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Knave of Sands
What hides in our lost memory of the First Age?
A thief who wants more out of life than gold. A prince who would trade it all for a chance at true freedom. A seer who must rely on her fearsome, newly appointed guard for survival.
In the Southern Realm of the Sentinel, Queen Attiqah of Yorenth has a tenuous grasp on her domain. The fabric of reality is breaking down around them, manifesting as strange, unnatural eternal fires, fog that never dissipates, rivers that have stopped flowing, and other bewildering accounts. The land has a will of its own. Desperate for answers from the Spirits, her court advisors grow restless.
When Kyr ap Sand, a Yoren thief, witnesses this breakdown firsthand on a heist, she finds herself the unlikely catalyst of a journey of intersecting paths, and often reckless adventure. Prince Atlan Solorien, the first Spiritsinger in the Solorien line for several generations, must navigate a web of opposing responsibilities to discover his chosen path–Spiritsinger, king, scholar, or soldier.
Far to the north, Oria of-Cailir is torn between diverging notions of duty and sacrifice, that of Whispess to her clan, and that which her visions have made clear to her. Mothril of-Arcandras finds himself as guard to the Whispess, unwillingly at the center of Wiccar clan politics, despite his inclination to stay in the shadows.
Four disparate strangers, pulled together by threads of both will and something more determined, seek answers about themselves and their place in the world. Not all that is sought will be expected, and perhaps some answers should have stayed locked away.
"Grim dark fans will be satisfied with an appropriate level of brooding hack and slash, and romance fans will have some spiciness ... but KoS remains primarily high fantasy. ... Greenshaw has crafted a deep world that has an interesting magic system, rife with divine intervention, dark sorcery, and alchemy." —Goodreads reviewer
"If you enjoy sharp wit, found family, unique magic systems, and banter that has you giggling and kicking your feet, Knave of Sands is the perfect story for you." —Goodreads reviewer
"The world building in this was impeccable. I kept finding myself shocked that this is a debut, because it could be a crash course in fantasy world building. Just beautifully done and made it so easy to fully immerse myself in this book and ignore reality." —Goodreads reviewer
A thief who wants more out of life than gold. A prince who would trade it all for a chance at true freedom. A seer who must rely on her fearsome, newly appointed guard for survival.
In the Southern Realm of the Sentinel, Queen Attiqah of Yorenth has a tenuous grasp on her domain. The fabric of reality is breaking down around them, manifesting as strange, unnatural eternal fires, fog that never dissipates, rivers that have stopped flowing, and other bewildering accounts. The land has a will of its own. Desperate for answers from the Spirits, her court advisors grow restless.
When Kyr ap Sand, a Yoren thief, witnesses this breakdown firsthand on a heist, she finds herself the unlikely catalyst of a journey of intersecting paths, and often reckless adventure. Prince Atlan Solorien, the first Spiritsinger in the Solorien line for several generations, must navigate a web of opposing responsibilities to discover his chosen path–Spiritsinger, king, scholar, or soldier.
Far to the north, Oria of-Cailir is torn between diverging notions of duty and sacrifice, that of Whispess to her clan, and that which her visions have made clear to her. Mothril of-Arcandras finds himself as guard to the Whispess, unwillingly at the center of Wiccar clan politics, despite his inclination to stay in the shadows.
Four disparate strangers, pulled together by threads of both will and something more determined, seek answers about themselves and their place in the world. Not all that is sought will be expected, and perhaps some answers should have stayed locked away.
"Grim dark fans will be satisfied with an appropriate level of brooding hack and slash, and romance fans will have some spiciness ... but KoS remains primarily high fantasy. ... Greenshaw has crafted a deep world that has an interesting magic system, rife with divine intervention, dark sorcery, and alchemy." —Goodreads reviewer
"If you enjoy sharp wit, found family, unique magic systems, and banter that has you giggling and kicking your feet, Knave of Sands is the perfect story for you." —Goodreads reviewer
"The world building in this was impeccable. I kept finding myself shocked that this is a debut, because it could be a crash course in fantasy world building. Just beautifully done and made it so easy to fully immerse myself in this book and ignore reality." —Goodreads reviewer
- GenresFantasy
504 pages, Kindle Edition
Published September 30, 2025
3 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Julia Greenshaw
3 books10 followersJulia hails from the Green Mountains of Vermont. She has loved myths and fairy tales from the time she was young. When not writing, she can usually be found caring for her menagerie of animals, gardening, open water swimming, hunting for mushrooms, or spending time with loved ones. Oh, and she'll never turn down tiramisu.
To keep up with future releases, follow her on Instagram @greenshawbooks or sign up for her author newsletter here: https://www.juliagreenshawbooks.com/!
To keep up with future releases, follow her on Instagram @greenshawbooks or sign up for her author newsletter here: https://www.juliagreenshawbooks.com/!
