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The Vitalian Chronicles #1
Marrow and Soul
Most of us spend our years dying.
Not Safran. She lives.
From the Marrow Street slums to the Prince's Palace, sixteen-year-old Safran is the best thief in Vitalia. She owes it all to two simple rules: 1. Live ferociously, and 2. Don't die. Following them keeps Safran and her little brother Curt fed, sheltered, and one step ahead of the brutal White Cap patrols.
After she pulls off a particularly dangerous pastry heist, a mysterious man in black offers Safran a chance to do the impossible: bring her parents back to life. All she has to do is steal the priceless Ghost Tablet from its carefully guarded vault in the Temple of the Soul.
Lured by the promise of protection for her brother, Safran agrees to infiltrate the Temple—only to find herself in the middle of a centuries-old supernatural conflict. Suspicious priests, dangerous trials, and electric puppy-lizard-monsters test the limits of Safran's rules and force her to answer devastating questions:
Who will she save? Who will she betray? And who is she willing to kill?
Not Safran. She lives.
From the Marrow Street slums to the Prince's Palace, sixteen-year-old Safran is the best thief in Vitalia. She owes it all to two simple rules: 1. Live ferociously, and 2. Don't die. Following them keeps Safran and her little brother Curt fed, sheltered, and one step ahead of the brutal White Cap patrols.
After she pulls off a particularly dangerous pastry heist, a mysterious man in black offers Safran a chance to do the impossible: bring her parents back to life. All she has to do is steal the priceless Ghost Tablet from its carefully guarded vault in the Temple of the Soul.
Lured by the promise of protection for her brother, Safran agrees to infiltrate the Temple—only to find herself in the middle of a centuries-old supernatural conflict. Suspicious priests, dangerous trials, and electric puppy-lizard-monsters test the limits of Safran's rules and force her to answer devastating questions:
Who will she save? Who will she betray? And who is she willing to kill?
- GenresFantasyYoung Adult
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 5, 2024
3 people are currently reading
251 people want to read
About the author
Addison Horner
2 books13 followersAddison Horner learned to read at age two, and he still knows how. From writing wacky epics in middle school to winning eight prizes for his short stories, Addison has always leaned into the fantastical to understand the mundane. When he's not writing, he edits manuscripts for indie authors and enjoys his day job as a music educator and performer. Addison lives in Orlando with his wife, two temperamental avocado trees, and the World's Cutest Dog (trademark pending).
Stalk him in a socially respectable way on Instagram: @addisonhornerauthor
Stalk him in a socially respectable way on Instagram: @addisonhornerauthor
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Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews
February 5, 2024
*The author gave me a copy of this book, and this is my voluntary honest review*
How do you write about grief? How do you write about grief without depressing the audience, making them feel hopeless and reminding them about the pain and loss that they've experienced? How do you write about grief while fitting such a heavy theme into the structure of a YA high-adventure fantasy heist novel featuring a spunky street-urchin protagonist, lovable side characters, whimsical animal companions, and vibrant, immersive worldbuilding?
How do you write about grief *well*?
It's an undeniably difficult and delicate balancing act, and it's one that Addison Horner pulls off with excellent care and wit. It's a book that knows when not to take itself too seriously, and when to lean into the sincerity of the moment. The tone is never too dark, but it carries the themes with the gravity they deserve, and that's an impressive and laudable choice on its own.
The characters are wonderful. Safran is relatable as an older sister, though as a cautious, scheming, live for tomorrow kind of person, her first rule is one I need to take to heart. I loved her from the first chapter when she broke into the palace to steal, not gems or riches, but pastries for her brother. Her situation is desperate but despite everything she's been through, she maintains her compassion and her humanity, alongside her grit and cleverness. She's such a compelling protagonist and when her motive comes from grappling with her grief, we're reminded that she's just a kid too.
The side characters are the other shining point of this book. Curt is a delightful younger brother and support for Safran, and their love for each other is the core of the whole story. I don't think I've EVER seen Down Syndrome represented in a book before, much less in such a person-first way, where his differences are never ridiculed by the narrative. I would love to see a short story or something from his perspective in the future. The other applicants in the Temple of the Soul also felt like fully realized people, and I loved seeing how their relationships with Safran developed over the course of the story. I shall say no more for the sake of spoilers, but Seele was my favorite, especially with her scientific knowledge.
