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The Branded Season #1
The Branded: The Branded Season, Book One
An epic, high-concept speculative novel with explosive ideas around gender and class, served up with romance, conflict and quick-fire narrative pace.
In a world split in two, sisters Nara & Osha may have the power to bring it back together, if they can uncover the hidden truth…
Isfalk is divided into two classes – the Branded, who are vulnerable to disease, and the Pure, who are bigger, stronger and immune. Orphaned twins Nara and Osha are sequestered in the citadel, where their unbranded skin entitles them to a life of privilege, but as precious breeding stock.
Nara itches to escape her confines and return to the wilds of the Fornwood where she and her sister grew up, but when she is forced to run, she discovers there's much more at stake than her own life. The Branded are on the rise, and the girls are caught up in prophecies that foretell of a savior who can realign the world.
Forced to accept the help of a mysterious southern Brand known only as the Wrangler, Nara discovers the latent power lying dormant in her uncanny abilities that she's had since childhood. But in a world where women are traded as commodities, who can she trust in the lands beyond the Fornwood? And why does the Wrangler seem to know more about her life than she does?
Two sisters without a past hold the weight of the future in their hands.
In a world split in two, sisters Nara & Osha may have the power to bring it back together, if they can uncover the hidden truth…
Isfalk is divided into two classes – the Branded, who are vulnerable to disease, and the Pure, who are bigger, stronger and immune. Orphaned twins Nara and Osha are sequestered in the citadel, where their unbranded skin entitles them to a life of privilege, but as precious breeding stock.
Nara itches to escape her confines and return to the wilds of the Fornwood where she and her sister grew up, but when she is forced to run, she discovers there's much more at stake than her own life. The Branded are on the rise, and the girls are caught up in prophecies that foretell of a savior who can realign the world.
Forced to accept the help of a mysterious southern Brand known only as the Wrangler, Nara discovers the latent power lying dormant in her uncanny abilities that she's had since childhood. But in a world where women are traded as commodities, who can she trust in the lands beyond the Fornwood? And why does the Wrangler seem to know more about her life than she does?
Two sisters without a past hold the weight of the future in their hands.
360 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 11, 2024
78 people are currently reading
9830 people want to read
About the author
Jo Riccioni
3 books115 followersJo Riccioni graduated from Leeds University with a Masters in Medieval Literature. She has lived and worked around the world but finally settled in Australia where she conjures up fantasy worlds from a shed in her garden on Garigal land in Sydney’s Northern Beaches. Jo’s series, The Branded Season, was inspired by a long-standing desire from uni days to see women and women’s issues at the heart of the epic fantasy canon. Jo's award-winning short fiction has been anthologised in Best Australian Stories 2010 and 2011, and her story, Can't Take the Country out of the Boy has been optioned for a short film. The Italians at Cleat's Corner Store, her first novel, was awarded the International Rubery Award for Fiction in 2015. https://www.joriccioni.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 321 reviews
June 3, 2024
my first eARC thank you netgalley & angryrobotbooks :))
in a world where a deadly illness has devastated ‘the old world,’ pure women are coveted in order to produce children unaffected by the physical weaknesses present in the ‘brands.’
the world-building was explained well, and discovering and exploring different parts of the continent revealed more and more about the truth of what is left of society.
nara, our main character, was really fun to read the perspective from. while she is flawed, her unwavering dedication and true good intentions to protect her twin sister no matter the cost was lovely to read. I never found myself particularly annoyed with her, even when she would inevitably make mistakes, and osha was a good mirror for nara.
the men, however, did have the capacity to be annoying, though they had their roles in the story. the love triangle could be obvious in the direction it was planning on going in, though there were some good moments along the way i was more engaged with nara as a character and person than the men in her life.
I feel that there could have been more characterisation on the malicious parties in the story, as there are reminders of them scattered through the journey but they don’t feel too intimidating to our protagonists, though I assume they will be more prominent in the sequel. I also got slightly jumpscared by how abruptly it seemed to end, though the length of the book felt pretty good still.
a high 3 stars (3.75)
in a world where a deadly illness has devastated ‘the old world,’ pure women are coveted in order to produce children unaffected by the physical weaknesses present in the ‘brands.’
the world-building was explained well, and discovering and exploring different parts of the continent revealed more and more about the truth of what is left of society.
nara, our main character, was really fun to read the perspective from. while she is flawed, her unwavering dedication and true good intentions to protect her twin sister no matter the cost was lovely to read. I never found myself particularly annoyed with her, even when she would inevitably make mistakes, and osha was a good mirror for nara.
the men, however, did have the capacity to be annoying, though they had their roles in the story. the love triangle could be obvious in the direction it was planning on going in, though there were some good moments along the way i was more engaged with nara as a character and person than the men in her life.
I feel that there could have been more characterisation on the malicious parties in the story, as there are reminders of them scattered through the journey but they don’t feel too intimidating to our protagonists, though I assume they will be more prominent in the sequel. I also got slightly jumpscared by how abruptly it seemed to end, though the length of the book felt pretty good still.
a high 3 stars (3.75)
June 21, 2024
The Branded
by Jo Riccioni
The Branded Season #1
Fantasy New Adult
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: June 11, 2024
Angry Robot
Ages: 17+
Nara and Osha are Pure, citizens of Isfalk who are healthy and live sheltered lives as they wait to mature and be paired with a Pure man so to produce healthy children.
Beyond those walls are the Branded, weaker, lower-class people who are marked for all to know they are vulnerable to any and all diseases.
But even though Nara dreams of escaping the safety of the walls, she is forced out, leaving her sister behind, and puts her trust in a Branded man called the Wrangler, (who I do not care for at all) and she discovers that maybe there is more to her hunting ability than she thought.
Riding on the tropes of disease wiping out most of the human race, rich vs poor, and women are broodmares, The Branded is still a unique story.
The world does need a bit more history to allow the reader to really immerse and relate to it. Knowing more history would give the reader something to grab onto. Though I have many ideas of where this series is going, and while I can't wait to find out, I'm also fearful that some of my lamer ideas will come to pass.
This book stayed at a good pace and I have already added the next book of the series to my TBR.
3 Stars
by Jo Riccioni
The Branded Season #1
Fantasy New Adult
NetGalley eARC
Pub Date: June 11, 2024
Angry Robot
Ages: 17+
Nara and Osha are Pure, citizens of Isfalk who are healthy and live sheltered lives as they wait to mature and be paired with a Pure man so to produce healthy children.
Beyond those walls are the Branded, weaker, lower-class people who are marked for all to know they are vulnerable to any and all diseases.
But even though Nara dreams of escaping the safety of the walls, she is forced out, leaving her sister behind, and puts her trust in a Branded man called the Wrangler, (who I do not care for at all) and she discovers that maybe there is more to her hunting ability than she thought.
Riding on the tropes of disease wiping out most of the human race, rich vs poor, and women are broodmares, The Branded is still a unique story.
The world does need a bit more history to allow the reader to really immerse and relate to it. Knowing more history would give the reader something to grab onto. Though I have many ideas of where this series is going, and while I can't wait to find out, I'm also fearful that some of my lamer ideas will come to pass.
This book stayed at a good pace and I have already added the next book of the series to my TBR.
3 Stars
July 10, 2024
Review originally on JamReads
The Branded is the first novel in the dystopian fantasy series The Branded Season, written by Jo Riccioni, and published by Angry Robot Books. A unique story which shines especially due to the world building and the exceptionally well-written female characters, greatly paced with fresh takes on classical tropes.
Pure people are born with natural immunity to the disease that is devastating the world, leaving those affected smaller and more vulnerable to other infections (also produces a brand in the skin, hence the name branded given to those); pure women are worshipped due to their ability to breed new pure babies. Nara and her twin sister, Osha, are both pure; taken from the tundra to live in one of the few remaining bastions of civilization. While they are treated well, secrets and lies are hidden and will explode in their faces to shake off their lives; the opportunity that Nora needed to escape from the Citadel appears in the way she didn't expect.
Our story is told through the eyes of Nora, who will act as our female main character; some people might not connect with her, but I absolutely loved her determination to protect her sister. She's strong and witty; she actually sees that despite how Pure are revered, it's just only another way of oppression towards women, reducing them to their breeding capability. Freedom is more important for her than a spoiled life; but protecting Osha makes her to measure each act, taking into account what would happen to Osha.
We have a slowburn romance in The Branded, with a MMC that is mysterious and which antagonizes at some points with Nora; it suits well to give another grip point to the story.
