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Dauntless Path #0.5
Brambles
In the kingdom of Adania, everyone knows what Princess Alyrra did to earn the court's contempt, her mother's disdain, and her brother's hatred.
She betrayed her own.
Yet, the truth hides another story, one of honor and honesty, of a princess gambling her own life for another's. It's a tale of courage and consequences, and a choice that can never be undone.
A short story prequel to her multi-starred fantasy, Thorn, Intisar Khanani's "Brambles" gives Alyrra's account of what really happened all those years ago, and how a few critical days turned her life into a daily fight for survival.
She betrayed her own.
Yet, the truth hides another story, one of honor and honesty, of a princess gambling her own life for another's. It's a tale of courage and consequences, and a choice that can never be undone.
A short story prequel to her multi-starred fantasy, Thorn, Intisar Khanani's "Brambles" gives Alyrra's account of what really happened all those years ago, and how a few critical days turned her life into a daily fight for survival.
42 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 7, 2020
59 people are currently reading
2434 people want to read
About the author
Intisar Khanani
18 books2,500 followersIntisar Khanani grew up a nomad and world traveler. Born in Wisconsin, she has lived in five different states as well as in Jeddah on the coast of the Red Sea. She currently resides in Cincinnati, Ohio, with her husband and two young daughters. Prior to publishing her novels, Intisar worked as a public health consultant on projects relating to infant mortality and minority health, which was as close as she could get to saving the world. Now she focuses her time on her two passions: raising her family and writing fantasy.
Intisar is the author of the Dauntless Path books (beginning with Thorn) and The Sunbolt Chronicles.
To find out about new releases, giveaways, and so forth, subscribe to Intisar's monthly author newsletter.
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Intisar is the author of the Dauntless Path books (beginning with Thorn) and The Sunbolt Chronicles.
To find out about new releases, giveaways, and so forth, subscribe to Intisar's monthly author newsletter.
GOODREADS FRIEND POLICY: I'm afraid I don't accept every single friend request I receive, unless we already know each other IRL, or it looks like we have tastes broadly in common. However, please feel free to follow and interact.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 251 reviews
November 12, 2020
ARC received in exchange for an honest review 🍇
The story of a princess who, through one act of kindness, finds herself at the mercy of her cruel and merciless brother.
This is pitched as a prequel of sorts to Thorn, which I haven't read. I don't think that took anything away from my reading experience however, as I found Alyrra to be a well rounded protagonist who has strong moral values. For such a short read, I felt drawn to her as a character and wanted her to escape her brother's wrath. I could also see the early formation of loyalty and friendship between Alyrra and her servants. She's kind, and honest and good. Everything you should want in a princess, but not in this kingdom. In this kingdom, it pays to be cruel.
We get hints of world building, and it really had me intrigued to read Thorn with all the talk of political machinations and alliances that dictate how the court and outside kingdoms work. It was very easy to read too. I flew through this little story in under an hour, and was hooked in from the start.
A great introduction to a fascinating fantasy fairy tale with strong villainous characters and a sweet protagonist.
The story of a princess who, through one act of kindness, finds herself at the mercy of her cruel and merciless brother.
This is pitched as a prequel of sorts to Thorn, which I haven't read. I don't think that took anything away from my reading experience however, as I found Alyrra to be a well rounded protagonist who has strong moral values. For such a short read, I felt drawn to her as a character and wanted her to escape her brother's wrath. I could also see the early formation of loyalty and friendship between Alyrra and her servants. She's kind, and honest and good. Everything you should want in a princess, but not in this kingdom. In this kingdom, it pays to be cruel.
We get hints of world building, and it really had me intrigued to read Thorn with all the talk of political machinations and alliances that dictate how the court and outside kingdoms work. It was very easy to read too. I flew through this little story in under an hour, and was hooked in from the start.
A great introduction to a fascinating fantasy fairy tale with strong villainous characters and a sweet protagonist.
