A review by orionmerlin
Swordheart by T. Kingfisher

adventurous funny lighthearted 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

4.75

Characters: 10/10

T. Kingfisher excels at creating memorable, distinct, and lovable characters. The protagonist, Halla, is relatable and layered, and Sarkis, the enchanted sword warrior, is an excellent blend of gruffness and vulnerability. The secondary characters, from quirky nuns to sinister antagonists, felt purposeful and additive, providing humor, tension, and intrigue. Every character felt vivid and easy to describe, and their interactions were heartfelt and entertaining. I cared deeply about what happened to them.

Atmosphere/Setting: 9/10

The setting was immersive and vivid, with a world that felt lived-in without being over-described. The cozy but dangerous atmosphere of the world matched the tone perfectly. Scenes in inns, dusty roads, and strange magical spaces came alive, and the energy in key moments—be it danger, humor, or emotional depth—was palpable to me. While it wasn’t as grand or intricate as some epic fantasy settings, it was richly satisfying and fit the story perfectly.

Writing Style: 10/10

Kingfisher's writing was a delight. The prose was witty, conversational, and fluid, balancing humor and emotional depth with ease. The dialogue felt natural and often hilarious, while the narration carried a warmth that drew me in. The style was approachable yet unique, and I fell into the rhythm of the story effortlessly. I’d happily pick up another book by Kingfisher in any genre based on this experience.

Plot: 9/10

The plot was well-paced and satisfying, blending romance, humor, and action seamlessly. It felt fresh in how it subverted traditional fantasy tropes while still delivering the expected payoff. While there were a few moments where the journey lingered slightly too long in certain areas, the overall story kept me engaged. The resolution was deeply satisfying, and I felt the journey was worth it.

Intrigue: 10/10

The story held my attention consistently, especially due to its engaging characters and witty dialogue. I often found myself eager to return to it, and the blend of humor and stakes kept me fully invested. The unfolding of events was gripping, and I wanted to see how everything would play out.

Logic/Relationships: 10/10

The characters' motives were clear, and their actions made sense within the world’s rules. The relationships, particularly between Halla and Sarkis, were wonderfully developed, blending tension, humor, and genuine care. The world-building was sufficient without being overwhelming, and the magic system and rules were consistent. I didn’t notice any plot holes, and the story struck a perfect balance between clarity and intrigue. Everything fit together in a way that felt seamless.

Enjoyment: 10/10

I absolutely loved this book. Its mix of humor, heart, and adventure kept me entertained throughout, and the charm of the characters and the wit of the writing made it an experience I didn’t want to end. I’ll be thinking about it for a long time.