A review by kp_reads_in_the_dark
Sorcery of Thorns by Margaret Rogerson

adventurous emotional hopeful 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? No

3.5

I read this book over a weekend, and it was fun. For what it is (a fantasy novel for a young adult audience), the story is engaging, the cast of characters is varied, and the pace is good. In particular, I appreciated the aromantic and bisexuality representation, even though mentions of each were very brief. I learned some new words (which I always appreciate), and cried at the ending. All in all, it's a magickal adventure centered on how the love of books, knowledge, and each other can save the world.

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Content Warnings

Minor: Child death, Confinement, Death, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Forced institutionalization, Blood, Grief, Death of parent, Alcohol, Sexual harassment, War, Injury/Injury detail

In the end, it was Silas - his character development, his love, and ultimately his freedom - that hit me in my soft spot. Although I wouldn't necessarily consider any of the characters in this story especially deep or complex, the way the author wrote Silas' arc got to me. I would love to see what happens next! Maybe we'll get lucky and see a sequel one day.