December 18, 2020
It's been a while between drinks for something new by Intisar Khanani, so this will have to do. Very short story taking place two years before Thorn begins. A nice teaser while awaiting something more substantial. Only for affectionados.
December 16, 2022
There are consequences to silence and consequences to speaking.
Sibling fight is not exactly my cup of tea! :-(
Sibling fight is not exactly my cup of tea! :-(
December 1, 2020
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
I'm actually really happy that I started this series with the novella. It's just kind of rare for me to do that and I'm surprised at myself. That being said, I adored getting to meet Alyrra in Brambles. Her life kinds of sucks in this short book and trust me - I hated so many people. Namely her family and Valka. I'm not even sorry about it.
Now knowing how cruel the people close to her were, well I'm beyond excited to dive into this series. At first, I thought she was going to be somewhat like her mother and be constantly underestimated. In some ways, she is and was. Yet, after meeting her mother - I just don't want her to be like her. She was cruel and definitely favored her brother more. Even if he is supposed to be the heir to the throne, he is a little shit that needs to be destroyed.
I can't wait for Alyrra to prove everyone wrong and continually surprise them. After that forest scene, I have so many questions and now I have to dive into these books and figure it all out.
I'm actually really happy that I started this series with the novella. It's just kind of rare for me to do that and I'm surprised at myself. That being said, I adored getting to meet Alyrra in Brambles. Her life kinds of sucks in this short book and trust me - I hated so many people. Namely her family and Valka. I'm not even sorry about it.
Now knowing how cruel the people close to her were, well I'm beyond excited to dive into this series. At first, I thought she was going to be somewhat like her mother and be constantly underestimated. In some ways, she is and was. Yet, after meeting her mother - I just don't want her to be like her. She was cruel and definitely favored her brother more. Even if he is supposed to be the heir to the throne, he is a little shit that needs to be destroyed.
I can't wait for Alyrra to prove everyone wrong and continually surprise them. After that forest scene, I have so many questions and now I have to dive into these books and figure it all out.
November 1, 2020
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for a review.
When we meet Alyrra in Thorn, she is an unloved princess and an outcast in her own castle, and we wonder what she may have done that earned her such scorn, because she's a lovely girl. Did she commit some huge faux pas that she's not been forgiven for?
Turns out she decidedly did. But, as this prequel short story will reveal, it was for a cause worth the consequences.Brambles is a story about how far someone would go for doing the right thing no matter the cost, without pounding the reader over the head with a moral they should get. Alyrra is no self-righteous do-gooder, she doesn't plan to act like she does. She simply is. And, because she simply is a good person, she lets her charitable nature conduce her to commit treason in her family's eyes. This being a short story, it's hard to say more without being spoilery, so I'll only add that it's a nice little story that fans of Thorn should enjoy, in part for nostalgia (it's been a while since!), and in part because it provides a fitting answer to a couple of plot points in the main novel.
When we meet Alyrra in Thorn, she is an unloved princess and an outcast in her own castle, and we wonder what she may have done that earned her such scorn, because she's a lovely girl. Did she commit some huge faux pas that she's not been forgiven for?
Turns out she decidedly did. But, as this prequel short story will reveal, it was for a cause worth the consequences.Brambles is a story about how far someone would go for doing the right thing no matter the cost, without pounding the reader over the head with a moral they should get. Alyrra is no self-righteous do-gooder, she doesn't plan to act like she does. She simply is. And, because she simply is a good person, she lets her charitable nature conduce her to commit treason in her family's eyes. This being a short story, it's hard to say more without being spoilery, so I'll only add that it's a nice little story that fans of Thorn should enjoy, in part for nostalgia (it's been a while since!), and in part because it provides a fitting answer to a couple of plot points in the main novel.
