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Thorns, Feathers & Bones
She buried him a decade ago. Now he walks the earth again—and so begins the unravelling of empires.
Queen Ioelena of Hildeheim has ruled the north through grief, fire, and blood. But the return of Connerh—the warrior she once loved and buried—shatters the fragile balance she’s fought to maintain. His reappearance stirs forgotten magic, exposes long-buried secrets, and threatens to reignite a war no one is ready for.
In the south, a god-ruled slave city tightens its grip on the desperate. In the west, an ancient judgement stirs. And in the shadows between kingdoms, exiles, spies, and fallen heirs shape a future none of them fully understand. Across this fractured world, kings, queens, soldiers, and traitors grapple with prophecy, grief, and gods that no longer sleep. Among them, two broken souls drift toward each other—though neither yet knows the cost of what they’ve lost… or what they may become.
Spies whisper through palace halls. Giants gather behind crumbling walls. And the elves—keepers of balance and justice—have begun to move.
In this sweeping dark fantasy where vengeance wears a crown and love walks with death, the question isn’t who will survive...
It’s what will remain of them when the gods are done.
Queen Ioelena of Hildeheim has ruled the north through grief, fire, and blood. But the return of Connerh—the warrior she once loved and buried—shatters the fragile balance she’s fought to maintain. His reappearance stirs forgotten magic, exposes long-buried secrets, and threatens to reignite a war no one is ready for.
In the south, a god-ruled slave city tightens its grip on the desperate. In the west, an ancient judgement stirs. And in the shadows between kingdoms, exiles, spies, and fallen heirs shape a future none of them fully understand. Across this fractured world, kings, queens, soldiers, and traitors grapple with prophecy, grief, and gods that no longer sleep. Among them, two broken souls drift toward each other—though neither yet knows the cost of what they’ve lost… or what they may become.
Spies whisper through palace halls. Giants gather behind crumbling walls. And the elves—keepers of balance and justice—have begun to move.
In this sweeping dark fantasy where vengeance wears a crown and love walks with death, the question isn’t who will survive...
It’s what will remain of them when the gods are done.
689 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 20, 2025
5 people are currently reading
96 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
September 1, 2025
An epic, speculative fantasy with lyrical writing and a compelling way of story telling. The accompanying musical playlist really sets the tone and gives your imagination that spark to visualize the scenes.
Orienting in this book world felt like having a carrot dangled in front of you, only to catch it then have a new one presented to chase after. There was a constant air of mystery as we uncover all the layers and piece this story together. I’m not sure if I was ever FULLY oriented because new elements are constantly being brought out for us to consider. Regardless, I was swept away with each turn.
This was a non linear story and at times I felt confused about where we were on the timeline. During those time jumps, I wish there was a more clear indicator that we were glimpsing into the past. It does eventually become clear as you continue reading though.
This was a huge world, featuring alot of moving parts and characters. We get lush descriptions of each setting and it was easy to visualize the ethereal Westwood or the luxurious Khazmyr palace.
I fell in love with some of the side characters Yuri and Madika. Other characters like Lena and Connerh evoked mixed emotions from me. They were all so unique with their own causes, complexities and motives. With the amount of time we spend with each one, we were given plenty of room to form feelings about these characters.
This was an amazing debut fantasy with so many cool and unique elements. It’s one of those stories you want to take your time with and fully immerse to enjoy and understand.
4.5 Stars
Orienting in this book world felt like having a carrot dangled in front of you, only to catch it then have a new one presented to chase after. There was a constant air of mystery as we uncover all the layers and piece this story together. I’m not sure if I was ever FULLY oriented because new elements are constantly being brought out for us to consider. Regardless, I was swept away with each turn.
This was a non linear story and at times I felt confused about where we were on the timeline. During those time jumps, I wish there was a more clear indicator that we were glimpsing into the past. It does eventually become clear as you continue reading though.
