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The Feral Gods #1
The Book of Gold
A desperate thief. A magical book. And a heist for the ages.
There's only one thing notorious thief Lyta loves more than a big her little brother, Kit. But when Kit is arrested for producing seditious pamphlets, he stands to lose not only his printing press, but possibly his life.
In exchange for her brother's freedom, Lyta strikes a daring bargain with the king -she will steal the infamous Book of a mysterious manuscript reputed to be hiding vast magical power within.
It's just the kind of challenge Lyta relishes, but she didn't bargain for a secretive scholar, her brother's interference, or the return of handsome and brooding Captain Sylvian Chant, once her lover and partner in crime, now an incorruptible royal bodyguard . . .
There's only one thing notorious thief Lyta loves more than a big her little brother, Kit. But when Kit is arrested for producing seditious pamphlets, he stands to lose not only his printing press, but possibly his life.
In exchange for her brother's freedom, Lyta strikes a daring bargain with the king -she will steal the infamous Book of a mysterious manuscript reputed to be hiding vast magical power within.
It's just the kind of challenge Lyta relishes, but she didn't bargain for a secretive scholar, her brother's interference, or the return of handsome and brooding Captain Sylvian Chant, once her lover and partner in crime, now an incorruptible royal bodyguard . . .
336 pages, Hardcover
First published November 28, 2024
21 people are currently reading
923 people want to read
About the author
Ruth Frances Long
11 books312 followersRuth Frances Long writes fantasy such as The Treachery of Beautiful Things and A Crack in Everything, the first in a trilogy set in the world of demons, angels and fairies that exists alongside our own in modern day Dublin, followed by A Hollow in the Hills and A Darkness at the End.
Her new book, The Book of Gold, will be published by Hodderscape in late 2024.
As Jessica Thorne she writes fantasy for Bookouture - The Queen's Wing, The Stone's Heart (nominated for the RNA Fantasy Romantic Award 2020), Mageborn and Nightborn, The Bookbinder's Daughter, The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall and The Water Witch.
Winner of The European Science Fiction Society Spirit of Dedication Award For Best Author of Children's Science Fiction and Fantasy, 2015.
She lives in Ireland and works in a library of rare, unusual & occasionally crazy books.
Twitter: @RFLong
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RuthFrancesLong
Tumblr: RFLong
Website: www.rflong.com
She is represented by Sallyanne Sweeney of Mulcahy Associates, London.
Her new book, The Book of Gold, will be published by Hodderscape in late 2024.
As Jessica Thorne she writes fantasy for Bookouture - The Queen's Wing, The Stone's Heart (nominated for the RNA Fantasy Romantic Award 2020), Mageborn and Nightborn, The Bookbinder's Daughter, The Lost Girls of Foxfield Hall and The Water Witch.
Winner of The European Science Fiction Society Spirit of Dedication Award For Best Author of Children's Science Fiction and Fantasy, 2015.
She lives in Ireland and works in a library of rare, unusual & occasionally crazy books.
Twitter: @RFLong
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RuthFrancesLong
Tumblr: RFLong
Website: www.rflong.com
She is represented by Sallyanne Sweeney of Mulcahy Associates, London.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 78 reviews
April 7, 2025
3 stars
Okay, so this was a really odd read. I've landed on a three star... it deserves both more and less in equal measure. I'm not sure how to talk about it?
An English medieval-esque fantasy variant with an emphasis on the printing press, old gods, and heists with a dash of second-chance romance and political intrigue thrown in for, seemingly, the fun of it all.
The Book of Gold is the kind of novel that I think resonates as much as it repels. Or at least, that's my experience with it. I'm not sure if I'm ever going to read it again, but also I might and I might be very interested in the sequel. What??
On a personal note, I've had such a weird reading year that there's a small sliver of me saying that this is a case of "it's not the book, it's my weird AF mood"... but I truly don't think so, I think there's some mess here to discuss.
Please see the book's official synopsis for a description—apparently 2025 is my year of reaction reviews vs. balanced summaries.
So, right off the top: I think The Book of Gold was fun. It never portrayed itself as a Serious Fantasy Novel and it doesn't read that way. It's a mostly fun romp through a lot of surface-level concepts with some compelling character dynamics hinged around a heist plot that unfolds into political intrigue.
Things I loved about this novel:
It wasn't heavy or dense, the plot was very easy to get into and the characters were engagingly written in a way that captivated me without alienating the reader with too many high fantasy concepts. This story gets right into the thick of it, which is always a plus in my book. It also has one of my favorite things, which is a second-chance romance arc with tensionnn. My favorite. As a fantasy WITH romance, not a ROMANCE fantasy, it was also the perfect blend of plot with emotions and not the other way around.
Things I didn't love so much, or at all:
As the novel's plot progressed, I found myself strugglinggggg to continue reading it. It's almost like the more that happened, the less I was engaged, and so by the time the last third of the novel came around I was barely able to get from page to page. Now, that MIGHT have been a me problem as a disinterested/burned out fantasy reader... but I don't think so. I think that the introduction of so many easy-to-decipher "reveals" mixed with glossed-over plot points mixed with too many chapter POV shifts led to me, the reader, feeling like the story was tired of unfolding and therefore it was just dumping stuff as quickly as possible in order to finish itself. For a novel with so much going on, I was extremely bored and found myself very disengaged from any curiosity about where the story was going. Of course that person was going to betray us. Of course this is going to happen. Etc. Again, I've made the disclaimer that this all might have been a "me" issue... but I'm putting it down here in case anyone else feels this way.
I also think that toward the end of this novel, the character's emotional responses and decisions stopped making sense to me. Notably, there's a large plot spoiler at the end(ish) of the novel—the one about Sylvain and his service to the queen—that really reframes the emotional future of Sylvain and Lyta, our two main love interests. Their collective responses to this very large shift in their future dynamic was SO odd to me and that, coupled with the wham-bam speed of which we're told a bunch of emotional info like that and then moved swiftly onto the next moment... yeah. It was a lot. And it made me treat this story much less seriously that I had in the first half of the reading experience.
I don't know, folks. This novel was fun. But it was also a drag. I think I'll reserve final judgment on the tale until the sequel comes out and I can see how the next arc of the story resolves itself, which might make this first book more enjoyable.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
Okay, so this was a really odd read. I've landed on a three star... it deserves both more and less in equal measure. I'm not sure how to talk about it?
An English medieval-esque fantasy variant with an emphasis on the printing press, old gods, and heists with a dash of second-chance romance and political intrigue thrown in for, seemingly, the fun of it all.
The Book of Gold is the kind of novel that I think resonates as much as it repels. Or at least, that's my experience with it. I'm not sure if I'm ever going to read it again, but also I might and I might be very interested in the sequel. What??
On a personal note, I've had such a weird reading year that there's a small sliver of me saying that this is a case of "it's not the book, it's my weird AF mood"... but I truly don't think so, I think there's some mess here to discuss.
Please see the book's official synopsis for a description—apparently 2025 is my year of reaction reviews vs. balanced summaries.
So, right off the top: I think The Book of Gold was fun. It never portrayed itself as a Serious Fantasy Novel and it doesn't read that way. It's a mostly fun romp through a lot of surface-level concepts with some compelling character dynamics hinged around a heist plot that unfolds into political intrigue.
Things I loved about this novel:
It wasn't heavy or dense, the plot was very easy to get into and the characters were engagingly written in a way that captivated me without alienating the reader with too many high fantasy concepts. This story gets right into the thick of it, which is always a plus in my book. It also has one of my favorite things, which is a second-chance romance arc with tensionnn. My favorite. As a fantasy WITH romance, not a ROMANCE fantasy, it was also the perfect blend of plot with emotions and not the other way around.
Things I didn't love so much, or at all:
As the novel's plot progressed, I found myself strugglinggggg to continue reading it. It's almost like the more that happened, the less I was engaged, and so by the time the last third of the novel came around I was barely able to get from page to page. Now, that MIGHT have been a me problem as a disinterested/burned out fantasy reader... but I don't think so. I think that the introduction of so many easy-to-decipher "reveals" mixed with glossed-over plot points mixed with too many chapter POV shifts led to me, the reader, feeling like the story was tired of unfolding and therefore it was just dumping stuff as quickly as possible in order to finish itself. For a novel with so much going on, I was extremely bored and found myself very disengaged from any curiosity about where the story was going. Of course that person was going to betray us. Of course this is going to happen. Etc. Again, I've made the disclaimer that this all might have been a "me" issue... but I'm putting it down here in case anyone else feels this way.
I also think that toward the end of this novel, the character's emotional responses and decisions stopped making sense to me. Notably, there's a large plot spoiler at the end(ish) of the novel—the one about Sylvain and his service to the queen—that really reframes the emotional future of Sylvain and Lyta, our two main love interests. Their collective responses to this very large shift in their future dynamic was SO odd to me and that, coupled with the wham-bam speed of which we're told a bunch of emotional info like that and then moved swiftly onto the next moment... yeah. It was a lot. And it made me treat this story much less seriously that I had in the first half of the reading experience.
I don't know, folks. This novel was fun. But it was also a drag. I think I'll reserve final judgment on the tale until the sequel comes out and I can see how the next arc of the story resolves itself, which might make this first book more enjoyable.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
March 2, 2025
4.5* This was such a pleasant surprise but honestly, it shouldn't have been. I should have known I would love this. I mean, it's got everything I love in a book: a ragtag crew, a heist, magical books, a second chance, slow burn romance with great banter and it's a book about books. Of course I was going to love it and I did from the first page until the last.
That being said, I'm glad I went into this not knowing much about it because it was such a fun ride. I didn't realise this was the start of a series and whilst it totally works as a standalone, I can't wait to read book two!
That being said, I'm glad I went into this not knowing much about it because it was such a fun ride. I didn't realise this was the start of a series and whilst it totally works as a standalone, I can't wait to read book two!
March 18, 2025
3.5/5 stars
The Book of Gold is a semi-historical fantasy about the heist of a magical book. When her younger brother Kit is accused of printing seditious pamphlets against the monarchy, Lyta, a notorious thief, bargains with the king for her brother’s life in exchange for stealing back the mysterious and magical Book of Gold. She assembles a crew to do the job and is forced to include Sylvian, her once lover and partner in crime and now captain of the royal guard, who she once betrayed and was betrayed by in return. The monarchy, the church, the criminal underworld and the old gods themselves have a stake in the future of the book, and Lyta and her crew must navigate it all if they want to succeed.
I liked the story, but this could have been better written. I thought there was just some iffy storytelling and numerous plotholes. The central heist wasn’t all that complex either so the build up wasn’t really worth the hype of being called “a heist for the ages” right on the book’s cover. The characterizations were also all over the place with characters changing their positions and attitudes from one page to the next without enough justification or preamble. And let’s not talk about how the characters seem to be unable to share any information with each other whether it be a secret or not. Some things just never come up because they never talk things through. They could fix all their problems if they just laid it all out.