December 24, 2020
To be transparent, I have not read Thorn yet. But this is suppose to be a prequel so I felt this was a good place to start. As it was! I love this authors writing style and pacing. Even when there wasn't any magic or anything like that going on, it still felt very old fairytale-esque. It kept me engaged through the whole thing and finished it in one sitting! The ending definitely captures your attention and will have you wanting to pick up Thorn. However, what I will say is that I think people who have already read Thorn will probably get more out of this prequel more than someone like me, who has not. That being said, I found this very enjoyable and will be picking up Thorn.
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
Thank you Netgalley and the publisher for the arc!
August 8, 2021
Superb. I think I'll read anything Intisar writes!
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**Check me out on Bookstagram/Instagram! I'm @Iheartya311
**Looking to make new book friends? Join LiterALLy BOOKiSh on Facebook to read reviews, play games, join discussions and more!
October 1, 2021
Such a sad story yet full of hope. I am now very eager to read "Thorns". 5 ⭐
April 21, 2025
#0.5 Brambles - ★★★★
#1 Thorn - ★★★★★
I am so glad that the author, Intisar Khanani, sent me an ARC e-copy of Brambles. Brambles is a prequel to Thorn, and is a part of the Dauntless Path series. I absolutely adored Thorn, and when I heard there is a prequel, I was immediately sold!
Synopsis:
In the kingdom of Adania, everyone knows what Princess Alyrra did to earn the court’s contempt, her mother’s disdain, and her brother’s hatred.
She betrayed her own.
Yet, the truth hides another story, one of honor and honesty, of a princess gambling her own life for another’s. It’s a tale of courage and consequences, and a choice that can never be undone.
A short story prequel to her multi-starred fantasy, Thorn, Intisar Khanani’s “Brambles” gives Alyrra’s account of what really happened all those years ago, and how a few critical days turned her life into a daily fight for survival.
My Thoughts:
In Brambles, we get to meet princess Alyrra before she is betrothed. We also meet her family and Valka as well. As short as this book was, it was filled with a lot of emotion, as well as a good moral story of doing what is right. Valka enjoyed messing up with the servants and ruining their lives, and when Alyrra stood up to her, it was at this point that everything changed.
Alyrra did what was right, but it was interesting to see her brother and her mother’s reactions. Clearly, their reputation was much more important to them than integrity. It is also in Brambles that we witness Alyrra’s brother and how cruel he can be. And most importantly, it is here we witness her first connection with the wind.
If you have already read Thorn, Brambles will be such a delight for you. It has Easter eggs hidden in it, and it also shows us a different side to the characters in more depth than we get to know them in Thorn. It is also lovely to see Alyrra’s life before she needs to move to the city, and how she behaves when nobody is watching.
But at the same time – if this is the first book you decide to pick up from this series, it is a perfect introduction to the story that’s about to follow. You’ll get to meet Alyrra and find out more about the circumstances she lives in. Intisar Khanani beautifully created a loop of content, that no matter which book you choose to read first, it will be a delight nevertheless.
I still find it amusing how the author managed to create such a compelling and intriguing prequel in only 40 pages.
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#1 Thorn - ★★★★★
I am so glad that the author, Intisar Khanani, sent me an ARC e-copy of Brambles. Brambles is a prequel to Thorn, and is a part of the Dauntless Path series. I absolutely adored Thorn, and when I heard there is a prequel, I was immediately sold!
Synopsis:
In the kingdom of Adania, everyone knows what Princess Alyrra did to earn the court’s contempt, her mother’s disdain, and her brother’s hatred.
She betrayed her own.
Yet, the truth hides another story, one of honor and honesty, of a princess gambling her own life for another’s. It’s a tale of courage and consequences, and a choice that can never be undone.
A short story prequel to her multi-starred fantasy, Thorn, Intisar Khanani’s “Brambles” gives Alyrra’s account of what really happened all those years ago, and how a few critical days turned her life into a daily fight for survival.
My Thoughts:
In Brambles, we get to meet princess Alyrra before she is betrothed. We also meet her family and Valka as well. As short as this book was, it was filled with a lot of emotion, as well as a good moral story of doing what is right. Valka enjoyed messing up with the servants and ruining their lives, and when Alyrra stood up to her, it was at this point that everything changed.