This was a huge world, featuring alot of moving parts and characters. We get lush descriptions of each setting and it was easy to visualize the ethereal Westwood or the luxurious Khazmyr palace.
I fell in love with some of the side characters Yuri and Madika. Other characters like Lena and Connerh evoked mixed emotions from me. They were all so unique with their own causes, complexities and motives. With the amount of time we spend with each one, we were given plenty of room to form feelings about these characters.
This was an amazing debut fantasy with so many cool and unique elements. It’s one of those stories you want to take your time with and fully immerse to enjoy and understand.
4.5 Stars
August 6, 2025
I honestly can’t believe this was a debut novel. The writing is beautiful and while complex, the world building was interesting, kept me intrigued and I felt like I was there with the characters.
The characters are super interesting - they include humans, giants, elves, mixed breeds, gods and the plot includes all sorts of magic, manipulation, betrayal and a little bit of romance.
At a super high level, because going any further will inevitably give spoilers that I don’t want to give.. but we have a young queen who took over her rule when her mother was murdered. She buried the love of her life about 10 years ago… and he’s back. And this sets off many, many events not to mention a looming war.
I would definitely recommend reading this if you are drawn to epic dark fantasy with complex kingdoms and political strife. And especially if you like deep world building and manipulative characters that thrive off of vengeance.
I gave it 4.5 stars and after finishing the section of epilogues, I cannot wait until book 2 comes out!
The characters are super interesting - they include humans, giants, elves, mixed breeds, gods and the plot includes all sorts of magic, manipulation, betrayal and a little bit of romance.
At a super high level, because going any further will inevitably give spoilers that I don’t want to give.. but we have a young queen who took over her rule when her mother was murdered. She buried the love of her life about 10 years ago… and he’s back. And this sets off many, many events not to mention a looming war.
I would definitely recommend reading this if you are drawn to epic dark fantasy with complex kingdoms and political strife. And especially if you like deep world building and manipulative characters that thrive off of vengeance.
I gave it 4.5 stars and after finishing the section of epilogues, I cannot wait until book 2 comes out!
July 15, 2025
ARC REVIEW
This is an epic fantasy that will have you questioning everyone’s intentions! Every character is extremely complex and flawed. It talks a lot about love and loss and doing things for the greater good or for what that character has decided is the “greater good”. The world building will have you thinking that you can feel the forest air on your skin. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the depth that it held. Thank you Anderson for the opportunity to read this!
This is an epic fantasy that will have you questioning everyone’s intentions! Every character is extremely complex and flawed. It talks a lot about love and loss and doing things for the greater good or for what that character has decided is the “greater good”. The world building will have you thinking that you can feel the forest air on your skin. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and the depth that it held. Thank you Anderson for the opportunity to read this!
August 3, 2025
This is an epic fantasy adventure. It has an intriguing world full of politics, giants, humans, elves, gods and more to come. It is a complex world and we follow a few different points of view, which I think is necessary in such a world. We see the different races, their goals for their people, their different customs, their unique magic, and politics.
The story flows at a good pace, and even though it is a complex one, I found myself returning to it eager to see what will happen. Yes, there are characters I enjoyed more than others, and some I wouldn't shed a tear for if something should happen to them...
It does switch between the past and present, and for me, that wasn't always made very clear at the start of the chapter. I would be a little lost before I realised we are actually seeing a past event. And a lot of the story only starts falling into place very late in the book.
Overall, it is a good story, and there are some surprises along the way.
The story flows at a good pace, and even though it is a complex one, I found myself returning to it eager to see what will happen. Yes, there are characters I enjoyed more than others, and some I wouldn't shed a tear for if something should happen to them...
It does switch between the past and present, and for me, that wasn't always made very clear at the start of the chapter. I would be a little lost before I realised we are actually seeing a past event. And a lot of the story only starts falling into place very late in the book.
Overall, it is a good story, and there are some surprises along the way.
