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Paladins of the Harvest #1
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard
The beginning of a new fantasy epoch from debut author, Kaden Love.
Forced to appease the policies of a foreign fiefdom, Phenmir must do the harvest organs from infants.
Ten years ago, a new generation of children began to manifest abilities from the gods. Now, nearly half of the continent has chosen to graft these organs into adults, granting them their powers.
Phenmir will no longer participate, but can he repent his sin before all morality is lost?
Meanwhile, Aerhee will give all to preserve the process of harvesting, silencing those who oppose her people
Will this land of peace resort to the barbaric practice of war? In a battle of preservation and progression, there can only be one victor.
Forced to appease the policies of a foreign fiefdom, Phenmir must do the harvest organs from infants.
Ten years ago, a new generation of children began to manifest abilities from the gods. Now, nearly half of the continent has chosen to graft these organs into adults, granting them their powers.
Phenmir will no longer participate, but can he repent his sin before all morality is lost?
Meanwhile, Aerhee will give all to preserve the process of harvesting, silencing those who oppose her people
Will this land of peace resort to the barbaric practice of war? In a battle of preservation and progression, there can only be one victor.
433 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 24, 2024
40 people are currently reading
939 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 57 reviews
December 4, 2024
This book is...very interesting 👀
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard was brought to my attention a while back on Twitter, and after reading the synopsis my curiosity was peeked. I just finished this novel and I have thoughts.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is a debut novel from author Kaden Love and is the first book in the Paladins of the Harvest series. The story is set in a dystopian-like setting where the elite in the society are harvesting organs from babies (yes, you read that right) to gain supernatural powers. The practice of harvesting has been legal for 5 years at the start of the novel, but tensions are increasing as certain parts of the continent are starting to protest against this practice. Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard follows three primary POVs, Phenmir, a rebel seeking to end harvesting; Aerhee, a noblewoman advocating for its preservation; and Yetrik, a scribe.
What surprised me the most about this novel is how complex it can feel at times. Kaden Love throws the reader right into the midst of this brewing conflict, exposing the reader to a wide range of cultures, courts and nobilities. The first 60 pages felt quite exposition-heavy due to the complexity of the politics. Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is one of those novels where you have to trust the process. Although it can be a challenge to find your footing in the beginning, things will start to fall into place if you keep reading.
There are many things I love about this novel. All three POVs are very enjoyable and interesting in their own right, and Love has implemented some fascinating dynamics to each character that creates lots of tension. Interestingly, my favourite aspect of this story was Aerhee's flashbacks - they were so well done! The world-building is rich and multifaceted, featuring diverse cultures, fantastical creatures, and a captivating yet horrifying magic system. For fans of political fantasy with dystopian themes, Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is a book to look out for!
My primary criticism will be the exposition in parts of the novel. I sometimes found myself forgetting what certain terms meant, or who some of the nobles were. Fortunately, Love has included an extensive glossary and map which I would highly recommend using. Consequently, this will not be a novel I will recommend to anyone looking for an action-packed story, that includes lots of battle scenes. Although this novel does have such sequences, the story primarily focuses on the politics of the harvesting and the rise of a rebellion.
In conclusion, Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard stands as an impressive political and dystopian novel. Despite occasional struggles with exposition, I found myself wanting to get back to the story. Kaden Love has crafted a compelling narrative, set in an incredibly unique setting.
3.5 / 5
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard was brought to my attention a while back on Twitter, and after reading the synopsis my curiosity was peeked. I just finished this novel and I have thoughts.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is a debut novel from author Kaden Love and is the first book in the Paladins of the Harvest series. The story is set in a dystopian-like setting where the elite in the society are harvesting organs from babies (yes, you read that right) to gain supernatural powers. The practice of harvesting has been legal for 5 years at the start of the novel, but tensions are increasing as certain parts of the continent are starting to protest against this practice. Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard follows three primary POVs, Phenmir, a rebel seeking to end harvesting; Aerhee, a noblewoman advocating for its preservation; and Yetrik, a scribe.
What surprised me the most about this novel is how complex it can feel at times. Kaden Love throws the reader right into the midst of this brewing conflict, exposing the reader to a wide range of cultures, courts and nobilities. The first 60 pages felt quite exposition-heavy due to the complexity of the politics. Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is one of those novels where you have to trust the process. Although it can be a challenge to find your footing in the beginning, things will start to fall into place if you keep reading.
There are many things I love about this novel. All three POVs are very enjoyable and interesting in their own right, and Love has implemented some fascinating dynamics to each character that creates lots of tension. Interestingly, my favourite aspect of this story was Aerhee's flashbacks - they were so well done! The world-building is rich and multifaceted, featuring diverse cultures, fantastical creatures, and a captivating yet horrifying magic system. For fans of political fantasy with dystopian themes, Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is a book to look out for!
My primary criticism will be the exposition in parts of the novel. I sometimes found myself forgetting what certain terms meant, or who some of the nobles were. Fortunately, Love has included an extensive glossary and map which I would highly recommend using. Consequently, this will not be a novel I will recommend to anyone looking for an action-packed story, that includes lots of battle scenes. Although this novel does have such sequences, the story primarily focuses on the politics of the harvesting and the rise of a rebellion.
In conclusion, Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard stands as an impressive political and dystopian novel. Despite occasional struggles with exposition, I found myself wanting to get back to the story. Kaden Love has crafted a compelling narrative, set in an incredibly unique setting.
3.5 / 5
January 7, 2024
I know it's only the start of January, but Elegy of a Fragmented Vinyard is already one of my favourite books of the year.
Starting off with a beautiful cover, I'm happy to report that the insides match!! We have a map (I love said map, and I need a print of it) and lovely chapter headings featuring some of the Court banners.
There's also a glossary for anything you might need to refer to, and it's so well explained that I felt like I already knew the world before jumping in.
We follow several characters from different courts, my favourite by far being Phenmir. We don't meet him under the best circumstances, but he won me over easily because it was evident he didn't want to do what he was doing, and that he was ready to make a change.
I loved watching him evolve from a "simple" surgeon into (basically) a general. He embodies the values of his court possibly more than anyone else.
Yetrik was my second favourite, while Aerhee took some warming up to. Her past brought tears to my eyes, I was NOT expecting to be crying so much during the last 100 pages or so. And, because of where everyone ended up in the last few chapters, I fear she has surpassed Yetrik as my second fav. Sorry buddy.
Speaking of Yetrik, I loved his dynamic with Semi, and I'm hoping we'll get to see more of her in the sequel.
Some of the other characters that grew close to my heart are Voln, Kaela and Colrig.
Now let's talk about the sheer creativity of the world, I swear every little thing has name, there's even a made up swear word. And if you know me, then you know I get a little kick out of every custom swear that makes sense.
I was sitting there, wondering how this was all possible, then I got to the acknowledgements and saw Sanderson...and you know what? I see it. Kaden Love drank from the same creativity well that Brandon Sanderson drank from and is now blessing us with it.
But it's not just Sanderson, I saw so many other cool authors in there and couldn't help but smile.
The writing is excellent as well, you're expecting me to believe this is a debut novel??? Nahhh, Mr Love you have some secret books published somewhere admit it!!!! I'm kidding, but seriously this is so good, and reminds me of John Gwynne's Malice quality wise.
The plot was so engaging that I had to stop myself from finishing it too fast, I really didn't want this to end. It doesn't end on a huge cliffhanger, by the way, but it leaves you intrigued just enough to want to jump into the next book immediately.
Which I wish I could do, but since it's not out yet I guess I'll just...sit and wait??? Cruel world.
Anyway, pleaseeeeeee go read Elegy of a Fragmented Vinyard and thank me later, because you'll be here before it inevitably takes over the world!!!
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
Starting off with a beautiful cover, I'm happy to report that the insides match!! We have a map (I love said map, and I need a print of it) and lovely chapter headings featuring some of the Court banners.
There's also a glossary for anything you might need to refer to, and it's so well explained that I felt like I already knew the world before jumping in.
We follow several characters from different courts, my favourite by far being Phenmir. We don't meet him under the best circumstances, but he won me over easily because it was evident he didn't want to do what he was doing, and that he was ready to make a change.
I loved watching him evolve from a "simple" surgeon into (basically) a general. He embodies the values of his court possibly more than anyone else.
Yetrik was my second favourite, while Aerhee took some warming up to. Her past brought tears to my eyes, I was NOT expecting to be crying so much during the last 100 pages or so. And, because of where everyone ended up in the last few chapters, I fear she has surpassed Yetrik as my second fav. Sorry buddy.
Speaking of Yetrik, I loved his dynamic with Semi, and I'm hoping we'll get to see more of her in the sequel.