The world-building is another of the highlights in my opinion; taking a bit of inspiration from the own our pandemic, we have a dystopia whose classes are established in base of immunity to the disease. Not only that, but we also have a society that oppresses pure women, envolving it on a sugar-coating layer of a spoiled life; but in reality, it only cares because they want them to have offsprings and perpetuate that system.
Outside of the society and how it is established, Riccioni plays greatly with the tundra setting as the framework for our adventure; there are questions about the world, but I hope they get answers in the next books in the series.
A greatly paced dystopian story, The Branded is a solid start for a series that promises much; a solid fantasy debut which can be enjoyed by people that are not usual readers of the genre. Can't wait to see how The Branded Season continues!
The Branded is the first novel in the dystopian fantasy series The Branded Season, written by Jo Riccioni, and published by Angry Robot Books. A unique story which shines especially due to the world building and the exceptionally well-written female characters, greatly paced with fresh takes on classical tropes.
Pure people are born with natural immunity to the disease that is devastating the world, leaving those affected smaller and more vulnerable to other infections (also produces a brand in the skin, hence the name branded given to those); pure women are worshipped due to their ability to breed new pure babies. Nara and her twin sister, Osha, are both pure; taken from the tundra to live in one of the few remaining bastions of civilization. While they are treated well, secrets and lies are hidden and will explode in their faces to shake off their lives; the opportunity that Nora needed to escape from the Citadel appears in the way she didn't expect.
Our story is told through the eyes of Nora, who will act as our female main character; some people might not connect with her, but I absolutely loved her determination to protect her sister. She's strong and witty; she actually sees that despite how Pure are revered, it's just only another way of oppression towards women, reducing them to their breeding capability. Freedom is more important for her than a spoiled life; but protecting Osha makes her to measure each act, taking into account what would happen to Osha.
We have a slowburn romance in The Branded, with a MMC that is mysterious and which antagonizes at some points with Nora; it suits well to give another grip point to the story.
The world-building is another of the highlights in my opinion; taking a bit of inspiration from the own our pandemic, we have a dystopia whose classes are established in base of immunity to the disease. Not only that, but we also have a society that oppresses pure women, envolving it on a sugar-coating layer of a spoiled life; but in reality, it only cares because they want them to have offsprings and perpetuate that system.
Outside of the society and how it is established, Riccioni plays greatly with the tundra setting as the framework for our adventure; there are questions about the world, but I hope they get answers in the next books in the series.
A greatly paced dystopian story, The Branded is a solid start for a series that promises much; a solid fantasy debut which can be enjoyed by people that are not usual readers of the genre. Can't wait to see how The Branded Season continues!
December 3, 2022
I’ll be honest… it took me a while to get into this book and I honestly regretted starting it at first. The chapters are really long, and we were really thrown into the deep end with the protagonist, with zero context to the world surrounding her. I was literally sitting there thinking about how I wished I’d bought the other book I was considering at the time of purchase instead. BUT.
It grew on me. I’m not one to just put a book down without finishing it. I like to give benefit of the doubt, and it annoys me when people leave bad reviews without having read a book. So I saw it through and I’m glad I did.
The romance plot was definitely so slow it hurt, and I can see how those who live for romance would be butt-hurt. But simultaneously the enemies to lovers element was classic, the love triangle un-annoying.
This book was ultimately an adventure story more-so than fantasy. Yet another reason why I’m sure people are butt-hurt over it if it was fantasy they were expecting. There were certainly fantasy elements; magical powers, prophecies, creatures and potions. However, it’s clear that these elements didn’t shine in this book. This is only the first book in a trilogy though!!! The scene has merely been set, the background provided. I have no doubt the next book will feed the fantasy soul on a much deeper level than The Branded could.
Look, this is ultimately a long winded way of me defending this book while empathising with those who had hoped for more.
I enjoyed this book. I loved the pacing, the plot, the direction in which I can see the series going.
Of course it had frustrating elements (namely the protagonist being frustratingly self centred, and unforgivable typos towards the end), but I ENJOYED it, and it sucked me in.
I’m looking forward to the second book in this series being released, and I will undoubtedly read it. I’m excited to see where these books go.
It grew on me. I’m not one to just put a book down without finishing it. I like to give benefit of the doubt, and it annoys me when people leave bad reviews without having read a book. So I saw it through and I’m glad I did.
The romance plot was definitely so slow it hurt, and I can see how those who live for romance would be butt-hurt. But simultaneously the enemies to lovers element was classic, the love triangle un-annoying.
This book was ultimately an adventure story more-so than fantasy. Yet another reason why I’m sure people are butt-hurt over it if it was fantasy they were expecting. There were certainly fantasy elements; magical powers, prophecies, creatures and potions. However, it’s clear that these elements didn’t shine in this book. This is only the first book in a trilogy though!!! The scene has merely been set, the background provided. I have no doubt the next book will feed the fantasy soul on a much deeper level than The Branded could.
Look, this is ultimately a long winded way of me defending this book while empathising with those who had hoped for more.
I enjoyed this book. I loved the pacing, the plot, the direction in which I can see the series going.
Of course it had frustrating elements (namely the protagonist being frustratingly self centred, and unforgivable typos towards the end), but I ENJOYED it, and it sucked me in.
I’m looking forward to the second book in this series being released, and I will undoubtedly read it. I’m excited to see where these books go.
September 22, 2024
1.5 stars...
The pacing was all over the place. The plot was stagnant for about 50-60% of the book and then things started happening too quickly.
The romance fell flat and had little chemistry. I was not sold on their relationship.
So much depth could've been added by switching POVs. Staying in Nara's head felt dull. Not to mention many key events happened outside her perspective. We needed more from Osha and the Wrangler.
The world-building was not my style. I did not like the vocabulary and word choice. I needed better descriptions and explanations for things. A world map would've been helpful.
Overall, I was so close to DNFing. This almost took me into a reading slump. Although the last 50 pages redeemed some of my misgivings. I am curious about where the plot goes from here but I'm not motivated enough to read the sequel.
November 25, 2022
This book has everything for me. Amazing world building, fleshed out characters, great story with a strong direction and a top tier romance. Best romance I've read in a long time, I absolutely loved Nara and the Wrangler's chemistry. This is a masterclass from Jo Riccioni on writing banter. In fact all the dialogue was strong. Sometimes in fantasy it's dialogue that can sound forced to me, but there's something special about Jo's whole writing style. I just totally believed this world and these characters. This was a breath of fresh air after I've put down so many fantasy books recently. So glad I picked it up on a whim, I was genuinely sad when the pages were running out. I need book two yesterday!
July 22, 2024
Really enjoyed this fast paced fantasy. Narrated by Nara, the story moves along, the world building is seamless with the action and I found myself involved with the characters. It’s an interesting set up, and I look forward to the next book in the series.
May 9, 2024
This is a book that never really worked for me, I’m sorry to say.
The protagonist Nara, and her twin sister Osha, are both Pure. They live in one of the last bastions of civilization, on the edge of the tundra. Some indeterminate-but-long time before the book began, a pandemic swept the world, leaving many people with marks on their skin referred to as brands. The disease doesn’t kill, but leaves those infected smaller, weaker, and vulnerable to other diseases and infections. The Pure are those few with natural immunity, and it is the duty of Pure women to bear as many children as they can.
Nara, as one would expect of a fantasy book protagonist, chafes against what fate has in store for her. Her life gets complicated when - among many other things happening - she learns that there is a prophecy about a Pure woman who will act as a messiah, curing the world of the disease and eliminating the division between Branded and Pure.
Overall this book was fine. I never felt the urge to DNF it, but it never really gripped me either. It was all very familiar. Redheaded heroine, possibly the Chosen One. Possible misdirection over who the Chosen One actually is. Childhood crushes fading for reasons good and bad; new attractions resisted and acted upon, also for reasons good and bad. People who refuse to explain things or be honest with each other, for no real reasons I can understand. A protagonist coming to realize that the obviously corrupt system she was raised to believe in is obviously corrupt.
As I said, it’s all fine. Nothing bad about it, but nothing that made me feel any particular desire to seek out the sequel when it comes out.
I do have one bit of particular praise, though. This book deals with sexual assault, and it’s handled very well. None of the character-building clichés that happen so often in literature. I don’t want to say much about it because of spoilers, but that part was … satisfying isn’t the right word, but it’s the best I’ve got.
