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The Turners Saga #1
The Keepers
Sanverra lies at the heart of the Cardinal Lands, dynamic realms ruled by lines of great queens. While magic is very real, witchery is challenged, for witches bow to no queen, they hold loyalty to no crown. The queens may accept advice or healing from their local Covens of the Grounded, but they and their subjects are well aware witches do not offer their services without a price.
Aleris, adopted into the ambitious Orcharder family as a second daughter, is raised to hide the magic she was born with-until she no longer can. When she finally embraces her own witchery, she changes more fates than her own.
Queen Daphne of Sanverra's word on any matter is final-until she is nearly silenced forever. When she lives through her own death, she begins to understand how much she doesn't know about the witches of her world.
Greater than any Coven of the Grounded, though, is the otherworldly Coven of the Keepers, whose magic turns the very Wheel of the Year. These witches take sacrificed moments from the world to do so, adhering to only one truth: The Wheel must turn.
Aleris, adopted into the ambitious Orcharder family as a second daughter, is raised to hide the magic she was born with-until she no longer can. When she finally embraces her own witchery, she changes more fates than her own.
Queen Daphne of Sanverra's word on any matter is final-until she is nearly silenced forever. When she lives through her own death, she begins to understand how much she doesn't know about the witches of her world.
Greater than any Coven of the Grounded, though, is the otherworldly Coven of the Keepers, whose magic turns the very Wheel of the Year. These witches take sacrificed moments from the world to do so, adhering to only one truth: The Wheel must turn.
- GenresFantasy
368 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book as an ARC.
Top notes that made me love this book:
- Found Family, Magic, Girl Power, Questions of morality, beginnings of war, conflict toward magic wielders.
-No spice. This story doesn't need it.
"The Wheel Must Turn"
Sarah Goehrke dazzles us with her debut novel. I could NOT put this book down. I was addicted and I desperately want more. The plot and characters had me on the edge of my seat, metaphorically biting my nails.
I love how Sarah built the world within The Keepers. She has created a deep lore with nods to Paganism/Druidism. I love her approach to the covens and how society is set up. The plot builds and builds. There are surprising twists and storylines that make your heart ache for the characters.The tension is delicious.
I love that the characters grow and evolve. Every character is well written. I love that Aleris (our FMC) grows so much from chapter 1. I love that she questions the things she's told to blindly follow. As much as she pisses me off, Cora is a great character with depth. Her ambition Even the vile characters are memorable.
Top notes that made me love this book:
- Found Family, Magic, Girl Power, Questions of morality, beginnings of war, conflict toward magic wielders.
-No spice. This story doesn't need it.
"The Wheel Must Turn"
Sarah Goehrke dazzles us with her debut novel. I could NOT put this book down. I was addicted and I desperately want more. The plot and characters had me on the edge of my seat, metaphorically biting my nails.
I love how Sarah built the world within The Keepers. She has created a deep lore with nods to Paganism/Druidism. I love her approach to the covens and how society is set up. The plot builds and builds. There are surprising twists and storylines that make your heart ache for the characters.The tension is delicious.
I love that the characters grow and evolve. Every character is well written. I love that Aleris (our FMC) grows so much from chapter 1. I love that she questions the things she's told to blindly follow. As much as she pisses me off, Cora is a great character with depth. Her ambition Even the vile characters are memorable.
Did Not Finish
August 16, 2026DNF @15%
This is a tough one.
I wanted so badly to love The Keepers. The first time I read the word "matriarch" listed in the trope map, I was already imagining which shelf I wanted to put this book on, and it certainly wasn't the Did Not Finish shelf.
The book actually started well, although I was surprised when the FMC was first introduced as a 13 y.o. At first, I thought, Okay, this isn't a flashback. We're getting a full origin story from her childhood.
But then the writing made it really difficult for me to connect with her.
It was very detailed, to the point of becoming excessive. And while I do enjoy narration heavy books, The Keepers also felt like it was summarizing some important events instead of actually letting me experience them.
Take the horse incident, for example. Instead of showing us what happened and allowing the event to unfold naturally, the author chose to list the aftermath.
Then we get a time skip where the FMC and her sister grow up.
Six years pass in just a few paragraphs.
And then there's the sister's boyfriend, who is introduced through narration as well. It felt very telling rather than showing. We were essentially told what kind of person he was and how we were supposed to feel about him instead of being given the opportunity to form our own opinions through his actions.
