by far not the only example), many references are made to the Bloodless Lands and how humans cannot look at the Lands without being harmed. We find out eventually - in the one section of true exposition in the entire series - how and why the Bloodless Lands were created; but I cannot tell you what happens to a human if they look at the Bloodless Lands. Does it really matter? No, I suppose not. But in order for the series to feel real and fully fleshed and complete, it’s necessary.
My point is that these books are one or two steps away from being something truly spectacular. I’m honestly saddened that they were published as they were. Another round or two of revisions, with some frank feedback and a fresh set of critical eyes, could put these works of fiction among the greats.
If you are a generally forgiving reader and like to be swept away into a world of fantasy and intrigue, these are wonderful books. If you are a more discerning reader and get distracted by mechanical errors, you may still enjoy them, but perhaps not to the extent that you wish you could.
The books read like drafts - like really good drafts, but drafts that still need work. From the more minor copy editing mistakes (which are pervasive - typos, missing words, incorrect words, etc) to the broader thematic and structural flaws, there are just too many distractions to overlook.
One of my biggest issues is that the books are written in first person, but the narrator almost has an omniscient voice as she describes other character’s feelings, reactions, and motivations. In fact, I’d argue that she reveals more about other characters’ inner dialogue than she does her own. She is also one of the least-developed and least complex characters, although only a few of the characters have greater than one dimension that is manifested in their one dominant trait. The ones that are more developed and complex are some of the most intriguing characters I’ve come across in quite some time. I only wish Farren had given the same amount of attention to all of the characters.
Another major issue is the entire lack of exposition. Farren leaves the reader to discover the story along with the narrator, which is a great way to drive suspense, but fails to give us even a hint of the background knowledge that the main character already possesses. They leave it up to the reader to piece together the necessary information to make sense the action, and sometimes we aren’t given vital pieces of information until the very end of the book or indeed, the end of the series. For example (not a spoiler, and by far not the only example), many references are made to the Bloodless Lands and how humans cannot look at the Lands without being harmed. We find out eventually - in the one section of true exposition in the entire series - how and why the Bloodless Lands were created; but I cannot tell you what happens to a human if they look at the Bloodless Lands. Does it really matter? No, I suppose not. But in order for the series to feel real and fully fleshed and complete, it’s necessary.
My point is that these books are one or two steps away from being something truly spectacular. I’m honestly saddened that they were published as they were. Another round or two of revisions, with some frank feedback and a fresh set of critical eyes, could put these works of fiction among the greats.
If you are a generally forgiving reader and like to be swept away into a world of fantasy and intrigue, these are wonderful books. If you are a more discerning reader and get distracted by mechanical errors, you may still enjoy them, but perhaps not to the extent that you wish you could.
kadomi's review against another edition
4.0
I originally discovered this book because the author posted a Life is Strange fanfiction story that I love. She mentioned in the author's notes that she's offering the first book of her fantasy series for free on Amazon, mentioning that it contains gay ladies and women of color and such.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, though it is not without weak points. Told from the first perspective, our protagonist is Rowan, a girl from a small village where she is shunned because she is a necromancer. What necromancy is capable of, you never fully learn. It has the power to heal people and bring them back from the dead, and in the past was used to control dragons and a race called pane (who I imagine much like the Qunari from Dragon Age). In any case, Rowan tends sheep and lives alone, until a knight comes by, Sir Igtham. She is a celebrated dragon-slayer traveling through, and when she departs, Rowan runs away with her. The knight doesn't ever tell Rowan what her mission is, but takes her along. On the way, they meet the pane woman Rán who turns out to be integral to Sir Igtham's mission.
The characters are the focus of the author, and thus, the story is incredibly slow to build. Rowan has no clue what's going on, and is mostly a sightseer. It's only until the last quarter of the book that Rowan finds out the truth, and then things end in a fast-paced cliffhanger that finds me eager to read on.