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Displaying 1 - 15 of 15 reviews
September 27, 2025
review tba bc late !! but i will say rn that this was such a good story and it's very evident just from this debut that julia greenshaw is 10000% meant to write in the epic high fantasy genre
ok review now:
4.5 stars!!
Thanks so much to Julia Greenshaw for this ARC! It was such a pleasure to be among one of the first waves of people to lay eyes on the incredible world you’ve created.
These characters were TO. DIE. FOR. The interactions between all the characters with wildly different backgrounds were so much fun, and seeing their sense of camaraderie and trust develop throughout all the chaos was delightful. It was especially fun going back to Julia’s instagram page and looking at the memes they posted for each character. They were all sooooo spot on and hilarious with the book’s context!! Also, Kyr is my fav forever.
The world building in this was impeccable. I kept finding myself shocked that this is a debut, because it could be a crash course in fantasy world building. Just beautifully done and made it so easy to fully immerse myself in this book and ignore reality.
The plot twists and reveals were soooo good!! I was thoroughly surprised more than once, which is all I ever want out of a piece of media. So many chapters ended on cliffhangers that made me NEED to stay up until midnight reading even though I had work the next day. (RIP)
I will say it’s a bit slow at first, but that’s just true to the nature of the genre, and I personally loveeeeeeeee a slow descent into world building and a thick plot with characters that feel like my new best friends.
It made me cry, which is common for me (Pisces mars lol), but also something I use as a measurement of how good a book is. I WANT my books to make me cry. I WANT to be that attached to characters and places that don’t exist. Knave of Sands gave me that!
I feel like I need to go back and reread the ending, because I finished it at, as I said, midnight on a work night, but I can say that I NEED the next one ASAP.
As I said, this is a debut, but it’s extremely obvious to me that Julia Greenshaw was born to write epic fantasies, and I cannot wait to see what they do next!
ok review now:
4.5 stars!!
Thanks so much to Julia Greenshaw for this ARC! It was such a pleasure to be among one of the first waves of people to lay eyes on the incredible world you’ve created.
These characters were TO. DIE. FOR. The interactions between all the characters with wildly different backgrounds were so much fun, and seeing their sense of camaraderie and trust develop throughout all the chaos was delightful. It was especially fun going back to Julia’s instagram page and looking at the memes they posted for each character. They were all sooooo spot on and hilarious with the book’s context!! Also, Kyr is my fav forever.
The world building in this was impeccable. I kept finding myself shocked that this is a debut, because it could be a crash course in fantasy world building. Just beautifully done and made it so easy to fully immerse myself in this book and ignore reality.
The plot twists and reveals were soooo good!! I was thoroughly surprised more than once, which is all I ever want out of a piece of media. So many chapters ended on cliffhangers that made me NEED to stay up until midnight reading even though I had work the next day. (RIP)
I will say it’s a bit slow at first, but that’s just true to the nature of the genre, and I personally loveeeeeeeee a slow descent into world building and a thick plot with characters that feel like my new best friends.
It made me cry, which is common for me (Pisces mars lol), but also something I use as a measurement of how good a book is. I WANT my books to make me cry. I WANT to be that attached to characters and places that don’t exist. Knave of Sands gave me that!
I feel like I need to go back and reread the ending, because I finished it at, as I said, midnight on a work night, but I can say that I NEED the next one ASAP.
As I said, this is a debut, but it’s extremely obvious to me that Julia Greenshaw was born to write epic fantasies, and I cannot wait to see what they do next!
August 22, 2025
Thanks so much to the author for sending me an ARC. I am voluntarily leaving this review.
A debut fantasy with rich worldbuilding at the forefront. If you’re looking for a new world to really escape to and sink your teeth into the lore, the map, and the atmosphere then this would be a great one to pick up. The prose quality is excellent as well.
While there are certainly moments of death, destruction, gore, and heartbreak, there is ultimately a sort of cozy quality to these characters. They are often charming, joke with each other, and aren’t afraid to get deep.
Vague spoiler:
I’m left reeling quite a bit from that cliffhanger. Fair warning, it is a true cliffhanger in the sense that the story ends right in the middle of a main confrontation that has been building up for the entire book.
A debut fantasy with rich worldbuilding at the forefront. If you’re looking for a new world to really escape to and sink your teeth into the lore, the map, and the atmosphere then this would be a great one to pick up. The prose quality is excellent as well.
While there are certainly moments of death, destruction, gore, and heartbreak, there is ultimately a sort of cozy quality to these characters. They are often charming, joke with each other, and aren’t afraid to get deep.
Vague spoiler:
I’m left reeling quite a bit from that cliffhanger. Fair warning, it is a true cliffhanger in the sense that the story ends right in the middle of a main confrontation that has been building up for the entire book.