After that, I realized my eyes were starting to wander instead of actually reading the words. And that's when I knew I had to stop here. It genuinely makes me sad because I really wanted this book to work for me, especially because the premise had so much potential.
Thank you to the author for the free copy, and I apologize for both the late review and not being able to finish the book.
This is a tough one.
I wanted so badly to love The Keepers. The first time I read the word "matriarch" listed in the trope map, I was already imagining which shelf I wanted to put this book on, and it certainly wasn't the Did Not Finish shelf.
The book actually started well, although I was surprised when the FMC was first introduced as a 13 y.o. At first, I thought, Okay, this isn't a flashback. We're getting a full origin story from her childhood.
But then the writing made it really difficult for me to connect with her.
It was very detailed, to the point of becoming excessive. And while I do enjoy narration heavy books, The Keepers also felt like it was summarizing some important events instead of actually letting me experience them.
Take the horse incident, for example. Instead of showing us what happened and allowing the event to unfold naturally, the author chose to list the aftermath.
Then we get a time skip where the FMC and her sister grow up.
Six years pass in just a few paragraphs.
And then there's the sister's boyfriend, who is introduced through narration as well. It felt very telling rather than showing. We were essentially told what kind of person he was and how we were supposed to feel about him instead of being given the opportunity to form our own opinions through his actions.
After that, I realized my eyes were starting to wander instead of actually reading the words. And that's when I knew I had to stop here. It genuinely makes me sad because I really wanted this book to work for me, especially because the premise had so much potential.
Thank you to the author for the free copy, and I apologize for both the late review and not being able to finish the book.
October 18, 2026
There are books that one can read quite sensibly. Setting them softly to the side at a reasonable time to attend to such mundane obligations as laundry, dishes...
Eating.
And then... there are books that swallow you whole. Books that make the world you know so distant that even the growl of ones stomach is a suggestion whispered so softly that it might have been swoosh of a cats tail.
The Keepers, is rather firmly settled into that second category.
Ancient magic, the turning of the Wheel, powerful woman, and the unfortunate tendance of those with power to assume that everyone else ought to be terribly grateful for the privilege of obeying them.
I do LOVE when a story wanders into that particular part of the forest.
There is something wonderfully compelling about magic that breaths on it's own. Magic with roots. With Memory.
With Consequences.
The sort that cannot be summoned to clean up life's inconveniences and put away. Like a toaster in a cupboard.
Woven through this story are questions of power, loyalty, sacrifice, and the business of deciding who you are when the world has already made up it's mind for you.
I have always had a fondness for stories that understand the difference between possessing power and DESERVING it.
Oh and of women who, when presented with the perfectly 'respectable' expectation of bowing their head and behaving have the audacity to ask, "Why?"
While making eye contact.
Here you will find rebellion, certainly. You will also find something quieter, more enduring. The understanding that some things are worth protecting. That some choices cannot be made FOR us. That some responsibilities are not so easily set aside.
If your literary taste runs toward ancient magic, witches, complicated destinies, and woman who have absolutely zero intention of surrendering their sovereignty simply to make someone else comfortable...
Then this book... is for you.
So, make yourself a cup of tea, grab a snack and a comfortable chair...
And let the household know that you've been temporarily claimed by literary obligations.
The world can wait.
The Wheel, apparently, cannot.
I am Called.
Eating.
And then... there are books that swallow you whole. Books that make the world you know so distant that even the growl of ones stomach is a suggestion whispered so softly that it might have been swoosh of a cats tail.
The Keepers, is rather firmly settled into that second category.
Ancient magic, the turning of the Wheel, powerful woman, and the unfortunate tendance of those with power to assume that everyone else ought to be terribly grateful for the privilege of obeying them.
I do LOVE when a story wanders into that particular part of the forest.
There is something wonderfully compelling about magic that breaths on it's own. Magic with roots. With Memory.
With Consequences.
The sort that cannot be summoned to clean up life's inconveniences and put away. Like a toaster in a cupboard.
Woven through this story are questions of power, loyalty, sacrifice, and the business of deciding who you are when the world has already made up it's mind for you.
I have always had a fondness for stories that understand the difference between possessing power and DESERVING it.
Oh and of women who, when presented with the perfectly 'respectable' expectation of bowing their head and behaving have the audacity to ask, "Why?"
While making eye contact.
Here you will find rebellion, certainly. You will also find something quieter, more enduring. The understanding that some things are worth protecting. That some choices cannot be made FOR us. That some responsibilities are not so easily set aside.