The worldbuilding in this series is fascinating to me and I love the concept of the temples representing the Body, Emotions, Mind, and Soul. Categorization systems aren't new to the YA genre, but this feels like a very natural one, and it's such a neat representation of how people view and interact with their world. It's a low-magic fantasy where the average person doesn't have access to the Tablets or powers. I'm excited to learn more about how the world works, especially about the mechanics of ghosts in the future books, because the reveal definitely wasn't what I was expecting, given a typical "pop culture" understanding of how ghosts work. I was hoping for more of an explanation, but then we just got "Oh nobody knows how ghosts actually work" from one of the characters" and that was a little unsatisfying, but I'm hoping that gets more development in the later books.
As for the plot, Wyvern and Father Enneas kept me guessing throughout most of the book. As a trope-savvy author myself, it's not often that I'm actually shocked by a plot-twist, but this book did not disappoint. I'm very excited to see how the political intrigue develops with the shadowy mentions of the Order of Death on the horizon, and how Safran's role fits into all of this.
All in all, this story is full of heart and hope, and a great debut from a promising YA fantasy author. I can't wait to see where the rest of this series takes us, and I'm deeply invested in Safran's story. I highly recommend it to everyone who's interested in sibling stories, heists, and found family.
How do you write about grief? How do you write about grief without depressing the audience, making them feel hopeless and reminding them about the pain and loss that they've experienced? How do you write about grief while fitting such a heavy theme into the structure of a YA high-adventure fantasy heist novel featuring a spunky street-urchin protagonist, lovable side characters, whimsical animal companions, and vibrant, immersive worldbuilding?
How do you write about grief *well*?
It's an undeniably difficult and delicate balancing act, and it's one that Addison Horner pulls off with excellent care and wit. It's a book that knows when not to take itself too seriously, and when to lean into the sincerity of the moment. The tone is never too dark, but it carries the themes with the gravity they deserve, and that's an impressive and laudable choice on its own.
The characters are wonderful. Safran is relatable as an older sister, though as a cautious, scheming, live for tomorrow kind of person, her first rule is one I need to take to heart. I loved her from the first chapter when she broke into the palace to steal, not gems or riches, but pastries for her brother. Her situation is desperate but despite everything she's been through, she maintains her compassion and her humanity, alongside her grit and cleverness. She's such a compelling protagonist and when her motive comes from grappling with her grief, we're reminded that she's just a kid too.
The side characters are the other shining point of this book. Curt is a delightful younger brother and support for Safran, and their love for each other is the core of the whole story. I don't think I've EVER seen Down Syndrome represented in a book before, much less in such a person-first way, where his differences are never ridiculed by the narrative. I would love to see a short story or something from his perspective in the future. The other applicants in the Temple of the Soul also felt like fully realized people, and I loved seeing how their relationships with Safran developed over the course of the story. I shall say no more for the sake of spoilers, but Seele was my favorite, especially with her scientific knowledge.
The worldbuilding in this series is fascinating to me and I love the concept of the temples representing the Body, Emotions, Mind, and Soul. Categorization systems aren't new to the YA genre, but this feels like a very natural one, and it's such a neat representation of how people view and interact with their world. It's a low-magic fantasy where the average person doesn't have access to the Tablets or powers. I'm excited to learn more about how the world works, especially about the mechanics of ghosts in the future books, because the reveal definitely wasn't what I was expecting, given a typical "pop culture" understanding of how ghosts work. I was hoping for more of an explanation, but then we just got "Oh nobody knows how ghosts actually work" from one of the characters" and that was a little unsatisfying, but I'm hoping that gets more development in the later books.
As for the plot, Wyvern and Father Enneas kept me guessing throughout most of the book. As a trope-savvy author myself, it's not often that I'm actually shocked by a plot-twist, but this book did not disappoint. I'm very excited to see how the political intrigue develops with the shadowy mentions of the Order of Death on the horizon, and how Safran's role fits into all of this.