September 6, 2025
The was such an interesting read! So many great characters, so many good storylines, exceptional story telling and beautifully written.
I received this book as an advanced reader copy for an honest review.
I had to really take my time with this book and digest the storylines and how they would all converge. This is an epic tale about love, revenge, back stabbing, loss and finding oneself. If you enjoy world building and character development this is your book!
I cannot wait for book 2!
I received this book as an advanced reader copy for an honest review.
I had to really take my time with this book and digest the storylines and how they would all converge. This is an epic tale about love, revenge, back stabbing, loss and finding oneself. If you enjoy world building and character development this is your book!
I cannot wait for book 2!
May 31, 2025
***Beta Reader Review, I was not paid for this review***
Author: Anderson W. Frost
Genre: Dark Fantasy
Publication Date: July 20, 2025
Available on Amazon Preorder for Kindle NOW!
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Summary
In this dark fantasy, Queen Ioelena’s world is upended when Connerh—the warrior she loved and buried a decade ago—returns from the dead. His reappearance rekindles ancient magic, threatens fragile peace, and sets empires on a path to chaos. As gods awaken and kingdoms teeter, spies, exiles, and rulers must face prophecy, grief, and rising war. Amidst it all, two lost souls are drawn together, unaware of the heavy cost ahead.
What I Liked
This debut book from author Anderson Frost was simply amazing. His ability to create a world that is amazing but not too much, was perfection! The plot building as each chapter is amazing. The heart wrenching love story that is tangled in the regal insanity was everything! (The author even gives you a pronunciation page… y’all we know how these names should be said. Chefs kiss!!!)
Something to be aware of:
I will say the pace is a little slow in the beginning as you are building the world and getting introduced to all the amazing characters. It’s not really a flaw in the book at all just something to keep in mind for anyone like me with ADHD lol, I really have to make myself focus!
Author: Anderson W. Frost
Genre: Dark Fantasy
Publication Date: July 20, 2025
Available on Amazon Preorder for Kindle NOW!
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Summary
In this dark fantasy, Queen Ioelena’s world is upended when Connerh—the warrior she loved and buried a decade ago—returns from the dead. His reappearance rekindles ancient magic, threatens fragile peace, and sets empires on a path to chaos. As gods awaken and kingdoms teeter, spies, exiles, and rulers must face prophecy, grief, and rising war. Amidst it all, two lost souls are drawn together, unaware of the heavy cost ahead.
What I Liked
This debut book from author Anderson Frost was simply amazing. His ability to create a world that is amazing but not too much, was perfection! The plot building as each chapter is amazing. The heart wrenching love story that is tangled in the regal insanity was everything! (The author even gives you a pronunciation page… y’all we know how these names should be said. Chefs kiss!!!)
Something to be aware of:
I will say the pace is a little slow in the beginning as you are building the world and getting introduced to all the amazing characters. It’s not really a flaw in the book at all just something to keep in mind for anyone like me with ADHD lol, I really have to make myself focus!
July 30, 2025
If gothic fairy tales and dark lyrical prose had a lovechild, Thorns, Feathers and Bones would be it.
From the first page, Anderson W. Frost weaves a haunting and poetic narrative that feels like stepping into a forest where the trees whisper secrets and nothing is quite what it seems. This book blends horror, myth, and beauty in a way that makes it feel both timeless and unsettling.
Each story—or perhaps each layer—in the book feels like a fable turned inside out. The imagery is rich: feathers that drip blood, bones that hold memories, thorns that twist through skin and soul alike. Frost writes with the precision of a poet and the heart of someone who’s been lost in a dream too long.
What stood out the most was how human the pain felt beneath the monsters and magic. Grief, transformation, rage, and redemption all pulse beneath the surface. Some parts feel like fairy tales left to rot—others like prayers screamed into the void.