If your literary taste runs toward ancient magic, witches, complicated destinies, and woman who have absolutely zero intention of surrendering their sovereignty simply to make someone else comfortable...
Then this book... is for you.
So, make yourself a cup of tea, grab a snack and a comfortable chair...
And let the household know that you've been temporarily claimed by literary obligations.
The world can wait.
The Wheel, apparently, cannot.
I am Called.
September 5, 2026
Stunning. This book feels like Game of Thrones blended with The Priory of the Orange Tree, with witches at its center instead of dragons. The writing is so delightfully elegant and intricate, the characters and the world so fully fleshed out and realistic. And the CATS!! I really can’t wait to see what the rest of this series has in store.
June 24, 2026
This is one of the most original ideas I’ve come across in the fantasy genre - witches responsible for keeping the world going by turning the Wheel of the Year, amplifying the experiences of unwitting people (or “Chalices”) to power its turning. The concept alone is fascinating, but woven into the narrative are the personalities, politics, and power structures that make for a rich story and - if I may borrow the concept - power the turning of the pages.
I love the matriarchal society, but I also love that it’s not an “all men are evil” blanket (in fact my favorite character is, to my dismay, a man) and that it still mirrors so many of the problems our own society faces - prejudice, distrust, and the frightening way misconceptions can so quickly snowball into big, destructive forces.
The story unfolds slowly to begin and gains momentum to end with a bang that beautifully sets up the next book. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
Also, there are cats. That’s enough for me right there, but their characters are drawn just as colorfully as the humans and I love them so much.
I love the matriarchal society, but I also love that it’s not an “all men are evil” blanket (in fact my favorite character is, to my dismay, a man) and that it still mirrors so many of the problems our own society faces - prejudice, distrust, and the frightening way misconceptions can so quickly snowball into big, destructive forces.
The story unfolds slowly to begin and gains momentum to end with a bang that beautifully sets up the next book. I can’t wait to read the rest of this series.
Also, there are cats. That’s enough for me right there, but their characters are drawn just as colorfully as the humans and I love them so much.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
How do you even begin to describe a book that speaks to you on a soul-deep level?
There is so much richness to "The Keepers." The characters, the world-building, the intersection of storylines and lives-- all woven together into a carefully crafted tapestry. It is a story of self-discovery, self-acceptance, growth and change and the reality of consequences, set against a backdrop of a world filled with misunderstanding, suspicion, and fear. While it may feel like a familiar formula-- or a clear reflection of the world in which we find ourselves-- Goehrke crafts each element with intention, allowing them to both stand on their own and to interact in meaningful ways.
The pacing is ideal, not dragging through early worldbuilding but not skipping ahead so quickly we feel lost in the narrative. We see Aleris coming to terms with who she is a bit at a time, becoming acquainted with her powers, her coven, and her keep. We also have the luxury of seeing the world through other characters' eyes, for this is not the story of Aleris alone. This helps avoid dumping too much information at once and overwhelming the reader. The world of Sanverra and beyond is built through one moment at a time, little bits of information uncovered piece by piece through different perspectives. Magic, too, takes its time being revealed: we don't sit through a single lesson on magic mechanics and suddenly Aleris finds herself a powerful caster. Even by the end of this first book, there is still so much left unknown that it leaves us wanting for more-- and looking enthusiastically forward to the next installment.
The world of "The Keepers" is rich in so many ways. From politics to culture and the beginnings we've seen of each of the characters we've met, there is still so much yet to be discovered. No one character or one aspect of the world is wasted, there's no fluff or filler. Everything has its role-- even if those roles are yet to be realized, the ingredients are all here. "The Turners" series is certainly set to be an epic the likes of "Game of Thrones" or "Lord of the Rings."
One review here said certain points of the narrative were "obvious." Perhaps that's so. But there are also moments-- *more* moments, I'd argue-- where things do *not* work out in the "obvious" way. Aleris is not immediately a magical prodigy, nor is she an infallible "chosen one" of her coven, somehow knowing all the answers despite never learning magic formally in her childhood. She makes mistakes. She gets things wrong. And more importantly, she faces *real consequences.* There is a humanness to that-- too often, our fantasy protagonists get away with mistakes of various magnitudes, which doesn't reflect the reality of the world we live in. And maybe that's part of what makes the fantasy compelling. But in "The Keepers," Aleris has to face the reality of her choices and their impact, in heartbreaking and permanent ways. Like a real person.