My blog
The protagonist Nara, and her twin sister Osha, are both Pure. They live in one of the last bastions of civilization, on the edge of the tundra. Some indeterminate-but-long time before the book began, a pandemic swept the world, leaving many people with marks on their skin referred to as brands. The disease doesn’t kill, but leaves those infected smaller, weaker, and vulnerable to other diseases and infections. The Pure are those few with natural immunity, and it is the duty of Pure women to bear as many children as they can.
Nara, as one would expect of a fantasy book protagonist, chafes against what fate has in store for her. Her life gets complicated when - among many other things happening - she learns that there is a prophecy about a Pure woman who will act as a messiah, curing the world of the disease and eliminating the division between Branded and Pure.
Overall this book was fine. I never felt the urge to DNF it, but it never really gripped me either. It was all very familiar. Redheaded heroine, possibly the Chosen One. Possible misdirection over who the Chosen One actually is. Childhood crushes fading for reasons good and bad; new attractions resisted and acted upon, also for reasons good and bad. People who refuse to explain things or be honest with each other, for no real reasons I can understand. A protagonist coming to realize that the obviously corrupt system she was raised to believe in is obviously corrupt.
As I said, it’s all fine. Nothing bad about it, but nothing that made me feel any particular desire to seek out the sequel when it comes out.
I do have one bit of particular praise, though. This book deals with sexual assault, and it’s handled very well. None of the character-building clichés that happen so often in literature. I don’t want to say much about it because of spoilers, but that part was … satisfying isn’t the right word, but it’s the best I’ve got.
My blog
July 9, 2024
An original, gripping fantasy duology!
The world is divided between two types of people: the pure or Mor they are called, a healthy span of the population unlikely to get any disease and the branded, who are subject to sickness and infection. They have a distinction on their skin, a brand. They are treated differently, the Mor getting respect and worshipped for their breeding abilities while the branded live in poverty and scarcity.
Nara and Osha are orphan sisters, taken to Isfalk since their grandmother died, they grew up among Mor and treated like them. But secrets and lies from the past threatens their peaceful life…
The world building was great in this one, hooking us from page one. We have great banter, enemies to lovers, complex characters and an interesting storyline. The FMC is fierce and hot-tempered, the MMC is really secretive and we never know his motivations for sure and I really want to know what he’s about.
The ending left me intrigued for the next installment to say the least!
Thanks to NetGalley and Angry Robot for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
The world is divided between two types of people: the pure or Mor they are called, a healthy span of the population unlikely to get any disease and the branded, who are subject to sickness and infection. They have a distinction on their skin, a brand. They are treated differently, the Mor getting respect and worshipped for their breeding abilities while the branded live in poverty and scarcity.
Nara and Osha are orphan sisters, taken to Isfalk since their grandmother died, they grew up among Mor and treated like them. But secrets and lies from the past threatens their peaceful life…
The world building was great in this one, hooking us from page one. We have great banter, enemies to lovers, complex characters and an interesting storyline. The FMC is fierce and hot-tempered, the MMC is really secretive and we never know his motivations for sure and I really want to know what he’s about.
The ending left me intrigued for the next installment to say the least!
Thanks to NetGalley and Angry Robot for this eARC in exchange for an honest review!
February 2, 2023
I did not have any expectations regarding this book, because I didn't know about the author and her work. I was just told by my brother (who claims to know Jo personally - no idea if this is true haha) or rather asked, if I still read in english and if I was still interested in fantasy. To both my answer was yes and I was then gifted "The Branded"
So with no idea what to expect except for a fantasy novel, I started reading.
I will say that the general idea of the story is nothing new or unheard of but it doesn't claim to be anything like that so here it goes :)
The story sets place in the Citadel of the settlement, where the twins Nara and Osha were forced to seek refuge at the age of 7 or 8. The whole story is written in Naras perspective and the reader only knows, what Nara finds out.
The twins are 17 years old when everything starts to unfold und and the world they both knew starts to shatter once again and they are forced to leave the settlement not knowing who they can trust. A journey begins and so does some character development.
While Osha seems to be a lot more thoughtful and diplomatic, Nara is hot tempered, hard headed and quick witted. She wants to have the last word and tends to act and/or speak before thinking it through. Which is exactly why I think she was made the main character, because those traits hinder her in actually listening because she gets upset and rather argues. At first I was a little frustrated with her, but then I reminded myself, that she is only 17 years old and acting like a teenager would especially when being treated not just unfair.
The world is devided in the pure and the branded due to a desease that accured over a century ago and nobody really knows where it came from and how to treat it. All that is known is that the branded are prone to illness and the pure therefore stronger. The pure women are called Mor and are being educated in the settlement (apparently the last civilized part of the world) on how to be a good wife and to produce a lot of pure children. So they are actually traded like livestock, which doesn't sit right with neither Nara or Osha.
The themes sexism, prejudice, racism and indoctrination are a constant companion and even Nara who doesn't like the settlement and its teachings and so called values catches herself thinking and acting just like any other person from the settlement who actually believes in these things. Which is infuriating to her, when she starts to notice. It was interesting to read how she finally realized how much influence the settlement has over her thoughts and behaviour and how she starts to slowly change and try to free herself from it.
And last but not least: yes there is love in the air - but it is first and foremost love between Nara and Osha. Everything regarding a potential love interest is more lust that is shaping into something that may be love if nurtured - but there are trust issues which make love a little complicated.
I am not a fan when the love and sex begins to overpower the main story, luckily this is not the case here.
So for anyone who likes fantasy, a quick witted main character and can live with a few stereotype tropes this is a good read. I enjoyed it very much and I will be reading the second book, which comes out in october 2023 as far as I know.
So with no idea what to expect except for a fantasy novel, I started reading.
I will say that the general idea of the story is nothing new or unheard of but it doesn't claim to be anything like that so here it goes :)
The story sets place in the Citadel of the settlement, where the twins Nara and Osha were forced to seek refuge at the age of 7 or 8. The whole story is written in Naras perspective and the reader only knows, what Nara finds out.
The twins are 17 years old when everything starts to unfold und and the world they both knew starts to shatter once again and they are forced to leave the settlement not knowing who they can trust. A journey begins and so does some character development.
While Osha seems to be a lot more thoughtful and diplomatic, Nara is hot tempered, hard headed and quick witted. She wants to have the last word and tends to act and/or speak before thinking it through. Which is exactly why I think she was made the main character, because those traits hinder her in actually listening because she gets upset and rather argues. At first I was a little frustrated with her, but then I reminded myself, that she is only 17 years old and acting like a teenager would especially when being treated not just unfair.
The world is devided in the pure and the branded due to a desease that accured over a century ago and nobody really knows where it came from and how to treat it. All that is known is that the branded are prone to illness and the pure therefore stronger. The pure women are called Mor and are being educated in the settlement (apparently the last civilized part of the world) on how to be a good wife and to produce a lot of pure children. So they are actually traded like livestock, which doesn't sit right with neither Nara or Osha.
The themes sexism, prejudice, racism and indoctrination are a constant companion and even Nara who doesn't like the settlement and its teachings and so called values catches herself thinking and acting just like any other person from the settlement who actually believes in these things. Which is infuriating to her, when she starts to notice. It was interesting to read how she finally realized how much influence the settlement has over her thoughts and behaviour and how she starts to slowly change and try to free herself from it.
And last but not least: yes there is love in the air - but it is first and foremost love between Nara and Osha. Everything regarding a potential love interest is more lust that is shaping into something that may be love if nurtured - but there are trust issues which make love a little complicated.
I am not a fan when the love and sex begins to overpower the main story, luckily this is not the case here.
So for anyone who likes fantasy, a quick witted main character and can live with a few stereotype tropes this is a good read. I enjoyed it very much and I will be reading the second book, which comes out in october 2023 as far as I know.
May 10, 2024
To hunt or to cure - what do you choose?
A great fantasy book to escape from the real world. I was pretty invested in Nara and Osha's life and waited for them to find a happy end. But life in a world divided between pure and branded does not make it easy to be happier. As they grew up under their tyrant’s nose, Nara awaited an escape - and life offered it in strange form. But with freedom also comes danger, that may tinker with an unknown dormant power.
There are prophesies, special capabilities, hooking plot twists and sort of a love triangle to keep you engrossed. The stark contrast between the two siblings is apt! The world buildup is done at an expansive length (which I don't see that often) with grey sides to each character, no one here is totally good or bad, just human enough with their own traumas and abilities to deal with difficulties of life.