Alyrra did what was right, but it was interesting to see her brother and her mother’s reactions. Clearly, their reputation was much more important to them than integrity. It is also in Brambles that we witness Alyrra’s brother and how cruel he can be. And most importantly, it is here we witness her first connection with the wind.
If you have already read Thorn, Brambles will be such a delight for you. It has Easter eggs hidden in it, and it also shows us a different side to the characters in more depth than we get to know them in Thorn. It is also lovely to see Alyrra’s life before she needs to move to the city, and how she behaves when nobody is watching.
But at the same time – if this is the first book you decide to pick up from this series, it is a perfect introduction to the story that’s about to follow. You’ll get to meet Alyrra and find out more about the circumstances she lives in. Intisar Khanani beautifully created a loop of content, that no matter which book you choose to read first, it will be a delight nevertheless.
I still find it amusing how the author managed to create such a compelling and intriguing prequel in only 40 pages.
Wishlist | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Ko-fi
December 12, 2020
I had the first book in this series for a while now but I never took the time to read it. So when I saw the author came out with a prequel, I knew it was the perfect opportunity to dive into this series. It also helped that we were buddy-reading it.
Brambles was a pretty quick read that follows Princess Alyrra and we see in a few pages how her family treats her and that she's still trying to help a servant when she can. I loved seeing her standing up for someone else against her brother and Valka who were cruel and deserved to be punished. I don't know what will happen next but I'm curious to find out. I only hope that Alyrra will be able to stand up for herself next.
(Thank you for letting me read and review an ARC via Netgalley)
Brambles was a pretty quick read that follows Princess Alyrra and we see in a few pages how her family treats her and that she's still trying to help a servant when she can. I loved seeing her standing up for someone else against her brother and Valka who were cruel and deserved to be punished. I don't know what will happen next but I'm curious to find out. I only hope that Alyrra will be able to stand up for herself next.
(Thank you for letting me read and review an ARC via Netgalley)
December 7, 2020
Absolutely loved this glimpse of Alyrra’s life before Thorn. It’s honestly so sad and heartbreaking reading how Alyrra’s mother and brother treat her. It makes me just as angry as I was reading Thorn. That people that evil and heartless and selfish can exist, and that they actually experience joy when they hurt someone else. It’s awful. This short novella really shows the power in the found family. Family is not just blood, it’s people who make you feel safe and cared for, it’s people who you can be yourself around, and it’s people who you can depend on to not leave you behind when times are tough.
December 21, 2020
Princess Alyrra, scorned for her honesty, finds herself amidst dirty court politics-one that pushes her farther away from her mother, the court and her beloved Kingdom. Alyrra, being the innocent flower she is, doesn't understand why betraying one's own comes above righteousness. Firm in her choices, she tries hard to find a way to leave her home behind - one that reeks of abuse and neglect, covered in muddy footprints of politics.
.
'Brambles' is the prequel to 'Thorns' by Initisar Khanani. Princess Alyrra gets a backstory, one that fits well as we see her journey in 'Thorn'. Alyrra's character is fascinating and the author doesn't create a sympathetic diversion to affirm our faith in this young and promising character. Intisar's writing feels intimate to me for some reason, could be the themes or her words but she has my attention now.
.
'Brambles' is the prequel to 'Thorns' by Initisar Khanani. Princess Alyrra gets a backstory, one that fits well as we see her journey in 'Thorn'. Alyrra's character is fascinating and the author doesn't create a sympathetic diversion to affirm our faith in this young and promising character. Intisar's writing feels intimate to me for some reason, could be the themes or her words but she has my attention now.
November 21, 2020
4 stars
I loved Thorn and so I was so glad to get this advanced ebook of this novella. Brambles shows us Princess Alyrra as a younger girl and the events that lead her to some of the events in Thorn. Although rather short, I really enjoyed this little glimpse into her childhood and the nastiness of her family and others around her. It was also nice to see her first interaction with wind and the context behind it.