There is something so powerful in stories where we see ourselves reflected back in the pages, and "The Keepers" is one such tale. There is a thread of Aleris's story that speaks to those of us whose journey of self-discovery was a bumpy one, filled with uncertainty and missteps. And others of us may see ourselves in any of the witches in Sanverra, that thread of being "othered" in the world for who and what we are. Or in the mothers in the tale, who would burn whole worlds for their children, consequences be damned. Or so many more countless moments of connection that make readers feel seen and understood and known. As this work goes out into the world, in the hands of more and more readers, I imagine many more connections will be made.
What Goehrke has crafted here is a gift, and I, for one, cannot wait for the world to get their hands on it.
There is so much richness to "The Keepers." The characters, the world-building, the intersection of storylines and lives-- all woven together into a carefully crafted tapestry. It is a story of self-discovery, self-acceptance, growth and change and the reality of consequences, set against a backdrop of a world filled with misunderstanding, suspicion, and fear. While it may feel like a familiar formula-- or a clear reflection of the world in which we find ourselves-- Goehrke crafts each element with intention, allowing them to both stand on their own and to interact in meaningful ways.
The pacing is ideal, not dragging through early worldbuilding but not skipping ahead so quickly we feel lost in the narrative. We see Aleris coming to terms with who she is a bit at a time, becoming acquainted with her powers, her coven, and her keep. We also have the luxury of seeing the world through other characters' eyes, for this is not the story of Aleris alone. This helps avoid dumping too much information at once and overwhelming the reader. The world of Sanverra and beyond is built through one moment at a time, little bits of information uncovered piece by piece through different perspectives. Magic, too, takes its time being revealed: we don't sit through a single lesson on magic mechanics and suddenly Aleris finds herself a powerful caster. Even by the end of this first book, there is still so much left unknown that it leaves us wanting for more-- and looking enthusiastically forward to the next installment.
The world of "The Keepers" is rich in so many ways. From politics to culture and the beginnings we've seen of each of the characters we've met, there is still so much yet to be discovered. No one character or one aspect of the world is wasted, there's no fluff or filler. Everything has its role-- even if those roles are yet to be realized, the ingredients are all here. "The Turners" series is certainly set to be an epic the likes of "Game of Thrones" or "Lord of the Rings."
One review here said certain points of the narrative were "obvious." Perhaps that's so. But there are also moments-- *more* moments, I'd argue-- where things do *not* work out in the "obvious" way. Aleris is not immediately a magical prodigy, nor is she an infallible "chosen one" of her coven, somehow knowing all the answers despite never learning magic formally in her childhood. She makes mistakes. She gets things wrong. And more importantly, she faces *real consequences.* There is a humanness to that-- too often, our fantasy protagonists get away with mistakes of various magnitudes, which doesn't reflect the reality of the world we live in. And maybe that's part of what makes the fantasy compelling. But in "The Keepers," Aleris has to face the reality of her choices and their impact, in heartbreaking and permanent ways. Like a real person.
There is something so powerful in stories where we see ourselves reflected back in the pages, and "The Keepers" is one such tale. There is a thread of Aleris's story that speaks to those of us whose journey of self-discovery was a bumpy one, filled with uncertainty and missteps. And others of us may see ourselves in any of the witches in Sanverra, that thread of being "othered" in the world for who and what we are. Or in the mothers in the tale, who would burn whole worlds for their children, consequences be damned. Or so many more countless moments of connection that make readers feel seen and understood and known. As this work goes out into the world, in the hands of more and more readers, I imagine many more connections will be made.
What Goehrke has crafted here is a gift, and I, for one, cannot wait for the world to get their hands on it.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This has such a strong hook: a family desperate enough to seek out witches despite the fear surrounding them, and from there, the story just keeps tightening its grip. Aleris discovers her own magic in a pretty brutal manner and her family is less than thrilled. Eventually, she leaves her family and steps into a coven that exists outside of the traditional power structure of queens and crown. And sets off a chain reaction that feels both inevitable and completely avoidable.
The idea that there are witches responsible for keeping the Wheel of the Year turning, and that it requires sacrifice to do so. Fate isn’t gentle here. It’s structured, demanding, and not particularly concerned with who gets hurt in the process. When Aleris interferes with something that was “meant” to happen, you can feel the ripple effect immediately. Everything starts to shift in ways that make the tension between royals and witches palpable. There’s a strong thread of distrust between witches and the people. The fear of magic, the control exerted by those in power, and the way certain groups are othered echoes our real-world history.