All in all, this story is full of heart and hope, and a great debut from a promising YA fantasy author. I can't wait to see where the rest of this series takes us, and I'm deeply invested in Safran's story. I highly recommend it to everyone who's interested in sibling stories, heists, and found family.
April 13, 2024
I have a list of books that are memorable and absolute favorites of mine. This has made that list. This cast of characters, this world, this story--I love it all. It was gripping and suspenseful. It was unique and full of twists. I absolutely devoured this story! Do yourself a favor and read it. It's so good!
January 15, 2024
This is one of those stories I recommend to everyone I meet. Safran’s sass and the brutal world that rejects her and Curt forever have my heart! You’ll want to give this one a try, trust me.
February 6, 2024
*Review Time*
Title: Marrow & Soul
Author: Addison Horner
Stars: ☆☆☆☆☆/5
This book was phenomenal. At first we are met with the Oliver twist of fantasy, with young Safran and her younger brother Curt, escaping the bad guys aka White caps and making it to the next day with some sort of food, is what we root for.
But there isn't a twist without a villian or two.
Safran adventure brings us the outlook that not all the time is the family we know our found family. Creating a well versed and well written universe with unique characters Addison Horner, draws a beautiful story to our imagination about life of a street rat, a young child with Autism (Which btw, had great representation!) And the world we have to navigate through.
The plot twists that find their way throughout at just the right time and it had me freaking out.
On top of this, the strong FMC isn't strong in a supernatural way but in a human way, she has her flaws but fights back against them, fights against everything that could possibly shackle her to a box, and instead shows us that even as time goes on, and people continue in their set ways, we can break free and start the path of our own.
I definitely recommend this book for those who love a good action fantasy novel. I cannot wait for the second in the series!
Title: Marrow & Soul
Author: Addison Horner
Stars: ☆☆☆☆☆/5
This book was phenomenal. At first we are met with the Oliver twist of fantasy, with young Safran and her younger brother Curt, escaping the bad guys aka White caps and making it to the next day with some sort of food, is what we root for.
But there isn't a twist without a villian or two.
Safran adventure brings us the outlook that not all the time is the family we know our found family. Creating a well versed and well written universe with unique characters Addison Horner, draws a beautiful story to our imagination about life of a street rat, a young child with Autism (Which btw, had great representation!) And the world we have to navigate through.
The plot twists that find their way throughout at just the right time and it had me freaking out.
On top of this, the strong FMC isn't strong in a supernatural way but in a human way, she has her flaws but fights back against them, fights against everything that could possibly shackle her to a box, and instead shows us that even as time goes on, and people continue in their set ways, we can break free and start the path of our own.
I definitely recommend this book for those who love a good action fantasy novel. I cannot wait for the second in the series!
February 8, 2024
This book is FUN. I wasn't sure what to expect going into it (other than pastries, siblings, ghost tablets?), but this story surprised me!
It's fast-paced, full of action and danger, the relationships are sweet, and Safran's character development was intruiging to follow. I enjoyed the mystery and loved that I was caught off guard more than once with dramatic plot twists.
The ending was satisfying enough that I'm not left feeling devastated that I have to wait for book 2, but open-ended enough that I'm excited for book 2 and can't wait to read more.
Well done! 👏
It's fast-paced, full of action and danger, the relationships are sweet, and Safran's character development was intruiging to follow. I enjoyed the mystery and loved that I was caught off guard more than once with dramatic plot twists.
The ending was satisfying enough that I'm not left feeling devastated that I have to wait for book 2, but open-ended enough that I'm excited for book 2 and can't wait to read more.
Well done! 👏
February 5, 2024
This debut is top-notch. Addison knows how to write, and I appreciate that! His story captured me from the first pages, both in terms of the amazing imagery he uses in conjunction with his theme of what it means to live, and the introduction of Safran, one of the best female protagonists I have come across.
Touching, intriguing and fast-paced, Safran’s journey had me turning pages to find out what on earth she would come up against next, and rocked me with some stunning twists towards the end. All of the characters are well fleshed-out and the world feels very real.