The characters may be in their 20s, but this could have been any YA heist fantasy out there. It just doesn’t come across as adult in the prose, story, nor content. In fact, this reminded me a lot of Six of Crows but just not as well written, with a less interesting heist, and featuring a team that is half full of past betrayals and half new unfamiliar dynamics.
Despite my many critical points above, I did actually enjoy this book as I am able to ignore most of the issues. I liked Lyta and Sylvian with their history of betrayals (another product of poor communication) and their will-they-or-won’t-they romance that turns into they-sort-of-are-but-aren’t. I’m rooting for them still. Lyta’s love for her estranged brother and Syl’s need to honor promises soften their many flaws. I especially like Kit (and not just for the gay representation) with his complicated relationship with his sister and his attitude towards nobility despite his growing attachment to a nobleman. Told from all three of their perspectives, the story feels well rounded and has something for everyone to latch on to. While it does tell a self contained story, the more personal storylines are still very much in limbo and ripe for exploration in future installments.
The Book of Gold underdelivers, but it offers enough to be ultimately satisfying nonetheless.
*Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for the eARC via NetGalley
The Book of Gold is a semi-historical fantasy about the heist of a magical book. When her younger brother Kit is accused of printing seditious pamphlets against the monarchy, Lyta, a notorious thief, bargains with the king for her brother’s life in exchange for stealing back the mysterious and magical Book of Gold. She assembles a crew to do the job and is forced to include Sylvian, her once lover and partner in crime and now captain of the royal guard, who she once betrayed and was betrayed by in return. The monarchy, the church, the criminal underworld and the old gods themselves have a stake in the future of the book, and Lyta and her crew must navigate it all if they want to succeed.
I liked the story, but this could have been better written. I thought there was just some iffy storytelling and numerous plotholes. The central heist wasn’t all that complex either so the build up wasn’t really worth the hype of being called “a heist for the ages” right on the book’s cover. The characterizations were also all over the place with characters changing their positions and attitudes from one page to the next without enough justification or preamble. And let’s not talk about how the characters seem to be unable to share any information with each other whether it be a secret or not. Some things just never come up because they never talk things through. They could fix all their problems if they just laid it all out.
The characters may be in their 20s, but this could have been any YA heist fantasy out there. It just doesn’t come across as adult in the prose, story, nor content. In fact, this reminded me a lot of Six of Crows but just not as well written, with a less interesting heist, and featuring a team that is half full of past betrayals and half new unfamiliar dynamics.
Despite my many critical points above, I did actually enjoy this book as I am able to ignore most of the issues. I liked Lyta and Sylvian with their history of betrayals (another product of poor communication) and their will-they-or-won’t-they romance that turns into they-sort-of-are-but-aren’t. I’m rooting for them still. Lyta’s love for her estranged brother and Syl’s need to honor promises soften their many flaws. I especially like Kit (and not just for the gay representation) with his complicated relationship with his sister and his attitude towards nobility despite his growing attachment to a nobleman. Told from all three of their perspectives, the story feels well rounded and has something for everyone to latch on to. While it does tell a self contained story, the more personal storylines are still very much in limbo and ripe for exploration in future installments.
The Book of Gold underdelivers, but it offers enough to be ultimately satisfying nonetheless.
*Thank you to Hodder & Stoughton for the eARC via NetGalley
January 2, 2025
Review originally on JamReads
The Book of Gold is the first instalment in the historical inspired fantasy series The Feral Gods, written by Ruth Frances Long, published by Hodderscape. The heist of a magical book would act as the main conductor of a plot full of adventure, intrigue, and romance, set in a Renaissance Amberes and featuring an intriguing pantheon of gods that will inevitably become part of the story.
Lyta loves to steal, but there's nothing she loves more than her brother Kit. After Kit is arrested for printing pamphlets against the king, Lyta strikes a deal with the king to steal a legendary book from the location where her husband disappeared in exchange for her brother's life; for that she will be forced to join efforts with her former lover and now enemy captain Sylvian. A heist that will not only put their lives at risk, but which also will end revealing more about the old gods that are being silenced by the Church.
There isn't a heist without a team, and this is probably the best aspect of The Book Of Gold, as the rest of characters that end being part of Lyta's plan are memorable. Not only we have the hotheaded, but audacious Lyta, but her banter and past with Sylvian makes the enemies to lovers part of the romance really enjoyable, as you can understand why they took those decisions on the past; Kit tries to be a model citizen in contraposition with Lyta's job, but at the end, he's still part of the same family, and Ben, a shy scholar that hides more behind his flesh than would like to reveal.
The historical setting is simply delicious, a Flandes under the control of the Spaniard crown, full immersed in the Renaissance; the attention to detail makes you able to walk on its streets. You can feel how much the author appreciates books, putting them in a reverent spot. The pacing is excellent, making of this a really smooth read, despite I would have preferred to have a bit more of focus on the heist itself instead of the part where the team is gathered.
The Book of Gold is a great historical inspired fantasy novel, a really smooth reading experience, perfect if you are looking for a well researched inspired fantasy with an interesting cast of characters. Can't wait to see how the Feral Gods series continue in the next instalments.
The Book of Gold is the first instalment in the historical inspired fantasy series The Feral Gods, written by Ruth Frances Long, published by Hodderscape. The heist of a magical book would act as the main conductor of a plot full of adventure, intrigue, and romance, set in a Renaissance Amberes and featuring an intriguing pantheon of gods that will inevitably become part of the story.
Lyta loves to steal, but there's nothing she loves more than her brother Kit. After Kit is arrested for printing pamphlets against the king, Lyta strikes a deal with the king to steal a legendary book from the location where her husband disappeared in exchange for her brother's life; for that she will be forced to join efforts with her former lover and now enemy captain Sylvian. A heist that will not only put their lives at risk, but which also will end revealing more about the old gods that are being silenced by the Church.
There isn't a heist without a team, and this is probably the best aspect of The Book Of Gold, as the rest of characters that end being part of Lyta's plan are memorable. Not only we have the hotheaded, but audacious Lyta, but her banter and past with Sylvian makes the enemies to lovers part of the romance really enjoyable, as you can understand why they took those decisions on the past; Kit tries to be a model citizen in contraposition with Lyta's job, but at the end, he's still part of the same family, and Ben, a shy scholar that hides more behind his flesh than would like to reveal.
The historical setting is simply delicious, a Flandes under the control of the Spaniard crown, full immersed in the Renaissance; the attention to detail makes you able to walk on its streets. You can feel how much the author appreciates books, putting them in a reverent spot. The pacing is excellent, making of this a really smooth read, despite I would have preferred to have a bit more of focus on the heist itself instead of the part where the team is gathered.
The Book of Gold is a great historical inspired fantasy novel, a really smooth reading experience, perfect if you are looking for a well researched inspired fantasy with an interesting cast of characters. Can't wait to see how the Feral Gods series continue in the next instalments.
November 15, 2024
An absolute stunner that I simply could never put down.
SIX OF CROWS meets THE LIES OF LOCKE LAMORA, with just a hint of A DARKER SHADE OF MAGIC, with a charm and edge that is all Long's own.
SIX OF CROWS meets THE LIES OF LOCKE LAMORA, with just a hint of A DARKER SHADE OF MAGIC, with a charm and edge that is all Long's own.
April 8, 2025
Buying a special edition with all the accoutrement, including beautiful sprayed edges - especially from a bookseller across the pond - is always risky. I've been burned by way too many pretty books in recent months, picking them up on a whim for their artwork or special edges, etc., and now they're just shelf decorations turned backwards because even though the books weren't for me, I'm still happy to have supported a writer and their art. And the least they can do is make my shelves look pretty.
That being said, this book was slightly less risky, as I had read a novel by this author previously: The Treachery of Beautiful Things. It was one of the first ARCs I'd ever received when I started blogging, and I devoured it. To this day, I still love stories about the fae. But The Book of Gold is not quite that.
There is magic. There is treachery. And there are trickster gods and other gods of olde. There are thieves and found family and most importantly, a heist. And I was glued to my seat for it all. I listened to the audiobook while I read along -- in my ebook because I wasn't about to cause any damage to that beautiful special edition -- and it was as fantastic as I'd been hoping since I first discovered the author had a new title releasing at the end of last year. So, I feel extra great about buying not one but THREE separate versions. Less great about it taking me this long to get to it, but I'm here now.
I'm not sure that I've ever heard Helen Keeley's narration before - not unless she has another name she records under - but she did a superb job with this audiobook. I felt the frenetic energy of the characters as they set out to accomplish all that Lyta had overpromised. I particularly appreciated the gruff, growly voice of Captain Sylvian Chant. ;)
I am so happy to see that this is a series and that I'll get to revisit these characters again in the future.
That being said, this book was slightly less risky, as I had read a novel by this author previously: The Treachery of Beautiful Things. It was one of the first ARCs I'd ever received when I started blogging, and I devoured it. To this day, I still love stories about the fae. But The Book of Gold is not quite that.
There is magic. There is treachery. And there are trickster gods and other gods of olde. There are thieves and found family and most importantly, a heist. And I was glued to my seat for it all. I listened to the audiobook while I read along -- in my ebook because I wasn't about to cause any damage to that beautiful special edition -- and it was as fantastic as I'd been hoping since I first discovered the author had a new title releasing at the end of last year. So, I feel extra great about buying not one but THREE separate versions. Less great about it taking me this long to get to it, but I'm here now.
I'm not sure that I've ever heard Helen Keeley's narration before - not unless she has another name she records under - but she did a superb job with this audiobook. I felt the frenetic energy of the characters as they set out to accomplish all that Lyta had overpromised. I particularly appreciated the gruff, growly voice of Captain Sylvian Chant. ;)
I am so happy to see that this is a series and that I'll get to revisit these characters again in the future.
January 22, 2025
Looking for a fantasy book set in a 'What If?' version of 16th century Antwerp? What about if that novel is all about heists, too? But... what if that novel also has a helping of well-placed romance, a love of literature and the art of books, *and* a pantheon of meddling, petty gods all added for good measure?
You need not look further than 'The Book of Gold' by Ruth Frances Long. It has all of the above and more and, I'm happy to say, it's a brilliant, ripping-yarn of a tale.
With a studious eye to history - Antwerp is Amberes here, which is the Spanish name of the city - Long grounds us in what, at first glance, could be a historical fantasy. The level of detail to the setting is that high. The research (and hard yards around Antwerp done by the author) pay off in spades - Amberes feels real because not only is it painted with vivid strokes but with life and energy, too.
But this isn't exactly a historical fantasy. There's magic in this version of Amberes - lots of it - and it all centers around the fabled Book of Gold. Inspired by the Plantin Polyglot Bible, Long's love of books shines through every page of this tale. The theme of 'books as treasure' underpins the book - Kit, the protagonist Lyta's brother, is a printer, and even the gods themselves cast envious eyes at the titular Book of Gold.