This isn’t a book for the faint of heart. It’s lush, brutal, and deeply personal. But if you like stories that feel like rituals, if you’re drawn to beauty laced with teeth, this one will bury itself in your bones—and stay there.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
From the first page, Anderson W. Frost weaves a haunting and poetic narrative that feels like stepping into a forest where the trees whisper secrets and nothing is quite what it seems. This book blends horror, myth, and beauty in a way that makes it feel both timeless and unsettling.
Each story—or perhaps each layer—in the book feels like a fable turned inside out. The imagery is rich: feathers that drip blood, bones that hold memories, thorns that twist through skin and soul alike. Frost writes with the precision of a poet and the heart of someone who’s been lost in a dream too long.
What stood out the most was how human the pain felt beneath the monsters and magic. Grief, transformation, rage, and redemption all pulse beneath the surface. Some parts feel like fairy tales left to rot—others like prayers screamed into the void.
This isn’t a book for the faint of heart. It’s lush, brutal, and deeply personal. But if you like stories that feel like rituals, if you’re drawn to beauty laced with teeth, this one will bury itself in your bones—and stay there.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 1, 2025
Thorns, Feathers & Bones is an epic fantasy that feels as vast as it is personal. The world is rich, layered, and full of history. It’s big enough that it takes a moment to find your feet, but once you do, you’re completely immersed and you never want to leave. Anderson W. Frost has created a story that balances myth, magic, and politics with the kind of emotional depth that makes every choice matter.
All the characters are amazing. Lena and Connerh give the book its emotional core, but I was never disappointed to find myself in another character’s chapter. I loved seeing what Hargatha was up to; Yuri’s storyline was so interesting and mysterious; and whenever Elarion turned up, I knew something magical was about to happen. Every character feels distinct and real—their lives all seeming separate until masterfully woven together.
The pacing of this book starts slowly as you settle into the world, but once things begin to move, it doesn’t stop—building up to an ending that is satisfying, but still leaves you demanding book two, like right now. This is such an awesome epic story told with so much heart, and it’s a world that I didn’t want to leave.
If you love immersive world-building, layered storytelling, and fantasy that is epic but still grounded in characters you’ll love, then you need to read this book!
All the characters are amazing. Lena and Connerh give the book its emotional core, but I was never disappointed to find myself in another character’s chapter. I loved seeing what Hargatha was up to; Yuri’s storyline was so interesting and mysterious; and whenever Elarion turned up, I knew something magical was about to happen. Every character feels distinct and real—their lives all seeming separate until masterfully woven together.
The pacing of this book starts slowly as you settle into the world, but once things begin to move, it doesn’t stop—building up to an ending that is satisfying, but still leaves you demanding book two, like right now. This is such an awesome epic story told with so much heart, and it’s a world that I didn’t want to leave.
If you love immersive world-building, layered storytelling, and fantasy that is epic but still grounded in characters you’ll love, then you need to read this book!
June 6, 2025
⭐ BETA READ
I received no compensation for this review.
This book is unforgettable —what a ride from start to finish!
Let’s start with the playlist: absolutely fire. It sets the tone perfectly and enhances the whole reading experience. Like the other reviewer states , having a pronunciation page was appreciated so I didn’t feel silly making up my own versions lol.
The world-building is immersive, and from the very first chapter, I was hooked. There are quite a few characters, but their stories are easy to follow, which keeps things fast-paced and exciting.
One of the standout elements for me was the love story—deeply emotional and layered. It had me laughing, crying, and (yes) wanting to throw my book a couple of times. Whether it’s the drama, the stakes, or even just the chapter titles pulling you in, this book makes it nearly impossible to stop reading.
If you’re into fantasy, dark fantasy, or romance, I highly recommend picking this one up. You won’t be disappointed. You’ll want to go back and re-read chapters because things will start clicking into place!
⭐ 5/5 ⭐
I received no compensation for this review.
This book is unforgettable —what a ride from start to finish!