August 28, 2025
Knave of Sands is an incredible story with rich world building and lovable characters. I was immersed in this story from start to finish, and I loved going on the journey with our characters and unlocking the secrets and magic of the land. There is also a hint of romance that is so well developed with the perfect amount of yearning (I love you Mothril 🤭)
I’m looking forward to book two and more from Julia in the future! Knave of Sands is out 9/30 and I highly recommend checking it out! Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
I’m looking forward to book two and more from Julia in the future! Knave of Sands is out 9/30 and I highly recommend checking it out! Thank you to the author for an eARC in exchange for an honest review!
September 16, 2025
I’m so grateful I got to read Julia’s debut novel 🥹💕 I'm her #1 fan and I'll fight you for it xo Let me start by saying: you need to read this book when it comes out!!
Knave of Sands has everything I love in a fantasy – rich worldbuilding (with its own language and religion, which I looooove in a book!!!!), an atmosphere that pulls you in from the very first pages, and characters who feel so real, relatable, and impossible not to love. It has rich lore, and a strong plot that will keep you hooked (especially after that ending...😒😂). Julia weaves humour and serious themes together so beautifully, and her prose is absolutely beautiful. I highlighted so many quotes whilst reading!
You’ll follow four main characters – Atlan, Kyr, Mothril, and Oria – and trust me, you’ll get attached to them fast. The slow burn romance is slow burning 🔥 but in the best possible way 😌🤭. Atlan and Kyr’s friendship is just so endearing; Kyr especially made me laugh and I constantly wanted to hug them both 🥹. But I'll have to say Mothril and Oria were my favourite, and I have to shout out Attiqa because I think she's actually a real baddie and I'm not here for the slander against her in the book 💅 I mean.... she makes knights kneel in her presence..like you go girl!!
This is such a brilliant start to a series, and I honestly can’t wait to see where it goes next. Add this to your TBR immediately!!
Knave of Sands has everything I love in a fantasy – rich worldbuilding (with its own language and religion, which I looooove in a book!!!!), an atmosphere that pulls you in from the very first pages, and characters who feel so real, relatable, and impossible not to love. It has rich lore, and a strong plot that will keep you hooked (especially after that ending...😒😂). Julia weaves humour and serious themes together so beautifully, and her prose is absolutely beautiful. I highlighted so many quotes whilst reading!
You’ll follow four main characters – Atlan, Kyr, Mothril, and Oria – and trust me, you’ll get attached to them fast. The slow burn romance is slow burning 🔥 but in the best possible way 😌🤭. Atlan and Kyr’s friendship is just so endearing; Kyr especially made me laugh and I constantly wanted to hug them both 🥹. But I'll have to say Mothril and Oria were my favourite, and I have to shout out Attiqa because I think she's actually a real baddie and I'm not here for the slander against her in the book 💅 I mean.... she makes knights kneel in her presence..like you go girl!!
This is such a brilliant start to a series, and I honestly can’t wait to see where it goes next. Add this to your TBR immediately!!
August 15, 2025
4.5/5⭐️
~~~
one slight kiss spoiler mentioned in this review!
~~~
first of all, thank you soooo much Julia for this ARC, it’s truly an honor to have received one🥺
i’ll start this review off by saying that this book was so beautifully written😍 some lines felt very poetic as i read without being obnoxious about it. i felt like i was right beside Kyr & the gang in Yorenth, Old Era, the Middevale, and the rest of the world. the magic system was also interesting and unique, and i’m curious to see how it develops and comes into play in the next book
i loved the depth that each character had! Kyr has spent most of her life as a thief and a criminal, but she still feels remorse when things get out of hand on a mission. Atlan may be a prince, but he despises the way the poor are treated while his mother and the other nobles glut themselves in the castle. and even Vyktas is not quite so arrogant as he may seem
the real stars of the story if you ask me though are Oria and Mothril😍😍 there was just something about them that i immediately connected with, and i really wish there was more than just one kiss between them😩😩 i loved finding out some of the secrets from Mothril’s past— and the way Oria accepted that about him but still put her full trust in him was everything🥺
overall i think this was a great first book full of adventure, uncovering secrets and lost histories, and a beautiful addition of found family too💕
Knave of Sands is coming out next month on September 30th! so add this book to your tbr & mark your calendars friends🫶🏻🤩
~~~
~~~
one slight kiss spoiler mentioned in this review!