The character work is top-notch, too. Lyta is a well-rounded and rambunctious sort who lives her life according to the luck bestowed on her by the Trickster god, Eninn. Her relationships with the people around her - her brother Kit, Eninn, and former lover and mutual pain in the backside Sylvain - are what makes up the moreish center of The Book of Gold. The heist is enormous fun, as is the political intrigue and excellent worldbuilding, but the characters sing. Long keeps an excellent pace to her storytelling, too, understanding the requirements of heist and caper innately.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with The Book of Gold. Smooth prose mixed with confident worldbuilding and stunning imagination, I'm fully on board for more adventures with Lyta and crew, and am excited to see where Long takes us next.
For fans of Solo, The Princess Bride, Ocean's Eight and Eleven, and anyone looking for a wonderful book worthy of heists.
You need not look further than 'The Book of Gold' by Ruth Frances Long. It has all of the above and more and, I'm happy to say, it's a brilliant, ripping-yarn of a tale.
With a studious eye to history - Antwerp is Amberes here, which is the Spanish name of the city - Long grounds us in what, at first glance, could be a historical fantasy. The level of detail to the setting is that high. The research (and hard yards around Antwerp done by the author) pay off in spades - Amberes feels real because not only is it painted with vivid strokes but with life and energy, too.
But this isn't exactly a historical fantasy. There's magic in this version of Amberes - lots of it - and it all centers around the fabled Book of Gold. Inspired by the Plantin Polyglot Bible, Long's love of books shines through every page of this tale. The theme of 'books as treasure' underpins the book - Kit, the protagonist Lyta's brother, is a printer, and even the gods themselves cast envious eyes at the titular Book of Gold.
The character work is top-notch, too. Lyta is a well-rounded and rambunctious sort who lives her life according to the luck bestowed on her by the Trickster god, Eninn. Her relationships with the people around her - her brother Kit, Eninn, and former lover and mutual pain in the backside Sylvain - are what makes up the moreish center of The Book of Gold. The heist is enormous fun, as is the political intrigue and excellent worldbuilding, but the characters sing. Long keeps an excellent pace to her storytelling, too, understanding the requirements of heist and caper innately.
Overall, I enjoyed my time with The Book of Gold. Smooth prose mixed with confident worldbuilding and stunning imagination, I'm fully on board for more adventures with Lyta and crew, and am excited to see where Long takes us next.
For fans of Solo, The Princess Bride, Ocean's Eight and Eleven, and anyone looking for a wonderful book worthy of heists.
August 28, 2024
This was EXCELLENT.
November 25, 2024
3.5 stars
Conceptually, The Book of Gold sounds quite interesting. I always enjoy books that are centred around heists and for the most part, I quite liked this. Lyta loves to steal, but she also loves her brother Kit and is willing to do anything for him. After Kit gets arrested, Lyta strikes a bargain with the king to steal the legendary book after which this book itself is title. But for that, she needs to work with others - Ben, a mysterious scholar and her former lover now enemy (kinda) turned royal guard Slyvian.
The cast of characters was the perfect mix of personalities. Lyta is headstrong, a tad bit reckless and willing to rush into danger at any moment. Kit is careful and wary and reluctant, slowly gaining feelings for Ben, the scholar, who himself is a mystery. And then there's Sylvian, a brooding soldier who despises Lyta (or not actually). They mesh together surprisingly well and honestly the scenes with all of them together were so much fun to read.
Although I liked the world building, I would say that it got a little bit confusing at times. I also didn't realise that this was semi-historical fiction/fantasy till waaay too late in the book. While the pacing was pretty good at the start and continued to be so during the planning stages of the heist, it just kind of fizzled out when the actual heist happened. But the writing style was really good and descriptive without feeling like it was going to further drag down the pace. It was quite easy to imagine the locations where the characters were going.
All in all, I did enjoy The Book of Gold and I am looking forward to finding out what happens to these characters in the next book!
Thank you Hodderscape for the e-ARC through NetGalley!
Conceptually, The Book of Gold sounds quite interesting. I always enjoy books that are centred around heists and for the most part, I quite liked this. Lyta loves to steal, but she also loves her brother Kit and is willing to do anything for him. After Kit gets arrested, Lyta strikes a bargain with the king to steal the legendary book after which this book itself is title. But for that, she needs to work with others - Ben, a mysterious scholar and her former lover now enemy (kinda) turned royal guard Slyvian.
The cast of characters was the perfect mix of personalities. Lyta is headstrong, a tad bit reckless and willing to rush into danger at any moment. Kit is careful and wary and reluctant, slowly gaining feelings for Ben, the scholar, who himself is a mystery. And then there's Sylvian, a brooding soldier who despises Lyta (or not actually). They mesh together surprisingly well and honestly the scenes with all of them together were so much fun to read.
Although I liked the world building, I would say that it got a little bit confusing at times. I also didn't realise that this was semi-historical fiction/fantasy till waaay too late in the book. While the pacing was pretty good at the start and continued to be so during the planning stages of the heist, it just kind of fizzled out when the actual heist happened. But the writing style was really good and descriptive without feeling like it was going to further drag down the pace. It was quite easy to imagine the locations where the characters were going.
All in all, I did enjoy The Book of Gold and I am looking forward to finding out what happens to these characters in the next book!
Thank you Hodderscape for the e-ARC through NetGalley!
July 13, 2025
DNF. Badly written and I'm still bored after 80 pages. Fire whoever edited this.
November 27, 2024
I try to read summaries before picking up books. I really do. However, sometimes books simply have such beautiful covers that I can't be bothered to check what it's about. I just wanna read and have them. So, I pre-ordered this book and then I noticed that the publisher made digital review copies available through Netgalley. Of course I submitted a request, once more without reading the summary, and Hodderscape granted me a copy.
Let me start this review by stating that this book is really nicely written. The sentences flew nicely, the thoughts and emotions of the characters felt and seemed realistic, the dialogues felt natural and it was easy to understand these characters and to root for them. I also liked getting three different perspectives, especially because all three characters were different and had different roles in the story that was being told.
I'm not a huge fan of heist stories in general, though. I guess that's partly because characters capable of a successful heist are also characters capable of dealing with emotions I can't really understand. They're not the emotional types, or they're very talented and controlling their emotions and keeping them in check. That's hard for me to relate to and since I read books to feel something it's also not what I mostly prefer.
However, the mythology of this book and the world building was awesome. I have to admit that the finale of the book, with all the reveals and information, felt a little chaotic and all over the place, but we had gotten more than enough information before then so it never really got confusing. I also liked that a part of the storyline is finished and yet another part of the storyline has only just started. The ending is kinda satisfying and yet I'm also very curious about the next book!
Let me start this review by stating that this book is really nicely written. The sentences flew nicely, the thoughts and emotions of the characters felt and seemed realistic, the dialogues felt natural and it was easy to understand these characters and to root for them. I also liked getting three different perspectives, especially because all three characters were different and had different roles in the story that was being told.
I'm not a huge fan of heist stories in general, though. I guess that's partly because characters capable of a successful heist are also characters capable of dealing with emotions I can't really understand. They're not the emotional types, or they're very talented and controlling their emotions and keeping them in check. That's hard for me to relate to and since I read books to feel something it's also not what I mostly prefer.
However, the mythology of this book and the world building was awesome. I have to admit that the finale of the book, with all the reveals and information, felt a little chaotic and all over the place, but we had gotten more than enough information before then so it never really got confusing. I also liked that a part of the storyline is finished and yet another part of the storyline has only just started. The ending is kinda satisfying and yet I'm also very curious about the next book!
January 26, 2025
This came to me as a Goldsboro GSFF monthly, so I had very high hopes as I’ve loved the past ones. That being said, I really don’t know how I feel about this book. Every time I started to get into it, it started to get boring again. It’s a toss up between 1) I just wasn’t as in the mood to read as I thought and it’s my fault, not the book or 2) The book just isn’t that great and I’m gaslighting myself.
As a whole, it’s okay… I guess? It felt like something I’d already read before to be truthful and a lot of the dialogue and tropes felt a bit “teenage” fuelled for an adult book with adult characters. But I like stories with Gods and magic and some of the characters were relatively likeable. (Not Sylvian. I actually hate that guy and his whole “I can’t control my bloodlust warrior urges, once I get going”. Ew. Not even slightly sorry).
Am I glad I read it? Meh. Am I glad it’s over? …sadly yes. Even though this isn’t my particular cup of tea, I can appreciate why others would enjoy it and effort was clearly made. I may even read the next book in the series, just to be sure of my feelings.
As a whole, it’s okay… I guess? It felt like something I’d already read before to be truthful and a lot of the dialogue and tropes felt a bit “teenage” fuelled for an adult book with adult characters. But I like stories with Gods and magic and some of the characters were relatively likeable. (Not Sylvian. I actually hate that guy and his whole “I can’t control my bloodlust warrior urges, once I get going”. Ew. Not even slightly sorry).
Am I glad I read it? Meh. Am I glad it’s over? …sadly yes. Even though this isn’t my particular cup of tea, I can appreciate why others would enjoy it and effort was clearly made. I may even read the next book in the series, just to be sure of my feelings.
October 22, 2024
3.25 stars
This should have worked for me. It’s a kind of mix of historical fantasy with a reimagined history circa late 1500s and magic and gods and a heist. But it just didn’t click for me.
The characters, especially Lyta, all took turns being extremely frustrating, secretive, and miscommunicative. I could tell the heist was going to be a disaster from the beginning, and nothing irritates me more than a confident thief who is actually terrible at thieving.
I also usually love a mash up of histfic and fantasy, but the world building being SO heavily steeped in real places, but half renamed and half not just didn’t work for me.
The one thing I did enjoy was the lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers(?) relationship between Lyta and Sylvian. But the end frustrated me there. There will clearly be a series here, and I’m sure their push-pull will be back in full force for future books. I’m just not sure I care to read them.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the preview. All opinions are my own.
This should have worked for me. It’s a kind of mix of historical fantasy with a reimagined history circa late 1500s and magic and gods and a heist. But it just didn’t click for me.
The characters, especially Lyta, all took turns being extremely frustrating, secretive, and miscommunicative. I could tell the heist was going to be a disaster from the beginning, and nothing irritates me more than a confident thief who is actually terrible at thieving.
I also usually love a mash up of histfic and fantasy, but the world building being SO heavily steeped in real places, but half renamed and half not just didn’t work for me.
The one thing I did enjoy was the lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers(?) relationship between Lyta and Sylvian. But the end frustrated me there. There will clearly be a series here, and I’m sure their push-pull will be back in full force for future books. I’m just not sure I care to read them.
Many thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the preview. All opinions are my own.