I cannot wait to read the second book in the series!
Please note that I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
I loved Thorn and so I was so glad to get this advanced ebook of this novella. Brambles shows us Princess Alyrra as a younger girl and the events that lead her to some of the events in Thorn. Although rather short, I really enjoyed this little glimpse into her childhood and the nastiness of her family and others around her. It was also nice to see her first interaction with wind and the context behind it.
I cannot wait to read the second book in the series!
Please note that I was gifted this book in exchange for an honest review.
November 20, 2020
If you enjoyed Thorn, you need to read Brambles because it provides context for how Alyrra's situation at home came to be. I mean, I knew what happened from reading Thorn, but it's so different to read about how it happened - I honestly felt like I was there.
My only 'complaint', if it counts as one, is that the story is really short. It's about five chapters and I finished it in about 15 minutes? I kind of wish I waited a bit longer to read this because I'm still on the post Theft of Sunlight High and don't need a fix right now. Well, I guess I'll just have to reread this (and the other two books) whenever I want to meet Alyrra again!
My only 'complaint', if it counts as one, is that the story is really short. It's about five chapters and I finished it in about 15 minutes? I kind of wish I waited a bit longer to read this because I'm still on the post Theft of Sunlight High and don't need a fix right now. Well, I guess I'll just have to reread this (and the other two books) whenever I want to meet Alyrra again!
June 3, 2021
This is a short story prequel to Thorn. I read this right after I finished rereading Thorn and it just tugs my heartstrings. Alyrra's loneliness is so evident in this short story. My friend Aishah notes that the brother has no name throughout the 3 books in the series even though he was mentioned many times. I think Intisar is trying to highlight that he does not matter, he is just another nameless abuser, and this story is about Alyrra and how she matters a thousand times.
December 9, 2020
Full Review on The Candid Cover
Brambles by Intisar Khanani is a novella in the Dauntless Path series that fans of the first story, Thorn, will want to read. This short story gives an in-depth look into the events that take place before the first story begins. If you are impatiently waiting to read the next instalment in the series, this book will definitely whisk you back to Adania.
Although, this story is a mere 40 pages, quite a lot is packed into this one. It is a must-read for those who have read the first book. If you have yet to try this series, there is enough detail in this little novella to get a feel for the beautiful writing and intriguing world that Khanani has created. Some extra context surrounding Princess Alyrra’s relationships with her family and friends is given in the book that sets the tone for Thorn. Also, it is a really nice flashback for those needing a little refresher before reading the second book.
❀ A BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN STORY
The novella, Brambles, by Intisar Khanani is a beautifully written story that introduces the reader to the Dauntless Path series. It also makes some interesting connections for those already familiar with the story. If you enjoy YA fantasy, this is one series to try.
Brambles by Intisar Khanani is a novella in the Dauntless Path series that fans of the first story, Thorn, will want to read. This short story gives an in-depth look into the events that take place before the first story begins. If you are impatiently waiting to read the next instalment in the series, this book will definitely whisk you back to Adania.
Although, this story is a mere 40 pages, quite a lot is packed into this one. It is a must-read for those who have read the first book. If you have yet to try this series, there is enough detail in this little novella to get a feel for the beautiful writing and intriguing world that Khanani has created. Some extra context surrounding Princess Alyrra’s relationships with her family and friends is given in the book that sets the tone for Thorn. Also, it is a really nice flashback for those needing a little refresher before reading the second book.
❀ A BEAUTIFULLY WRITTEN STORY
The novella, Brambles, by Intisar Khanani is a beautifully written story that introduces the reader to the Dauntless Path series. It also makes some interesting connections for those already familiar with the story. If you enjoy YA fantasy, this is one series to try.
December 2, 2020
This was short, but it got me really excited to read the next book! Alyrra seems smart, caring, and not afraid to stand up for what's right, even against her family. She doesn't have many people who support her, but she's strong and people underestimate her.