~~~
first of all, thank you soooo much Julia for this ARC, it’s truly an honor to have received one🥺
i’ll start this review off by saying that this book was so beautifully written😍 some lines felt very poetic as i read without being obnoxious about it. i felt like i was right beside Kyr & the gang in Yorenth, Old Era, the Middevale, and the rest of the world. the magic system was also interesting and unique, and i’m curious to see how it develops and comes into play in the next book
i loved the depth that each character had! Kyr has spent most of her life as a thief and a criminal, but she still feels remorse when things get out of hand on a mission. Atlan may be a prince, but he despises the way the poor are treated while his mother and the other nobles glut themselves in the castle. and even Vyktas is not quite so arrogant as he may seem
the real stars of the story if you ask me though are Oria and Mothril😍😍 there was just something about them that i immediately connected with, and i really wish there was more than just one kiss between them😩😩 i loved finding out some of the secrets from Mothril’s past— and the way Oria accepted that about him but still put her full trust in him was everything🥺
overall i think this was a great first book full of adventure, uncovering secrets and lost histories, and a beautiful addition of found family too💕
Knave of Sands is coming out next month on September 30th! so add this book to your tbr & mark your calendars friends🫶🏻🤩
~~~
September 9, 2025
okay, i don't really even know where to start with this review because there's so much i want to say about the book. first of all, thank you to the author for providing me with an ARC for review. what an incredible fantasy debut this was!!
i recommend going into this book knowing only what you get from the blurb and losing yourself to this world and these characters. the plot was fantastic, but as someone who LOVES some good worldbuilding and characters, those elements really stole the show for me. each character felt so real with their personalities and flaws and relationships with each other, and i loved each of their perspectives (although oria's was my personal favorite). the prose and worldbuilding were beautiful.
i truly don't have many critiques. my progress slowed down as the story did around 50% through, but that's to no fault of the story pacing (which was also well done), i really think it's because i read 200 pages in one day and then had to go back to reality (work).
i will be waiting with bated breath for the following novels. because hey, that ending? wtf.
i recommend going into this book knowing only what you get from the blurb and losing yourself to this world and these characters. the plot was fantastic, but as someone who LOVES some good worldbuilding and characters, those elements really stole the show for me. each character felt so real with their personalities and flaws and relationships with each other, and i loved each of their perspectives (although oria's was my personal favorite). the prose and worldbuilding were beautiful.
i truly don't have many critiques. my progress slowed down as the story did around 50% through, but that's to no fault of the story pacing (which was also well done), i really think it's because i read 200 pages in one day and then had to go back to reality (work).
i will be waiting with bated breath for the following novels. because hey, that ending? wtf.
August 8, 2025
I devoured this ARC.
Knave of Sands centers around some strong and well-written characters, so I found myself drawn in for the entire wild ride. There’s a maturity to all of the characters that I really appreciate, and an adult development aspect to a lot of the character growth that I haven’t seen in many fantasy novels. Without getting in to too many specifics, there’s an engaging plot that centers around magical disturbances in various kingdoms around the world, and various casts of characters are drawn into what unravels. Great pacing, and there was a heel turn by a charter at the end that still has me reeling.
Spirits Six, there’s a lot here, and the writing is quite good! At times prosaic. The action is tight. Grim dark fans will be satisfied with an appropriate level of brooding hack and slash, and romance fans will have some spiciness that doesn’t shy away from the more adult aspects of romance, but KoS remains primarily high fantasy.
Greenshaw has crafted a deep world that has an interesting magic system, rife with divine intervention, dark sorcery, and alchemy. She has some fantasy elements that are uniquely her own, and a language called Boean Poet that’s really fun to read in a “trying-to-read-something-in-the-silmarillion” kind of way. I really hope there’s more Eradomin and Borean Poet in the future!
This brings me to my final point, which is that I’m excited for another fantasy series in a way I haven’t been excited about a fantasy series in a while. I find myself engaged in the world and wondering about diffent parts of it long after I’ve put it down. Great first entree into the fantasy scene, and I’ll be recommending this to just about everyone!
I really, really, really need to know what happens next. Ms. Greenshaw, please get on this!
Knave of Sands centers around some strong and well-written characters, so I found myself drawn in for the entire wild ride. There’s a maturity to all of the characters that I really appreciate, and an adult development aspect to a lot of the character growth that I haven’t seen in many fantasy novels. Without getting in to too many specifics, there’s an engaging plot that centers around magical disturbances in various kingdoms around the world, and various casts of characters are drawn into what unravels. Great pacing, and there was a heel turn by a charter at the end that still has me reeling.
Spirits Six, there’s a lot here, and the writing is quite good! At times prosaic. The action is tight. Grim dark fans will be satisfied with an appropriate level of brooding hack and slash, and romance fans will have some spiciness that doesn’t shy away from the more adult aspects of romance, but KoS remains primarily high fantasy.
Greenshaw has crafted a deep world that has an interesting magic system, rife with divine intervention, dark sorcery, and alchemy. She has some fantasy elements that are uniquely her own, and a language called Boean Poet that’s really fun to read in a “trying-to-read-something-in-the-silmarillion” kind of way. I really hope there’s more Eradomin and Borean Poet in the future!
