thosebookbesties_nips 's review for:

Broken Souls and Bones by LJ Andrews

4.5

adventurous tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Plot

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

---

 

ARC Review: Broken Souls and Bones by L.J. Andrews
Thank you to Berkley Publishing for the advanced copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. 

Broken Souls and Bones was my first L.J. Andrews read, and I’m so glad it was my introduction to her work—I can confidently say it won’t be my last. This story pulled me in with its Viking-inspired worldbuilding and a truly original magic system centered around “craft,” which is divided into bone, blood, and soul. It took a bit of time (and a chapter re-read or two!) to fully wrap my head around the mechanics, but once I did, I was completely hooked. It’s not often I come across a magic system that feels this fresh and inventive. 

Andrews’ writing is immersive and well-balanced. The descriptions painted vivid imagery without slowing the pacing. I felt fully transported but never bogged down—exactly how I like my fantasy reads. 

Now, let’s talk about Lyra. She’s a protagonist who stuck with me—haunted by a hidden past, terrified of discovery, and yet so strong in her vulnerability. Forced into servitude as a melder (a wielder of all three crafts), Lyra finds herself under the protection of Roark, and oh my gods, Roark. He’s mysterious, fiercely protective, and communicates through his own sign language—which added depth to his character and brought a beautiful layer of quiet strength to the story. He’s now on my ever-growing list of favorite MMCs. 

The romance? A slow burn that almost drove me mad—in the best possible way. Normally I’m not a fan of slow burns (or maybe I am, judging by how strongly I react every time!), but Andrews had me fully invested in their tension and emotional connection. 

No spoilers, but be warned: this book ends on a cliffhanger—and I’m already counting the days until the next book drops. If you’re a fan of atmospheric fantasy, compelling characters, and just the right amount of emotional torture (looking at you, Roark), Broken Souls and Bones needs to be on your radar.