Some of the other characters that grew close to my heart are Voln, Kaela and Colrig.
Now let's talk about the sheer creativity of the world, I swear every little thing has name, there's even a made up swear word. And if you know me, then you know I get a little kick out of every custom swear that makes sense.
I was sitting there, wondering how this was all possible, then I got to the acknowledgements and saw Sanderson...and you know what? I see it. Kaden Love drank from the same creativity well that Brandon Sanderson drank from and is now blessing us with it.
But it's not just Sanderson, I saw so many other cool authors in there and couldn't help but smile.
The writing is excellent as well, you're expecting me to believe this is a debut novel??? Nahhh, Mr Love you have some secret books published somewhere admit it!!!! I'm kidding, but seriously this is so good, and reminds me of John Gwynne's Malice quality wise.
The plot was so engaging that I had to stop myself from finishing it too fast, I really didn't want this to end. It doesn't end on a huge cliffhanger, by the way, but it leaves you intrigued just enough to want to jump into the next book immediately.
Which I wish I could do, but since it's not out yet I guess I'll just...sit and wait??? Cruel world.
Anyway, pleaseeeeeee go read Elegy of a Fragmented Vinyard and thank me later, because you'll be here before it inevitably takes over the world!!!
*Thank you to the author for providing me with an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review*
December 31, 2024
Harvesting is the medical process of removing an intestine from an Endower at birth to be grafted into an adult to make them an Endowned gifting them with divine powers.
Four courts are in favour of harvesting, two are against.
Phenmir is a medical practitioner who lived by the Chuss ideal of charity and love for others who refuses to continue participating in the harvesting.
Aerhee is the unemotional Zhaes Caser, the high secretary to the nobility, working under the system to preserve the process of harvesting, silencing those who oppose her leaders.
The story begins with civil unrest and protests, all brewing into a calamitous rebellion.
Kaden raised some extremely profound, morality-bending issues which test rationality. If one considers the advantages and progress the Endowed has caused, it could be argued the process of harvesting may be worth it, especially considering most of the endowed newborns die anyway.
These dilemmas of benefit vs cost, the individual vs the masses really make you struggle with our own reflections in society.
Yes, we know it’s horrible, inhumane, disgusting. Yet, you can’t help but admit the reasonableness of some of these arguments.
Kaden also handles other profound issues with delicacy and sagacity- religion, belief, persecution, marriage, children, allocation…. I know this a mighty comparison, but it reminded me of Ken Liu’s own style.
”I respect any god who produces such honorable people. There is truth in all beliefs. If people believe in a god other than mine, they must have grown that belief from some original truth. No one decides ‘let me believe that there is a man above us' for pleasure. Faith is a difficult thing."
There was some heavy-handed info-dumping, but considering the amount of information and worldbuilding required; for a debut this was expected and also impressibly handled.
The start of the book was a bit scary with a glossary involving six different courts with different banners, religious beliefs, locations, and creeds. I love glossaries and character indexes, but I worried about how much listed I would need to remember.
Despite it still feeling like a lot of worldbuilding in terms of names and courts and agendas to get your head around, Kaden does a good job at reminding you of each court and their values throughout the novel. It also helps that we have character perspectives from different courts.
Even as a debut author, Kaden has some outstanding lines and a profound way of writing that sticks with you.
Nostalgia can be a positive sensation, yet it can become destructive if one obsesses over the past without progression.
Kaden is definitely an upcoming author to keep an eye on!
Thank you to the author for providing an arc in exchange for a review!
Bookstagram
Four courts are in favour of harvesting, two are against.
Phenmir is a medical practitioner who lived by the Chuss ideal of charity and love for others who refuses to continue participating in the harvesting.
Aerhee is the unemotional Zhaes Caser, the high secretary to the nobility, working under the system to preserve the process of harvesting, silencing those who oppose her leaders.
The story begins with civil unrest and protests, all brewing into a calamitous rebellion.
Kaden raised some extremely profound, morality-bending issues which test rationality. If one considers the advantages and progress the Endowed has caused, it could be argued the process of harvesting may be worth it, especially considering most of the endowed newborns die anyway.
These dilemmas of benefit vs cost, the individual vs the masses really make you struggle with our own reflections in society.
Yes, we know it’s horrible, inhumane, disgusting. Yet, you can’t help but admit the reasonableness of some of these arguments.
Kaden also handles other profound issues with delicacy and sagacity- religion, belief, persecution, marriage, children, allocation…. I know this a mighty comparison, but it reminded me of Ken Liu’s own style.
”I respect any god who produces such honorable people. There is truth in all beliefs. If people believe in a god other than mine, they must have grown that belief from some original truth. No one decides ‘let me believe that there is a man above us' for pleasure. Faith is a difficult thing."
There was some heavy-handed info-dumping, but considering the amount of information and worldbuilding required; for a debut this was expected and also impressibly handled.
The start of the book was a bit scary with a glossary involving six different courts with different banners, religious beliefs, locations, and creeds. I love glossaries and character indexes, but I worried about how much listed I would need to remember.
Despite it still feeling like a lot of worldbuilding in terms of names and courts and agendas to get your head around, Kaden does a good job at reminding you of each court and their values throughout the novel. It also helps that we have character perspectives from different courts.
Even as a debut author, Kaden has some outstanding lines and a profound way of writing that sticks with you.
Nostalgia can be a positive sensation, yet it can become destructive if one obsesses over the past without progression.
Kaden is definitely an upcoming author to keep an eye on!
Thank you to the author for providing an arc in exchange for a review!
Bookstagram
January 24, 2024
This review was originally posted on Before We Go Blog
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is the promising start to Kaden Love’s dark, intriguing, and wildly imaginative Paladins of the Harvest series. Full of morally complex characters, deadly political machinations, grim philosophical quandaries, unique fantastical elements, and dangerous sparks of rebellion, this story is unpredictable in all the best ways.
Ten years ago, babies suddenly started being born with an extra organ granting them powers from the gods. Five years ago, half the continent chose to Harvest these infants’ organs to graft them into power-hungry adults. Now, the flames of rebellion have been lit. A Harvester turned rebel, a noblewoman willing to do anything to preserve the Harvest, and an inquisitive scribe; the fate of the world lies in their hands, whether they know it or not, and they will stop at nothing to fight for what they believe is right.
Right from the very first page, it is evident how much love, care, time, and passion has gone into the creation of this vast and utterly unique fantasy world. The first few chapters of Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard might feel quite overwhelming, with a heavy load of world building being delivered in not the most organic way. Yet even though I had a hard time finding my footing, there were just so many fresh concepts immediately grabbing my interest, and the intrigue factor was high enough for me to keep turning the pages.
Learning about all the diverse cultures, distinct religious belief systems and different ways of life in the six Courts of Facet was super fascinating to me, and their clashing ideologies created some great natural tension in the story. What’s more, the imaginative fantastical elements in Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard sparked a sense of wonder in me that I rarely experience anymore when reading fantasy. Both the various manifestations of the Endowed/Endower’s supernatural powers, as well as all the peculiar species and creatures roaming these lands showcase Love’s incredibly wild and exciting imagination.
However, I personally do feel like the exquisite world building in Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard came somewhat at the expense of good and emotionally engaging character work. On the surface, I really did enjoy following each of these three protagonists, especially because they all come from such different walks of life and provide a completely fresh perspective on the situation. The themes of morality, cultural identity, religion, and blind faith are explored in very meaningful ways, and particularly Aerhee’s flashback sequences added some much-appreciated deeper layers to the story.
Yet despite these characters being so diametrically opposed in so many ways, I found their personal voices to be nearly indistinguishable. Their individual journeys were certainly compelling, but there was just a certain lack of emotional depth that made it hard for me to feel invested in the causes they were risking their lives for. And that level of investment was even lower for the overwhelmingly large cast of named side characters, who mostly all just blended together in my mind (aside from Semi and Voln, I want more of them!).
All that said, I honestly did not have a bad experience with Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard at all, and it speaks to the quality of the writing that I never even contemplated putting the book down, despite my personal quibbles. The big climax was truly riveting, if a bit chaotic, and there were some shocking twists and turns at the end that completely roped me in to come back for more.
There is simply no denying that Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is an extremely ambitious debut which shows a lot of potential. Kaden Love is a fresh new voice in the genre, and I am quite excited to follow him along on his promising author journey.
If you are the type of patient reader who is willing to trust the process and who enjoys their fantasy to be epic in every sense of the word, then this sprawling, imaginative, and philosophically challenging political fantasy is absolutely the book for you!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is the promising start to Kaden Love’s dark, intriguing, and wildly imaginative Paladins of the Harvest series. Full of morally complex characters, deadly political machinations, grim philosophical quandaries, unique fantastical elements, and dangerous sparks of rebellion, this story is unpredictable in all the best ways.