October 31, 2024
I would like to thank the publisher and NetGalley for allowing me to read and honestly review an advanced reader’s copy of this book.
I liked that this was very different than everything else currently on the market. I don’t normally read historical fantasy, but I really enjoyed the re-imagined setting and the world of feral gods and magic.
I wish I’d been a little more invested in the relationships. I normally love a second-chance lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers dynamic but neither Lyta nor Sylvian really spoke to me; they fell a bit flat.
I really liked Ben as a character, but his romance with Kit felt quite sudden; no build up. They meet and they’re just very instantly into each other, despite barely knowing each other.
Overall, if you love a re-imagined historical fantasy with a very tense heist; you’re going to love this book!
I liked that this was very different than everything else currently on the market. I don’t normally read historical fantasy, but I really enjoyed the re-imagined setting and the world of feral gods and magic.
I wish I’d been a little more invested in the relationships. I normally love a second-chance lovers-to-enemies-to-lovers dynamic but neither Lyta nor Sylvian really spoke to me; they fell a bit flat.
I really liked Ben as a character, but his romance with Kit felt quite sudden; no build up. They meet and they’re just very instantly into each other, despite barely knowing each other.
Overall, if you love a re-imagined historical fantasy with a very tense heist; you’re going to love this book!
December 12, 2024
4.5*
I really, really loved this. It doesn't neccessarilly do anything new but the story still felt fresh, gripping and interesting.
I especially loved the characters. They multi-faceted, complex people and I enjoyed reading from all three POVs. Especially Lyta could have been a cardboard romantasy heroine, but even though she was quick-witted and very good at what she does, she was a delight to be around and her characer just felt very balanced.
I found the world quite interesting, but I wish it would have been fleshed out a bit more.
I'm very excited to see where this is going next.
I really, really loved this. It doesn't neccessarilly do anything new but the story still felt fresh, gripping and interesting.
I especially loved the characters. They multi-faceted, complex people and I enjoyed reading from all three POVs. Especially Lyta could have been a cardboard romantasy heroine, but even though she was quick-witted and very good at what she does, she was a delight to be around and her characer just felt very balanced.
I found the world quite interesting, but I wish it would have been fleshed out a bit more.
I'm very excited to see where this is going next.
January 20, 2025
Well-plotted, engaging characters, and lots of interesting historical details. A fun read.
December 15, 2024
4.5⭐️
This was a wonderful start of a series!
I’m very excited to see where this is gonna go and I have my own theories 👀
I loved the characters, I adored the plot & it felt magical to read.
This was a wonderful start of a series!
I’m very excited to see where this is gonna go and I have my own theories 👀
I loved the characters, I adored the plot & it felt magical to read.
November 2, 2025
A heist set for a mysterious magical book, a power struggle between state and church, a tense reunion between ex-partners, and legendary beings trapped and abandoned by the God of Thieves, Ruth Frances Long’s the Book of Gold has a lot of interesting concepts to say the least. The start of the Feral Gods trilogy, this book has a lot of narrative content fitted into a sub three-hundred-and-fifty-page book that is part fantasy, part 16th century historical fiction adventure. Though the story has a variety of plotlines that lay the groundwork for the series to expand on, at its core it’s a tense and strained second-chance romance between individuals standing on different sides of the law and state, all in pursuit of otherworldly power. Action and relationship oriented, the Book of Gold is a competently crafted book that despite a sense of mismanaged focus, is still a fun and light entertaining fantasy read. (on Goodreads, 3.5 rounded down)
At first glance, the Book of Gold appears to be a simplistic rogue x knight trope applied to a fantasy heist storyline. The book has all the elements one would expect such as an unorthodox assembled ragtag heist team, economic disparity between the nobility and the common people, a magical treasure of unknown power, and hidden agendas behind scheme. The expected heist ingredients are all there, but interestingly they feel less inspired compared to the historical fiction concepts that appear to be the true focus of the story. Set in 16th century Amberes (also known as Antwerp in modern day Belgium), the story is a fantasy-inspired twist on the censorship of the printing press as well as the heavy influx of trading resources and new economic wealth mirroring Antwerp's real historic golden age. The book’s historical fiction elements are solid, in a sense almost acting like an alternate history of the Flemish region had magic and religion been in play. Amberes as a time and place feels immersive, lived-in, and the architecture plus waterways a visual highlight. The gods, the book, and their connection to Amberes’s history are great.
While the book’s central heist and second chance romance were the main plot elements heavily marketed and pushed, interestingly I found both to be less interesting than the contextual bigger picture and story involved. Apart from the Alvarez siblings, all the main characters have a shared childhood and past relationships prior to their separations following a botched plan many years ago. Each taking a different path for survival following their split, I found the book to be most interesting when it reflected on their differences; Lyta chaotically individualistic, Kit seeking lawful change, and Sylvian finding a path forward through the royal enlistment draft. While briefly touched upon during the story’s introduction and seen in snapshot scenes when Lyta prays to God of Thievery in dire moments, the story’s element of powerful and entrapped gods is also an interesting concept that provides majority of the book’s fantasy content that often feels underutilized or sparse given the genre.
Generally fast-paced and entertaining, I found the Book of Gold to sometimes struggle with juggling its different narrative pieces and torn between what it wants the story to be about. Like some other reviews have mentioned, I personally found the heist itself to be one of the less notable and interesting arcs of the book despite it being the main event for the first two thirds of the book. While consistently paced, it felt like so much of the book’s length was devoted to planning and executing the heist, to the point where the extensive lead-up overhyped the main event. The aftermath of the heist is also where most of the heavy fantasy elements of the book come into play, leading to rather haphazard world-building and magic mechanics thrown around in an effort to close out the story quickly. Having read Long’s author’s note/acknowledgement section, it’s clear that the storylines involving the book itself, Kit’s printing press, and Amberes’s political conflicts were the inspiration for the book which probably should’ve been the primary focus, not the heist to obtain the book (likely a marketing/publishing decision for a popular hook). The narrative material following the heist in general is good, but is simply too rushed, coming off as a bit messy and chaotic in execution.
Aside from the infiltration and political movements revolving around the book, the other main draw of the Book of Gold is supposed to be the romance. However, like the heist, the character romance felt like a misplaced focus as it often seemed to slow the pace of the story. Between the strong beginning and the heist itself, I felt like the story kind of stagnated once the heist team was assembled. Character-based tangents involving Lyta and Sylvian’s history and her search for her lost husband Ranulf unfortunately felt less compelling to me than the series’ larger world-building, conflicts of different political powers, and backstory involving the God of Thievery. Minor spoilers aside, the Book of Gold actually features more than one romantic couple. While the second couple is more unexpected given its lack of mention in the book’s synopsis, its surprising inclusion and relationship dynamics over the course of the book feel better placed and varied. While Lyta and Sylvian’s shared history and relationship conflict are far from being poor, it was the least distinctive and interesting element of the book for me. Particularly with the book’s out of left field plot twist involving the God of Love’s ring and Sylvian’s role in King Francisco’s court, there was a lot of great potential for uncomfortable yet interesting material to cover that was simply glossed over, Sylvian himself even commentating on the lack of discussion following the reveal. Notably, although the character romance is a big part of this book, the Book of Gold is not a romantasy book but a fantasy romance one. While this book doesn’t fall into the common romantasy tropes or throw around unnecessary spice, it also doesn’t feel like it balances its romance and fantasy elements particularly well either, at least when it comes to Lyta and Sylvian (the other couple’s romance is tied to the fantasy elements far better).
Easy to read and set around a unique time period and region not often featured in historical fantasy books, the Book of Gold is a fun and above average read. Featuring a great variety of narrative elements heightened by generally good plotting and writing, by all accounts this book should’ve been a resounding success on paper. In actuality though, the commitment and focus on Lyta’s heist for the titular book and romance in the face of opposing factors feel like the book inadvertently shoots itself in the foot by not focusing on the story’s more imaginative and unique material, the romance in particular affecting the pacing. For a series called The Feral Gods, the gods’ involvement in the story were limited and very late in the story. My experience reading this book felt a lot like when I read Makana Yamamoto’s Hammajang Luck earlier this year, except the opposite way around where that book’s heist felt far more successful compared to everything else happening around it. Fortunately, although I found the ending arc of the Book of Gold to be rather chaotic and messy, I did like the direction the series appeared to be going which bodes well for Long’s upcoming The Lore of Silver due to come out later this month (I already have the matching Goldsboro Edition of it pre-ordered). While this wasn’t necessarily a favorite fantasy read per se, it was still a pretty good time and I’m looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here!
*For more reviews, book lists and reading updates, check out my blog TheBookGrind!
At first glance, the Book of Gold appears to be a simplistic rogue x knight trope applied to a fantasy heist storyline. The book has all the elements one would expect such as an unorthodox assembled ragtag heist team, economic disparity between the nobility and the common people, a magical treasure of unknown power, and hidden agendas behind scheme. The expected heist ingredients are all there, but interestingly they feel less inspired compared to the historical fiction concepts that appear to be the true focus of the story. Set in 16th century Amberes (also known as Antwerp in modern day Belgium), the story is a fantasy-inspired twist on the censorship of the printing press as well as the heavy influx of trading resources and new economic wealth mirroring Antwerp's real historic golden age. The book’s historical fiction elements are solid, in a sense almost acting like an alternate history of the Flemish region had magic and religion been in play. Amberes as a time and place feels immersive, lived-in, and the architecture plus waterways a visual highlight. The gods, the book, and their connection to Amberes’s history are great.
While the book’s central heist and second chance romance were the main plot elements heavily marketed and pushed, interestingly I found both to be less interesting than the contextual bigger picture and story involved. Apart from the Alvarez siblings, all the main characters have a shared childhood and past relationships prior to their separations following a botched plan many years ago. Each taking a different path for survival following their split, I found the book to be most interesting when it reflected on their differences; Lyta chaotically individualistic, Kit seeking lawful change, and Sylvian finding a path forward through the royal enlistment draft. While briefly touched upon during the story’s introduction and seen in snapshot scenes when Lyta prays to God of Thievery in dire moments, the story’s element of powerful and entrapped gods is also an interesting concept that provides majority of the book’s fantasy content that often feels underutilized or sparse given the genre.
Generally fast-paced and entertaining, I found the Book of Gold to sometimes struggle with juggling its different narrative pieces and torn between what it wants the story to be about. Like some other reviews have mentioned, I personally found the heist itself to be one of the less notable and interesting arcs of the book despite it being the main event for the first two thirds of the book. While consistently paced, it felt like so much of the book’s length was devoted to planning and executing the heist, to the point where the extensive lead-up overhyped the main event. The aftermath of the heist is also where most of the heavy fantasy elements of the book come into play, leading to rather haphazard world-building and magic mechanics thrown around in an effort to close out the story quickly. Having read Long’s author’s note/acknowledgement section, it’s clear that the storylines involving the book itself, Kit’s printing press, and Amberes’s political conflicts were the inspiration for the book which probably should’ve been the primary focus, not the heist to obtain the book (likely a marketing/publishing decision for a popular hook). The narrative material following the heist in general is good, but is simply too rushed, coming off as a bit messy and chaotic in execution.