But... the author had to close this on a cliffhanger! I have no clue when the next part will be out and the ambiguity is killing me. Who drops a b*mb like that and then just poof 💨 acknowledgements... 🤷♀️
Thank you for the ARC @joriccioni @angryrobotbooks and @bolindaaudio
I hope I get my hands on the next part soon
Genre: #fantasy #adult
A great fantasy book to escape from the real world. I was pretty invested in Nara and Osha's life and waited for them to find a happy end. But life in a world divided between pure and branded does not make it easy to be happier. As they grew up under their tyrant’s nose, Nara awaited an escape - and life offered it in strange form. But with freedom also comes danger, that may tinker with an unknown dormant power.
There are prophesies, special capabilities, hooking plot twists and sort of a love triangle to keep you engrossed. The stark contrast between the two siblings is apt! The world buildup is done at an expansive length (which I don't see that often) with grey sides to each character, no one here is totally good or bad, just human enough with their own traumas and abilities to deal with difficulties of life.
But... the author had to close this on a cliffhanger! I have no clue when the next part will be out and the ambiguity is killing me. Who drops a b*mb like that and then just poof 💨 acknowledgements... 🤷♀️
Thank you for the ARC @joriccioni @angryrobotbooks and @bolindaaudio
I hope I get my hands on the next part soon
Genre: #fantasy #adult
April 19, 2024
Very rarely do I finish a NetGalley audiobook and jump straight on to audible for the next in the series! Not since way back when Stephanie Meyer did a number on us all with those vampire books 😉 Anyway, my tale of woe is that it’s not there, neither of them are, which leads me to believe that as I suspected they’re perhaps due to be released in June in audio version, though not yet ready to pre order. if anyone can tell me otherwise or point me in the right direction I’d appreciate it.
Anyway, the review:
Fantasy is not generally my go to genre, but every now and then you want something different, hence I requested The Branded. I’m so glad I did, it is obviously fantasy but it was so believably real to me.
I don’t want to liken it to The Handmaids Tale, it doesn’t do it justice in my opinion, but I can’t think of anything else that is quite like it, it does have a similar dystopian vibe, but it is own unique world and story. I’m finding it tricky to review without spoiling the story, but it’s so good.
The writing style was fantastic, I really enjoyed the narration and I was lost in their little world of healers seers blood witches and the watcher. I didn’t really want to come back to reality.
Loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
Anyway, the review:
Fantasy is not generally my go to genre, but every now and then you want something different, hence I requested The Branded. I’m so glad I did, it is obviously fantasy but it was so believably real to me.
I don’t want to liken it to The Handmaids Tale, it doesn’t do it justice in my opinion, but I can’t think of anything else that is quite like it, it does have a similar dystopian vibe, but it is own unique world and story. I’m finding it tricky to review without spoiling the story, but it’s so good.
The writing style was fantastic, I really enjoyed the narration and I was lost in their little world of healers seers blood witches and the watcher. I didn’t really want to come back to reality.
Loved it!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bolinda Audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook in return for an honest review.
May 30, 2024
Well…this was disappointing. In this book we follow the story of two sisters, Nara and Osha. How they ended up in the citadel, their abilities, the mysteries of their past, their journey escaping the citadel, etc. The premise sounded good…the execution unfortunately was not.
This book is written in first person point of view, in Nara’s. I found Nara to be annoying, reckless, immature, closed minded, and overly angsty. She’s so full of prejudice and hatred to the point it makes it unbearable. On one hand, she grew up in the citadel where everyone was fed lies and prejudice about others on a silver spoon but on the other, wake up and smell the hayseeds. Not everyone in the citadel was like that though, just her. Her sister was the polar opposite. I liked Osha, her kindness and down to earth nature was refreshing! As for Nara, I can understand being so closed minded you can’t see five feet in front of you in the beginning, but towards the middle, the ending…come on, grow up. It was the same. She is probably the most annoying character I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about, This makes for a quite unpleasant reading experience since you’re stuck in her point of view the whole book. I truly believe this book would have benefited immensely from multiple points of view. Being stuck only with Nara and her mind was a very unpleasant experience I would very much love to forget.
Speaking of unpleasant, I found the writing overall to be unpleasant. The pacing moves slower than a snail trying to climb Mount Everest. It didn’t slow. The plot itself I found to be boring. There were quite a few typos in the book. The authors attempt at using profanity in this book…”fecking”???? Someone please gouge my eye out, I beg of you. You couldn’t come up with something more creative? Or less…annoying? Absolutely zero character development (the only exception being Brim, not a lot) which I find a real feat given the events taking place. The writing overall was just generally lackluster and poor.
The romance was poorly written and planned out. I didn’t buy the romance between Nara and Nixon…I felt zero chemistry between the two and they just didn’t seem like a good match overall. The only romance I liked was Osha, who carried the book by the way, and Haus. Which you don’t see much of since it’s only written in Nara’s POV.
By the end of the book I was still left wondering a lot about the primary male love interest- very little questions and background information was revealed about him, in my opinion at least. I was still left wondering who he really is and what his intentions were. I had more questions by the end of the book than I had answers. It also ended in an abrupt way, it wasn’t a cliffhanger per se but not enough for me to be interested in how this mess ended. I’ve read worse but I’ve read much better.
Two stars for coming up with the idea and Osha deserves credit for her back pain. Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book!
This book is written in first person point of view, in Nara’s. I found Nara to be annoying, reckless, immature, closed minded, and overly angsty. She’s so full of prejudice and hatred to the point it makes it unbearable. On one hand, she grew up in the citadel where everyone was fed lies and prejudice about others on a silver spoon but on the other, wake up and smell the hayseeds. Not everyone in the citadel was like that though, just her. Her sister was the polar opposite. I liked Osha, her kindness and down to earth nature was refreshing! As for Nara, I can understand being so closed minded you can’t see five feet in front of you in the beginning, but towards the middle, the ending…come on, grow up. It was the same. She is probably the most annoying character I’ve ever had the pleasure of reading about, This makes for a quite unpleasant reading experience since you’re stuck in her point of view the whole book. I truly believe this book would have benefited immensely from multiple points of view. Being stuck only with Nara and her mind was a very unpleasant experience I would very much love to forget.
Speaking of unpleasant, I found the writing overall to be unpleasant. The pacing moves slower than a snail trying to climb Mount Everest. It didn’t slow. The plot itself I found to be boring. There were quite a few typos in the book. The authors attempt at using profanity in this book…”fecking”???? Someone please gouge my eye out, I beg of you. You couldn’t come up with something more creative? Or less…annoying? Absolutely zero character development (the only exception being Brim, not a lot) which I find a real feat given the events taking place. The writing overall was just generally lackluster and poor.
The romance was poorly written and planned out. I didn’t buy the romance between Nara and Nixon…I felt zero chemistry between the two and they just didn’t seem like a good match overall. The only romance I liked was Osha, who carried the book by the way, and Haus. Which you don’t see much of since it’s only written in Nara’s POV.
By the end of the book I was still left wondering a lot about the primary male love interest- very little questions and background information was revealed about him, in my opinion at least. I was still left wondering who he really is and what his intentions were. I had more questions by the end of the book than I had answers. It also ended in an abrupt way, it wasn’t a cliffhanger per se but not enough for me to be interested in how this mess ended. I’ve read worse but I’ve read much better.
Two stars for coming up with the idea and Osha deserves credit for her back pain. Thank you to Netgalley for providing me with a copy of this book!
April 27, 2024
E-ARC provided by NetGalley and Angry Robot
I wanted to love this book so much. The premise, world building, lore, and characters were so well done.
What lost me was most of the significant events were happening outside of our main characters point of view. Nara is dragged along through the story by events or from deception and her thoughts became a little repetitive. If Branded had multiple POV’s (Osha, Brim, Nixim, even Haus) I think it would have been a more dynamic read.
That being said I still really enjoyed this book and the huge world and I’m interested to see what happens in book two!
I wanted to love this book so much. The premise, world building, lore, and characters were so well done.
What lost me was most of the significant events were happening outside of our main characters point of view. Nara is dragged along through the story by events or from deception and her thoughts became a little repetitive. If Branded had multiple POV’s (Osha, Brim, Nixim, even Haus) I think it would have been a more dynamic read.
That being said I still really enjoyed this book and the huge world and I’m interested to see what happens in book two!
February 1, 2024
Unfortunately this book was not for me. Very disappointing as I had such high hopes for a new dark fantasy miniseries. The book had cool concepts, but I could not get into it behind the cliché and YA-esque love stories and ~drama~. I also found the main character very annoying and overly angsty - it made it really hard for me to stay invested. Two stars rather than one for the world and magic concepts.
November 27, 2022
4.75!
Overall I think this was a very well written fantasy novel which had me hooked!