Let’s start with the playlist: absolutely fire. It sets the tone perfectly and enhances the whole reading experience. Like the other reviewer states , having a pronunciation page was appreciated so I didn’t feel silly making up my own versions lol.
The world-building is immersive, and from the very first chapter, I was hooked. There are quite a few characters, but their stories are easy to follow, which keeps things fast-paced and exciting.
One of the standout elements for me was the love story—deeply emotional and layered. It had me laughing, crying, and (yes) wanting to throw my book a couple of times. Whether it’s the drama, the stakes, or even just the chapter titles pulling you in, this book makes it nearly impossible to stop reading.
If you’re into fantasy, dark fantasy, or romance, I highly recommend picking this one up. You won’t be disappointed. You’ll want to go back and re-read chapters because things will start clicking into place!
⭐ 5/5 ⭐
August 18, 2025
Thorns, Feathers & Bones hooks you from the very first reappearance of a buried love. Queen Ioelena’s reign of fire is shattered when her long-dead warrior lover returns—igniting old magic, buried secrets, and a looming war that could unravel kingdoms. This feels like destiny and dread wrapped in one, with spies, giants, exiles, and elves stirring behind every throne. If you crave epic fantasy where grief, power, and forbidden love collide, this world is waiting to swallow you whole.
August 20, 2025
I mean Wow
This is EPIC! If you love an epic journey to find yourself and understand everything in your life and the world and your part in it?
This is the book for you.
Check your triggers. It can be a bit intense in parts, but this is for the Robin Hobb lovers out there.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This is EPIC! If you love an epic journey to find yourself and understand everything in your life and the world and your part in it?
This is the book for you.
Check your triggers. It can be a bit intense in parts, but this is for the Robin Hobb lovers out there.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
October 13, 2025
Easily one of my favorite reads of the year! If Epic fantasy, with multiple POV's, magic, political intrigue and characters you love and hate at the same time...pick this book up! I can not wait to continue my journey in the world!!
August 12, 2025
This book was fun.
Vengeance with a crown. Love and death walking hand in hand. The main question of the book isn’t who comes out alive / survives… It’s; what will be left when the gods are done??!! Excited to see where the author goes next.
Vengeance with a crown. Love and death walking hand in hand. The main question of the book isn’t who comes out alive / survives… It’s; what will be left when the gods are done??!! Excited to see where the author goes next.
December 8, 2025
Anderson W. Frost has built a vivid, breathtaking world and filled it with a cast of POV characters I alternately adored and despised. The seamless shifts between perspectives, especially in the final stretch, kept me frantically turning pages, only to be floored by the closing lines. Every character feels fully realized, carrying secrets I was desperate to uncover and pasts so dark I feared they’d never outrun them. The world building and magic systems are refreshingly inventive. Frost trusts the reader and shows rather than tells, which makes sinking into this story effortless.
If you’re hunting for your next big epic fantasy obsession, look no further, this is it. Huge thanks to Anderson W. Frost for the review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. I suspected this one was special, and it delivered in spades.
If you’re hunting for your next big epic fantasy obsession, look no further, this is it. Huge thanks to Anderson W. Frost for the review copy in exchange for my honest thoughts. I suspected this one was special, and it delivered in spades.
July 16, 2025
I knew this was going to be a five star read from the dedication. Any man who credits his wife so genuinely for their success is good in my book!
The playlist in the beginning is fire, and I love a good map and pronunciation guide. This blends epic fantasy with great characters and pace, making it in my opinion, a book that is accessible for all. In all seriousness, this is definitely not a book that you can fly through. The world is incredible and beautifully rendered. Frost has a way of describing that immerses you, but doesn’t feel overly done or unnecessary.
I was sobbing by the end of this. I was not prepared for the last page in any way, shape, or form, and I am still reeling.