Aside from the infiltration and political movements revolving around the book, the other main draw of the Book of Gold is supposed to be the romance. However, like the heist, the character romance felt like a misplaced focus as it often seemed to slow the pace of the story. Between the strong beginning and the heist itself, I felt like the story kind of stagnated once the heist team was assembled. Character-based tangents involving Lyta and Sylvian’s history and her search for her lost husband Ranulf unfortunately felt less compelling to me than the series’ larger world-building, conflicts of different political powers, and backstory involving the God of Thievery. Minor spoilers aside, the Book of Gold actually features more than one romantic couple. While the second couple is more unexpected given its lack of mention in the book’s synopsis, its surprising inclusion and relationship dynamics over the course of the book feel better placed and varied. While Lyta and Sylvian’s shared history and relationship conflict are far from being poor, it was the least distinctive and interesting element of the book for me. Particularly with the book’s out of left field plot twist involving the God of Love’s ring and Sylvian’s role in King Francisco’s court, there was a lot of great potential for uncomfortable yet interesting material to cover that was simply glossed over, Sylvian himself even commentating on the lack of discussion following the reveal. Notably, although the character romance is a big part of this book, the Book of Gold is not a romantasy book but a fantasy romance one. While this book doesn’t fall into the common romantasy tropes or throw around unnecessary spice, it also doesn’t feel like it balances its romance and fantasy elements particularly well either, at least when it comes to Lyta and Sylvian (the other couple’s romance is tied to the fantasy elements far better).
Easy to read and set around a unique time period and region not often featured in historical fantasy books, the Book of Gold is a fun and above average read. Featuring a great variety of narrative elements heightened by generally good plotting and writing, by all accounts this book should’ve been a resounding success on paper. In actuality though, the commitment and focus on Lyta’s heist for the titular book and romance in the face of opposing factors feel like the book inadvertently shoots itself in the foot by not focusing on the story’s more imaginative and unique material, the romance in particular affecting the pacing. For a series called The Feral Gods, the gods’ involvement in the story were limited and very late in the story. My experience reading this book felt a lot like when I read Makana Yamamoto’s Hammajang Luck earlier this year, except the opposite way around where that book’s heist felt far more successful compared to everything else happening around it. Fortunately, although I found the ending arc of the Book of Gold to be rather chaotic and messy, I did like the direction the series appeared to be going which bodes well for Long’s upcoming The Lore of Silver due to come out later this month (I already have the matching Goldsboro Edition of it pre-ordered). While this wasn’t necessarily a favorite fantasy read per se, it was still a pretty good time and I’m looking forward to seeing where the series goes from here!
*For more reviews, book lists and reading updates, check out my blog TheBookGrind!
April 24, 2025
I really enjoyed this book. I loved the three main characters of Lyta, Kit and Syl, and their complicated relationships between each other. I loved how each of these characters and their relationships develop over the course of the book.
I found the way each chapter was narrated from the perspective of one of these three characters allowed me to really bond with them.
I liked how the story is set in a world which resembles Europe during the counter reformation where we have the different powers, local nobility, the King, the church and the agent for a foreign power; and then gods and magic is added. As a reader of books, I love the idea that a book can be so powerful to contain magic and even gods.
My only grumble was the book cover. When I first saw the book cover I thought it was a children’s book. When I started to read the book I quickly discovered that it was too dark for children; if it was a movie it would be an over 18s.
As it is the first book in a series I’m really looking forward to the next book.
I found the way each chapter was narrated from the perspective of one of these three characters allowed me to really bond with them.
I liked how the story is set in a world which resembles Europe during the counter reformation where we have the different powers, local nobility, the King, the church and the agent for a foreign power; and then gods and magic is added. As a reader of books, I love the idea that a book can be so powerful to contain magic and even gods.
My only grumble was the book cover. When I first saw the book cover I thought it was a children’s book. When I started to read the book I quickly discovered that it was too dark for children; if it was a movie it would be an over 18s.
As it is the first book in a series I’m really looking forward to the next book.
December 3, 2024
2.5 Stars (outliner)
One Liner: Depends on how much you like the main character
Lyta is a notorious thief but she’ll do anything for her little big brother, Kit.
Kit wants nothing to do with his sister and leads a respectable life until he is arrested on sedition charges for printing a pamphlet in his press.
Lyta makes a bargain with the king to save Kit. She will steal The Book (the one with mysterious magical powers) in exchange for Kit’s life.
Sylvain is a reformed pirate and the king’s bodyguard. He wants nothing to do with Lyta after what she did to him. However, he seems to have no choice but to be with her for this heist.
Things will have to get dangerous before they are sorted.
The story comes in the third-person POVs of Lyta, Kit, and Sylvain Chant.
My Thoughts:
Yep, it’s me, once again falling for a pretty cover and an intriguing premise. This is supposed to be adult fantasy romance even if the main characters act like teens.
The book starts with a list of characters and their roles as well as the list of gods and their domains. Given how the characters are introduced in the first 20%, I’m glad to have this list in advance.
The three POVs (thanks for the third-person narration) give us the story and backstories from different perspectives. This helps since I didn’t (almost) always like the FMC and the other two balanced it out well.
Kit was a pretty decent character. Ben and Beatriz are intriguing (I wanted more of her). The king and queen are mysterious and mercurial. Sylvain was okay too. In fact, I empathized more with him as the plot progressed though I cannot figure out why he loves Lyta. Love is brainless, at least in this case!
Now, what do I say about Lyta? In theory, she is a great character. However, in execution, she is 200% cocky and has 10% substance. I don’t understand why we are hyping the fantasy FMCs only to make them act as if all their brain cells have turned charcoal. She is supposed to be a great thief. Guess what? It’s the opposite. None of her plans and attempts go without a hitch. Worse still, she put herself and others in danger. Also, she is too reckless and impulsive to be a pro-thief. Can anyone tell me why it is such a bad thing to do as someone else says when it is a better plan? Quite a few times, I was reminded of Until We Shatter (and not in a good way).
This is a plot-driven book, which means the characters don’t stay true to their arcs. That affected Lyta the worst. Even her love for her brother, Kit, doesn’t always show her in good light.
However, the plot isn’t executed well either. It is all over the place. In fact, I assumed this was a debut author’s work only to realize the author has written more books in the same genre. Moreover, I read two of her books under the pen name Jessica Throne. I’m surprised! While those books weren’t perfect, they were much better written. Three possible reasons for this:
• The author experimented with something here
• The other publisher had a much better editor
• This is a very early draft
It wasn’t until after 60% that the story started to be gripping. There were many gaps even then, but I could feel the tensions and danger rising. By the way, calling it a ‘heist for the ages’ is silly. It is not; nowhere close.
The world-building is patchy too, though I don’t know if it’ll be better in the coming books. While I like the premise of old gods being targeted by the Church, I also feel authors are using this as a go-to trope but not doing justice to it. I cannot feel the indigenous emotion, which rather defeats the purpose. After reading the author’s note at the end, I felt she should have stuck to the original instead of bringing in old gods.
It seems fantasy authors like to ‘use’ old gods but have no real respect or understanding of them. I'm getting tired of this.
There’s an ending but it is a semi-cliffhanger. Plot-wise I’m tempted to know more, but unfortunately, I do not like Lyta. I won’t continue with the series.
To summarize, The Book of Gold has an intriguing premise but ends up underwhelming due to various reasons. It will work better for readers who like YA fantasy (even if this is an adult book).
Thank you, NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton (Hodderscape), for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheBookofGold
One Liner: Depends on how much you like the main character
Lyta is a notorious thief but she’ll do anything for her little big brother, Kit.
Kit wants nothing to do with his sister and leads a respectable life until he is arrested on sedition charges for printing a pamphlet in his press.
Lyta makes a bargain with the king to save Kit. She will steal The Book (the one with mysterious magical powers) in exchange for Kit’s life.
Sylvain is a reformed pirate and the king’s bodyguard. He wants nothing to do with Lyta after what she did to him. However, he seems to have no choice but to be with her for this heist.
Things will have to get dangerous before they are sorted.
The story comes in the third-person POVs of Lyta, Kit, and Sylvain Chant.
My Thoughts:
Yep, it’s me, once again falling for a pretty cover and an intriguing premise. This is supposed to be adult fantasy romance even if the main characters act like teens.
The book starts with a list of characters and their roles as well as the list of gods and their domains. Given how the characters are introduced in the first 20%, I’m glad to have this list in advance.
The three POVs (thanks for the third-person narration) give us the story and backstories from different perspectives. This helps since I didn’t (almost) always like the FMC and the other two balanced it out well.
Kit was a pretty decent character. Ben and Beatriz are intriguing (I wanted more of her). The king and queen are mysterious and mercurial. Sylvain was okay too. In fact, I empathized more with him as the plot progressed though I cannot figure out why he loves Lyta. Love is brainless, at least in this case!
Now, what do I say about Lyta? In theory, she is a great character. However, in execution, she is 200% cocky and has 10% substance. I don’t understand why we are hyping the fantasy FMCs only to make them act as if all their brain cells have turned charcoal. She is supposed to be a great thief. Guess what? It’s the opposite. None of her plans and attempts go without a hitch. Worse still, she put herself and others in danger. Also, she is too reckless and impulsive to be a pro-thief. Can anyone tell me why it is such a bad thing to do as someone else says when it is a better plan? Quite a few times, I was reminded of Until We Shatter (and not in a good way).
This is a plot-driven book, which means the characters don’t stay true to their arcs. That affected Lyta the worst. Even her love for her brother, Kit, doesn’t always show her in good light.
However, the plot isn’t executed well either. It is all over the place. In fact, I assumed this was a debut author’s work only to realize the author has written more books in the same genre. Moreover, I read two of her books under the pen name Jessica Throne. I’m surprised! While those books weren’t perfect, they were much better written. Three possible reasons for this:
• The author experimented with something here
• The other publisher had a much better editor
• This is a very early draft
It wasn’t until after 60% that the story started to be gripping. There were many gaps even then, but I could feel the tensions and danger rising. By the way, calling it a ‘heist for the ages’ is silly. It is not; nowhere close.
The world-building is patchy too, though I don’t know if it’ll be better in the coming books. While I like the premise of old gods being targeted by the Church, I also feel authors are using this as a go-to trope but not doing justice to it. I cannot feel the indigenous emotion, which rather defeats the purpose. After reading the author’s note at the end, I felt she should have stuck to the original instead of bringing in old gods.