Loved the characters and the world building too
Overall I think this was a very well written fantasy novel which had me hooked!
Loved the characters and the world building too
February 21, 2023
literally so amazing love it! cant wait for book two
May 14, 2024
I was excited to receive an eARC of The Branded after seeing it was said by Juliet Marillier to be “An outstanding fantasy debut”.
I finished this one quickly and believe it to be a compelling first book in a fantasy duology with dystopian undertones. It has an intriguing plot, empowered FML, captivating prose, steady pacing, immersive world-building, and relevant themes such as, racism, identity, sexism, classism, etc. And while the story’s concept isn’t entirely fresh, it was still a great example of genres blending well together. In fact, I am still thinking about the story in terms of direction as it ended on an abrupt cliffhanger.
But I did have two major gripes with it. One, I wish we’d gotten dual perspectives to add dimension to the plot and fully flesh out the characters. I didn’t dislike our FML’s perspective, but it did limit my experience of the world and the relationships between side characters. Because Nara is initially cagey and mistrusting of others, we only ever see through her harsh lens how the world is and should be. And this sways the reader’s opinions on many things, such as what is true and fair, who is most deserving of justice/compassion, and whether someone is truly good or bad, or simply human. In fact, despite the story wanting to convince the reader that being biased and jumping to conclusions is wrong and dangerous, I found Nara to be constantly in error here.
Two, I felt her relationship with the Wrangler would have made a better impression if it had developed as a true slow burn rather than happening suddenly (the two were constantly at odds until they weren’t). Enemies-to-lovers is a classic trope, but it needed to be handled with more care. I really wanted to see Nara lowering her guard to let someone in, not engaging in physical relations just to purge her lust when it suited her. It made the romance feel a bit cheap and insincere. And I felt bad for the Wrangler, even though he too was flawed. In fact, both characters seemed to use each other and expressed their love on a need bases. So was it really love they shared? I don’t know.
Otherwise, all the story elements worked well to tell a cohesive and engaging tale about two sisters who would do anything for each other, to survive in a world set against them, that perceives women as commodities and people as expendable. I will definitely be reading book two. In fact, I’m annoyed it’s not being published till 2025 (Pretty please send me an eARC Angry Robot, I need to know what’s going to happen!). And whatever Jo Riccioni writes next, I’ll be sure to read. I believe she will only grow as a writer and look forward to witnessing it.
Final resting: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 3.5/5 (Rounded up to a 4-star as I cannot give half-stars).
I finished this one quickly and believe it to be a compelling first book in a fantasy duology with dystopian undertones. It has an intriguing plot, empowered FML, captivating prose, steady pacing, immersive world-building, and relevant themes such as, racism, identity, sexism, classism, etc. And while the story’s concept isn’t entirely fresh, it was still a great example of genres blending well together. In fact, I am still thinking about the story in terms of direction as it ended on an abrupt cliffhanger.
But I did have two major gripes with it. One, I wish we’d gotten dual perspectives to add dimension to the plot and fully flesh out the characters. I didn’t dislike our FML’s perspective, but it did limit my experience of the world and the relationships between side characters. Because Nara is initially cagey and mistrusting of others, we only ever see through her harsh lens how the world is and should be. And this sways the reader’s opinions on many things, such as what is true and fair, who is most deserving of justice/compassion, and whether someone is truly good or bad, or simply human. In fact, despite the story wanting to convince the reader that being biased and jumping to conclusions is wrong and dangerous, I found Nara to be constantly in error here.
Two, I felt her relationship with the Wrangler would have made a better impression if it had developed as a true slow burn rather than happening suddenly (the two were constantly at odds until they weren’t). Enemies-to-lovers is a classic trope, but it needed to be handled with more care. I really wanted to see Nara lowering her guard to let someone in, not engaging in physical relations just to purge her lust when it suited her. It made the romance feel a bit cheap and insincere. And I felt bad for the Wrangler, even though he too was flawed. In fact, both characters seemed to use each other and expressed their love on a need bases. So was it really love they shared? I don’t know.
Otherwise, all the story elements worked well to tell a cohesive and engaging tale about two sisters who would do anything for each other, to survive in a world set against them, that perceives women as commodities and people as expendable. I will definitely be reading book two. In fact, I’m annoyed it’s not being published till 2025 (Pretty please send me an eARC Angry Robot, I need to know what’s going to happen!). And whatever Jo Riccioni writes next, I’ll be sure to read. I believe she will only grow as a writer and look forward to witnessing it.
Final resting: ⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 3.5/5 (Rounded up to a 4-star as I cannot give half-stars).
May 2, 2024
The Branded Series first book centers around orphaned twins Nara and Osha. Isfalk is full of the Branded and the diseased, with the immune and strong Pure. The citadel is full of those with unbranded skin, ripe for men to leer at girls like their own personal feast, to wed and bed.
Nara wants nothing to do with becoming breeding stock. She finds herself in the wilds of the Fornwood, and is forced to flee into those very woods when the Branded come to call. The girls in those prophecies are forced to go on the run.
Wrangler, our main love interest, is a mysterious southern Brand. Nara slowly begins to learn her own abilities, discovering this hidden magic that flows through her veins. Childhood memories tell of this latent power that thrums beneath the surface, begging to be released.
Trust is a fragile thing in a world where women are traded and sold like cattle. Nara does not trust easily, and she want to put her whole heart into the Wrangler. Except, Nara knows that the Brand is hiding something that has something to with her forgotten childhood memories.
This fantasy sci-fi has an intriguing world, charming characters, and sizzling romantic chemistry. The banter is witty and engaging, not at all cheesy. The themes of sexism, prejudice, and classism are found throughout this well-written tale.
This book was so immersive, with magic and witches, prophecies, adventure, infections, disease, and healers. Our Main character, Nara is talented in fighting and hunting. She is inspiring and makes me want to be strong, in the way that she is strong.
The romance between Wrangler and Nara is very slow, but so worth it in the end! The suspense, the intrigue, and the satisfying crashing of lips like waves against the shore. This story and its characters felt very unique, even though the elements of chaos and magic and action-packed scenes can be found in other stories.
The Branded has a wonderful plot and was executed beautifully. The way that this novel presented powerful women and their journeys stuck with me. I am excited to read more from Jo Riccioni. 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 Stars!
Nara wants nothing to do with becoming breeding stock. She finds herself in the wilds of the Fornwood, and is forced to flee into those very woods when the Branded come to call. The girls in those prophecies are forced to go on the run.
Wrangler, our main love interest, is a mysterious southern Brand. Nara slowly begins to learn her own abilities, discovering this hidden magic that flows through her veins. Childhood memories tell of this latent power that thrums beneath the surface, begging to be released.
Trust is a fragile thing in a world where women are traded and sold like cattle. Nara does not trust easily, and she want to put her whole heart into the Wrangler. Except, Nara knows that the Brand is hiding something that has something to with her forgotten childhood memories.
This fantasy sci-fi has an intriguing world, charming characters, and sizzling romantic chemistry. The banter is witty and engaging, not at all cheesy. The themes of sexism, prejudice, and classism are found throughout this well-written tale.
This book was so immersive, with magic and witches, prophecies, adventure, infections, disease, and healers. Our Main character, Nara is talented in fighting and hunting. She is inspiring and makes me want to be strong, in the way that she is strong.
The romance between Wrangler and Nara is very slow, but so worth it in the end! The suspense, the intrigue, and the satisfying crashing of lips like waves against the shore. This story and its characters felt very unique, even though the elements of chaos and magic and action-packed scenes can be found in other stories.
The Branded has a wonderful plot and was executed beautifully. The way that this novel presented powerful women and their journeys stuck with me. I am excited to read more from Jo Riccioni. 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5 Stars!
May 6, 2024
Firstly, fantasy is not my usual genre. Hence, I wanted to try something a little different, and I was not disappointed by the Branded. For me it's like a mix of reality of outlander / mythical of Lord of the rings, similarities to handmaids tale, a little bit of hunger games thrown into the mix. Going back in time while feeling we are in the present living with honour, herbalists, and beliefs of those who see intuitively are different all mixed with fantasty and magical style of time and space and even reality...