I can't wait to continue this series!
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
I can't wait to continue this series!
I received this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review
November 28, 2021
What a nice teaser!
March 26, 2023
2023 review:
I decided to listen to the audiobook for my yearly Dauntless Path reread ♡ It's an amazing experience and I find the narrator chosen for Alyrra to be perfect for her character. My old review still stands for my whole feelings about this book. I'm still appalled by what Alyrra's brother and Valka had done to Alyrra, and the fact that the queen, her only adult family did nothing to stop it made me sick in the stomach.
There was a lot of trauma, but somehow Alyrra still has the strength to stand on her own. And I find that really wonderful of her 🤍
"I may have fallen, fallen from my family and, no doubt, from the court’s favor—but I am far from alone."
—
2021 review:
Being a huge fan of Thorn, I was over the moon when Intisar Khanani announced the release of Brambles. Brambles is the novella prequel to Thorn, and it gives a brief background to how everything started for Princess Alyrra. When reading Thorn, I've always wondered what she did to Valka (a.k.a the antagonist of Thorn) to be loathed so much by her own brother, and the fact that this did not bother her mother at all made it more questionable.
At the start of Brambles, readers are introduced to the young Princess Alyrra. She tries her best to be sweet and proper in front of everyone, especially her brother. Despite being treated harshly by the brother and Valka, and constantly used as an excuse for them to misbehave—the word misbehave is actually mild, compared to what the brother and Valka actually did—yet Alyrra took it all in without much protest. Even the nobles took so little attention to her, considering her as an unimportant person of the royalty. As long as they stayed out of her way and didn't ask for her much, Alyrra was content with her life.
But a certain event caused by Valka's vileness put Alyrra on a tight spot, and she knew she couldn't stay silent any longer. Not after what she knew Valka had caused, and meant to cause. The silent and meek princess finally stood her ground and demanded for the right person to be punished, and despite being right about it, the royalty and nobles considered what she did to be "betraying" her own. I respect Alyrra's mother for being able to keep the throne after the King died because we all know how men always believed that women cannot rule, but the fact that she defended her "allies" instead of trying to understand what her daughter did just didn't sit right with me. I would've expected after what she went through, fighting the men and nobles, it would make her want to protect her daughter more, but apparently she simply prioritised the prince (as her next heir) and politics after all.
It broke my heart to see how Alyrra was treated worse than before, but somehow I'm still glad that she did what she did. It actually showed that despite appearing to be submissive, Alyrra has a large potential to rule and command her people fairly. Despite looking meek, her capacity of tolerance against the treatment she received proved that her strength is no match to anyone that wishes harm to her. She also always find something positive to be grateful in every situation, and for that, I love her character so much.
Through Brambles, readers also finally found out how Alyrra first met her dear friend, the wind. This might sound weird if you haven't read Thorn, but trust me, the wind is the best of a friend you can get, and I'm grateful that Alyrra was able to connect with the wind. The wind saved Alyrra in Brambles, and it made its character more significant in Thorn.
I can't wait to reread Thorn soon!
Overall, Brambles is definitely a bittersweet treat for fans of Thorn. You need not to read Thorn first to be able to read Brambles because this novella is good enough on its own, but it would be more meaningful if you read Thorn first.
A huge thanks to Intisar Khanani for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I decided to listen to the audiobook for my yearly Dauntless Path reread ♡ It's an amazing experience and I find the narrator chosen for Alyrra to be perfect for her character. My old review still stands for my whole feelings about this book. I'm still appalled by what Alyrra's brother and Valka had done to Alyrra, and the fact that the queen, her only adult family did nothing to stop it made me sick in the stomach.
There was a lot of trauma, but somehow Alyrra still has the strength to stand on her own. And I find that really wonderful of her 🤍
"I may have fallen, fallen from my family and, no doubt, from the court’s favor—but I am far from alone."