It seems fantasy authors like to ‘use’ old gods but have no real respect or understanding of them. I'm getting tired of this.
There’s an ending but it is a semi-cliffhanger. Plot-wise I’m tempted to know more, but unfortunately, I do not like Lyta. I won’t continue with the series.
To summarize, The Book of Gold has an intriguing premise but ends up underwhelming due to various reasons. It will work better for readers who like YA fantasy (even if this is an adult book).
Thank you, NetGalley and Hodder & Stoughton (Hodderscape), for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #TheBookofGold
May 13, 2025
I really wanted to like this one. It should absolutely have been right up my alley. But the setting is only half there - this book isn’t entirely sure if it wants to be a historical novel, a medieval fantasy, or a modern heist film. Even the historical portions of the book are unsteady, with 16th-century Antwerp as the re-imagined Amberes, but also with the idea of the upheaval of the ancient world and its pantheon of gods during the foundation and expansion of the Catholic church.
The world-building could have worked. In this story, even though it was fractured, I could see the beginnings of a really great epic fantasy novel. But that is the problem, it only feels like a start, and not in regard to the way the story sets up a sequel. The world-building is on such shaky foundations, I kept finding myself pulled out of the story by strange inconsistencies. For all that this is intended to be a historical fantasy set vaguely in the 16th century, the heroine still makes sassy comments like “A girl needs to keep her mystique”, which makes me think she was more intended to be a Black Widow-esque Marvel character than a medieval thief.
The fantasy version of a historical or mythological tale is absolutely possible. I felt like I understood the novel a lot better after I read the Author’s Note, but it shouldn’t have to be explained in order to make sense. I recently read Exquisite Ruin, which is another example of a novel that takes a historical setting and specific mythology and twists them into a new fantasy setting. While far from a perfect novel, the world-building is consistent and thorough, and carefully shown to the reader. The Book of Gold wants to achieve a similar effect, but doesn’t have the time to both hit all the plot points it wants to get to, and also create a cohesive and clear setting.
Given another 100 pages in total length, I feel like the novel could have built a really solid foundation. There were glimpses of really interesting lore. The Magister and Iseult both felt like really interesting but underdeveloped characters. Ben and Kit were probably the most compelling out of the main crew, and I was disappointed not to have had Ben’s perspective. Though that could have run up against too many shifts in point of view.
The pacing for the story is also slightly off, probably due to the fact that the author has created plot points for a 450-page novel, and needed to cut it down to 332 pages. As a result, there is little transitional time, particularly at the beginning, when high-stakes events all happen immediately one after another. Given that the novel appears to take place over the course of maybe two weeks, there are a lot of plot points the author has had to cram in.
There is one plot point that really threw me out of the story, and this is a spoiler:
So I wanted this one to be good. I really wanted to love it. But the actual world-building needed more time and demonstrations for the reader. And the heist plot-line felt like a demonstration of the heroine’s incompetence, rather than, as billed, a “heist for the ages”.
The world-building could have worked. In this story, even though it was fractured, I could see the beginnings of a really great epic fantasy novel. But that is the problem, it only feels like a start, and not in regard to the way the story sets up a sequel. The world-building is on such shaky foundations, I kept finding myself pulled out of the story by strange inconsistencies. For all that this is intended to be a historical fantasy set vaguely in the 16th century, the heroine still makes sassy comments like “A girl needs to keep her mystique”, which makes me think she was more intended to be a Black Widow-esque Marvel character than a medieval thief.
The fantasy version of a historical or mythological tale is absolutely possible. I felt like I understood the novel a lot better after I read the Author’s Note, but it shouldn’t have to be explained in order to make sense. I recently read Exquisite Ruin, which is another example of a novel that takes a historical setting and specific mythology and twists them into a new fantasy setting. While far from a perfect novel, the world-building is consistent and thorough, and carefully shown to the reader. The Book of Gold wants to achieve a similar effect, but doesn’t have the time to both hit all the plot points it wants to get to, and also create a cohesive and clear setting.
Given another 100 pages in total length, I feel like the novel could have built a really solid foundation. There were glimpses of really interesting lore. The Magister and Iseult both felt like really interesting but underdeveloped characters. Ben and Kit were probably the most compelling out of the main crew, and I was disappointed not to have had Ben’s perspective. Though that could have run up against too many shifts in point of view.
The pacing for the story is also slightly off, probably due to the fact that the author has created plot points for a 450-page novel, and needed to cut it down to 332 pages. As a result, there is little transitional time, particularly at the beginning, when high-stakes events all happen immediately one after another. Given that the novel appears to take place over the course of maybe two weeks, there are a lot of plot points the author has had to cram in.
There is one plot point that really threw me out of the story, and this is a spoiler:
So I wanted this one to be good. I really wanted to love it. But the actual world-building needed more time and demonstrations for the reader. And the heist plot-line felt like a demonstration of the heroine’s incompetence, rather than, as billed, a “heist for the ages”.
December 2, 2024
Lyta is a notorious thief. Her brother Kit is a lawful printer. That is till he gets caught printing seditious pamphlets. He wants nothing to do with her but she is going to save him. She make a deal with the King to steal an infamous book of magic in exchange for her brother's freedom. What she wasn't counting on was her ex-lover and partner in crime now royal bodyguard Sylvian, an enigmatic scholar and her brother interfering. And that book puts them in jeopardy...
Heists seem to be a literary trend at the moment and I'm here for it. The book starts in the midst of one and this author knows how to stage a scene with words set in wonderful, descriptive embellishments and showing the cunningness of the protagonist. The author grounds us in this historical with Latin flair fantasy of hers, an alternate Renaissance, by use of evocative & plentiful detailing. If you like lots of info about the literary world you are entering there is an abundance of informative paragraphs. You can get lost in this imaginary place, these pages — this narrative that sings lyrical in such a relatable way.
There are many interesting characters and they are all given depth even with the slightest of enlightening sentences. Was not expecting the multiple POVs but they certainly did enhance the story, the narrative's flow never interrupted as we go from one character to the other. They are flawed character you cannot help but like. The POVs are honest and insightful. Lyta is reckless, presenting a sharp wit and tongue that get her in trouble. Then we have angry with her, loyal, beautiful Sylvian. These two past lovers with betrayal between them have a passionate connection and are constantly butting heads. Kit is noted for his idealism and is supposed to be the voice of reason between them. Idealism & cynicism are warring in these POVs, and at the center is hope.
As emotions fly high we have more often than not developments that are heart-squeezing and we readers get dearly invested. The shocks come early and I did literally gasp time and again. There is a wonderfully adventurous atmosphere to the book, which is suspenseful, thrilling (there were parts where I cheered) and has a great sense of humor with clever dialogue.
I loved how fast-paced it was but there were scenes that I wished were given more time to breathe. I had to go back and read them again to get the whole picture. Also there were some things I'd have liked if they were explained more extensively about some betrayals — one from a character that never really resonated — but mostly having to do with the magic and gods. A few things just did not make sense to me.
A few themes of this story were the force of love and the desire for power. It is about making the world a better place, striving for fairness, equality and freedom. It is about fighting the system.
The Book of Gold invites you to come for the heist but stay for the action-packed twists and turns, the double dealings, the plans upon plans and some really delicious, villainy villains.
Heists seem to be a literary trend at the moment and I'm here for it. The book starts in the midst of one and this author knows how to stage a scene with words set in wonderful, descriptive embellishments and showing the cunningness of the protagonist. The author grounds us in this historical with Latin flair fantasy of hers, an alternate Renaissance, by use of evocative & plentiful detailing. If you like lots of info about the literary world you are entering there is an abundance of informative paragraphs. You can get lost in this imaginary place, these pages — this narrative that sings lyrical in such a relatable way.
There are many interesting characters and they are all given depth even with the slightest of enlightening sentences. Was not expecting the multiple POVs but they certainly did enhance the story, the narrative's flow never interrupted as we go from one character to the other. They are flawed character you cannot help but like. The POVs are honest and insightful. Lyta is reckless, presenting a sharp wit and tongue that get her in trouble. Then we have angry with her, loyal, beautiful Sylvian. These two past lovers with betrayal between them have a passionate connection and are constantly butting heads. Kit is noted for his idealism and is supposed to be the voice of reason between them. Idealism & cynicism are warring in these POVs, and at the center is hope.
As emotions fly high we have more often than not developments that are heart-squeezing and we readers get dearly invested. The shocks come early and I did literally gasp time and again. There is a wonderfully adventurous atmosphere to the book, which is suspenseful, thrilling (there were parts where I cheered) and has a great sense of humor with clever dialogue.
I loved how fast-paced it was but there were scenes that I wished were given more time to breathe. I had to go back and read them again to get the whole picture. Also there were some things I'd have liked if they were explained more extensively about some betrayals — one from a character that never really resonated — but mostly having to do with the magic and gods. A few things just did not make sense to me.
A few themes of this story were the force of love and the desire for power. It is about making the world a better place, striving for fairness, equality and freedom. It is about fighting the system.
The Book of Gold invites you to come for the heist but stay for the action-packed twists and turns, the double dealings, the plans upon plans and some really delicious, villainy villains.
November 30, 2024
3,25 ⭐️
Thank you so much to the author and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.
The premise of this book was great and the pacing was even better. It wasn't a very long book but the author still wanted a lot to happen so naturally things moved quickly - which I love. I love when a story includes many different action scenes and a fast-paced environment. And it worked really well. However, I will say that it resulted in less character/relationship development than I would have liked to see. I needed some more communication and confrontation between Lyta and Sylvian where they get to sort things out a bit more.
I did feel like it was a bit confusing in the beginning. All the places, people, gods and religions. It was hard to keep track of everything and it took me quite a while to figure out how heavily historical it actually was. I'm not the biggest fan of mixing real world places and elements with fantasy in this way, so I had a hard time focusing when I was reading in the beginning. But when it started moving faster, it made me continue through my confusion and I got sucked in a bit more.
The writing was fine for the most part but did sometimes feel flat and a bit matter of factly. Not a lot of feeling in it. And also, even though the characters were in their late twenties they felt like teenagers for the most part. It gave som serious YA vibes and they seemed more immature than I would have liked. More reckless and naive.
As I said, I needed more scenes between Lyta and Syl, especially at the end.
But a good fast-paced story with a fun heist and magic (that admittedly also was a bit confusing at times) and great characters with very different moral compasses. Overall an enjoyable ride!
Thank you so much to the author and NetGalley for allowing me to read an ARC of this book. I am leaving this review voluntarily and all thoughts are my own.
The premise of this book was great and the pacing was even better. It wasn't a very long book but the author still wanted a lot to happen so naturally things moved quickly - which I love. I love when a story includes many different action scenes and a fast-paced environment. And it worked really well. However, I will say that it resulted in less character/relationship development than I would have liked to see. I needed some more communication and confrontation between Lyta and Sylvian where they get to sort things out a bit more.