I also really liked the matriarchal structure of the world. Having women at the center of power shifts the dynamic, but certainly doesn’t make things any less complicated or dangerous. If anything, it highlights how power operates regardless of who holds it.
The writing leans more on the literary side. It’s thoughtful, a little slower at times, but very intentional in how it builds tension and lays groundwork. There are twists that caught me off guard and a clear sense that this is only the beginning of something much, much bigger.
Overall, this feels like a strong start to a series that’s going to dig deep into its themes and world. If you like witchy fantasy with layered world-building, this one is worth a read. Quills & Cosmos Press continues to be one of those publishers that doesn't miss.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and the author for the pre-released copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
The idea that there are witches responsible for keeping the Wheel of the Year turning, and that it requires sacrifice to do so. Fate isn’t gentle here. It’s structured, demanding, and not particularly concerned with who gets hurt in the process. When Aleris interferes with something that was “meant” to happen, you can feel the ripple effect immediately. Everything starts to shift in ways that make the tension between royals and witches palpable. There’s a strong thread of distrust between witches and the people. The fear of magic, the control exerted by those in power, and the way certain groups are othered echoes our real-world history.
I also really liked the matriarchal structure of the world. Having women at the center of power shifts the dynamic, but certainly doesn’t make things any less complicated or dangerous. If anything, it highlights how power operates regardless of who holds it.
The writing leans more on the literary side. It’s thoughtful, a little slower at times, but very intentional in how it builds tension and lays groundwork. There are twists that caught me off guard and a clear sense that this is only the beginning of something much, much bigger.
Overall, this feels like a strong start to a series that’s going to dig deep into its themes and world. If you like witchy fantasy with layered world-building, this one is worth a read. Quills & Cosmos Press continues to be one of those publishers that doesn't miss.
Thank you to the author, the publisher, and the author for the pre-released copy. This review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to R&R Book Tours for the digital ARC of The Keepers by Sarah Goehrke. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
The Keepers is a really interesting fantasy debut set in a matriarchal world where queens rule, but witches answer to no crown.
One of the standout elements for me was the worldbuilding. The dynamic between the ruling queens and the covens of witches creates a really compelling tension from the start. Witches are respected, even needed, but never controlled...and that balance shapes the entire world in fascinating ways.
Following Aleris as she grows into her magic was one of my favorite parts of the story. Her journey from hiding her abilities to embracing her witchery feels like a meaningful shift, not just for her, but for the wider world around her. I also appreciated how her choices ripple outward, affecting more than just her own path.
The concept of the Coven of the Keepers was especially intriguing. The idea of a group of witches existing outside of space and time, maintaining balance by keeping the Wheel of the Year turning, adds a unique layer to the story. Their fortress in Elsewhere and the way they experience time, solitude, and connection gave the narrative an almost otherworldly feel.
I also liked how the story explores the idea that maintaining balance in the world doesn’t always mean passively accepting injustice. Aleris’s actions raise interesting questions about fate, intervention, and what it means to try to right a wrong, even when the system itself is built on maintaining equilibrium.
Overall, this was a strong and interesting debut with thoughtful worldbuilding and a unique magical system. I really enjoyed it and am curious to see where the story goes from here.
Review of advance copy received from Author
*I received this book for free from the author in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.*
This was pitched to me as ‘matriarchal Game of Thrones‘, but the problem is that GRR Martin is actually excellent at prose and this is not. It’s not appallingly bad, the writing I mean, but it’s – blunt and choppy and unpolished, often awkwardly phrased or jarring in rhythm. And every single character is…basic. Obvious. Of course Cora is evil. Of course the boyfriend is evil. Of course the witch-sister is idealistic and lovely. None of these characters feel complicated enough to be real people. The time-skips (time-skims?) had me grinding my teeth, they were just so clunky and hand-wavey. The dialogue is ridiculous, it all sounds very forced and overly formal, even in conversations taking place between family members. And personally, I’m really tired of ‘persecute the witches!’ storylines; it’s so incredible done at this point, I don’t know how you could make it interesting. (I wouldn’t have picked this book up if I’d known we were going to be dealing with a growing movement of witch-hunters.)
Not for me, and the writing isn’t at a level that can do justice to what the story wants to be.