It's difficult to express too much on this story without giving away all detail of what actually happens other than the book description already explains. The book is full of questions of family bloodlines, the history of Nara and Osha's family searching their family herritage, who they are where they came from how the 2 sisters came to be different as they are. Prophecies, women warriors, spiritualism, honour, love, romance, magical timelines. It explores deeply the abilities of intuition being able to see another's soul, having visions, healers being able heal, illness, health, warriors having an uncanny strength fighting for themselves. The separation of 2 societies the Branded and true bloods making this story an all encompassing of how division can be caused so easily between people, families where love overcomes and unity brings the Branded and pure blooded together. It is extremely relatable considering all we have all lived through these last few years and how our world has been divided by covid with varying beliefs & understandings of this subject for me this could very easily be a book of the future in some way whilst living in the present!!
Regarding the narration wow ~ I absolutely was engrossed from the beginning the narrator was perfect for this story, the tones were all hit en point bringing all the emotions and feelings to life, pitch was poignant with the voice raising at appropriate times making the listener listen more closely. I honestly felt as if I was watching a movie in my own head it was all so easy to follow every single character sounded different and it flowed extremely well there wasn't a point where I felt i was left wondering who is who it was all very clear. Exceptionally well narrated.
I look forward to the next book becoming available on audio The Rising.
The book cover is absolutely beautiful and perfect for this book, it's simple but calls to you and captures the eye the colours are perfect as is the detail with the phoenix rising at the bottom just as Nara has done in particular throughout the story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bolinda Audio & Jo Riccioni for the opportunity to listen to this book in return for an open, honest review.
It's difficult to express too much on this story without giving away all detail of what actually happens other than the book description already explains. The book is full of questions of family bloodlines, the history of Nara and Osha's family searching their family herritage, who they are where they came from how the 2 sisters came to be different as they are. Prophecies, women warriors, spiritualism, honour, love, romance, magical timelines. It explores deeply the abilities of intuition being able to see another's soul, having visions, healers being able heal, illness, health, warriors having an uncanny strength fighting for themselves. The separation of 2 societies the Branded and true bloods making this story an all encompassing of how division can be caused so easily between people, families where love overcomes and unity brings the Branded and pure blooded together. It is extremely relatable considering all we have all lived through these last few years and how our world has been divided by covid with varying beliefs & understandings of this subject for me this could very easily be a book of the future in some way whilst living in the present!!
Regarding the narration wow ~ I absolutely was engrossed from the beginning the narrator was perfect for this story, the tones were all hit en point bringing all the emotions and feelings to life, pitch was poignant with the voice raising at appropriate times making the listener listen more closely. I honestly felt as if I was watching a movie in my own head it was all so easy to follow every single character sounded different and it flowed extremely well there wasn't a point where I felt i was left wondering who is who it was all very clear. Exceptionally well narrated.
I look forward to the next book becoming available on audio The Rising.
The book cover is absolutely beautiful and perfect for this book, it's simple but calls to you and captures the eye the colours are perfect as is the detail with the phoenix rising at the bottom just as Nara has done in particular throughout the story.
Thank you to Netgalley and Bolinda Audio & Jo Riccioni for the opportunity to listen to this book in return for an open, honest review.
May 29, 2024
If The Branded had broken up into multiple POVs or was third person, it could have been easier to sink into, but as it is, I found Nara (and Osha, honestly) unlikable. I know this is the first book in a duology, but there aren't very many questions answered by the end, and this ended abruptly in a way that wasn't quite a cliffhanger, but wasn't gripping enough for me to be interested in the conclusion of this tale.
While this book is heavy with political intrigue, I found it to be to the detriment of character development—meaning in many places where the political aspects were being driven home again and again, there could've been a moment where Nara or Nixim or Osha or Brim or literally anyone else could have had a moment that made them more likable and empathetic in their journey.
I didn't like or buy the romance between Nara and Nixim; I found their banter to be forced and childish, and I could not with the Wrangler/Little Scourge back-and-forth. I also didn't buy whatever was going on with Osha and Haus, but I also think this was intentionally open-ended to set up for the next book.
Unfortunately this didn't work for me. I loved the world-building, but I didn't care about the characters, nor did I buy this story as being high-stakes.
Thank you to Angry Robot Books for providing an ARC!
2 ⭐️s
🚨 Pub Date (in USA): 6/11/24
While this book is heavy with political intrigue, I found it to be to the detriment of character development—meaning in many places where the political aspects were being driven home again and again, there could've been a moment where Nara or Nixim or Osha or Brim or literally anyone else could have had a moment that made them more likable and empathetic in their journey.
I didn't like or buy the romance between Nara and Nixim; I found their banter to be forced and childish, and I could not with the Wrangler/Little Scourge back-and-forth. I also didn't buy whatever was going on with Osha and Haus, but I also think this was intentionally open-ended to set up for the next book.
Unfortunately this didn't work for me. I loved the world-building, but I didn't care about the characters, nor did I buy this story as being high-stakes.
Thank you to Angry Robot Books for providing an ARC!
2 ⭐️s
🚨 Pub Date (in USA): 6/11/24
April 27, 2024
The Branded thrusts the reader into a divided world and fully immerses them. I throughly enjoyed this book and liken the feelings I got to when I read Forth Wing, as it read like a celebration of previous reads. For example, there is the dystopian vibes of The Grace Year and The Hunger Games. Themes of sexism, classism, prejudice and racism are explored. In terms of fantasy elements there’s witches, healers, prophecies, deadly viruses and wastelands. The FMC is badass and a hunter/fighter. Basically a recipe for plenty of action and adventure. The tropes/characters aren’t new but they still felt unique. There’s a very slow slow-burn romance that was not at the forefront of the story and I liked its understated nature. Definitely invested in this book now, especially with that ending!
A great plot, pace and a celebration of powerful women. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.
A great plot, pace and a celebration of powerful women. Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for an ARC. This is a voluntary review of my own thoughts.
dnf
June 20, 2024DNF'd
I really wanted to love this one, but I think it was underwhelming compared to the cover. It read like a typical YA fantasy, which isn't a bad thing, but just made it difficult to stand out in my mind. If you don't mind the usual fantasy tropes like Chosen One, this could be for you.
I appreciated how realistic Nara's prejudice was, but it eventually became annoying to be stuck in her POV with no growth. She was definitely not a likable character. Not to mention the hilariously unfortunate phrases used for swearing (i.e. "fec off").
I really wanted to love this one, but I think it was underwhelming compared to the cover. It read like a typical YA fantasy, which isn't a bad thing, but just made it difficult to stand out in my mind. If you don't mind the usual fantasy tropes like Chosen One, this could be for you.
I appreciated how realistic Nara's prejudice was, but it eventually became annoying to be stuck in her POV with no growth. She was definitely not a likable character. Not to mention the hilariously unfortunate phrases used for swearing (i.e. "fec off").
June 2, 2024
I ended up reading this as a break from the previous two ARCs I received (which I didn't love) and this hit the spot!
The story starts with a young woman and her sister, in a citadel where the healthy people, mainly women, are kept from the unhealthy (Branded) population. The story follows Nara and Osha, two sisters, both living in the Citadel, protected and privileged. Then, due to things I will not spoil, the situation goes sideways, and they end up finding themselves in places and along an adventure they'd never expected.
There is betrayal, enemies to lovers, the trope of the chosen one, disillusionment from what the characters know to be true, and the story is eventful al the way through.
I found that from the get-go it was interesting, not too long or dreadful with the worldbuilding, and I finished reading this in a single day, which goes to show just how much it had me hooked. It is packed with adventure, interesting characters, character development and a plot that somehow made me think of the Priory of the Orange Tree, which is one of my favorite books!
Overall, this kept me entertained from beginning to end, so a solid 4,5/5 (rounded down)! Reason for the missing 0,5 is that certain things were not explained, there was some adult language used that I didn't think was necessary, and the one of the main love interest(s) was obnoxiously annoying and unattractive to me, so having to read about them was definitely not the best part, but I would definitely read book 2 when it comes out!!
*Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for granting me with this e-ARC.*
The story starts with a young woman and her sister, in a citadel where the healthy people, mainly women, are kept from the unhealthy (Branded) population. The story follows Nara and Osha, two sisters, both living in the Citadel, protected and privileged. Then, due to things I will not spoil, the situation goes sideways, and they end up finding themselves in places and along an adventure they'd never expected.
There is betrayal, enemies to lovers, the trope of the chosen one, disillusionment from what the characters know to be true, and the story is eventful al the way through.
I found that from the get-go it was interesting, not too long or dreadful with the worldbuilding, and I finished reading this in a single day, which goes to show just how much it had me hooked. It is packed with adventure, interesting characters, character development and a plot that somehow made me think of the Priory of the Orange Tree, which is one of my favorite books!