Ten years ago, babies suddenly started being born with an extra organ granting them powers from the gods. Five years ago, half the continent chose to Harvest these infants’ organs to graft them into power-hungry adults. Now, the flames of rebellion have been lit. A Harvester turned rebel, a noblewoman willing to do anything to preserve the Harvest, and an inquisitive scribe; the fate of the world lies in their hands, whether they know it or not, and they will stop at nothing to fight for what they believe is right.
Right from the very first page, it is evident how much love, care, time, and passion has gone into the creation of this vast and utterly unique fantasy world. The first few chapters of Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard might feel quite overwhelming, with a heavy load of world building being delivered in not the most organic way. Yet even though I had a hard time finding my footing, there were just so many fresh concepts immediately grabbing my interest, and the intrigue factor was high enough for me to keep turning the pages.
Learning about all the diverse cultures, distinct religious belief systems and different ways of life in the six Courts of Facet was super fascinating to me, and their clashing ideologies created some great natural tension in the story. What’s more, the imaginative fantastical elements in Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard sparked a sense of wonder in me that I rarely experience anymore when reading fantasy. Both the various manifestations of the Endowed/Endower’s supernatural powers, as well as all the peculiar species and creatures roaming these lands showcase Love’s incredibly wild and exciting imagination.
However, I personally do feel like the exquisite world building in Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard came somewhat at the expense of good and emotionally engaging character work. On the surface, I really did enjoy following each of these three protagonists, especially because they all come from such different walks of life and provide a completely fresh perspective on the situation. The themes of morality, cultural identity, religion, and blind faith are explored in very meaningful ways, and particularly Aerhee’s flashback sequences added some much-appreciated deeper layers to the story.
Yet despite these characters being so diametrically opposed in so many ways, I found their personal voices to be nearly indistinguishable. Their individual journeys were certainly compelling, but there was just a certain lack of emotional depth that made it hard for me to feel invested in the causes they were risking their lives for. And that level of investment was even lower for the overwhelmingly large cast of named side characters, who mostly all just blended together in my mind (aside from Semi and Voln, I want more of them!).
All that said, I honestly did not have a bad experience with Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard at all, and it speaks to the quality of the writing that I never even contemplated putting the book down, despite my personal quibbles. The big climax was truly riveting, if a bit chaotic, and there were some shocking twists and turns at the end that completely roped me in to come back for more.
There is simply no denying that Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is an extremely ambitious debut which shows a lot of potential. Kaden Love is a fresh new voice in the genre, and I am quite excited to follow him along on his promising author journey.
If you are the type of patient reader who is willing to trust the process and who enjoys their fantasy to be epic in every sense of the word, then this sprawling, imaginative, and philosophically challenging political fantasy is absolutely the book for you!
Thank you to the author for providing me with a free eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
July 13, 2023
I wrote this! Hope you enjoy!
January 24, 2024
Review originally on
JamReads
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is the first book in the epic grimdark fantasy series Paladins of the Harvest, the debut novel of Kaden Love. An ambitious and complex worldbuilding and an intricate political plot, told using several POVs, are some of the elements that will make this novel perfect for Sanderson fans.
Ten years ago, children started manifesting abilities from the gods; a substantial part of the continent has accepted to harvest those organs from the children, and graft them into adults, transferring the powers in the process, arguing that they are working towards the greater good (you can guess this is a bit of a dystopia after all).
From the start, you can guess that the author has put a ton of love in the worldbuilding, using the first chapters as a sort of introduction to the complexity of the continent, the six Courts and how the relationship between Endowers and Endowed works (including the manifestation of the powers). Religion is also an integral part of the life in the continent. Harvesting is not accepted by everybody, and that means the continent is divided against it; the flames of a rebellion have been lit.
All is explained using several POVs, especially highlighting Phenmir and Aerhee, who are on opposite sides of the conflict. Phenmir has been working as a surgeon harvesting organs to appease the policies of a foreign court; but it has been too much for him. Decided to start a new life, he will no longer participate and return to his land, where the rebellion is starting, trying to redeem himself from the sins of the past.
On the other side, Aerhee believes in grafting and wants to preserve it; but the power hungry structures that appeared around and the opposition are putting it in a delicate situation. She will need to move with precision to save harvesting against the rebellion that is starting.
Elegy is a really ambitious book, and sometimes that can play a bit against the narrative and the pacing; especially because the initial part is exposition heavy and can be felt as overwhelming for many readers. However, it is true that all the foundations are used in the best way to unleash an authentic "sanderlache" in the second part of the book.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is a promising debut novel, perfect if you are looking for a big scope epic fantasy but with dark touches; I'm in awe to see how Kaden Love continues with his Paladins of the Harvest series.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is the first book in the epic grimdark fantasy series Paladins of the Harvest, the debut novel of Kaden Love. An ambitious and complex worldbuilding and an intricate political plot, told using several POVs, are some of the elements that will make this novel perfect for Sanderson fans.
Ten years ago, children started manifesting abilities from the gods; a substantial part of the continent has accepted to harvest those organs from the children, and graft them into adults, transferring the powers in the process, arguing that they are working towards the greater good (you can guess this is a bit of a dystopia after all).
From the start, you can guess that the author has put a ton of love in the worldbuilding, using the first chapters as a sort of introduction to the complexity of the continent, the six Courts and how the relationship between Endowers and Endowed works (including the manifestation of the powers). Religion is also an integral part of the life in the continent. Harvesting is not accepted by everybody, and that means the continent is divided against it; the flames of a rebellion have been lit.
All is explained using several POVs, especially highlighting Phenmir and Aerhee, who are on opposite sides of the conflict. Phenmir has been working as a surgeon harvesting organs to appease the policies of a foreign court; but it has been too much for him. Decided to start a new life, he will no longer participate and return to his land, where the rebellion is starting, trying to redeem himself from the sins of the past.
On the other side, Aerhee believes in grafting and wants to preserve it; but the power hungry structures that appeared around and the opposition are putting it in a delicate situation. She will need to move with precision to save harvesting against the rebellion that is starting.
Elegy is a really ambitious book, and sometimes that can play a bit against the narrative and the pacing; especially because the initial part is exposition heavy and can be felt as overwhelming for many readers. However, it is true that all the foundations are used in the best way to unleash an authentic "sanderlache" in the second part of the book.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is a promising debut novel, perfect if you are looking for a big scope epic fantasy but with dark touches; I'm in awe to see how Kaden Love continues with his Paladins of the Harvest series.
January 17, 2024
Thank you to Kaden Love, the author, for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is the debut novel by Kaden Love and I was impressed with the writing and how engaging it was.
Forced to appease the policies of a foreign fiefdom, Phenmir must harvest organs from infants.
Ten years ago, a new generation of children began to manifest abilities from the gods. Now, nearly half of the continent has chosen to graft these organs into adults, granting them their powers.
Phenmir will no longer participate, but can he repent his sin before all morality is lost?
Meanwhile, Aerhee will give all to preserve the process of harvesting, silencing those who oppose her people
Will this land of peace resort to the barbaric practice of war? In a battle of preservation and progression, there can only be one victor.
Firstly, the effort in this book is incredible. I’m a fan of the cover itself but more so with the map (always a plus if there’s a map) and the chapter headings themselves. These were a brilliant additional inclusion that really highlighted this first reading experience as something truly special. It’s these little tidbits that enhance books themselves and really showcase the effort the author and artists have gone to include more for the reader.
I enjoyed how Kaden wrote each character to be different and this really helped us envisage the world through their perspectives and actions. Phenmir is a troubled soul that is ready to try and make a change for what is right. Aerhee’s POV is a unique one that covers multiple timelines but this brings an emotional backstory to the forefront. Yetrik had amazing dynamics with Semi on their mission. Each of these, and other characters, showcased Kaden’s writing and helped bring interesting discussions to each part of the story.
The story itself starts off as a grim insight to the world itself. Harvesting is a unique but brutal concept but Kaden shows alternating opinions to these and what this means for this cruel world. We are supposed to feel disgusted by Kaden’s writing, which is excellent and it’s hard to believe that this is a debut novel. Although I felt the story was slow at the beginning, the plot became so surreal that I whizzed to the end and it left me wanting to read more in this series.
Another fantastically unique story from a debut author that contains a morose concept told through hopeful characters.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is the debut novel by Kaden Love and I was impressed with the writing and how engaging it was.
Forced to appease the policies of a foreign fiefdom, Phenmir must harvest organs from infants.