This brings me to my final point, which is that I’m excited for another fantasy series in a way I haven’t been excited about a fantasy series in a while. I find myself engaged in the world and wondering about diffent parts of it long after I’ve put it down. Great first entree into the fantasy scene, and I’ll be recommending this to just about everyone!
I really, really, really need to know what happens next. Ms. Greenshaw, please get on this!
October 6, 2025
I could not put this book down! Greenshaw has created a story and world that is exciting and vivid.
Told from multiple points of view, Knave of Sands pulls together a cast of characters into unlikely friendships through a joint goal, one that sees them undertaking soon to become treacherous quests. The fact that the story is told from the multiple POV means you get to view situations from different perspectives and are often allowed into the events that can often be kept from the reader in a single-POV read. Sitting just shy of 500 pages, Knave of Sands was extremely well-paced without too much meaningless or uneventful travelling – things still happen while our band of character are on the road!
The characters were extremely likeable (apart from those that you aren't meant to, of course) and Greenshaw managed to advance and resolve any inter-character disputes without dragging them on to annoying levels of repeated misunderstanding etc that I have experienced a lot lately. This allows the true characters to shine through and allows the plot to sing without the characters getting in the way.
A rich and magical world has been created in Knave of Sands, one that at times is dangerous and bears its teeth, while at others seems gentle and beautiful. I, like Kyr, find the idea of settling in Greenflower very appealing. As a lover of worldbuilding that causes strong images to form in my mind while I'm reading, this book provided that perfectly.
Knave of Sands includes some LGBTQ representation as well as a sprinkling of spice, but this is first and foremost a fantasy adventure novel with these moments within.
Fans of The Elder Scrolls games would love this book. I can't wait to see where the story takes the characters and readers next!
Told from multiple points of view, Knave of Sands pulls together a cast of characters into unlikely friendships through a joint goal, one that sees them undertaking soon to become treacherous quests. The fact that the story is told from the multiple POV means you get to view situations from different perspectives and are often allowed into the events that can often be kept from the reader in a single-POV read. Sitting just shy of 500 pages, Knave of Sands was extremely well-paced without too much meaningless or uneventful travelling – things still happen while our band of character are on the road!
The characters were extremely likeable (apart from those that you aren't meant to, of course) and Greenshaw managed to advance and resolve any inter-character disputes without dragging them on to annoying levels of repeated misunderstanding etc that I have experienced a lot lately. This allows the true characters to shine through and allows the plot to sing without the characters getting in the way.
A rich and magical world has been created in Knave of Sands, one that at times is dangerous and bears its teeth, while at others seems gentle and beautiful. I, like Kyr, find the idea of settling in Greenflower very appealing. As a lover of worldbuilding that causes strong images to form in my mind while I'm reading, this book provided that perfectly.
Knave of Sands includes some LGBTQ representation as well as a sprinkling of spice, but this is first and foremost a fantasy adventure novel with these moments within.
Fans of The Elder Scrolls games would love this book. I can't wait to see where the story takes the characters and readers next!
October 3, 2025
A gripping fantasy story of perseverance, strength, and a test of wills. Knave of Sands follows four prominent characters as they struggle with identity and politics that can rule or ruin their lives. It is a story of adventure, of finding family in unlikely places, of questioning everything you know about the world.
In the Southern realm, we have Atlan & Kyr:
"He knew magic. It loved passion, craved rage with nowhere to go."
Atlan, our tortured Solorien Prince, is controlled by crushing guilt of his past. He must decide how he fits into his world, his Kingdom - as a soldier? A king? A Spritisinger? But he must decide - will he overcome his guilt, the heavy burden on his shoulders, or will he let it crush him, bend him into something he'd sworn never to become?
"They simply liked each other. Against all odds."
Kyr ap Sand, the sharp-tongued thief, has found herself wrapped up in court politics when the Solorien Queen sees her as the perfect weapon for her court. But her guild of thieves aren't done with her, and it seems like no matter where Kyr runs, trouble always seems to follow.
Up North, where the air is colder and the forests are dense, we find Oria & Mothril.
"Many will see weakness and fail to notice its constant companion. The fighting strength to keep going."
The Whispess of her clan, Oria of-Cailir, guides her clan through visions. Though a gift from the Gods, it takes a great toll. Her people rely on her for survival, for prosperity, but with every vision, her body grows weaker, frail. Will she die for a flourishing kingdom, or live to see it crumble before her?
"To understand people, you must understand their legends."
Mothril of-Arcandras, professional torturer, has been reassigned duties to guard and protect Oria as she lives and serves the clan. He protects her from the shadows, careful to never get too close. Yet, as he watches her work, he sees her slowly withering away and he must ask himself - who is the true enemy he's to protect her from?