—
2021 review:
Being a huge fan of Thorn, I was over the moon when Intisar Khanani announced the release of Brambles. Brambles is the novella prequel to Thorn, and it gives a brief background to how everything started for Princess Alyrra. When reading Thorn, I've always wondered what she did to Valka (a.k.a the antagonist of Thorn) to be loathed so much by her own brother, and the fact that this did not bother her mother at all made it more questionable.
At the start of Brambles, readers are introduced to the young Princess Alyrra. She tries her best to be sweet and proper in front of everyone, especially her brother. Despite being treated harshly by the brother and Valka, and constantly used as an excuse for them to misbehave—the word misbehave is actually mild, compared to what the brother and Valka actually did—yet Alyrra took it all in without much protest. Even the nobles took so little attention to her, considering her as an unimportant person of the royalty. As long as they stayed out of her way and didn't ask for her much, Alyrra was content with her life.
But a certain event caused by Valka's vileness put Alyrra on a tight spot, and she knew she couldn't stay silent any longer. Not after what she knew Valka had caused, and meant to cause. The silent and meek princess finally stood her ground and demanded for the right person to be punished, and despite being right about it, the royalty and nobles considered what she did to be "betraying" her own. I respect Alyrra's mother for being able to keep the throne after the King died because we all know how men always believed that women cannot rule, but the fact that she defended her "allies" instead of trying to understand what her daughter did just didn't sit right with me. I would've expected after what she went through, fighting the men and nobles, it would make her want to protect her daughter more, but apparently she simply prioritised the prince (as her next heir) and politics after all.
It broke my heart to see how Alyrra was treated worse than before, but somehow I'm still glad that she did what she did. It actually showed that despite appearing to be submissive, Alyrra has a large potential to rule and command her people fairly. Despite looking meek, her capacity of tolerance against the treatment she received proved that her strength is no match to anyone that wishes harm to her. She also always find something positive to be grateful in every situation, and for that, I love her character so much.
Through Brambles, readers also finally found out how Alyrra first met her dear friend, the wind. This might sound weird if you haven't read Thorn, but trust me, the wind is the best of a friend you can get, and I'm grateful that Alyrra was able to connect with the wind. The wind saved Alyrra in Brambles, and it made its character more significant in Thorn.
I can't wait to reread Thorn soon!
Overall, Brambles is definitely a bittersweet treat for fans of Thorn. You need not to read Thorn first to be able to read Brambles because this novella is good enough on its own, but it would be more meaningful if you read Thorn first.
A huge thanks to Intisar Khanani for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review.
November 9, 2020
The story is an amazing overtake on the politics of the mediaeval period. The way princes and kings were ruthless and how having the throne to themselves is all they care about. The narration is done perfectly and all the details are to be loved. I am really overwhelmed by the authors work in this piece of work.
October 1, 2021
This is a fun and compelling prequel to Thorn, a quick 40-page read that helps us understand how Alyrra gets to where she does at the beginning of Thorn.
I was surprised how much Khanani managed to pack into such a short piece of fiction. It feels like a fairly complete backstory for the series despite its brevity.
Alyrra’s role in her family and in her community explains a lot about who she is and sets the stage for her further adventures in the series.
Despite the fact that this is a prequel, I recommend reading Thorn first and then coming back to this. I truly think it’s a better experience to get Alyrra’s past once you’ve come to know her in greater detail in the present.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
I was surprised how much Khanani managed to pack into such a short piece of fiction. It feels like a fairly complete backstory for the series despite its brevity.
Alyrra’s role in her family and in her community explains a lot about who she is and sets the stage for her further adventures in the series.
Despite the fact that this is a prequel, I recommend reading Thorn first and then coming back to this. I truly think it’s a better experience to get Alyrra’s past once you’ve come to know her in greater detail in the present.
*I received an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.*
October 28, 2020
Princess Alyrra is not loved by her mother, the queen nor her brother, . He and Valka, the daughter of the powerful and wealthy Lord Daerilin, are two very mean and nasty people who only care for themselves. When Alyrra defends a servant against false accusations, She is scorned by her family and abused by her brother. She makes friends with the spirit of the wind. And so the story of 'Thorn' starts.