I’m looking forward to the rest of this series!
Content warning: a few semi-graphic fight and death scenes
Touching, intriguing and fast-paced, Safran’s journey had me turning pages to find out what on earth she would come up against next, and rocked me with some stunning twists towards the end. All of the characters are well fleshed-out and the world feels very real.
I’m looking forward to the rest of this series!
Content warning: a few semi-graphic fight and death scenes
July 16, 2024
Marrow & Soul by Addison Horner is such a fantastic read! It is a beautiful mix of fantasy and spooky to tackle what it means to be human and what makes a soul. After the halfway mark, I literally couldn't put it down! There are so many fantastic twists and some of the best aspects of fantasy competitions and heist all mixed into one!
This book has so many components that I'm still processing everything. It all works well together, and I'm impressed how it all weaves together in a unique story!
I also loved the representation in the book and the relationship that I feel is common but not shows enough in books. Safran is our MC who cares for her brother Curt. Curt has a developmental disability and is reliant on Safran as they live on the street. However, it is their relationship that is more powerful than anything in this book.
The first half took me longer to read than normal because I realized I couldn't read this book at night before bed. Questions of what makes a soul and having ghost about triggered my existentialism 😅 But it was so worth it, and I can't wait to read the next book when it's released! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Five stars!
This book has so many components that I'm still processing everything. It all works well together, and I'm impressed how it all weaves together in a unique story!
I also loved the representation in the book and the relationship that I feel is common but not shows enough in books. Safran is our MC who cares for her brother Curt. Curt has a developmental disability and is reliant on Safran as they live on the street. However, it is their relationship that is more powerful than anything in this book.
The first half took me longer to read than normal because I realized I couldn't read this book at night before bed. Questions of what makes a soul and having ghost about triggered my existentialism 😅 But it was so worth it, and I can't wait to read the next book when it's released! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Five stars!
February 26, 2025
Holy heck I loved this book
I am a sucker for a good heist story, and this one delivered in so many ways. I was captivated by the third chapter, when the main character broke into a palace to steal baked goods for her brother instead of treasure, and it only got better from there!
I loved Safran. A distinct and interesting main character is so important to me, and she was definitely that. The plot twists surrounding who she was and her backstory were INSANE—so well done? I never saw it coming but looking back I SEE the foreshadowing!! It was masterfully done. Her relationship with her brother Curt was very sweet, and I loved him, too! He was a delight
The minor characters were equally great—Kammon's development, Seele becoming a friend instead of being snooty and entitled, and Marinus. Don't get me started on Marinus. OH I LOVED FATHER ENNEAS he's my best friend I would die for him. (Okay time to be normal again)
The cover was gorgeous, the climax and ending beautifully done (it ended where it began!! Poetic!!) and I am so so hyped for the release of the sequel soon!! I will watch this series with great interest and excitement!!
I am a sucker for a good heist story, and this one delivered in so many ways. I was captivated by the third chapter, when the main character broke into a palace to steal baked goods for her brother instead of treasure, and it only got better from there!
I loved Safran. A distinct and interesting main character is so important to me, and she was definitely that. The plot twists surrounding who she was and her backstory were INSANE—so well done? I never saw it coming but looking back I SEE the foreshadowing!! It was masterfully done. Her relationship with her brother Curt was very sweet, and I loved him, too! He was a delight
The minor characters were equally great—Kammon's development, Seele becoming a friend instead of being snooty and entitled, and Marinus. Don't get me started on Marinus. OH I LOVED FATHER ENNEAS he's my best friend I would die for him. (Okay time to be normal again)
The cover was gorgeous, the climax and ending beautifully done (it ended where it began!! Poetic!!) and I am so so hyped for the release of the sequel soon!! I will watch this series with great interest and excitement!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 24, 2024
Bloody fantastic.
I felt, at the time of the Kickstarter for this book, that I was taking a bit of a chance. I can be picky with books, and this was not something I could flick through at Waterstones before making my decision. But I enjoyed what I read about the story on the Kickstarter, and decided to chip in. If nothing else I was happy to support a creator.