I enjoyed every moment of this story - the multiple POVs provide us with various insights to the overall political structures, which have been well-crafted and developed throughout the story. Though every character is unique and loveable (even when they're being little shits), Mothril, our broody, quiet, yearning guard is my absolute favorite character.
If you enjoy sharp wit, found family, unique magic systems, and banter that has you giggling and kicking your feet, Knave of Sands is the perfect story for you.
Thank you so much to Julia Greenshaw for an e-ARC & physical copy for review! I am in the dungeons somewhere gnawing at the bars of my enclosure for the second book.
In the Southern realm, we have Atlan & Kyr:
"He knew magic. It loved passion, craved rage with nowhere to go."
Atlan, our tortured Solorien Prince, is controlled by crushing guilt of his past. He must decide how he fits into his world, his Kingdom - as a soldier? A king? A Spritisinger? But he must decide - will he overcome his guilt, the heavy burden on his shoulders, or will he let it crush him, bend him into something he'd sworn never to become?
"They simply liked each other. Against all odds."
Kyr ap Sand, the sharp-tongued thief, has found herself wrapped up in court politics when the Solorien Queen sees her as the perfect weapon for her court. But her guild of thieves aren't done with her, and it seems like no matter where Kyr runs, trouble always seems to follow.
Up North, where the air is colder and the forests are dense, we find Oria & Mothril.
"Many will see weakness and fail to notice its constant companion. The fighting strength to keep going."
The Whispess of her clan, Oria of-Cailir, guides her clan through visions. Though a gift from the Gods, it takes a great toll. Her people rely on her for survival, for prosperity, but with every vision, her body grows weaker, frail. Will she die for a flourishing kingdom, or live to see it crumble before her?
"To understand people, you must understand their legends."
Mothril of-Arcandras, professional torturer, has been reassigned duties to guard and protect Oria as she lives and serves the clan. He protects her from the shadows, careful to never get too close. Yet, as he watches her work, he sees her slowly withering away and he must ask himself - who is the true enemy he's to protect her from?
I enjoyed every moment of this story - the multiple POVs provide us with various insights to the overall political structures, which have been well-crafted and developed throughout the story. Though every character is unique and loveable (even when they're being little shits), Mothril, our broody, quiet, yearning guard is my absolute favorite character.
If you enjoy sharp wit, found family, unique magic systems, and banter that has you giggling and kicking your feet, Knave of Sands is the perfect story for you.
Thank you so much to Julia Greenshaw for an e-ARC & physical copy for review! I am in the dungeons somewhere gnawing at the bars of my enclosure for the second book.
September 30, 2025
𝘔𝘢𝘯𝘺 𝘸𝘪𝘭𝘭 𝘴𝘦𝘦 𝘸𝘦𝘢𝘬𝘯𝘦𝘴𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘢𝘪𝘭 𝘵𝘰 𝘯𝘰𝘵𝘪𝘤𝘦 𝘪𝘵𝘴 𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘴𝘵𝘢𝘯𝘵 𝘤𝘰𝘮𝘱𝘢𝘯𝘪𝘰𝘯. 𝘛𝘩𝘦 𝘧𝘪𝘨𝘩𝘵𝘪𝘯𝘨 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘦𝘯𝘨𝘵𝘩 𝘵𝘰 𝘬𝘦𝘦𝘱 𝘨𝘰𝘪𝘯𝘨.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ (4.5)
Thank you to the lovely Julia Greenshaw for letting me read an ARC of their fantastic book. What a debut book, and what a stunningly creative brain you have.
I'd been in a deep reading slump for a while, and I forgot I actually love reading (anyone else ever get this?). Then I started this stunning book. It brought me back to the fun seamless reading, where words in a page become magical worlds (and I have aphantasia, so this is hard to come by).
This was an epic story with deep lore, a whole made up language, amazing casual representation, lovable characters (and unlovable ones too), beautiful quotes and an addictive plot. It kept me on my toes with twists and turns I did not see coming. The worldbuilding was perfectly crafted, never overwhelming but always well thought out and fascinating. The magic system with the Spirits is so cool.
I loved following Kyr, Oria and the rest of these amazing characters in their adventures, and I can't believe we are left how we are!!! HOW DARE YOU JULIA?! I hope we'll get to find out what happens next very soon (after you enjoy a well deserved break).
If this sounds good to you, you're in luck, Knave of Sands is out today! Run to order your copy RIGHT NOW, it's currently available on KU and Amazon. ✨️🗡 Happy release day, Julia!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨️ (4.5)
Thank you to the lovely Julia Greenshaw for letting me read an ARC of their fantastic book. What a debut book, and what a stunningly creative brain you have.