This was pitched to me as ‘matriarchal Game of Thrones‘, but the problem is that GRR Martin is actually excellent at prose and this is not. It’s not appallingly bad, the writing I mean, but it’s – blunt and choppy and unpolished, often awkwardly phrased or jarring in rhythm. And every single character is…basic. Obvious. Of course Cora is evil. Of course the boyfriend is evil. Of course the witch-sister is idealistic and lovely. None of these characters feel complicated enough to be real people. The time-skips (time-skims?) had me grinding my teeth, they were just so clunky and hand-wavey. The dialogue is ridiculous, it all sounds very forced and overly formal, even in conversations taking place between family members. And personally, I’m really tired of ‘persecute the witches!’ storylines; it’s so incredible done at this point, I don’t know how you could make it interesting. (I wouldn’t have picked this book up if I’d known we were going to be dealing with a growing movement of witch-hunters.)
Not for me, and the writing isn’t at a level that can do justice to what the story wants to be.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The wheel must turn.
This no spice fantasy is set in a matriarchal society at the beginning of the witch trials with characters who go against the grain and refuse to follow blindly and who question the morality, some serious GOT vibes, untrusted magic even for those with the ability to wield it, found family, building tension, twists and turns, some serious lore similar to those of pagans and druids, where accepting fate changes more than your own course. If Witches going up against Queens is your thing, then this is for you!
Well written and with good pacing, this was an enjoyable and multifaceted read. The fact that this book has a matriarchal based society is a welcomed and refreshing change that deserves all the credit. I appreciate the time and attention that the author took creating the lore and histories in a way that wasn’t a quick cram session before the big test. Might I just say that this cover is everything! It is a perfect complement to the enchanting and confounding magic that has the characters set on a path of chaos.
This no spice fantasy is set in a matriarchal society at the beginning of the witch trials with characters who go against the grain and refuse to follow blindly and who question the morality, some serious GOT vibes, untrusted magic even for those with the ability to wield it, found family, building tension, twists and turns, some serious lore similar to those of pagans and druids, where accepting fate changes more than your own course. If Witches going up against Queens is your thing, then this is for you!
Well written and with good pacing, this was an enjoyable and multifaceted read. The fact that this book has a matriarchal based society is a welcomed and refreshing change that deserves all the credit. I appreciate the time and attention that the author took creating the lore and histories in a way that wasn’t a quick cram session before the big test. Might I just say that this cover is everything! It is a perfect complement to the enchanting and confounding magic that has the characters set on a path of chaos.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC from the publisher and author to read and review. Here are my thoughts.
"Covens were families, not of blood or birth or rings, for those ties weren’t theirs to have; covens were not born, they were Calls that were Answered."
Aleris is a witch who was adopted by a family of orcharders. She lives in a matriarchal society run by women. When her mother goes off on a trip her sister gets hurt and her father decides to seek the help of witches.
Aleris joins the coven of Keepers who live Elsewhere. They are responsible for making sure the wheel of time turns and receives the sacrifices due to it. Aleris interferes with a spoke meant to kill a mother during childbirth which leads to a brewing war between the crown and witches.
The Keepers is a debut literary fantasy novel and is part of a series of books. While the world building and background took me a bit to get through, by the end of the book I was hooked and I can't wait for the next one!
Favorite quote
"You’ll like her. Or not. No matter. You’ll work with her
"Covens were families, not of blood or birth or rings, for those ties weren’t theirs to have; covens were not born, they were Calls that were Answered."
Aleris is a witch who was adopted by a family of orcharders. She lives in a matriarchal society run by women. When her mother goes off on a trip her sister gets hurt and her father decides to seek the help of witches.
Aleris joins the coven of Keepers who live Elsewhere. They are responsible for making sure the wheel of time turns and receives the sacrifices due to it. Aleris interferes with a spoke meant to kill a mother during childbirth which leads to a brewing war between the crown and witches.
The Keepers is a debut literary fantasy novel and is part of a series of books. While the world building and background took me a bit to get through, by the end of the book I was hooked and I can't wait for the next one!
Favorite quote
"You’ll like her. Or not. No matter. You’ll work with her
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Goehrke’s debut epic fantasy delivers a beautiful, brutal, and dynamic world written in lush prose and guided by complex characters. The story follows several plot threads all steered by the actions of characters. While magical, it is a human story, exploring how the choices we make shape, or cannot shape, the world.