I only started the story yesterday - I finished it an hour ago. This was me pacing myself - I would have happily stayed up all night reading. The story is phenomenal. The pacing is great, the characters are enjoyable, the world is intriguing. As someone used to spotting twists I am happy to announce I did NOT see this one coming AT ALL.
I cannot recommend this enough, for any enjoyer of fantasy fiction. I can't wait to see what happens next.
In terms of another Kickstarter, if there is one for the next installment - Luceren plushies? Please?
I felt, at the time of the Kickstarter for this book, that I was taking a bit of a chance. I can be picky with books, and this was not something I could flick through at Waterstones before making my decision. But I enjoyed what I read about the story on the Kickstarter, and decided to chip in. If nothing else I was happy to support a creator.
I only started the story yesterday - I finished it an hour ago. This was me pacing myself - I would have happily stayed up all night reading. The story is phenomenal. The pacing is great, the characters are enjoyable, the world is intriguing. As someone used to spotting twists I am happy to announce I did NOT see this one coming AT ALL.
I cannot recommend this enough, for any enjoyer of fantasy fiction. I can't wait to see what happens next.
In terms of another Kickstarter, if there is one for the next installment - Luceren plushies? Please?
January 8, 2025
If you like heist stories, plot twists that after they hit you like a ton of bricks you realize you really should have seen coming, and characters you'll root for as well as ones who will keep you guessing...this is definitely the book for you.
(If you're here for the pastries and lizard puppies, those are also good reasons.)
I thoroughly enjoyed this fantasy adventure. The plot kept me turning pages, and the twists were well set up and one in particular had me sitting for a minute thinking "should have seen that coming". I saw a lot of myself in Safran, with her determination to hold onto the calluses (literal and metaphorical) that have protected her so far. As much as a heist story, this was a book about love, loss, and the family we have and find, and I loved it.
*And I'm glad I have early access to book 2 because after that ending...I need to know what's next!
(If you're here for the pastries and lizard puppies, those are also good reasons.)
I thoroughly enjoyed this fantasy adventure. The plot kept me turning pages, and the twists were well set up and one in particular had me sitting for a minute thinking "should have seen that coming". I saw a lot of myself in Safran, with her determination to hold onto the calluses (literal and metaphorical) that have protected her so far. As much as a heist story, this was a book about love, loss, and the family we have and find, and I loved it.
*And I'm glad I have early access to book 2 because after that ending...I need to know what's next!
Read
April 18, 2024Marrow and Soul is a descent into a world of tragedy where restless ghosts are a reality of every day life. Each restless specter clinging to the things that were left undone in life. Saffran must be wary of them all if she is to protect the innocence of her dear brother.
Her struggle to live, and care for her sibling might destroy even the strongest of souls. Yet, Saffran manages to overcome those struggles each day, make a few friends, and if she is really lucky undo a scheme that is far beyond the ken of even a street savvy lifter like herself.
If you are looking for a tale of five finger discounts, and the strength to protect what you love, you’ll find it in Marrow and Soul. Oh, and don’t forget the pastries!
Her struggle to live, and care for her sibling might destroy even the strongest of souls. Yet, Saffran manages to overcome those struggles each day, make a few friends, and if she is really lucky undo a scheme that is far beyond the ken of even a street savvy lifter like herself.
If you are looking for a tale of five finger discounts, and the strength to protect what you love, you’ll find it in Marrow and Soul. Oh, and don’t forget the pastries!
March 26, 2024
Marrow and Soul has gone down as one of my top 10 books of all time. Addison drops you head first into his world. You’re immersed in it, following Safran through a world where she must fight to survive.
I’ve already read the book twice and I’ll be honest, it’s just as great on the second read.
The story is engaging, thrilling, nail biting even. Having read it already I expected the tense scenes to feel less so, and I was wrong. My heart was still pounding as I read, and that’s a feeling I adore!
I cannot wait to read more from Addison, and see the many books he has to come line my shelf.
I’ve already read the book twice and I’ll be honest, it’s just as great on the second read.