Do yourself a favor and JUMP on this one. I loved it, and cannot wait to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The playlist in the beginning is fire, and I love a good map and pronunciation guide. This blends epic fantasy with great characters and pace, making it in my opinion, a book that is accessible for all. In all seriousness, this is definitely not a book that you can fly through. The world is incredible and beautifully rendered. Frost has a way of describing that immerses you, but doesn’t feel overly done or unnecessary.
I was sobbing by the end of this. I was not prepared for the last page in any way, shape, or form, and I am still reeling.
Do yourself a favor and JUMP on this one. I loved it, and cannot wait to see what happens next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 26, 2025
It took me a minute to get use to the characters because you get so many different POV’s but once I did, it was so addicting. The amount of action is absolutely amazing. There is constantly something going on at every turn in the story. It is unlike anything I have read so far, I’m new to fantasy, but I absolutely loved this book and immediately need book 2!
July 9, 2025
✨Arc Review✨
Thank you to the Author Anderson W. Frost and Booksprout for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"His return was not a blessing; it was a herald of the storm that would follow."
Thorns, Feathers & Bones is a captivating dark fantasy that delves into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of destiny. Anderson W. Frost masterfully crafts a world where magic, politics, and personal struggles intertwine, creating a narrative that is both epic and deeply personal.
The characters are beautifully flawed, and Frost’s world-building is immersive without ever overwhelming the reader. You’ll find yourself swept up in palace intrigues, ancient magic, and the slow-burning ache of past regrets. Every chapter peels back another layer of the story, keeping you hooked.
Slow-burn tragic love that cuts deep - Ioelena and Connerh’s relationship is not romanticized—it’s raw, painful, and filled with regret. Their tension is both emotional and political, which makes every scene between them feel like a powder keg.
Morally grey characters who never fall into cliché
Each POV character is complicated, driven by love, loss, or duty—and often at odds with one another. There's no “good” or “evil,” just people trying to survive the gods, the past, and each other.
Fantasy that’s grounded and immersive - The worldbuilding never overwhelms. It’s atmospheric, not over-explained. You understand the power structures, histories, and cultures because you feel them through character interactions and emotional stakes.
Thank you to the Author Anderson W. Frost and Booksprout for sending me a digital ARC in exchange for an honest review.
-All thoughts and opinions are my own.
"His return was not a blessing; it was a herald of the storm that would follow."
Thorns, Feathers & Bones is a captivating dark fantasy that delves into themes of love, loss, and the complexities of destiny. Anderson W. Frost masterfully crafts a world where magic, politics, and personal struggles intertwine, creating a narrative that is both epic and deeply personal.
The characters are beautifully flawed, and Frost’s world-building is immersive without ever overwhelming the reader. You’ll find yourself swept up in palace intrigues, ancient magic, and the slow-burning ache of past regrets. Every chapter peels back another layer of the story, keeping you hooked.
Slow-burn tragic love that cuts deep - Ioelena and Connerh’s relationship is not romanticized—it’s raw, painful, and filled with regret. Their tension is both emotional and political, which makes every scene between them feel like a powder keg.
Morally grey characters who never fall into cliché
Each POV character is complicated, driven by love, loss, or duty—and often at odds with one another. There's no “good” or “evil,” just people trying to survive the gods, the past, and each other.
Fantasy that’s grounded and immersive - The worldbuilding never overwhelms. It’s atmospheric, not over-explained. You understand the power structures, histories, and cultures because you feel them through character interactions and emotional stakes.
July 25, 2025
This epic fantasy had me hooked from the very first chapter. Thorns, Feathers and Bones is a sweeping, emotional ride full of layered characters, dark magic, ancient secrets, and impossible choices. The kind of story that makes you question everyone’s intentions—and your own heart along the way.
The world-building is stunning and immersive. You can practically feel the chill of the forest air, the weight of grief in the palace halls, and the tension of empires on the edge of collapse. The stakes are high, the pace fast, and yet there's room for quiet, devastating moments of love and loss.