The Keepers satisfies what readers of Game of Thrones may be looking for but set in a grounded matriarchal setting. Political intrigue, descent into war, seeds of distrust. This book has zero spice, zero SA, and it was a breath of fresh air. It goes to show that epic fantasy can build its world and cut to the core without those elements.
This book is helmed and driven by women, and it shows in the best way. So many little brush-strokes went into the crafting of the prose to center feminine strength and women as fully realized humans, not plot objects.
The prose are lovely, layered, and lush. Fans of literary fiction will devour this one. I hope this book is read far and wide and I very much need the second book.
The Keepers satisfies what readers of Game of Thrones may be looking for but set in a grounded matriarchal setting. Political intrigue, descent into war, seeds of distrust. This book has zero spice, zero SA, and it was a breath of fresh air. It goes to show that epic fantasy can build its world and cut to the core without those elements.
This book is helmed and driven by women, and it shows in the best way. So many little brush-strokes went into the crafting of the prose to center feminine strength and women as fully realized humans, not plot objects.
The prose are lovely, layered, and lush. Fans of literary fiction will devour this one. I hope this book is read far and wide and I very much need the second book.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
I received an ARC from the publisher and author to read and review. Here are my thoughts.
This beautifully written debut literary fantasy swept me away. Set in Sanverra, a kingdom ruled by queensyet shaped by witches who answer to no crown, it’s afresh take on a matriarchal society filled with tension, found family, and serious twists. Following Aleris as she embraces her hidden magic and Queen Daphne as she survives a life-altering attack, the story hooked mefrom the first pages. The world-building is rich, thelore immersive, and the pacing perfect. You can tell the author poured so much care into this book and it truly pays off. And yes, while it isn’t a spicy read, it doesn’t need to be—this is more than a gorgeous cover; it’s the beginning of an epic fantasy series I can’t wait to continue.
Final rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
This beautifully written debut literary fantasy swept me away. Set in Sanverra, a kingdom ruled by queensyet shaped by witches who answer to no crown, it’s afresh take on a matriarchal society filled with tension, found family, and serious twists. Following Aleris as she embraces her hidden magic and Queen Daphne as she survives a life-altering attack, the story hooked mefrom the first pages. The world-building is rich, thelore immersive, and the pacing perfect. You can tell the author poured so much care into this book and it truly pays off. And yes, while it isn’t a spicy read, it doesn’t need to be—this is more than a gorgeous cover; it’s the beginning of an epic fantasy series I can’t wait to continue.
Final rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
For anyone that loves reading about witches and witchery, and also for anyone that maybe thinks they don’t, “The Keepers” is a must read. Why? Because it’s not just about witches, as captivating as these covens are, it’s the world that Sarah has created around them that contributes to The Keepers being such a compelling reading experience. A world re-imagined, one that, when you think about it makes so much sense.
And yet, human nature remains, and it is a theme Sarah explores in a fascinating way, without telling you what to think whilst encouraging you to think.
Written with a highly original tone of voice and plenty of tongue-in-cheek humour from the strong characters and throughout the narrative, the urge to keep turning the page (pun intended) is real.
Highly recommend.
And yet, human nature remains, and it is a theme Sarah explores in a fascinating way, without telling you what to think whilst encouraging you to think.
Written with a highly original tone of voice and plenty of tongue-in-cheek humour from the strong characters and throughout the narrative, the urge to keep turning the page (pun intended) is real.
Highly recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I received The Keepers as an ARC. It's a beautifully written work of literary fantasy. The book shines from its masterful pacing and storytelling--with lots of tension, surprise twists, and the setup for a much larger story to be told in further books. I also love the fact that this world is matriarchal. Not only does the book contain lots of interesting linguistic touches reflecting this, but aspects of politics and social hierarchy have been carefully considered in light of said matriarchy. The world is fantastic but realistic in the best way.
It's clear that Sarah Goehrke has created a world with her whole heart and I'm looking forward to reading more. As a disclaimer, I know the author in real life. But I read the novel as a reader first and foremost, and would highly recommend it.
It's clear that Sarah Goehrke has created a world with her whole heart and I'm looking forward to reading more. As a disclaimer, I know the author in real life. But I read the novel as a reader first and foremost, and would highly recommend it.
August 9, 2026
A book for those who enjoy introspective storytelling.