Rowan and Sir Claire Igtham have a slow-burn romance that was very sweet and enjoyable to read, though I really wish we got to know Claire better. It's my weakness for ice-queens, I suppose.
The world-building is quite excellent, I just wish we found out more backstory than the glimpses of the past we've received so far.
In any case, I recommend this book, if you're into fantasy and enjoy f-f romances.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book, though it is not without weak points. Told from the first perspective, our protagonist is Rowan, a girl from a small village where she is shunned because she is a necromancer. What necromancy is capable of, you never fully learn. It has the power to heal people and bring them back from the dead, and in the past was used to control dragons and a race called pane (who I imagine much like the Qunari from Dragon Age). In any case, Rowan tends sheep and lives alone, until a knight comes by, Sir Igtham. She is a celebrated dragon-slayer traveling through, and when she departs, Rowan runs away with her. The knight doesn't ever tell Rowan what her mission is, but takes her along. On the way, they meet the pane woman Rán who turns out to be integral to Sir Igtham's mission.
The characters are the focus of the author, and thus, the story is incredibly slow to build. Rowan has no clue what's going on, and is mostly a sightseer. It's only until the last quarter of the book that Rowan finds out the truth, and then things end in a fast-paced cliffhanger that finds me eager to read on.
Rowan and Sir Claire Igtham have a slow-burn romance that was very sweet and enjoyable to read, though I really wish we got to know Claire better. It's my weakness for ice-queens, I suppose.
The world-building is quite excellent, I just wish we found out more backstory than the glimpses of the past we've received so far.
In any case, I recommend this book, if you're into fantasy and enjoy f-f romances.
sigdigs's review against another edition
4.0
I was so happy to see such casual, positive lgbt rep in a fantasy book! The story was compelling and while I found the main character frustrating at times I couldn't put the book down and I'm eager to immediately start the second one.
smyth21's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
mysterious
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? Yes
5.0
4.5/5 stars.
A necromancer, a Knight/Princess and a Pane Queen, what could possibly go wrong?
I loved this story, even though it is in first person narrative and was slow in parts, it is well worth the read.
Our story follows Rowan, excilied by her village to her families farm for being a necromancer. She meets Sir Ightham/Claire, a knight who is passing through and decides to leave with her. They meet Ran along the way, a Pane (beast/human hybrid) who had quiet the soft spot for Rowan. (Yrval - awwww my heart!).
There is adventure, mystery and a little sprinkling of romance, (I would gladly get behind one specific trouple - just saying)
What did I love:
The characters, especially Akela
The world building,
What I didn’t love:
Honestly, nothing, the story was slow in parts but as a whole, I enjoyed the entire thing, well, possibly Luxon.
I also ended up also purchasing a Kindle as this ended on a cliffhanger and I NEED TO READ MORE!!
All in all, a fantastic first instalment and I cannot wait to get into book 2!
(I also finished this like two weeks ago but forgot to update my goodreads with the review
A necromancer, a Knight/Princess and a Pane Queen, what could possibly go wrong?
I loved this story, even though it is in first person narrative and was slow in parts, it is well worth the read.
Our story follows Rowan, excilied by her village to her families farm for being a necromancer. She meets Sir Ightham/Claire, a knight who is passing through and decides to leave with her. They meet Ran along the way, a Pane (beast/human hybrid) who had quiet the soft spot for Rowan. (Yrval - awwww my heart!).
There is adventure, mystery and a little sprinkling of romance, (I would gladly get behind one specific trouple - just saying)
What did I love:
The characters, especially Akela
The world building,
What I didn’t love:
Honestly, nothing, the story was slow in parts but as a whole, I enjoyed the entire thing, well, possibly Luxon.
I also ended up also purchasing a Kindle as this ended on a cliffhanger and I NEED TO READ MORE!!
All in all, a fantastic first instalment and I cannot wait to get into book 2!
(I also finished this like two weeks ago but forgot to update my goodreads with the review