The characters are what truly shine here: complex, flawed, and beautifully human—even when they’re not entirely human. Queen Ioelena is fierce and fascinating, and Connerh’s return brings with it so much pain, hope, and unraveling. Their story is as tragic as it is powerful. The love story in this book had me laughing, crying, and at one point, nearly throwing my book across the room (in the best way).
Despite a large cast, each storyline is easy to follow and compelling in its own right. Whether it’s palace intrigue, god-fueled wars, or the slow-burn romance at its heart, this book will keep you turning pages—and then flipping back to reread once everything starts clicking into place.
If you enjoy dark fantasy with emotional depth, political drama, and a love story that doesn’t shy away from pain and sacrifice, this one absolutely belongs on your shelf.
The world-building is stunning and immersive. You can practically feel the chill of the forest air, the weight of grief in the palace halls, and the tension of empires on the edge of collapse. The stakes are high, the pace fast, and yet there's room for quiet, devastating moments of love and loss.
The characters are what truly shine here: complex, flawed, and beautifully human—even when they’re not entirely human. Queen Ioelena is fierce and fascinating, and Connerh’s return brings with it so much pain, hope, and unraveling. Their story is as tragic as it is powerful. The love story in this book had me laughing, crying, and at one point, nearly throwing my book across the room (in the best way).
Despite a large cast, each storyline is easy to follow and compelling in its own right. Whether it’s palace intrigue, god-fueled wars, or the slow-burn romance at its heart, this book will keep you turning pages—and then flipping back to reread once everything starts clicking into place.
If you enjoy dark fantasy with emotional depth, political drama, and a love story that doesn’t shy away from pain and sacrifice, this one absolutely belongs on your shelf.
August 12, 2025
This book (found on tiktok) pulled me out of my years long reading slump and re-dive back into the reading world... and wow what a great decision it was. This is the most unique telling of a fantasy story I think I've read in many years. The initial premise is simple, but it evolves and is told in ways you literally cannot see coming (which is what put me in a reading slump to begin with: the onslaught of predictable stories).
Some chapters literally had me biting my nails. Frost's ability to not break away from uncomfortable scenes, and make you feel what the characters are feeling (without exposition or telling you to) for emotional resonance and realism is quite honestly refreshing. You are a fly on the wall in a world that is very confident in its existence, we just get to witness it. There is an impending Fear ;), that no one is safe and something dark is on the horizon...again...not because of tropes or because the story reminds you every five minutes...but because you FEEL it.
And the best part is that the writing is so good, it plays like a movie in your head. This book is primed to be a streaming series sooner or later and I'm glad I have my first edition copy!
Complex is not the right word here...layered is... and that is a good thing. As other reviewers have said, enjoy the journey. The intro chapters/section is a slow build...but there is a reason for it.
Here's hoping that Book 2 comes soon!
-Drew
Some chapters literally had me biting my nails. Frost's ability to not break away from uncomfortable scenes, and make you feel what the characters are feeling (without exposition or telling you to) for emotional resonance and realism is quite honestly refreshing. You are a fly on the wall in a world that is very confident in its existence, we just get to witness it. There is an impending Fear ;), that no one is safe and something dark is on the horizon...again...not because of tropes or because the story reminds you every five minutes...but because you FEEL it.
And the best part is that the writing is so good, it plays like a movie in your head. This book is primed to be a streaming series sooner or later and I'm glad I have my first edition copy!
Complex is not the right word here...layered is... and that is a good thing. As other reviewers have said, enjoy the journey. The intro chapters/section is a slow build...but there is a reason for it.
Here's hoping that Book 2 comes soon!
-Drew
October 16, 2025
I received a review copy of this book for free for an honest review.
An Epic Fantasy filled with Humans, giants, elves, dwarves and gods.
Anderson W. Frost’s debut novel is a beautifully written story full of complex characters filled with their own goals and flaws, a well-crafted and poetically described world where there is so much happening behind the scenes. This first book is a great introduction to the world, the powers that be and a build-up to a future I'm excited to see.