I did feel like it was a bit confusing in the beginning. All the places, people, gods and religions. It was hard to keep track of everything and it took me quite a while to figure out how heavily historical it actually was. I'm not the biggest fan of mixing real world places and elements with fantasy in this way, so I had a hard time focusing when I was reading in the beginning. But when it started moving faster, it made me continue through my confusion and I got sucked in a bit more.
The writing was fine for the most part but did sometimes feel flat and a bit matter of factly. Not a lot of feeling in it. And also, even though the characters were in their late twenties they felt like teenagers for the most part. It gave som serious YA vibes and they seemed more immature than I would have liked. More reckless and naive.
As I said, I needed more scenes between Lyta and Syl, especially at the end.
But a good fast-paced story with a fun heist and magic (that admittedly also was a bit confusing at times) and great characters with very different moral compasses. Overall an enjoyable ride!
December 15, 2024
3.5/5 🌟
A heisty hodge podge group of con artists and thieves and goodie two shoes all doing what they have to do to survive. All the pots and kettles pointing fingers at each other and wearing their grudges like accessories because each of them thinks that whatever they do is justified, but when anyone else does the same thing it’s suddenly an unforgivable sin.
We have our angry FMC with no self preservation skills. Constantly telling everyone half truths and hiding her actual motives from the team she drags into her plans. Somehow she’s a renowned thief that’s never been caught but simultaneously shreds every wisp of common sense that dared float close to her.
We have a broody MMC who’s been imprisoned and tortured because his woman sold him out. I’m sure people love to hate him just like they love to hate Chaol because ‘ew kings guards are gross’ or something equally ridiculous.
We have a magical collection of beings who channel God energy.
I really dislike the unhinged FMC trope and this book is just yet another in a long line of these supposedly ‘powerful’ or ‘strong’ female characters…
For example, a healer is now collapsed into a chair and is holding onto consciousness by a thread after healing a man you supposedly hate but just went crazed to save from death…and instead of feeling gratitude like a decent human being, you start demanding ‘how did you do that tell me right now stop hiding things from me etc etc etc’. You’re living under her roof because she gave you housing when your house burnt down, healed you yesterday from near death, healed him today from near death….and you have yet to say thank you and don’t have one ounce of gratitude in your brain cells. Why we continue to present this as strong FMC energy is beyond me.
And that ending…what a wild ride. Wow.
Some strange grammar in the writing style that made it a little hard to understand at times, or maybe just grammatical errors because it wasn’t edited well? I’m not entirely sure. But it was intriguing, it definitely gave Six of Crows mixed with TOG vibes albeit maybe the Walmart version. As the story grows it gets more captivating and the nuances become less noticeable. I just really did not like the very end. I am interested in reading the next book to see what direction the author takes the story - it definitely has lots of potential.
A heisty hodge podge group of con artists and thieves and goodie two shoes all doing what they have to do to survive. All the pots and kettles pointing fingers at each other and wearing their grudges like accessories because each of them thinks that whatever they do is justified, but when anyone else does the same thing it’s suddenly an unforgivable sin.
We have our angry FMC with no self preservation skills. Constantly telling everyone half truths and hiding her actual motives from the team she drags into her plans. Somehow she’s a renowned thief that’s never been caught but simultaneously shreds every wisp of common sense that dared float close to her.
We have a broody MMC who’s been imprisoned and tortured because his woman sold him out. I’m sure people love to hate him just like they love to hate Chaol because ‘ew kings guards are gross’ or something equally ridiculous.
We have a magical collection of beings who channel God energy.
I really dislike the unhinged FMC trope and this book is just yet another in a long line of these supposedly ‘powerful’ or ‘strong’ female characters…
For example, a healer is now collapsed into a chair and is holding onto consciousness by a thread after healing a man you supposedly hate but just went crazed to save from death…and instead of feeling gratitude like a decent human being, you start demanding ‘how did you do that tell me right now stop hiding things from me etc etc etc’. You’re living under her roof because she gave you housing when your house burnt down, healed you yesterday from near death, healed him today from near death….and you have yet to say thank you and don’t have one ounce of gratitude in your brain cells. Why we continue to present this as strong FMC energy is beyond me.
And that ending…what a wild ride. Wow.
Some strange grammar in the writing style that made it a little hard to understand at times, or maybe just grammatical errors because it wasn’t edited well? I’m not entirely sure. But it was intriguing, it definitely gave Six of Crows mixed with TOG vibes albeit maybe the Walmart version. As the story grows it gets more captivating and the nuances become less noticeable. I just really did not like the very end. I am interested in reading the next book to see what direction the author takes the story - it definitely has lots of potential.
May 4, 2025
A desperate thief. A magical book. A heist for the ages.
Lyta is a notorious thief; sneaking into noblemen parties and stealing precious jewellery is business as usual for the crook with her wily and brazen ways. But as much as she loves stealing, she loves her brother Kit more.
Kit is in trouble. As the head of a printing press, he’s been publishing incriminating pamphlets which the royalty of Amberes is none too pleased about. To save her brother’s life, Lyta struck a deal with the king. For her brother, she agreed to steal the most magical book known – The Book of Gold.
This book has everything I like. Magic, heists, action, adventure, and some nice plots twists thrown in. The characters are varied and engaging, including the gods, and it’s easy to get sucked in.
I loved how intertwined Lyta is with her favoured god, Eninn, the trickster god. Despite their thieving ways, there is honour among each of them, loyalty being a virtue which they both demonstrate throughout the book.
There is also the second chance love story between Lyta and Captain Sylvian Chant, an ex-thief of Lyta’s gang and Lyta’s ex, now one of the king’s most trusted guards. The history of how they broke up, how he cared for both her and Kit in the past, like Kit was a brother of his own, and how they ended up going their separate ways enriches the story which ran alongside the heist plot.
Where would we be without a good villain? And this story has plenty, each with their own political agenda and each out to get our favourite thief and her crew.
Outside of the characters, the worldbuilding is engaging and immersive. Based on the city of 16th century Antwerp and Long’s love of history, old books, the writing advice “write what you know” really plays to Long’s strengths. Through Kit, Long portrays her love of the art of book creation in a way that enhances both the plot and Kit’s character.
I really liked this book. Engaging characters, high-stakes adventure, and character driven plotlines, I highly recommend picking up a copy and adding this to your fantasy to-read list.
Lyta is a notorious thief; sneaking into noblemen parties and stealing precious jewellery is business as usual for the crook with her wily and brazen ways. But as much as she loves stealing, she loves her brother Kit more.
Kit is in trouble. As the head of a printing press, he’s been publishing incriminating pamphlets which the royalty of Amberes is none too pleased about. To save her brother’s life, Lyta struck a deal with the king. For her brother, she agreed to steal the most magical book known – The Book of Gold.
This book has everything I like. Magic, heists, action, adventure, and some nice plots twists thrown in. The characters are varied and engaging, including the gods, and it’s easy to get sucked in.
I loved how intertwined Lyta is with her favoured god, Eninn, the trickster god. Despite their thieving ways, there is honour among each of them, loyalty being a virtue which they both demonstrate throughout the book.
There is also the second chance love story between Lyta and Captain Sylvian Chant, an ex-thief of Lyta’s gang and Lyta’s ex, now one of the king’s most trusted guards. The history of how they broke up, how he cared for both her and Kit in the past, like Kit was a brother of his own, and how they ended up going their separate ways enriches the story which ran alongside the heist plot.
Where would we be without a good villain? And this story has plenty, each with their own political agenda and each out to get our favourite thief and her crew.
Outside of the characters, the worldbuilding is engaging and immersive. Based on the city of 16th century Antwerp and Long’s love of history, old books, the writing advice “write what you know” really plays to Long’s strengths. Through Kit, Long portrays her love of the art of book creation in a way that enhances both the plot and Kit’s character.
I really liked this book. Engaging characters, high-stakes adventure, and character driven plotlines, I highly recommend picking up a copy and adding this to your fantasy to-read list.
November 23, 2025
2.5
I thought I would love this novel. I love heists, and I thought they would be such fun characters. I was wrong. I had to force myself to finish this book, since I was convinced it had to get better.
Admittedly, I did actually like the side characters a lot. Beatriz was an angel, and they didn't deserve her or her brother Ben. I was off and on about Kit, but in the end I didn't hate him. Just a classic, flawed character with low self esteem.
Minor spoilers ahead.
I did, however, hate Lyta. She was a cocky, arrogant, narcissistic liar with a holier than thou attitude that was never backed up. All her so called genius plans failed in some way or another, even if she seemed to initially get away with it. She would blame everyone else for all her problems and betraying her, even though she has a literal track record of really big betrayals. Plus, she never once admits that maybe when she betrays people, they say things in anger. Obviously, because Sylvian said one mean thing, she has to completely abandon him. He's definitely the cruel one. Totally.
In the first half, I honestly felt bad for Sylvian. He definitely didn't deserve to be ruined over and over again by Lyta. His obsession with her just ended up bland and annoying.
Frankly, he never actually says one good thing about her besides that she's pretty. Everything else is a hindrance or causes more problems. For example, how she refuses to take direction and literally ignores everyone else in her life because she is Lyta guided by Eninn and she could never possibly be wrong about anything. I don't know why Sylvian even stands her. Even Kit, her beloved brother, stopped talking to her for awhile. She has basically no redeeming qualities. A headstrong female character can be well written and actually use a brain rather than her pride. Unfortunately, Lyta was arrogant and caused most of the problems with the heists. I'm not convinced she did a single thing of value that couldn't have been done without her.
I thought I would love this novel. I love heists, and I thought they would be such fun characters. I was wrong. I had to force myself to finish this book, since I was convinced it had to get better.
Admittedly, I did actually like the side characters a lot. Beatriz was an angel, and they didn't deserve her or her brother Ben. I was off and on about Kit, but in the end I didn't hate him. Just a classic, flawed character with low self esteem.
Minor spoilers ahead.
I did, however, hate Lyta. She was a cocky, arrogant, narcissistic liar with a holier than thou attitude that was never backed up. All her so called genius plans failed in some way or another, even if she seemed to initially get away with it. She would blame everyone else for all her problems and betraying her, even though she has a literal track record of really big betrayals. Plus, she never once admits that maybe when she betrays people, they say things in anger. Obviously, because Sylvian said one mean thing, she has to completely abandon him. He's definitely the cruel one. Totally.
In the first half, I honestly felt bad for Sylvian. He definitely didn't deserve to be ruined over and over again by Lyta. His obsession with her just ended up bland and annoying.