Overall, this kept me entertained from beginning to end, so a solid 4,5/5 (rounded down)! Reason for the missing 0,5 is that certain things were not explained, there was some adult language used that I didn't think was necessary, and the one of the main love interest(s) was obnoxiously annoying and unattractive to me, so having to read about them was definitely not the best part, but I would definitely read book 2 when it comes out!!
*Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for granting me with this e-ARC.*
July 10, 2024
Like any first book in a fantasy series the first like two thirds of this book was world building which always kind of makes it a bit of a slog to get through. Got interesting when they got to Orlath and the Cooler.
January 21, 2025
4.5 because of the irritating main character and lack of map lol. Otherwise, I very much enjoyed the world.
May 26, 2024
I listened to this as an ARC.
The story went along at a good pace, and the characters were relatable. I felt that the beginning enticed the audience in and remain engaged.
As the story progressed I found the FMC to be quite annoying with her attitude to the situations she found herself in.
However, the story overall was enjoyable.
The story went along at a good pace, and the characters were relatable. I felt that the beginning enticed the audience in and remain engaged.
As the story progressed I found the FMC to be quite annoying with her attitude to the situations she found herself in.
However, the story overall was enjoyable.
June 25, 2024
Originally posted on Just Geeking by.
Content warnings:
The Branded by Jo Riccioni is a dystopian novel where centuries ago, a Great Malady happened, and the brume virus spread, decimating most of the population. It resulted in most of the population becoming more physically weaker and vulnerable to disease and infection. The virus left a blue mark on their skin like a brand, and they became known as the Branded. A smaller part of the population became physically bigger, and stronger, and were immune to disease and infection. They became known as the Pure.
As a result of these changes, the Pure became the dominant class in society in some parts of the Continent and the role of Pure women changed, with an emphasis on their ability to breed. They have become a commodity, and in Isfalk they are kept hidden away in a citadel under the guise of it being for their protection.
Meanwhile, the Branded live in squalor in the surrounding village. They are told that they must keep the Pure wardens fed as the wardens keep everyone safe, including them, so they must give their harvests to the Pure. In actuality, it’s so that the Pure can live in luxury and have an overabundance of food. The Branded who have less visible brands are allowed to serve in the citadel. It is a crime for the Branded and the Pure to have relationships in Isfalk as the Branded have a chance to pass on their physical weaknesses to their offspring, however, that does not stop Pure males from spending time in brothels in the Branded village.
The Branded tells the story of twins Nara and Osha, two young women who grew up with their grandmother in the forests before losing her in a vicious attack. With no details about their parents, the children fled to the citadel. Once it was established that they were both Pure, they were integrated into the restrictive and religious society of the citadel. While her sister seems to fit right in, Nara hates everything the citadel stands for, especially the expectation that young women will meekly accept being paired to a male Pure and give birth to a child every year for the rest of their lives.
She longs for the freedom she and her sister had before they came to the citadel, the freedom to choose her future. Nara doesn’t want to sit at home in luxury as someone’s wife, she wants to become a warden. But Pure women, Mor, are not even allowed outside the citadel without a cadre of wardens to protect them. They’re certainly not allowed to fight.
When Nara is unexpectedly thrown out of the citadel, she gets her wish but for the first time, the sisters are separated. Alone and in danger, she has to rely on the mysterious Wrangler, a Branded that seems to know more about Nara and Osha and their past than they do. As she tries to find a way back to her sister, Nara begins to learn things about herself and revelations that will change everything they know.
I enjoyed The Branded, it has an interesting story with good pacing, well-written characters and solid world-building. Unfortunately, there are some issues with this book that I can’t overlook. As a disabled reader, I’m interested in speculative fiction that has themes of illness. While this is a main theme in The Branded, I was disappointed to learn that it isn’t mentioned as one of the book’s main themes. Instead, it is being promoted as a “speculative novel with explosive ideas around gender and class“. Additionally, Riccioni’s author bio states that this series is inspired by her desire to “see women and women’s issues at the heart of the epic fantasy canon”.
The problem is that The Branded is not a book about gender and class; it’s a book about how a pandemic caused humanity to split into two groups. The resulting society that is created is founded on eugenicist beliefs, leading to a rigid class system with strict gender roles.
Although Riccioni has written a speculative fiction novel that mirrors our society and the divide between healthy people and the disabled and neurodivergent community, I do not think this was her intention. The Branded are subject to social barriers that negatively impact their lives, something that is very similar to the social model of disability.
Rather than bringing women’s issues into epic fantasy canon, I fear that this book represents the book world’s dismissive attitude towards the inclusion of disability-related topics in the genre. Riccioni has ample opportunity to include disabled characters, instead choosing to change her narrative to avoid them. When Nara journeys outside Isfalk she meets more Branded and learns that they aren’t as weak as the Isfalki have been told. It’s not unbelievable, as it’s one of many lies she learns that the Pure have been told. This doesn’t change the fact that it’s a very convenient way to avoid having to include disabled characters.
The Branded reminded me of Burrowed by Mary Baader Kaley, another dystopian book where society is split into two groups after a worldwide pandemic; one physically strong, and one weak and vulnerable to infection. Riccioni makes the same mistake that Kaley did by not considering the long-term effects of a low immune system. Both authors make multiple references to the weaker group being more prone to infection and illness, but there is no mention of chronic illnesses developing as a result. This oversight is not surprising since like Kaley, Riccioni appears to be non-disabled.
Ironically, there is one chronic illness represented in The Branded and that is arthritis – in a Pure man. Riccioni makes the point that despite living longer and being physically stronger, the Pure have some physical limitations. While they appear to live for much longer, they still have to deal with the effects of old age, including wear and tear. I think it says a lot that the only disability representation in this book is in association with ageing.
Disabled representation is not the only representation missing in The Branded. There is hardly any diversity in the entire book. Nixim, aka, ‘the Wrangler’ is the only BIPOC character for the majority of the book, with others only appearing very briefly. His people, the Reis, are called barbarians who spin fantastical stories and exploit people with their “dark arts”. I felt like these descriptions embodied quite a few racist beliefs, including the ‘good’ white people with their acceptable religious beliefs (Isfalk) and the ‘bad’ black people with their ‘hooky’ spiritual beliefs (Reis). While it does become evident that the Isfalk are not necessarily ‘good’, an anti-racism narrative would have felt more believable if there was more than one Reis character present.
Similar to race, there is only the briefest of mentions of LGBTQIA+ representation. One of the young Mor women is accused of “unnatural liaisons” with a Branded maid that goes against the “First Mother’s Natural Order”. As mentioned relationships between the Branded and the Pure are considered abhorrent, a crime that goes against the Isfalki religious beliefs. While the rhetoric used in the accusation is from the Isfalki’s religious doctrine, it uncomfortably echoes the views held by many anti-LGBTQIA+ campaigners. If there was any genuine LGBTQIA+ representation in the book I could believe that was meant to highlight prejudice, but since there is none, it feels uncomfortably deliberate.
This book had so much potential, and instead of utilising a great setting to discuss disability issues, Riccioni has actively removed any diversity from The Branded. She wanted to write a book that brought women’s issues into fantasy, and apparently, that meant white heterosexual women. While the world she has created includes a large group of physically vulnerable people, the only health issues featured are those that would concern mothers; pregnancy issues, fertility issues, infections (especially for children), and old age.
While we do need more books in fantasy that focus on women and family, I don’t believe that The Branded did that successfully. Although the characters fight against a restrictive society where women are forced into the role of motherhood, I like the book was predominantly shaped by ideas of motherhood. As a chronically ill queer woman who is not a mother, I felt like this book was written with people like me not in mind.
Although I have added the second book in the duology to my TBR, I do not hold out much hope for any improvement when it comes to the representation in it.
----
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Content warnings:
The Branded by Jo Riccioni is a dystopian novel where centuries ago, a Great Malady happened, and the brume virus spread, decimating most of the population. It resulted in most of the population becoming more physically weaker and vulnerable to disease and infection. The virus left a blue mark on their skin like a brand, and they became known as the Branded. A smaller part of the population became physically bigger, and stronger, and were immune to disease and infection. They became known as the Pure.
As a result of these changes, the Pure became the dominant class in society in some parts of the Continent and the role of Pure women changed, with an emphasis on their ability to breed. They have become a commodity, and in Isfalk they are kept hidden away in a citadel under the guise of it being for their protection.