I'd been in a deep reading slump for a while, and I forgot I actually love reading (anyone else ever get this?). Then I started this stunning book. It brought me back to the fun seamless reading, where words in a page become magical worlds (and I have aphantasia, so this is hard to come by).
This was an epic story with deep lore, a whole made up language, amazing casual representation, lovable characters (and unlovable ones too), beautiful quotes and an addictive plot. It kept me on my toes with twists and turns I did not see coming. The worldbuilding was perfectly crafted, never overwhelming but always well thought out and fascinating. The magic system with the Spirits is so cool.
I loved following Kyr, Oria and the rest of these amazing characters in their adventures, and I can't believe we are left how we are!!! HOW DARE YOU JULIA?! I hope we'll get to find out what happens next very soon (after you enjoy a well deserved break).
If this sounds good to you, you're in luck, Knave of Sands is out today! Run to order your copy RIGHT NOW, it's currently available on KU and Amazon. ✨️🗡 Happy release day, Julia!
September 14, 2025
Where even to begin?! This book was so captivating.
One of its strongest elements is worldbuilding. On the broad level, this book has an intriguing system of six Spirits that imbue Spiritsingers with rare magic. On a narrower level, the settings are described in such detail. Though this is an epic fantasy that stretches across hundreds of miles, no setting is ignored. From the city of Yorenth to the dangerous lands surrounding the Western Road to a citadel set deep in the forests, I could picture each setting perfectly. And I can't forget to mention that Julia created an ancient language for this book!
Even more awesome than the worldbuilding are the characters! The story follows POV characters from a variety of backgrounds--a thief, a prince, a Whispess and her loyal guard--and you're sure to fall in love with at least one. Mothril, the guard, is probably my favorite, but I also came to care deeply about Oria, Kyr, Atlan. The way the characters' relationships developed was wonderful. And while the overarching story deals with dramatic magical conundrums and the fate of the world, there's also a perfect sprinkling of romance, plus moments of much-needed humor.
All in all, I could hardly stop reading, and I can't wait for the next book!
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
One of its strongest elements is worldbuilding. On the broad level, this book has an intriguing system of six Spirits that imbue Spiritsingers with rare magic. On a narrower level, the settings are described in such detail. Though this is an epic fantasy that stretches across hundreds of miles, no setting is ignored. From the city of Yorenth to the dangerous lands surrounding the Western Road to a citadel set deep in the forests, I could picture each setting perfectly. And I can't forget to mention that Julia created an ancient language for this book!
Even more awesome than the worldbuilding are the characters! The story follows POV characters from a variety of backgrounds--a thief, a prince, a Whispess and her loyal guard--and you're sure to fall in love with at least one. Mothril, the guard, is probably my favorite, but I also came to care deeply about Oria, Kyr, Atlan. The way the characters' relationships developed was wonderful. And while the overarching story deals with dramatic magical conundrums and the fate of the world, there's also a perfect sprinkling of romance, plus moments of much-needed humor.
All in all, I could hardly stop reading, and I can't wait for the next book!
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
September 14, 2025
This is a strong, complex debut novel from Julia Greenshaw, and I expect a great future from this author.
The writing and worldbuilding are strong here, which is particularly important for how much is going on in this story. Elemental magic is one of my favorite themes, and I would have loved even more explanation of the magic system and the Spirits. For the length of this book (not TOO long, but almost 500 pages), I think it may have been a bit TOO complex without a balancing amount of explanation for the reader.
Each character has a strong, clear personality and identity, and they are all supremely likable in their own way. Kyr’s attitude, unsurprisingly, is my favorite, and her friendship with Atlan was so wholesome, if a little quick. The LGBTQIA+ and disability representation were beautiful.
I did find the middle of the story a bit long, and the motive for the initial quest was not as strong as I typically prefer, but SOMETHING has got to get the story going, I suppose!
If you, like me, aren’t a huge fan of a book 1 cliffhanger, please be prepared because this is a doozy! No docked stars though, that’s just my personal preference. In an ideal world, I’d have book 2 in-hand already.
Overall a solid read for anyone who’s a fan of high fantasy and colorful characters!
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of this book so that I may leave an honest review.
The writing and worldbuilding are strong here, which is particularly important for how much is going on in this story. Elemental magic is one of my favorite themes, and I would have loved even more explanation of the magic system and the Spirits. For the length of this book (not TOO long, but almost 500 pages), I think it may have been a bit TOO complex without a balancing amount of explanation for the reader.
Each character has a strong, clear personality and identity, and they are all supremely likable in their own way. Kyr’s attitude, unsurprisingly, is my favorite, and her friendship with Atlan was so wholesome, if a little quick. The LGBTQIA+ and disability representation were beautiful.
I did find the middle of the story a bit long, and the motive for the initial quest was not as strong as I typically prefer, but SOMETHING has got to get the story going, I suppose!