The story is a slow burn to start, as we learn so much from the many POVs about how the world works, at least how it works in their eyes, which may very well be wrong. I really had to take my time with it to figure out what was happening, and kept finding myself shocked at the twists and turns along the way, and very much enjoyed the ride.. I feel the pacing in future books will pick up with how intense it got towards the end, and I am excited to see more from Mr.Frost.
An Epic Fantasy filled with Humans, giants, elves, dwarves and gods.
Anderson W. Frost’s debut novel is a beautifully written story full of complex characters filled with their own goals and flaws, a well-crafted and poetically described world where there is so much happening behind the scenes. This first book is a great introduction to the world, the powers that be and a build-up to a future I'm excited to see.
The story is a slow burn to start, as we learn so much from the many POVs about how the world works, at least how it works in their eyes, which may very well be wrong. I really had to take my time with it to figure out what was happening, and kept finding myself shocked at the twists and turns along the way, and very much enjoyed the ride.. I feel the pacing in future books will pick up with how intense it got towards the end, and I am excited to see more from Mr.Frost.
September 21, 2025
Think gothic atmosphere woven with fairytales, morally gray characters who refuse to fit neat boxes, and worldbuilding that feels lush and unsettling at the same time.
This book has everything.. betrayal, longing, secrets, and an undercurrent of danger that makes every page feel alive. The author’s writing is hauntingly beautiful, painting a world that’s both breathtaking and brutal. Y’all, I cannot get over the imagery in this one.
There are layered characters and intertwining storylines that keep you on edge the whole time. By the end, you realize every move, every twist, was part of a bigger design you should’ve seen coming.
If you love dark, atmospheric fantasy with rich worldbuilding, mystery, and characters who will keep you questioning their every choice, Thorns, Feathers, and Bones needs to be on your TBR.
This book has everything.. betrayal, longing, secrets, and an undercurrent of danger that makes every page feel alive. The author’s writing is hauntingly beautiful, painting a world that’s both breathtaking and brutal. Y’all, I cannot get over the imagery in this one.
There are layered characters and intertwining storylines that keep you on edge the whole time. By the end, you realize every move, every twist, was part of a bigger design you should’ve seen coming.
If you love dark, atmospheric fantasy with rich worldbuilding, mystery, and characters who will keep you questioning their every choice, Thorns, Feathers, and Bones needs to be on your TBR.
August 1, 2025
The story drew me in from the first page. Mr. Frost's prose is beautiful and manages to consistently walk that fine line between descriptive world-building and letting the imagination paint a vivid picture. The masterful shifting of POVs really lets you delve into the psyche of each character. Each plotline is equally engaging and they intersect and merge beautifully The characters are unique...each scarred, flawed... you don't know whether to pull for or against them... and just when you think you have it figured out, you are devastated to learn you don't. The last 20 chapters fly as suspense and discoveries mount. I only lament that I'll have to wait for the next book. A highly enjoyable read!
July 19, 2025
This gripping, dark epic fantasy novel immersed me in the story from the very beginning. The pronunciation guide at the beginning was very helpful, as it helped me get a handle on the more unusual names. I also loved that the chapters had headings. The world-building is interesting and immersive, letting you dive into the world right from the start. I enjoyed the multiple characters and how they were developed. The captivating, fluid writing never lets you go. I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and therefore highly recommend it!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 21, 2025
As a debut novel, this is amazing! I love a twist of political intrigue, great world building and compelling characters and this had it all!
It was a little confusing some chapters, because I didn't always know who the chapter was focused on until a page or two. The almost lyrical style of writing though more than made up for it, this author has a way of painting the page!
It was a little confusing some chapters, because I didn't always know who the chapter was focused on until a page or two. The almost lyrical style of writing though more than made up for it, this author has a way of painting the page!
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