Ten years ago, a new generation of children began to manifest abilities from the gods. Now, nearly half of the continent has chosen to graft these organs into adults, granting them their powers.
Phenmir will no longer participate, but can he repent his sin before all morality is lost?
Meanwhile, Aerhee will give all to preserve the process of harvesting, silencing those who oppose her people
Will this land of peace resort to the barbaric practice of war? In a battle of preservation and progression, there can only be one victor.
Firstly, the effort in this book is incredible. I’m a fan of the cover itself but more so with the map (always a plus if there’s a map) and the chapter headings themselves. These were a brilliant additional inclusion that really highlighted this first reading experience as something truly special. It’s these little tidbits that enhance books themselves and really showcase the effort the author and artists have gone to include more for the reader.
I enjoyed how Kaden wrote each character to be different and this really helped us envisage the world through their perspectives and actions. Phenmir is a troubled soul that is ready to try and make a change for what is right. Aerhee’s POV is a unique one that covers multiple timelines but this brings an emotional backstory to the forefront. Yetrik had amazing dynamics with Semi on their mission. Each of these, and other characters, showcased Kaden’s writing and helped bring interesting discussions to each part of the story.
The story itself starts off as a grim insight to the world itself. Harvesting is a unique but brutal concept but Kaden shows alternating opinions to these and what this means for this cruel world. We are supposed to feel disgusted by Kaden’s writing, which is excellent and it’s hard to believe that this is a debut novel. Although I felt the story was slow at the beginning, the plot became so surreal that I whizzed to the end and it left me wanting to read more in this series.
Another fantastically unique story from a debut author that contains a morose concept told through hopeful characters.
January 14, 2025
This is a multiPOV political fantasy telling the story of six courts at odds over harvesting, the practice in which an extra organ seen in some babies is surgically removed for transplant, endowing the donee with special abilities at the expense of the baby’s life. Though common practice over the last 10 years, harvesting is extremely polarizing for the courts, pushing those with opposing views to the brink of rebellion and war.
This was a very unique read and felt very much “of the times” by emphasizing the polarity of opposing views through two of our main POVs. Phenmir, a surgeon forced to practice harvesting now ready to fight against the practice and Aerhee, who believes in the importance of harvesting for the courts. While these opposites give you very different perspectives and opinions, our third POV a scribe, named Yerik, comes off as somewhat neutral in opinion of the practice. I really enjoyed how the varying perspectives of each character contributed a different viewpoint on harvesting as the story progressed to war.
A component of the novel that caught me by surprise was the magic system. I though it was very creative, not just because of how some people gained the power, and its moral/ethical implications, but also the layers of the abilities and variation seen between those born with the power and those that gained it through harvesting. The magic system, along with the stories world-building, was impressive and where I could really see the influence and depth of authors like Brandon Sanderson.
Overall this was a great read with strong worldbuilding that immersed me into a polarizing story. I’d recommend it for anyone that loves a complex political system with a unique magic system and a story of a place on the brink of war.
This was a very unique read and felt very much “of the times” by emphasizing the polarity of opposing views through two of our main POVs. Phenmir, a surgeon forced to practice harvesting now ready to fight against the practice and Aerhee, who believes in the importance of harvesting for the courts. While these opposites give you very different perspectives and opinions, our third POV a scribe, named Yerik, comes off as somewhat neutral in opinion of the practice. I really enjoyed how the varying perspectives of each character contributed a different viewpoint on harvesting as the story progressed to war.
A component of the novel that caught me by surprise was the magic system. I though it was very creative, not just because of how some people gained the power, and its moral/ethical implications, but also the layers of the abilities and variation seen between those born with the power and those that gained it through harvesting. The magic system, along with the stories world-building, was impressive and where I could really see the influence and depth of authors like Brandon Sanderson.
Overall this was a great read with strong worldbuilding that immersed me into a polarizing story. I’d recommend it for anyone that loves a complex political system with a unique magic system and a story of a place on the brink of war.
September 21, 2024
Kaden Love has created a brilliant and complex web of culture and political intrigue layered with a fascinating magic system.
Political fantasy books have never been my go-to, but Elegy featured unique courts and magic systems that drives you forward, wondering what other mysteries and intricacies the world of Facet might hold.
The magic system--the basis for the main conflict and the rising civil war--is dependent on the harvesting of special organs from infants. These organs are transplanted into people the bureaucracy deems worthy. It's a gruesome and loathsome staple in their society, but some of the courts are tired of the horrid practice.
This is a multi-POV book, but one of the main characters, Phenmir, is a surgeon-turned-general who previously was forced to perform the procedures. Now, he rises up with a rebellion bent on ending the practice once and for all.
If you love political fantasy or intriguing magic systems, this is one you won't want to miss.
Political fantasy books have never been my go-to, but Elegy featured unique courts and magic systems that drives you forward, wondering what other mysteries and intricacies the world of Facet might hold.
The magic system--the basis for the main conflict and the rising civil war--is dependent on the harvesting of special organs from infants. These organs are transplanted into people the bureaucracy deems worthy. It's a gruesome and loathsome staple in their society, but some of the courts are tired of the horrid practice.
This is a multi-POV book, but one of the main characters, Phenmir, is a surgeon-turned-general who previously was forced to perform the procedures. Now, he rises up with a rebellion bent on ending the practice once and for all.
If you love political fantasy or intriguing magic systems, this is one you won't want to miss.
September 29, 2024
Care is the creed. 🫀
I was beyond excited to receive my first ALC from an indie author and downloaded Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard through Kindle Unlimited. As a fan of Sanderson and Abercrombie, I could see their influence, but Kaden Love’s story stands uniquely on its own.
The book introduces a dark world where children’s organs are harvested to give adults divine powers. Phenmir, one of three POVs, is a former surgeon seeking redemption for his role in this cruel system. His internal conflict, juxtaposed with Aerhee’s fierce defense of harvesting, creates an intense and thought-provoking storyline. Phenmir’s opening scene, where he harvests an infant’s organs, leaves an unforgettable impact. His arc—rejecting his past and fighting for change—was my favorite.
The pacing alternates between slow and fast. Love takes his time to flesh out the rich worldbuilding, though some terminology can be tricky at first. Thankfully, the glossary was a huge help! I also loved the intricate court dynamics, each with their own mottos and religious beliefs.
At its core, the story delves into power, politics, revolution, and the fight against racism and elitism, as the world divides between those who support “Endowing” and those who stand against it.
This dark fantasy is the kind of epic banger I live for, and I’m giving it 5/5 stars. The audiobook was masterfully narrated by Adriel Brandt. An incredible start to a series, and I can’t wait for the next book in January!
I was beyond excited to receive my first ALC from an indie author and downloaded Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard through Kindle Unlimited. As a fan of Sanderson and Abercrombie, I could see their influence, but Kaden Love’s story stands uniquely on its own.
The book introduces a dark world where children’s organs are harvested to give adults divine powers. Phenmir, one of three POVs, is a former surgeon seeking redemption for his role in this cruel system. His internal conflict, juxtaposed with Aerhee’s fierce defense of harvesting, creates an intense and thought-provoking storyline. Phenmir’s opening scene, where he harvests an infant’s organs, leaves an unforgettable impact. His arc—rejecting his past and fighting for change—was my favorite.
The pacing alternates between slow and fast. Love takes his time to flesh out the rich worldbuilding, though some terminology can be tricky at first. Thankfully, the glossary was a huge help! I also loved the intricate court dynamics, each with their own mottos and religious beliefs.
At its core, the story delves into power, politics, revolution, and the fight against racism and elitism, as the world divides between those who support “Endowing” and those who stand against it.
This dark fantasy is the kind of epic banger I live for, and I’m giving it 5/5 stars. The audiobook was masterfully narrated by Adriel Brandt. An incredible start to a series, and I can’t wait for the next book in January!
January 13, 2025
-This world was so much fun to dive into. The characters are interesting, the magic feels new, there are incredible beasts that I have no idea how they were thought up. I could see myself living in this world, though which country? No clue. (Definitely not Zhaes)
- I loved everything about the plot and premise. Fantasy world creating a massive ethical dilemma resulting in not only rebellion but also the exposition of corrupt government systems? I eat that up any day. Add on top of that several morally ambiguous characters and I’m sold. The moment I finished this book, I picked up my advanced reader copy of the sequel because I could not have a spare moment outside of this story.
- I mentioned characters earlier but I want to bring that back. There is a diverse cast of characters with various motives throughout the story. We have the morally conflicted and existentially weary doctor, the young politician to be who just wants to understand the ways of the world, and an unbending government official with a tragic past. I want to learn more and more about every single one of them.