If you, like me, aren’t a huge fan of a book 1 cliffhanger, please be prepared because this is a doozy! No docked stars though, that’s just my personal preference. In an ideal world, I’d have book 2 in-hand already.
Overall a solid read for anyone who’s a fan of high fantasy and colorful characters!
Thanks to NetGalley and the author for an eARC of this book so that I may leave an honest review.
October 1, 2025
Knave of Sands by Julia Greenshaw
Favourite quotes:
• 'Two more days of travel lay ahead of them to Greenflower, but as she stood there, she thought only of her warrior.'
• 'She looked down to find it still dripping starlight, sparkling droplets beading on the edge before fading away, the light diffusing to darkness.'
• 'To understand a people, you must understand their legends.'
• 'They simply liked each other. Against all odds.'
_________________________________
Knave of Sands is a sweeping tale filled with rich prose which immediately ripped me from the mundane and pulled me into a tale of adventure, politics, found family, witty banter, petty arguments, and a dash of romance.
The world building feels robust with familiar classic fantasy elements balanced by a unique magic system and lots of elements of the unknown. I cannot wait to sink my teeth into more!
Our tale follows four main characters:
★ Kyr ap Sand ~ a quick-talking thief who finds herself wrapped up in the dangers of court politics.
★ Prince Atlan Solorien ~ a conflicting figure who holds deep guilt over the past. Seeking to understand which path to walk:
Spiritsinger, king, scholar, or soldier.
★ Oria of-Cailir ~ far in the north, The Whispess of her clan whose visions guide her people but cause her great physical pain.
★Mothril of-Arcandras ~ the torturer turned guard. Watching over Oria from the shadows, perhaps the only one who sees the truth...
The book comes alive with these characters, their relationships to themselves and each other are carefully constructed and developed throughout the plot. I always love reading split POV in epic fantasy as it balances the narrative and helps give perspective.
If I HAD to chose though, Mothril is my favourite - I love a dark, brooding, secretly devoted type.
Favourite quotes:
• 'Two more days of travel lay ahead of them to Greenflower, but as she stood there, she thought only of her warrior.'
• 'She looked down to find it still dripping starlight, sparkling droplets beading on the edge before fading away, the light diffusing to darkness.'
• 'To understand a people, you must understand their legends.'
• 'They simply liked each other. Against all odds.'
_________________________________
Knave of Sands is a sweeping tale filled with rich prose which immediately ripped me from the mundane and pulled me into a tale of adventure, politics, found family, witty banter, petty arguments, and a dash of romance.
The world building feels robust with familiar classic fantasy elements balanced by a unique magic system and lots of elements of the unknown. I cannot wait to sink my teeth into more!
Our tale follows four main characters:
★ Kyr ap Sand ~ a quick-talking thief who finds herself wrapped up in the dangers of court politics.
★ Prince Atlan Solorien ~ a conflicting figure who holds deep guilt over the past. Seeking to understand which path to walk:
Spiritsinger, king, scholar, or soldier.
★ Oria of-Cailir ~ far in the north, The Whispess of her clan whose visions guide her people but cause her great physical pain.
★Mothril of-Arcandras ~ the torturer turned guard. Watching over Oria from the shadows, perhaps the only one who sees the truth...
The book comes alive with these characters, their relationships to themselves and each other are carefully constructed and developed throughout the plot. I always love reading split POV in epic fantasy as it balances the narrative and helps give perspective.
If I HAD to chose though, Mothril is my favourite - I love a dark, brooding, secretly devoted type.
November 26, 2025
Content warnings for Knave of Sands are available on my website if you are in need of them. You can also find a glossary page there as well: https://www.juliagreenshawbooks.com/c...
October 28, 2025
First, I want to thank Julia for letting me read an advanced copy of Knave of Sands in exchange for an honest review. Because holy smokes, what a book!
The world building/high fantasy plot is complex while still being approachable and I never felt the info-dumping that often comes with epic fantasy series starters.
And the characters! Found family will always be my favorite trope, and this book had it in spades. I love an emo guy as much as the next but my favorites were Kyr, our scrappy knave, Teleri Two Trees, our whimsical nature goddess, and a surprise character that appears midway through. No spoilers!
If you are looking to dive into a new epic fantasy series by an indie author, please give this one a try!
4.5/5 stars
The world building/high fantasy plot is complex while still being approachable and I never felt the info-dumping that often comes with epic fantasy series starters.
And the characters! Found family will always be my favorite trope, and this book had it in spades. I love an emo guy as much as the next but my favorites were Kyr, our scrappy knave, Teleri Two Trees, our whimsical nature goddess, and a surprise character that appears midway through. No spoilers!
If you are looking to dive into a new epic fantasy series by an indie author, please give this one a try!
4.5/5 stars
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