This book, and its possibly even-better sequel, have everything that make a fantasy book, series, tale truly good.
The characters have character; they aren't blank reader inserts or archetypes without nuance. The biggest Mary Sue in the start of the story falls hard before the end of this book, which almost underscores the author's understanding that good characters are never perfect or wish-fulfilling people. The mistakes and character flaws built into the cast, so to speak, do a lot to drive the plot - and keep things real and engaging. They're also complex, endearing people who grow and change. PS I would like a a Hekla-quality friend.
There's also a real, compelling story, which isn't just there to draw things out on the way to spicy sex scene romance. That also happens, and is handled well, but this book is good enough not to handle any of the genres or touches on in a way that diminishes its integrity as a whole, good book.
And it's well-written. It took me several attempts to read, say, ACOTAR, because the quality of the prose just kept making me wince. Whether or not you too are that kind of nerd, you'll appreciate this writing. It isn't showily pretty like Peter S. Beagle or something, it just works without repetition, weird punctuation, bad editing, worse word choice - which so many fantasy, romance, and both novels do. You get to enjoy the story without hearing record scratches all the time.
This book and series is also more inclusive than your typical Viking-inspired tales. I worried this might feel forced, but it doesn't. It also makes me feel like I'm not eating at the same table people who have turned my Scandinavian heritage into their white supremacy prop. And I appreciate that.
Honestly, the range of this book reminds me of one of my two favorite books - well, trilogies, really - Kristin Lavransdatter by Sigurd Undset. Less fantasy, more Nobel-prize-winning high lit, but set in a similar era with not altogether different themes, including romance. Maybe that meets something like what ACOTAR almost is, and you get this book.
Also, chickens are good. It is a fact universally acknowledged. Hearthfire thoughts, y'all.
TL;DR this is the best book I've read in a long while. Found unexpectedly and with low expectations, I'm really delighted I took a chance on it. I hope you will be, too.
The Road of Bones: The Ashen Series, Book 1
4.5 | 3,394 ratings
Price: 43.74
Last update: 07-01-2024
Top reviews from the United States
K. A. S. M.
A Book Like This Needs to Catapult to Everyone's Nightstand
Reviewed in the United States on February 26, 2024
Kindle Customer
Unique and Highly Entertaining
Reviewed in the United States on January 9, 2024
christine
Incredible, action-packed epic tale!
Reviewed in the United States on May 21, 2024
Jeanie McNeil
fast moving and great characters
Reviewed in the United States on February 5, 2024Megan
4.25 stars - Good Read; Can't Wait for Book 2
Reviewed in the United States on February 6, 2024Felix&Abigail
The Next Big Thing
Reviewed in the United States on April 28, 2024