- My one issue was that there were some flow issues. I loved the inclusion of flashbacks and interludes, but their placement in the story felt a bit jarring to me. Also, for the first half of the book, I found myself constantly referring to the glossary to understand what was being said or political implications of passages. I felt like there was a bit of a struggle at first for the narrative to find a voice, however, it solidified itself about half way through. I could see the potential for a great story, and it did very much pay off! The ending kept me wanting more, and I hope to have a review of the sequel for you soon!
Care is the creed, my friends!
- I loved everything about the plot and premise. Fantasy world creating a massive ethical dilemma resulting in not only rebellion but also the exposition of corrupt government systems? I eat that up any day. Add on top of that several morally ambiguous characters and I’m sold. The moment I finished this book, I picked up my advanced reader copy of the sequel because I could not have a spare moment outside of this story.
- I mentioned characters earlier but I want to bring that back. There is a diverse cast of characters with various motives throughout the story. We have the morally conflicted and existentially weary doctor, the young politician to be who just wants to understand the ways of the world, and an unbending government official with a tragic past. I want to learn more and more about every single one of them.
- My one issue was that there were some flow issues. I loved the inclusion of flashbacks and interludes, but their placement in the story felt a bit jarring to me. Also, for the first half of the book, I found myself constantly referring to the glossary to understand what was being said or political implications of passages. I felt like there was a bit of a struggle at first for the narrative to find a voice, however, it solidified itself about half way through. I could see the potential for a great story, and it did very much pay off! The ending kept me wanting more, and I hope to have a review of the sequel for you soon!
Care is the creed, my friends!
September 28, 2024
It’s going to be me #50. Vast world that’s beyond what we can even see at this point even with book 1 complete, so much potential and even more excitement for what’s to come. Characters built up organically that I’m loving the growth of. Keep it up Kaden, I’m rooting for you.
January 24, 2024
I received an ARC copy of this book, and am including my author blurb here as my review! TL;DR - this book is fantastic!
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is an intensely political fantasy which is thrilling as much as it is unsettling to watch unfold. Serious ethical considerations keep the plot twisting and turning at every point, the motivations of the characters are desperate and believable, and the expansiveness of the world's cultures is intrinsic to the story. For a debut, I'd daresay you can't find a much better pick than this one.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is an intensely political fantasy which is thrilling as much as it is unsettling to watch unfold. Serious ethical considerations keep the plot twisting and turning at every point, the motivations of the characters are desperate and believable, and the expansiveness of the world's cultures is intrinsic to the story. For a debut, I'd daresay you can't find a much better pick than this one.
Read
January 11, 2025I am one of the judges of team Space Girls for the SPSFC4 contest. This review is my personal opinion. Officially, it is still in the running for the contest, pending any official team announcements.
Status: Cut
Read: 31%
The fact I am voting no for this book to continue in the competition does not mean in any way I think it isn't a book worth reading. I am uncertain if this book has competed yet in the SPFBO, but it certainly has good possibilities of reaching the semifinals if the stars align in the right place. Chances are, the book reached this enviable status and I never found out!
It can be difficult for books that teeter a bit in between the blurred lines of Fantasy and Science fiction. Under the most strictest of terms, having doctors of a medieval society learn how to transplant a second intestine that grows in a small percentage of children (granting them one of 5-6 super abilities) into an adult without loss of viability makes this book qualify for the more broader senses of the term.
And I do think that if the book had focused a bit more on the groundbreaking medical science aspect, I would have voted yes because prosewise, the book certainly qualifies to advance. Having a book more focused on medical science would have made me go bonkers with glee because this is my degree (albeit in another field instead of surgery). The first chapter really did its hook and sinker for me. One of our three protagonists is a general surgeon named Phelmir (I might have spelled it wrong) who feels disgusted after extracting the magic granting intestine from a murdered newborn baby.
Apparently he has to serve in the noble court of a neighboring country as some arcane requirement to obtain an unrestricted license and he ends up quitting his post before the contract ended for moral reasons. If the book had focused a lot more energy on the repercussions of an unfinished degree, I would have been bouncing everywhere cuse I would feel so, so identified with the imminent terror of possibly being unable to find another place where in the best of cases, they would demand the character to repeat the service from the very beginning.
For a chunk of the early novel, I thought Phelmir was very young and it surprised me he's really middle age. Not that this couldn't work cuse I have met medical residents in their late 30s-early 40s a handful of times. Having the constraints of getting yelled at by an attending 10 years younger than them and being powerless to tell them no would have added even more heaps of conflict that could make me go even more excited.
So, when Phelmir returns home and his peers don't really ask him anything about why he's back ahead of time, I did feel this was a missed opportunity. Even so, while I don't wish to divulge what he plans next cuse it is a mini spoiler, his POV story is by far the most entertaining.
The second POV is okay enough, but didn't wow me. Yetrik is a young scholar studying to become a historian/page and has been asked by his superior (who has the transplanted ability to read minds and maybe see certain future events) to visit the Schleff noble court and discover what happened to their magically enhanced people. Yetrik is eager and very naive, some parts of his story were pretty good but a bit muddled because the early part of the book focuses a tad bit too much of the 4 courts that disagree with the baby killing policy. There is one chapter for a third POV that I couldn't follow much at all because 90% of it is talking about why the Gruffmen people are stoic and not really anything goes on. I can't even remember the character's name.
I think this is one of those books that needs to be read up until the halfway point for the story to be really advancing. We have a few little nibbles from the doctor's POV of where the story is heading, and I do believe the prize for the wait will be worthwhile. Only downside is that the only storyline that I have really liked is the doctor one and that I would have wanted more medical science and less political court intrigue.
Given this is a contest focusing on Science Fiction, the book doesn't have sufficient focus on the medical science aspects to fully distance itself from its fantasy side. While certainly a joyful read, this book is a cut for me.
Status: Cut
Read: 31%
The fact I am voting no for this book to continue in the competition does not mean in any way I think it isn't a book worth reading. I am uncertain if this book has competed yet in the SPFBO, but it certainly has good possibilities of reaching the semifinals if the stars align in the right place. Chances are, the book reached this enviable status and I never found out!
It can be difficult for books that teeter a bit in between the blurred lines of Fantasy and Science fiction. Under the most strictest of terms, having doctors of a medieval society learn how to transplant a second intestine that grows in a small percentage of children (granting them one of 5-6 super abilities) into an adult without loss of viability makes this book qualify for the more broader senses of the term.
And I do think that if the book had focused a bit more on the groundbreaking medical science aspect, I would have voted yes because prosewise, the book certainly qualifies to advance. Having a book more focused on medical science would have made me go bonkers with glee because this is my degree (albeit in another field instead of surgery). The first chapter really did its hook and sinker for me. One of our three protagonists is a general surgeon named Phelmir (I might have spelled it wrong) who feels disgusted after extracting the magic granting intestine from a murdered newborn baby.
Apparently he has to serve in the noble court of a neighboring country as some arcane requirement to obtain an unrestricted license and he ends up quitting his post before the contract ended for moral reasons. If the book had focused a lot more energy on the repercussions of an unfinished degree, I would have been bouncing everywhere cuse I would feel so, so identified with the imminent terror of possibly being unable to find another place where in the best of cases, they would demand the character to repeat the service from the very beginning.
For a chunk of the early novel, I thought Phelmir was very young and it surprised me he's really middle age. Not that this couldn't work cuse I have met medical residents in their late 30s-early 40s a handful of times. Having the constraints of getting yelled at by an attending 10 years younger than them and being powerless to tell them no would have added even more heaps of conflict that could make me go even more excited.
So, when Phelmir returns home and his peers don't really ask him anything about why he's back ahead of time, I did feel this was a missed opportunity. Even so, while I don't wish to divulge what he plans next cuse it is a mini spoiler, his POV story is by far the most entertaining.
The second POV is okay enough, but didn't wow me. Yetrik is a young scholar studying to become a historian/page and has been asked by his superior (who has the transplanted ability to read minds and maybe see certain future events) to visit the Schleff noble court and discover what happened to their magically enhanced people. Yetrik is eager and very naive, some parts of his story were pretty good but a bit muddled because the early part of the book focuses a tad bit too much of the 4 courts that disagree with the baby killing policy. There is one chapter for a third POV that I couldn't follow much at all because 90% of it is talking about why the Gruffmen people are stoic and not really anything goes on. I can't even remember the character's name.
I think this is one of those books that needs to be read up until the halfway point for the story to be really advancing. We have a few little nibbles from the doctor's POV of where the story is heading, and I do believe the prize for the wait will be worthwhile. Only downside is that the only storyline that I have really liked is the doctor one and that I would have wanted more medical science and less political court intrigue.