The story is engaging, thrilling, nail biting even. Having read it already I expected the tense scenes to feel less so, and I was wrong. My heart was still pounding as I read, and that’s a feeling I adore!
I cannot wait to read more from Addison, and see the many books he has to come line my shelf.
February 5, 2024
Brilliant debut from Addison Horner!
This fast-paced YA fantasy novel will keep you captivated from start to finish! Horner's prose is EXCELLENT, his characters are dynamic, and his storyline will keep you on the edge of your seat.
I had the privilege of reading an eARC copy and immediately preordered a physical book after finishing the first three chapters because I knew I would want to have a copy on my shelf!
Don't miss out on this book!!
This fast-paced YA fantasy novel will keep you captivated from start to finish! Horner's prose is EXCELLENT, his characters are dynamic, and his storyline will keep you on the edge of your seat.
I had the privilege of reading an eARC copy and immediately preordered a physical book after finishing the first three chapters because I knew I would want to have a copy on my shelf!
Don't miss out on this book!!
January 15, 2024
Enticing and full of surprise! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and journeying with Safran. This book will keep your jaw on the floor with every turn of every page.
August 30, 2024
This is a really impressive debut novel - it took me right back to my absolute fave fantasy escapes as a kid, and goes at such a rip-roaring pace I cursed adult life for forcing me to put it down more often than I'd have liked. If you were/are a Deltora Quest kid, you will love this.
August 18, 2025
I so wanted to love this book to support a local author. I felt it fell flat.
April 9, 2024
This book thoroughly impressed me.
It’s got a strong, no-nonsense heroine, paranormal elements, loveable side characters, heists and hijinks, and of course, plenty of delicious pastries. I’ve never read anything quite like it before, and I love that.
Our protagonist, Safran, is an orphan and a masterful thief who wants nothing more than to protect her younger brother, Kurt, from the unforgiving clutches of the Wellness Patrol of the capital city where they live. She steals to survive, and she’s good at it. The invisible girl, the other urchins call her.
When a mysterious figure tasks her with stealing an ancient relic and promises to bring her parents back in return, Safran can’t refuse. Who would?
I loved Safran’s heart, boldness, and fierce love for her brother. She has an incredibly hard life, which has made her slow to trust and willing to do whatever it takes to survive, but she is also brave, smart, and loyal.
Possibly my favorite part of this whole book was the amazing Down Syndrome representation. Kurt, Safran’s little brother, has DS and is an infectious ray of sunshine. My own amazing brother-in-law also has DS, so it made me so happy to see it represented so well in a novel. (Petition for more of this! 🙌🏻)
If you love fast-paced, character-focused YA fantasy with fantastic characters and thought-provoking wisdom, I highly recommend giving Marrow and Soul a try!
It’s got a strong, no-nonsense heroine, paranormal elements, loveable side characters, heists and hijinks, and of course, plenty of delicious pastries. I’ve never read anything quite like it before, and I love that.
Our protagonist, Safran, is an orphan and a masterful thief who wants nothing more than to protect her younger brother, Kurt, from the unforgiving clutches of the Wellness Patrol of the capital city where they live. She steals to survive, and she’s good at it. The invisible girl, the other urchins call her.
When a mysterious figure tasks her with stealing an ancient relic and promises to bring her parents back in return, Safran can’t refuse. Who would?
I loved Safran’s heart, boldness, and fierce love for her brother. She has an incredibly hard life, which has made her slow to trust and willing to do whatever it takes to survive, but she is also brave, smart, and loyal.
Possibly my favorite part of this whole book was the amazing Down Syndrome representation. Kurt, Safran’s little brother, has DS and is an infectious ray of sunshine. My own amazing brother-in-law also has DS, so it made me so happy to see it represented so well in a novel. (Petition for more of this! 🙌🏻)
If you love fast-paced, character-focused YA fantasy with fantastic characters and thought-provoking wisdom, I highly recommend giving Marrow and Soul a try!
September 10, 2024
If you love plot twists, this book is for you.
Displaying 1 - 18 of 18 reviews