Sarah Goehrke’s The Keepers, with its lyrical prose and deep characterization, presents a matriarchal society that feels real. The narrative is rich in detail, giving the impression that the characters and world existed long before the reader turned the first page. It will surely delight readers who prefer a more introspective narrative; however, it is not lacking in conflict or adventure, especially in the final quarter of the book. I particularly enjoyed Goehrke’s use of narrative fiction to reflect on the nature of belonging and the nebulous reality of right and wrong.
Thank you to the author for a review copy of this excellent work. I look forward to the sequel.
Sarah Goehrke’s The Keepers, with its lyrical prose and deep characterization, presents a matriarchal society that feels real. The narrative is rich in detail, giving the impression that the characters and world existed long before the reader turned the first page. It will surely delight readers who prefer a more introspective narrative; however, it is not lacking in conflict or adventure, especially in the final quarter of the book. I particularly enjoyed Goehrke’s use of narrative fiction to reflect on the nature of belonging and the nebulous reality of right and wrong.
Thank you to the author for a review copy of this excellent work. I look forward to the sequel.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Epic matriarchal witchy fantasy? Four of my favorite words.
The Keepers unspools with slow, deliberate steps. The world building is gorgeous, profound, and all-encompassing. Each of the POV characters (Aleris, Cora, Iris, and Daphne) are flawed women with their own traumas, needs, and agendas. Seeing how their paths cross, help, and harm one another is fascinating, even while it carries the same inevitable feeling as watching a train barreling down the tracks. I could not look away.
Warning: this book ends on a cliffhanger so be ready to beg for more. Luckily, more is on the way and I cannot wait!
The Keepers unspools with slow, deliberate steps. The world building is gorgeous, profound, and all-encompassing. Each of the POV characters (Aleris, Cora, Iris, and Daphne) are flawed women with their own traumas, needs, and agendas. Seeing how their paths cross, help, and harm one another is fascinating, even while it carries the same inevitable feeling as watching a train barreling down the tracks. I could not look away.
Warning: this book ends on a cliffhanger so be ready to beg for more. Luckily, more is on the way and I cannot wait!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This book was so beautifully written and a breath of fresh air! Being a practitioner of magic myself, I love reading stories that are written with such eloquence and respect for the wheel and the sabbats.
Sarah really knew how to write a story that tugs at the heart and really shows off the roles of each character in such a special way! The parallels between this book's magical world and our real life and choices we have to make are so poignant in this day and age.
Thank you so much to Sarah and the publisher for the early copy, I cannot wait to hype this book up within my circles.
Sarah really knew how to write a story that tugs at the heart and really shows off the roles of each character in such a special way! The parallels between this book's magical world and our real life and choices we have to make are so poignant in this day and age.
Thank you so much to Sarah and the publisher for the early copy, I cannot wait to hype this book up within my circles.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was utterly breathtakingly brilliant. I mean, I am biased because Sarah is a good friend of mine, but I know how good of a writer she is, so I am not shocked by how fantastic this book is.
I am so thankful to Sarah and her press for letting me have an ARC!
What fantastic storytelling.
If you love witches, and women, and literary fantasy, and CATS, get this book.
I am also TICKLED at the character named Chelsea 🤣🤣 iykyk
I am so thankful to Sarah and her press for letting me have an ARC!
What fantastic storytelling.
If you love witches, and women, and literary fantasy, and CATS, get this book.
I am also TICKLED at the character named Chelsea 🤣🤣 iykyk
September 16, 2026
Gorgeous writing. Between the apple orchard and shroud of mist, this is the perfect autumn book.
Aleris, who has never fit into her own life, is called to join the witches. From there we get to understand their world through her eyes, but we also see the cracks and how quick choices can have enormous impacts.
If you like stories with royal intrigue, cosmic fate and cats, I think you’ll love this beautiful book. I’m so excited for the next one to come out!
Aleris, who has never fit into her own life, is called to join the witches. From there we get to understand their world through her eyes, but we also see the cracks and how quick choices can have enormous impacts.
If you like stories with royal intrigue, cosmic fate and cats, I think you’ll love this beautiful book. I’m so excited for the next one to come out!
August 1, 2026
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year. This debut novel did not let me down- i read it all in one sitting! I loved the world building, the magic system, the matriarchal society, and the bigger story that this novel set up. I cannot wait for the sequel!
August 8, 2026
Well written book about a magical, matriarchal world that will appeal to many fans of fantasy. Be aware, though, that no major story lines are resolved here. It reads more like the first third of a 1,000 page novel than the first novel in a three-book series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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