Given this is a contest focusing on Science Fiction, the book doesn't have sufficient focus on the medical science aspects to fully distance itself from its fantasy side. While certainly a joyful read, this book is a cut for me.
January 29, 2024
A stellar debut!
*** NOTE: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
Wow... so this book... is A LOT. (But in a good way mind you!) When an author sets out to make their debut, it can be easy to be pulled into "place it safe" territory. Some authors rely on familiar tropes or themes, while others might shy away from making a statement with their work. Neither of those is the case for Kaden. He pulls ZERO punches when it comes to placing the reader into his world and has a moral quandary on display for all the world to see. So let us go ahead and break those down a bit further, starting with the latter.
The core EoaFV is the moral dilemma around what we come to know as "The Harvest". Namely, some children in this world are born with an extra organ that gives off magical properties. Some of the Courts (more on that in a bit), believe that this organ should be harvested and then grafted to others to reap the benefit of it's power. While others believe the children should be free to grow up with the organ and develop the power on its own. Simple right? Wrong. When the organ is harvested, it kills the child, but should they be allowed to keep it, they also have a high chance of dying. Oof. I think Kaden was brilliant in framing the plot around such a concept. It's impactful, it's heart-wrenching, and it isn't afraid to play politics. It leaves the reader constantly questioning the notion of objective vs subjective morality and is absolutely a standout in the novel.
All of our POVs center around this conflict and show a wide array of beliefs regarding it. Of those, Phenmir is my favorite and kind of serves as the lynch-pin for much of the events that unfold in this story. The other two, Aerhee and Yetrik have their roles to play, but it seems that much of their story is to unfold in later installments. While they do get some growth, their stories do feel far from complete.
While each of characters is distinct in their own way, so too is the world that Kaden has lovingly crafted. We have a series of Courts, each with their own beliefs, appearance, etc. You can tell that a lot of time and effort went into the look and feel of each of these, and sometimes to the detriment of the reader. It can often be confusing when we are bombarded with different roles and titles, customs, and deities, especially in the first act. There's quite a bit to take in, but thankfully, there is a very helpful glossary present should you find yourself a bit lost in the woods. My only REAL critique with the book also centers around this aspect. Namely, while there is so much reference and mention of culture difference, we really only get a taste of each. There's so much interesting lore we see it presented at surface value, it kind of diminishes the end result.
Overall, if you enjoy political based epic-fantasy, with solid underlying action, compelling world-building, and a very unique moral question, you should absolutely give this a read! I'm excited to see where the world of Facet takes us next and am thankful I went on the journey! Go give Kaden some love y'all!
*** NOTE: I received a free copy of this book from the author in exchange for an honest review***
Wow... so this book... is A LOT. (But in a good way mind you!) When an author sets out to make their debut, it can be easy to be pulled into "place it safe" territory. Some authors rely on familiar tropes or themes, while others might shy away from making a statement with their work. Neither of those is the case for Kaden. He pulls ZERO punches when it comes to placing the reader into his world and has a moral quandary on display for all the world to see. So let us go ahead and break those down a bit further, starting with the latter.
The core EoaFV is the moral dilemma around what we come to know as "The Harvest". Namely, some children in this world are born with an extra organ that gives off magical properties. Some of the Courts (more on that in a bit), believe that this organ should be harvested and then grafted to others to reap the benefit of it's power. While others believe the children should be free to grow up with the organ and develop the power on its own. Simple right? Wrong. When the organ is harvested, it kills the child, but should they be allowed to keep it, they also have a high chance of dying. Oof. I think Kaden was brilliant in framing the plot around such a concept. It's impactful, it's heart-wrenching, and it isn't afraid to play politics. It leaves the reader constantly questioning the notion of objective vs subjective morality and is absolutely a standout in the novel.
All of our POVs center around this conflict and show a wide array of beliefs regarding it. Of those, Phenmir is my favorite and kind of serves as the lynch-pin for much of the events that unfold in this story. The other two, Aerhee and Yetrik have their roles to play, but it seems that much of their story is to unfold in later installments. While they do get some growth, their stories do feel far from complete.
While each of characters is distinct in their own way, so too is the world that Kaden has lovingly crafted. We have a series of Courts, each with their own beliefs, appearance, etc. You can tell that a lot of time and effort went into the look and feel of each of these, and sometimes to the detriment of the reader. It can often be confusing when we are bombarded with different roles and titles, customs, and deities, especially in the first act. There's quite a bit to take in, but thankfully, there is a very helpful glossary present should you find yourself a bit lost in the woods. My only REAL critique with the book also centers around this aspect. Namely, while there is so much reference and mention of culture difference, we really only get a taste of each. There's so much interesting lore we see it presented at surface value, it kind of diminishes the end result.
Overall, if you enjoy political based epic-fantasy, with solid underlying action, compelling world-building, and a very unique moral question, you should absolutely give this a read! I'm excited to see where the world of Facet takes us next and am thankful I went on the journey! Go give Kaden some love y'all!
January 15, 2024
"The worst lies, those that cause the most destruction, are those close enough to the truth to truly deceive."
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard by Kaden Love was a triumphant debut for the author. Love, showing wisdom beyond his years, crafts a beautiful and immersive world full of complex political feuds and personal relationships. The science that Love introduces in Elegy is thought out and incredibly shocking in just how believable it really is. New fantasy races are crafted and a brilliantly realized world expands before the reader as they make their way through the novel.
"She felt as if she saw the murder of a hen for the first time after a lifetime of eating its meat."
This book asks the reader to think deeply at times and consider things in the real world. Kaden has clearly taken time to craft this world from the ground up in a way that made the reader invested. He builds the characters in a steady arc and the plot leads to a satisfying conclusion. All in all this was a fantastic book and I will definitely be reading book two.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard by Kaden Love was a triumphant debut for the author. Love, showing wisdom beyond his years, crafts a beautiful and immersive world full of complex political feuds and personal relationships. The science that Love introduces in Elegy is thought out and incredibly shocking in just how believable it really is. New fantasy races are crafted and a brilliantly realized world expands before the reader as they make their way through the novel.
"She felt as if she saw the murder of a hen for the first time after a lifetime of eating its meat."
This book asks the reader to think deeply at times and consider things in the real world. Kaden has clearly taken time to craft this world from the ground up in a way that made the reader invested. He builds the characters in a steady arc and the plot leads to a satisfying conclusion. All in all this was a fantastic book and I will definitely be reading book two.
January 26, 2024
It’s hard to believe that a work with such profound themes of morality and vice meshed with a unique take of acquired/stolen powers – in this case, the harvesting of a special organ from an Endower to an Endowed, gifting them with god-like powers – is Kaden Love’s debut novel. And he made it a Kickstarter success to boot!
The story, while it sounds and starts a bit gruesome, actually isn’t as dark as it appears. It’s more a speculation on politics and religion. Phenmir goes against this harvest while Aerhee is the opposite, working to preserve the heinous ritual. It unravels a world of protests, political strife, and eventually a rebellion I felt in my toes (quite literally there was a part that made my Achilles phantom ache.)
Very dystopian, almost liminal. Worth reading.
My CAWPILE Ratings: 62/70
Characters: 9/10
Atmosphere: 8/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Intrigue: 9/10
Logic: 9/10
Enjoyment/Vibes: 10/10
The story, while it sounds and starts a bit gruesome, actually isn’t as dark as it appears. It’s more a speculation on politics and religion. Phenmir goes against this harvest while Aerhee is the opposite, working to preserve the heinous ritual. It unravels a world of protests, political strife, and eventually a rebellion I felt in my toes (quite literally there was a part that made my Achilles phantom ache.)
Very dystopian, almost liminal. Worth reading.
My CAWPILE Ratings: 62/70
Characters: 9/10
Atmosphere: 8/10
Writing Style: 8/10
Plot: 9/10
Intrigue: 9/10
Logic: 9/10
Enjoyment/Vibes: 10/10
January 6, 2025
From the very first lines, I felt myself drawn to the overarching struggle taking place within the world. And all that followed did a phenomenal job fleshing out the different societies, cultures, and where each people stood in regards to that struggle. There were some slower elements to me as there was a heavy focus placed on the politics around the war that's brewing. But the payoff at the end was great, and the world is now so fleshed out, with the proper chess pieces put in place, that I think the story is going to become even more epic than it already is. If you like classic fantasy with a focus on political tension, one centered around a righteous struggle fighting brutality and corruption, then go read this book!
January 4, 2025
A tour de force debut, Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard will equally enthrall and test the boundaries of your mental fortitude with its dazzling world-building, complex political machinations, multi-POV introspections and so much more. Love is all you need.
October 28, 2025
This book is so wonderful and unique! If you are a Branden Sanderson fan like me! You owe it to yourself, to read this! Five stars well deserved!