Frankly, he never actually says one good thing about her besides that she's pretty. Everything else is a hindrance or causes more problems. For example, how she refuses to take direction and literally ignores everyone else in her life because she is Lyta guided by Eninn and she could never possibly be wrong about anything. I don't know why Sylvian even stands her. Even Kit, her beloved brother, stopped talking to her for awhile. She has basically no redeeming qualities. A headstrong female character can be well written and actually use a brain rather than her pride. Unfortunately, Lyta was arrogant and caused most of the problems with the heists. I'm not convinced she did a single thing of value that couldn't have been done without her.
November 18, 2024
THE BOOK OF GOLD was such a fun, 16th century inspired heist and state-vs-religion fantasy.
The book is full of references to the state of Europe in the 16th century. The city of Amberes might not be a real city but pretty much every other place named is. The king rules a sprawling empire and is trying to secure his power against a very powerful religious order that wants to impose control over everything. There's this simmering tension that feels one misstep away from outright war the entire time.
But this is not a book about the king and the priestly princes - it is about the more ordinary people caught up in this fight. Lyta is a thief, Kit a printer, and Sylvian a guard who's worked his way up the ranks. These people are treated like pawns in the ruling classes games, but they're not going to be stopped - particularly not Lyta who is a force of nature and refuses to play by courtly rules. I loved her interactions with the king as she just says what she wants and doesn't let etiquette stop her.
There are also gods with agendas and abilities of their own who come slowly more into play the longer the book continues. I really liked the way they turned the story on its head from a typical heist to steal an object (and at least one character, naturally, is lying about their part in it.) They bring magic and an added level of danger to a book already poised on the edge of all out war.
I loved the relationships too. Lyta and Sylvian have a past but have also betrayed and hurt each other before - and haven't seen each other for years. Kit and Ben were very sweet and I liked how the disparity in station was an acknowledged fear for what it meant.
I really would like the second book. I loved the world and characters and unexpectedness of the plot at time and want to see what happens next. This book definitely wraps up the main story started but the world has so many more problems to throw in their path and I want to see how that plays out.
The book is full of references to the state of Europe in the 16th century. The city of Amberes might not be a real city but pretty much every other place named is. The king rules a sprawling empire and is trying to secure his power against a very powerful religious order that wants to impose control over everything. There's this simmering tension that feels one misstep away from outright war the entire time.
But this is not a book about the king and the priestly princes - it is about the more ordinary people caught up in this fight. Lyta is a thief, Kit a printer, and Sylvian a guard who's worked his way up the ranks. These people are treated like pawns in the ruling classes games, but they're not going to be stopped - particularly not Lyta who is a force of nature and refuses to play by courtly rules. I loved her interactions with the king as she just says what she wants and doesn't let etiquette stop her.
There are also gods with agendas and abilities of their own who come slowly more into play the longer the book continues. I really liked the way they turned the story on its head from a typical heist to steal an object (and at least one character, naturally, is lying about their part in it.) They bring magic and an added level of danger to a book already poised on the edge of all out war.
I loved the relationships too. Lyta and Sylvian have a past but have also betrayed and hurt each other before - and haven't seen each other for years. Kit and Ben were very sweet and I liked how the disparity in station was an acknowledged fear for what it meant.
I really would like the second book. I loved the world and characters and unexpectedness of the plot at time and want to see what happens next. This book definitely wraps up the main story started but the world has so many more problems to throw in their path and I want to see how that plays out.
January 15, 2025
I’ll admit that I’m hesitant to read books about heists as they have a habit of following a ‘group of misfits’ formula best used by one particular author. That said, The Book of Gold completely reassured my concerns and was just an enjoyable time that didn’t feel like something I had read before.
The plot, in it’s simplest form revolves around Lyta needing to steal ‘the book of Gold’ to save her brother’s life, forcing her into dangerous (and tense) situations with her reluctant team.
There’s action, there’s scheming, there’s romance and delicious longing, likeable characters and best of all, there’s another book coming out because I finished the last page absolutely needing more.
Sylvian and Lyta’s backstory and reunion was something I was particularly invested in, years old heartbreak made worse by meddling and miscommunication. I love a slow burn, I love yearning when so many books don’t make you (or the characters) work for it, and I terribly need to stay with these two and see what happens to them. Sylvian by himself is a bit hopeless, he’s a moper who disguises it with dumb actions, but he’s like a grumpy golden retriever. Lyta is just fantastic, reckless and spontaneous and idiotic at times (ok, a lot), she’s a kind person who would do (and has done) anything for her brother Kit and her favourite trickster God. She acts sassy and untouchable but she’s actual a woman driven by love and hurt and she’s also just great fun to spend time with as a reader.
My only minor criticism is that the world building, for me, was a little too much at the start, but then who doesn’t feel a little overwhelmed or confused at the start of a fantasy story? It’s a good time but there is quite a lot of thought put into the Gods etc which makes it a little more complicated than it needs to be, BUT you quickly pick it up and then you just have to buckle in.
Thank you NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
The plot, in it’s simplest form revolves around Lyta needing to steal ‘the book of Gold’ to save her brother’s life, forcing her into dangerous (and tense) situations with her reluctant team.
There’s action, there’s scheming, there’s romance and delicious longing, likeable characters and best of all, there’s another book coming out because I finished the last page absolutely needing more.
Sylvian and Lyta’s backstory and reunion was something I was particularly invested in, years old heartbreak made worse by meddling and miscommunication. I love a slow burn, I love yearning when so many books don’t make you (or the characters) work for it, and I terribly need to stay with these two and see what happens to them. Sylvian by himself is a bit hopeless, he’s a moper who disguises it with dumb actions, but he’s like a grumpy golden retriever. Lyta is just fantastic, reckless and spontaneous and idiotic at times (ok, a lot), she’s a kind person who would do (and has done) anything for her brother Kit and her favourite trickster God. She acts sassy and untouchable but she’s actual a woman driven by love and hurt and she’s also just great fun to spend time with as a reader.
My only minor criticism is that the world building, for me, was a little too much at the start, but then who doesn’t feel a little overwhelmed or confused at the start of a fantasy story? It’s a good time but there is quite a lot of thought put into the Gods etc which makes it a little more complicated than it needs to be, BUT you quickly pick it up and then you just have to buckle in.
Thank you NetGalley for a copy in exchange for an honest review.
November 5, 2024
"Blood brings power. Blood binds. Blood is power."
3.5/4 stars!
The Book of Gold is a historical fantasy where a desperate thief will do anything to save her brother, even if she loses her heart along the way. In exchange for her brother's freedom against execution, Lyta makes a deal with the king to steal the infamous Book of Gold, however, she didn't plan for her brother's interference, nor the return of her once lover and best friend as a royal bodyguard, nor did she expect his hatred.
I enjoyed this book quite a lot. The amount of drama and push and pull between the characters had me thoroughly entertained throughout, I did not expect half the plot twists that happened... especially the one with Sylvian and the queen (IYKYK). There was a lot of miscommunication between our main characters, and after discovering their heated backstories with one another, it is completely understandable, despite it being utterly frustrating to read as a spectator.
Despite having a ball of a time reading this, I did unfortunately find the ending a little too lacklustre. After having so many revelations throughout, I feel like there could've been a bigger wow factor for the ending. I am still excited to see where the rest of the series will go however, as I loved the character dynamics and would love to return to this world.
If you love historical stories about heists, friends to lovers to enemies, magic, masked balls, bodyguard x thief romance, gods and goddess', then I highly recommend this book!
Thank you Netgalley and Ruth for an e-Arc of The Book of Gold!
3.5/4 stars!
The Book of Gold is a historical fantasy where a desperate thief will do anything to save her brother, even if she loses her heart along the way. In exchange for her brother's freedom against execution, Lyta makes a deal with the king to steal the infamous Book of Gold, however, she didn't plan for her brother's interference, nor the return of her once lover and best friend as a royal bodyguard, nor did she expect his hatred.
I enjoyed this book quite a lot. The amount of drama and push and pull between the characters had me thoroughly entertained throughout, I did not expect half the plot twists that happened... especially the one with Sylvian and the queen (IYKYK). There was a lot of miscommunication between our main characters, and after discovering their heated backstories with one another, it is completely understandable, despite it being utterly frustrating to read as a spectator.
Despite having a ball of a time reading this, I did unfortunately find the ending a little too lacklustre. After having so many revelations throughout, I feel like there could've been a bigger wow factor for the ending. I am still excited to see where the rest of the series will go however, as I loved the character dynamics and would love to return to this world.
If you love historical stories about heists, friends to lovers to enemies, magic, masked balls, bodyguard x thief romance, gods and goddess', then I highly recommend this book!
Thank you Netgalley and Ruth for an e-Arc of The Book of Gold!
November 24, 2024
3.5 stars rounded up
What happens when a thief, a printer, a scholar, and a royal guard come together in a heist fuelled by the gods? Complete and utter chaos.
The Book of Gold brings adventure, deceit and betrayal, bittersweet romance, magic, and more. However, while the story itself is interesting and full of action, there were a lot of things I found not living up to my expectations.
The world building was probably the biggest gap for me, as it felt like information and atmosphere was introduced when needed rather than woven into the tale naturally. This was especially true for everything relating to magic and the gods. Also, there were a handful of plot holes and not fully developed threads that jumped out at me. My other frustration was how quickly events wrap up and then sweep into the next disaster. I felt like I never had time to adjust to the new circumstances or emotional weight of certain scenes...
That being said, I did find The Book of Gold absorbing. I am curious about the bigger picture with the Church, what is happening with the gods, and how magic is being twisted into a tool for control. There were some really intriguing ideas in this book, and I hope the sequel delivers more on these.
The relationships between the characters are all pretty complicated (and often toxic as well). It makes for a lot of drama and when things work out you can't help but feel relieved for them. The ending was like a punch to the face though and I'll probably pick up book two solely to see how in the world the relationship between Lyta and Syl resolves.
What happens when a thief, a printer, a scholar, and a royal guard come together in a heist fuelled by the gods? Complete and utter chaos.
The Book of Gold brings adventure, deceit and betrayal, bittersweet romance, magic, and more. However, while the story itself is interesting and full of action, there were a lot of things I found not living up to my expectations.
The world building was probably the biggest gap for me, as it felt like information and atmosphere was introduced when needed rather than woven into the tale naturally. This was especially true for everything relating to magic and the gods. Also, there were a handful of plot holes and not fully developed threads that jumped out at me. My other frustration was how quickly events wrap up and then sweep into the next disaster. I felt like I never had time to adjust to the new circumstances or emotional weight of certain scenes...
That being said, I did find The Book of Gold absorbing. I am curious about the bigger picture with the Church, what is happening with the gods, and how magic is being twisted into a tool for control. There were some really intriguing ideas in this book, and I hope the sequel delivers more on these.
The relationships between the characters are all pretty complicated (and often toxic as well). It makes for a lot of drama and when things work out you can't help but feel relieved for them. The ending was like a punch to the face though and I'll probably pick up book two solely to see how in the world the relationship between Lyta and Syl resolves.
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