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A review by courtsport3000
The Forever Sea by Joshua Phillip Johnson
5.0
*slams that five stars button*
It’s such a rare treat to read something that feels completely original and whisks you away to experience things you never imagined. For me, The Forever Sea was exactly that type of treat. Everything about this read felt so fresh and new- from the endless grass seas to the ships powered by musical hearthfire magic, from the floating islands to the giant tree cities.
On top of this magical, whimsical worldbuilding, The Forever Sea is beautifully written. It’s very poetic, while still easy and enjoyable to consume. Nothing too purple or convoluted- just flowy and beautiful and chock full of stunning imagery. As a huge fan of nature and all its lovely bits, these descriptions were especially engaging for me.
Within this fantastic, picturesque world are a fabulously diverse and vibrant cast of characters. I’ll admit to being nervous about a novel boasting a cast of women with a male writer, but Johnson pulls it off splendidly. No cringe! Can you believe it?? The characters feel well-rounded within their roles and it’s easy to fall in love with so many of them. There are many wholesome relationships in addition to the romance, which is also very sweet and pure. Love the queer rep, which is handled very tastefully.
Overall, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this read widely. Great for fans of fantasy and adventure who are looking for something that hasn’t been done before. Great for someone new to the genre looking to try it without being bogged down by heavy lore or complicated magic systems. Great for anyone looking for a beautifully written, action-packed, adventure with tons of heart.
Can I have the sequel now please?
Special thanks to NetGalley and DAW Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
It’s such a rare treat to read something that feels completely original and whisks you away to experience things you never imagined. For me, The Forever Sea was exactly that type of treat. Everything about this read felt so fresh and new- from the endless grass seas to the ships powered by musical hearthfire magic, from the floating islands to the giant tree cities.
On top of this magical, whimsical worldbuilding, The Forever Sea is beautifully written. It’s very poetic, while still easy and enjoyable to consume. Nothing too purple or convoluted- just flowy and beautiful and chock full of stunning imagery. As a huge fan of nature and all its lovely bits, these descriptions were especially engaging for me.
Within this fantastic, picturesque world are a fabulously diverse and vibrant cast of characters. I’ll admit to being nervous about a novel boasting a cast of women with a male writer, but Johnson pulls it off splendidly. No cringe! Can you believe it?? The characters feel well-rounded within their roles and it’s easy to fall in love with so many of them. There are many wholesome relationships in addition to the romance, which is also very sweet and pure. Love the queer rep, which is handled very tastefully.
Overall, I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this read widely. Great for fans of fantasy and adventure who are looking for something that hasn’t been done before. Great for someone new to the genre looking to try it without being bogged down by heavy lore or complicated magic systems. Great for anyone looking for a beautifully written, action-packed, adventure with tons of heart.
Can I have the sequel now please?
Special thanks to NetGalley and DAW Books for an ARC in exchange for an honest review.