August 19, 2024
Awesome book! Love all the twists and turns of this book. The ending was the cherry on top. If I had to really cherry-pick, and this is reaching is the book had a bit of grammatical errors, but nothing that you couldn't figure out what the author meant yourself.
December 8, 2024
War is on the horizon, and the six courts are growing desperate. As tensions reach a boiling point, alliances fray, and morality is cast aside in the frantic pursuit of power. Desperation fuels dangerous decisions, and the courts teeter on the edge of chaos, threatening to plunge the world into an all-out war where no one will escape unscathed.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard was an absolutely fascinating read. It masterfully weaves interesting political tensions with the haunting ethical debate among the six courts, grappling with the horrifying practice of harvesting children's organs to attain magical powers.
The story's depth, combined with its morally charged conflicts, keeps you questioning alliances, motives, and the very fabric of power. It's a thought-provoking and immersive experience that lingers long after you turn the last page.
I absolutely had a fantastic time diving into this one and am thrilled that the next book is just around the corner in 2025. The anticipation is real. I can't wait to see where the story goes next!
Thanks to @svetlingpress for providing me with the ebook to get an early start of the book before my copy from the broken binding arrives, or in this case, finish it before my copy comes
Can't recommend this enough! If you are a fantasy fan, you should definitely read this one.
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard was an absolutely fascinating read. It masterfully weaves interesting political tensions with the haunting ethical debate among the six courts, grappling with the horrifying practice of harvesting children's organs to attain magical powers.
The story's depth, combined with its morally charged conflicts, keeps you questioning alliances, motives, and the very fabric of power. It's a thought-provoking and immersive experience that lingers long after you turn the last page.
I absolutely had a fantastic time diving into this one and am thrilled that the next book is just around the corner in 2025. The anticipation is real. I can't wait to see where the story goes next!
Thanks to @svetlingpress for providing me with the ebook to get an early start of the book before my copy from the broken binding arrives, or in this case, finish it before my copy comes
Can't recommend this enough! If you are a fantasy fan, you should definitely read this one.
July 18, 2024
There are some books that just stay with you, Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard was just … excellent.
This dark, philosophical, political, faith based fantasy had me utterly captivated in ways I never expected. Never have I seen faith and religion discussed in such a respectful way while not losing sight of a darker plot.
Wonderfully complex, eloquently written and incredibly thought provoking.
I can’t wait to read more from this author.
This dark, philosophical, political, faith based fantasy had me utterly captivated in ways I never expected. Never have I seen faith and religion discussed in such a respectful way while not losing sight of a darker plot.
Wonderfully complex, eloquently written and incredibly thought provoking.
I can’t wait to read more from this author.
August 20, 2024
This reminded me of The Blade Itself in a sense of setting up for the main action to kick in the following books in the trilogy. It was also very character focused which I always enjoy! Can't wait to see what happens in the book two ❤️🔥
May 17, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you very much for the copy of your book in exchange for my honest review!
Overall this book has all the makings of a great YA fantasy. There is unique world building, a bizarre and intriguing power concept, political intrigue and rebellion, religious conflict and multiple POV.
Personally I feel like this book just needed some more thorough editing. All the bones are there it just needed a good polish. There are some continuity errors throughout but nothing I feel detracts from the story.
I do also hold some issue with the FMCs. I felt they could have been more dynamic and given more attention and depth (Aerhee excluded as she was given a lot of backstory to explain her behavior and perceptions). I'm not saying all FMCs need massive back stories but I do need them to have a certain level of depth to feel genuine.
I am looking forward to see how this author grows through the series!
Thank you very much for the copy of your book in exchange for my honest review!
Overall this book has all the makings of a great YA fantasy. There is unique world building, a bizarre and intriguing power concept, political intrigue and rebellion, religious conflict and multiple POV.
Personally I feel like this book just needed some more thorough editing. All the bones are there it just needed a good polish. There are some continuity errors throughout but nothing I feel detracts from the story.
I do also hold some issue with the FMCs. I felt they could have been more dynamic and given more attention and depth (Aerhee excluded as she was given a lot of backstory to explain her behavior and perceptions). I'm not saying all FMCs need massive back stories but I do need them to have a certain level of depth to feel genuine.
I am looking forward to see how this author grows through the series!
January 26, 2025
Great as an audiobook - the narrators voice fit perfectly with the themes in the book. Very unique and interesting world/concept. Love a good morality vs law storyline! I found myself a little confused with some of the world building but maybe that’s just because i read it via audiobook and sometimes that happens. Otherwise descriptions were very illustrative and beautifully written, I could picture most everything in my head pretty easily!
August 25, 2024
A solid first offering from Kaden Love. Looking forward to continuing on this journey and supporting this new author who is showing his fresh take on the genre. I plan to read again before the end of the year and may update my thoughts and star based on my second read through.
June 8, 2025
This book has a ton of promise and potential but this story didn’t work for me sadly. Didn’t really care for 2 of the 3 main POVs and lost most interest in the third towards the end. Wont continue with the series
January 17, 2024
Fans of Brandon Sanderson will utterly devour this new, debut fantasy epic. If you find the wait for the fifth Stormlight Archive novel feels just a bit too far away, consider picking up this book full of competing nations, morally grey characters, unique magic, magical creatures, and epic battles. You will not want to put this book down once you get started!
Elegy of a Fragmented VineyardElegy is set a world where some children are born with an extra intestine that gives them magical powers – magical powers that those in power quickly realize can transplanted into adults, and thereby transferring those magical powers. This results in the death of the child, which has caused an international debate on the ethics and legality of this practice. The various royal/political courts are in an uneasy peace, allied along their ideological lines of this horrific form of infanticide. The peace is shattered when the ruler of one of the anti-infanticide Courts decides to recieve a magical transplant, causing a continent-wide war to erupt. Elegy follows three primary POV characters, a medical doctor forced to perform these procedures, a young diplomat, and a high ranking government official – as they navigate political and military strategies to change the future of magic forever.
There is so much to love about this book. Love doesn’t hestiate to throw readers in a continent-wide moral conflict in which Love’s personal perspective is clear, but the characters are conflicted between their personal, cultural, and political perspectives and goals. This is not a grimdark book in the sense that “everyone sucks and is immoral”, but rather confronts, head-on, the insanity of politicizing everything to the point where people will do actively immoral things against their better judgement. Love has no problem putting his readers in the heads of people who hold immoral beliefs and support backwards practices (like the murdering of children) not to justify these practices and beliefs, but to help readers better understand all sides of the conflict.
In many ways Elegy reminds of a slightly less heroic Elantris. We rotate (primarily) between three POV characters, of which at least one of them could be deemed the “villain” of the story (although Love’s book here is a bit more murky and complicated than that). Like Elantris it tells a pretty big story will global import, but makes sure to keep the story contained enough that we don’t lose the humanity of the efforts impacts of the characters and plot. Essentially if you take Elantris and fold over the house politics of A Song of Ice and Fire you’d get something that quite closely resembes Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard.
Brandon Sanderson in general is an obvious inspiration for Love. There isn’t any kind of “plagiarism masquerading as inspiration” because Love’s story is wholly unique (who else has read a book about transplanted magical intentestines?), but in addition to the aforementioned rotation of three POV characters (which Sanderson didn’t invent, nor has exclusive domain over), there are Interludes with an additional POV character, and Love’s writing is reminiscent of Sanderson’s prose. It is engaging and clear without being purple, and it serves the purpose of moving the plot along deftly and swiftly.
And despite the big, political world that Love has created, the plot moves quite quickly. Characters ascend (or descend) into new positions quite rapidly, major plot developments abound around every turn, and conflicts heighten at an almost absurd degree. I finished this book in less than two days because I couldn’t put it down. There never seemed to be a lull in the plotting that was a good point to say “I’ll pick this up later”. Elegy hooks its claws into and doesn’t let you go; it demands your full attention on every page until your eyes land on the final one. This is another book where I’m interested to see how the series develops because Love burns through so much plot in these 400ish pages.
There in an undeniable care and passion that Love injects into every element of this book. The characters are well-drawn, the world is complex, and the morality is grey without descending into nihilism.
There are a few lingering issues that I think come about because this is Love’s debut book. As much as I loved how fast the plot moved along, I think the plot, characters, and, especially, the worldbuilding needed a bit of time to breathe. While reading I could feel Love’s excitement for the story he was telling, but at times I think he was just a bit too eager to get to the next major plot development. Love’s world here is massive, with many competing Courts, various political hierarchies, and overlapping competing factions. I love this level of political intricacy and attention to detail, but the plot moved so quickly that I couldn’t quite latch onto everything. There were a lot of words, characters, and concepts that I couldn’t stick in my brain because there was so much coming all at once. I applaud Love for not making me sit through was it essentially a 500 page prologue to the plot (other fantasy authors take note!), but big complex worlds with lots of politics (like A Song of Ice and Fire, one of Love’s quoted inspirations) work because those authors take the time to introduce concepts slowly and allow readers to adjust to the worldbuilding before getting to the major plot developments.