Meanwhile, the Branded live in squalor in the surrounding village. They are told that they must keep the Pure wardens fed as the wardens keep everyone safe, including them, so they must give their harvests to the Pure. In actuality, it’s so that the Pure can live in luxury and have an overabundance of food. The Branded who have less visible brands are allowed to serve in the citadel. It is a crime for the Branded and the Pure to have relationships in Isfalk as the Branded have a chance to pass on their physical weaknesses to their offspring, however, that does not stop Pure males from spending time in brothels in the Branded village.
The Branded tells the story of twins Nara and Osha, two young women who grew up with their grandmother in the forests before losing her in a vicious attack. With no details about their parents, the children fled to the citadel. Once it was established that they were both Pure, they were integrated into the restrictive and religious society of the citadel. While her sister seems to fit right in, Nara hates everything the citadel stands for, especially the expectation that young women will meekly accept being paired to a male Pure and give birth to a child every year for the rest of their lives.
She longs for the freedom she and her sister had before they came to the citadel, the freedom to choose her future. Nara doesn’t want to sit at home in luxury as someone’s wife, she wants to become a warden. But Pure women, Mor, are not even allowed outside the citadel without a cadre of wardens to protect them. They’re certainly not allowed to fight.
When Nara is unexpectedly thrown out of the citadel, she gets her wish but for the first time, the sisters are separated. Alone and in danger, she has to rely on the mysterious Wrangler, a Branded that seems to know more about Nara and Osha and their past than they do. As she tries to find a way back to her sister, Nara begins to learn things about herself and revelations that will change everything they know.
I enjoyed The Branded, it has an interesting story with good pacing, well-written characters and solid world-building. Unfortunately, there are some issues with this book that I can’t overlook. As a disabled reader, I’m interested in speculative fiction that has themes of illness. While this is a main theme in The Branded, I was disappointed to learn that it isn’t mentioned as one of the book’s main themes. Instead, it is being promoted as a “speculative novel with explosive ideas around gender and class“. Additionally, Riccioni’s author bio states that this series is inspired by her desire to “see women and women’s issues at the heart of the epic fantasy canon”.
The problem is that The Branded is not a book about gender and class; it’s a book about how a pandemic caused humanity to split into two groups. The resulting society that is created is founded on eugenicist beliefs, leading to a rigid class system with strict gender roles.
Although Riccioni has written a speculative fiction novel that mirrors our society and the divide between healthy people and the disabled and neurodivergent community, I do not think this was her intention. The Branded are subject to social barriers that negatively impact their lives, something that is very similar to the social model of disability.
Rather than bringing women’s issues into epic fantasy canon, I fear that this book represents the book world’s dismissive attitude towards the inclusion of disability-related topics in the genre. Riccioni has ample opportunity to include disabled characters, instead choosing to change her narrative to avoid them. When Nara journeys outside Isfalk she meets more Branded and learns that they aren’t as weak as the Isfalki have been told. It’s not unbelievable, as it’s one of many lies she learns that the Pure have been told. This doesn’t change the fact that it’s a very convenient way to avoid having to include disabled characters.
The Branded reminded me of Burrowed by Mary Baader Kaley, another dystopian book where society is split into two groups after a worldwide pandemic; one physically strong, and one weak and vulnerable to infection. Riccioni makes the same mistake that Kaley did by not considering the long-term effects of a low immune system. Both authors make multiple references to the weaker group being more prone to infection and illness, but there is no mention of chronic illnesses developing as a result. This oversight is not surprising since like Kaley, Riccioni appears to be non-disabled.
Ironically, there is one chronic illness represented in The Branded and that is arthritis – in a Pure man. Riccioni makes the point that despite living longer and being physically stronger, the Pure have some physical limitations. While they appear to live for much longer, they still have to deal with the effects of old age, including wear and tear. I think it says a lot that the only disability representation in this book is in association with ageing.
Disabled representation is not the only representation missing in The Branded. There is hardly any diversity in the entire book. Nixim, aka, ‘the Wrangler’ is the only BIPOC character for the majority of the book, with others only appearing very briefly. His people, the Reis, are called barbarians who spin fantastical stories and exploit people with their “dark arts”. I felt like these descriptions embodied quite a few racist beliefs, including the ‘good’ white people with their acceptable religious beliefs (Isfalk) and the ‘bad’ black people with their ‘hooky’ spiritual beliefs (Reis). While it does become evident that the Isfalk are not necessarily ‘good’, an anti-racism narrative would have felt more believable if there was more than one Reis character present.
Similar to race, there is only the briefest of mentions of LGBTQIA+ representation. One of the young Mor women is accused of “unnatural liaisons” with a Branded maid that goes against the “First Mother’s Natural Order”. As mentioned relationships between the Branded and the Pure are considered abhorrent, a crime that goes against the Isfalki religious beliefs. While the rhetoric used in the accusation is from the Isfalki’s religious doctrine, it uncomfortably echoes the views held by many anti-LGBTQIA+ campaigners. If there was any genuine LGBTQIA+ representation in the book I could believe that was meant to highlight prejudice, but since there is none, it feels uncomfortably deliberate.
This book had so much potential, and instead of utilising a great setting to discuss disability issues, Riccioni has actively removed any diversity from The Branded. She wanted to write a book that brought women’s issues into fantasy, and apparently, that meant white heterosexual women. While the world she has created includes a large group of physically vulnerable people, the only health issues featured are those that would concern mothers; pregnancy issues, fertility issues, infections (especially for children), and old age.
While we do need more books in fantasy that focus on women and family, I don’t believe that The Branded did that successfully. Although the characters fight against a restrictive society where women are forced into the role of motherhood, I like the book was predominantly shaped by ideas of motherhood. As a chronically ill queer woman who is not a mother, I felt like this book was written with people like me not in mind.
Although I have added the second book in the duology to my TBR, I do not hold out much hope for any improvement when it comes to the representation in it.
----
Follow me for more book reviews that discuss disabled and neurodivergent representation!
♦ repDISND ♦ Join us every July to discuss disabled & neurodivergent representation!
BLOG | REVIEWS | REVIEW SCHEDULE | TWITTER | INSTAGRAM | PINTEREST |
June 14, 2024
Young adult - the FC is 17.
DNF I won’t finish books not labeled in the correct genre.
DNF I won’t finish books not labeled in the correct genre.
October 20, 2023
Ooooooo I love a good fire in a book and their characters 🫡
I absolutely love the name of a certain character too- and the fact that it never gets used🙄😭
I loved the vibes of this one - the beginning was a real trek though, and I nearly didn’t make it- but I persevered!! And I am so glad I did.
It has strong handmaids tale strings running throughout (I have not read that though so can’t actually say for sure) but it creeped me out enough to power through the first 50 pages in which I understood diddly squat😀
And then it felt like I was reading a side perspective book which was so interesting to me- because obviously most books are written from the main characters pov and the story happens to them? But this one was trying to make me feel like the MC was not actually the MC but I know they are the MC but I’m still stressed that they aren’t the MC but they probably will be the MC but what if they aren’t?!!!!?? And I loved that🦦
Now… I’d wish I’d Time-lapsed myself reading this one cause some pages I was gasping for air then closing the book then giggling then stressing hand to chest clutching at my heart **as if that’s gonna do anything😑🥴** but I had a great time and I’m so glad I have the next book already😈
Also unrelated to the actual story- the covers of these books are supreme and I want every book with this much beauty and detail from now on- I’m not going to be buying shitty covers!!!!!! (I definitely will obviously not listen to that because I have no self restraint and buy books for shits and gigs)
I absolutely love the name of a certain character too- and the fact that it never gets used🙄😭
I loved the vibes of this one - the beginning was a real trek though, and I nearly didn’t make it- but I persevered!! And I am so glad I did.
It has strong handmaids tale strings running throughout (I have not read that though so can’t actually say for sure) but it creeped me out enough to power through the first 50 pages in which I understood diddly squat😀
And then it felt like I was reading a side perspective book which was so interesting to me- because obviously most books are written from the main characters pov and the story happens to them? But this one was trying to make me feel like the MC was not actually the MC but I know they are the MC but I’m still stressed that they aren’t the MC but they probably will be the MC but what if they aren’t?!!!!?? And I loved that🦦
Now… I’d wish I’d Time-lapsed myself reading this one cause some pages I was gasping for air then closing the book then giggling then stressing hand to chest clutching at my heart **as if that’s gonna do anything😑🥴** but I had a great time and I’m so glad I have the next book already😈
Also unrelated to the actual story- the covers of these books are supreme and I want every book with this much beauty and detail from now on- I’m not going to be buying shitty covers!!!!!! (I definitely will obviously not listen to that because I have no self restraint and buy books for shits and gigs)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 321 reviews