This had the result of working against Love’s immense work to worldbuilding because everything became a bit flattened and monochromatic. Character and plots arcs raced along, which didn’t give enough space for each of the Courts and their cultures to feel unique. I really liked the concept of the Courts, and how each had a different deity, cosmology, set of ethics, and more. Much of this detail is given in the front matter for interested in readres, but in the actual “meat” of the novel itself the Courts essentially distilled down into a cultural binary – those for the extraction of the magical intestines and those against them. I persoanlly really liked to be immersed in fantasy worlds, and this debut book felt a bit more like the characters and plots were happening on top of a 2D map rather than dwelling in a three-dimensional landscape.
I am genuinely saying that these were pretty minor problems, and didn’t inhibit my enjoyment of Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard. These were not problems that killed or destroyed the book for me. Rather, they only took away a little bit from the book’s overall potential, moving this book from a five star read to a four star one. If anything, it has made me more eager from Love’s announced prequel novella (which is hopefully coming soon, and will be, I believe, free to his newsletter subscribers) and eventual sequel because we will be able to spend more time in this world. The end of the book, albeit a bit muted, does set up some interesting personal and political conflicts to come, and I am more than anticipating where the story goes (especially as Love becomes an even better author!).
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is very much worth your time is you like big, epic political fantasies with unique magic systems that don’t overly dwell on violent or sexualized imagery. I am expecting that Love is going to be one of the big new things not only just in indie fantasy, but in the epic fantasy community more broadly. Jump in on the ground floor now; this book is going to be big and bigger things are definitely coming.
Concluding Thoughts: Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard tells the story of a continent at war over the practice of harvesting magical organs from infants. Love doesn’t shy away from the moral horrors of this practice without wading around the dim imagery, instead leading readers in a world a politics, military strategy, and overlapping alliances. Betrayals, major plot developments, and action (both of the “courtly political” and “military” varieties) come at the reader hard and fast. Sometimes the fast moving plot comes at the expense of the worldbuilding, which is a bit too complex to hold the fast moving plot, but fants of Brandon Sanderson will be delighted to have another epic fantasy to put on their radar. I finished this book in less than two days because I couldn’t put it down, and it is definitely looking like one of the next big things in fantasy. Don’t be left out.
Elegy of a Fragmented VineyardElegy is set a world where some children are born with an extra intestine that gives them magical powers – magical powers that those in power quickly realize can transplanted into adults, and thereby transferring those magical powers. This results in the death of the child, which has caused an international debate on the ethics and legality of this practice. The various royal/political courts are in an uneasy peace, allied along their ideological lines of this horrific form of infanticide. The peace is shattered when the ruler of one of the anti-infanticide Courts decides to recieve a magical transplant, causing a continent-wide war to erupt. Elegy follows three primary POV characters, a medical doctor forced to perform these procedures, a young diplomat, and a high ranking government official – as they navigate political and military strategies to change the future of magic forever.
There is so much to love about this book. Love doesn’t hestiate to throw readers in a continent-wide moral conflict in which Love’s personal perspective is clear, but the characters are conflicted between their personal, cultural, and political perspectives and goals. This is not a grimdark book in the sense that “everyone sucks and is immoral”, but rather confronts, head-on, the insanity of politicizing everything to the point where people will do actively immoral things against their better judgement. Love has no problem putting his readers in the heads of people who hold immoral beliefs and support backwards practices (like the murdering of children) not to justify these practices and beliefs, but to help readers better understand all sides of the conflict.
In many ways Elegy reminds of a slightly less heroic Elantris. We rotate (primarily) between three POV characters, of which at least one of them could be deemed the “villain” of the story (although Love’s book here is a bit more murky and complicated than that). Like Elantris it tells a pretty big story will global import, but makes sure to keep the story contained enough that we don’t lose the humanity of the efforts impacts of the characters and plot. Essentially if you take Elantris and fold over the house politics of A Song of Ice and Fire you’d get something that quite closely resembes Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard.
Brandon Sanderson in general is an obvious inspiration for Love. There isn’t any kind of “plagiarism masquerading as inspiration” because Love’s story is wholly unique (who else has read a book about transplanted magical intentestines?), but in addition to the aforementioned rotation of three POV characters (which Sanderson didn’t invent, nor has exclusive domain over), there are Interludes with an additional POV character, and Love’s writing is reminiscent of Sanderson’s prose. It is engaging and clear without being purple, and it serves the purpose of moving the plot along deftly and swiftly.
And despite the big, political world that Love has created, the plot moves quite quickly. Characters ascend (or descend) into new positions quite rapidly, major plot developments abound around every turn, and conflicts heighten at an almost absurd degree. I finished this book in less than two days because I couldn’t put it down. There never seemed to be a lull in the plotting that was a good point to say “I’ll pick this up later”. Elegy hooks its claws into and doesn’t let you go; it demands your full attention on every page until your eyes land on the final one. This is another book where I’m interested to see how the series develops because Love burns through so much plot in these 400ish pages.
There in an undeniable care and passion that Love injects into every element of this book. The characters are well-drawn, the world is complex, and the morality is grey without descending into nihilism.
There are a few lingering issues that I think come about because this is Love’s debut book. As much as I loved how fast the plot moved along, I think the plot, characters, and, especially, the worldbuilding needed a bit of time to breathe. While reading I could feel Love’s excitement for the story he was telling, but at times I think he was just a bit too eager to get to the next major plot development. Love’s world here is massive, with many competing Courts, various political hierarchies, and overlapping competing factions. I love this level of political intricacy and attention to detail, but the plot moved so quickly that I couldn’t quite latch onto everything. There were a lot of words, characters, and concepts that I couldn’t stick in my brain because there was so much coming all at once. I applaud Love for not making me sit through was it essentially a 500 page prologue to the plot (other fantasy authors take note!), but big complex worlds with lots of politics (like A Song of Ice and Fire, one of Love’s quoted inspirations) work because those authors take the time to introduce concepts slowly and allow readers to adjust to the worldbuilding before getting to the major plot developments.
This had the result of working against Love’s immense work to worldbuilding because everything became a bit flattened and monochromatic. Character and plots arcs raced along, which didn’t give enough space for each of the Courts and their cultures to feel unique. I really liked the concept of the Courts, and how each had a different deity, cosmology, set of ethics, and more. Much of this detail is given in the front matter for interested in readres, but in the actual “meat” of the novel itself the Courts essentially distilled down into a cultural binary – those for the extraction of the magical intestines and those against them. I persoanlly really liked to be immersed in fantasy worlds, and this debut book felt a bit more like the characters and plots were happening on top of a 2D map rather than dwelling in a three-dimensional landscape.
I am genuinely saying that these were pretty minor problems, and didn’t inhibit my enjoyment of Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard. These were not problems that killed or destroyed the book for me. Rather, they only took away a little bit from the book’s overall potential, moving this book from a five star read to a four star one. If anything, it has made me more eager from Love’s announced prequel novella (which is hopefully coming soon, and will be, I believe, free to his newsletter subscribers) and eventual sequel because we will be able to spend more time in this world. The end of the book, albeit a bit muted, does set up some interesting personal and political conflicts to come, and I am more than anticipating where the story goes (especially as Love becomes an even better author!).
Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard is very much worth your time is you like big, epic political fantasies with unique magic systems that don’t overly dwell on violent or sexualized imagery. I am expecting that Love is going to be one of the big new things not only just in indie fantasy, but in the epic fantasy community more broadly. Jump in on the ground floor now; this book is going to be big and bigger things are definitely coming.
Concluding Thoughts: Elegy of a Fragmented Vineyard tells the story of a continent at war over the practice of harvesting magical organs from infants. Love doesn’t shy away from the moral horrors of this practice without wading around the dim imagery, instead leading readers in a world a politics, military strategy, and overlapping alliances. Betrayals, major plot developments, and action (both of the “courtly political” and “military” varieties) come at the reader hard and fast. Sometimes the fast moving plot comes at the expense of the worldbuilding, which is a bit too complex to hold the fast moving plot, but fants of Brandon Sanderson will be delighted to have another epic fantasy to put on their radar. I finished this book in less than two days because I couldn’t put it down, and it is definitely looking like one of the next big things in fantasy. Don’t be left out.
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