December 27, 2020
Khanani has a beautiful writing style. She already proved that in the first book in this series and she proves it once more in this short prequel novella. I personally read the first book already quite some time ago, so I read this as a prequel, but I dare to say that this book gives you a great impression of the main character, the world and the setting of this story if you read it first. It's a perfect way to determine whether or not this series is something for you.
Since I already read the first book I already vaguely knew what was coming in this story. We've heard about this incident and we've seen what it caused and where it eventually leads, but it's still quite different to actually live it. For some reason this story really touched me. At some point I had the tears burning in my eyes and I was so incredibly emotionally invested.
For the biggest part the book has a depressive vibe. It's not very cheerful and the main character has to endure quite a lot. Since we're in her head, we really feel her pain, her doubts, her shame and all the other painful emotions she's dealing with. However, in the end we also get a little bit of hope, something positive.
If you read this prequel before the first book, the story prepares you for what's to come. If you already read the first book before reading this one, this prequel will be an emotional return to the beginning of the story.
Since I already read the first book I already vaguely knew what was coming in this story. We've heard about this incident and we've seen what it caused and where it eventually leads, but it's still quite different to actually live it. For some reason this story really touched me. At some point I had the tears burning in my eyes and I was so incredibly emotionally invested.
For the biggest part the book has a depressive vibe. It's not very cheerful and the main character has to endure quite a lot. Since we're in her head, we really feel her pain, her doubts, her shame and all the other painful emotions she's dealing with. However, in the end we also get a little bit of hope, something positive.
If you read this prequel before the first book, the story prepares you for what's to come. If you already read the first book before reading this one, this prequel will be an emotional return to the beginning of the story.
December 4, 2020
First of all, thank you to NetGalley for providing me with an ARC of this book!
I really, truly loved the writing style of this book! I have not read Thorn (Brambles is the prequel to Thorn) but it has now be added to my TBR because of this book. The writing reminded me of Gail Carson Levine’s writing in books like Ella Enchanted and Fairest, which were some of my favourite books growing up.
This prequel really hooked me from the first page! The writing comforted me and I felt like I was reading another lovely fairytale. I loved the main character, who’s struggles were written so well. The villains in this short novella were also well written.
Overall, a great short read that I highly recommend you pick up!
I really, truly loved the writing style of this book! I have not read Thorn (Brambles is the prequel to Thorn) but it has now be added to my TBR because of this book. The writing reminded me of Gail Carson Levine’s writing in books like Ella Enchanted and Fairest, which were some of my favourite books growing up.
This prequel really hooked me from the first page! The writing comforted me and I felt like I was reading another lovely fairytale. I loved the main character, who’s struggles were written so well. The villains in this short novella were also well written.
Overall, a great short read that I highly recommend you pick up!
November 26, 2020
4/5
I would like to thank NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book to review.
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I absolutely loved this little introduction of the series! I still haven't read Thorn but it has been on my TBR for a little time now. And this little introduction really caught my attention, and now I'll just go take Thorn out of my TBR!
We have a good aspect of the characters here, and I'm already so angry with Allyra's brother... and mother. And friends? Haha I really have to read Thorn, Brambles was not enough!!!
I would like to thank NetGalley for giving me an ARC of this book to review.
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I absolutely loved this little introduction of the series! I still haven't read Thorn but it has been on my TBR for a little time now. And this little introduction really caught my attention, and now I'll just go take Thorn out of my TBR!
We have a good aspect of the characters here, and I'm already so angry with Allyra's brother... and mother. And friends? Haha I really have to read Thorn, Brambles was not enough!!!
November 15, 2020
It's very difficult to rate a short story, especially one that fits into a larger series. When I requested this e-arc, I didn't realise this was the case, so it's my fault. I got so intrigued by the description, the fantastic setting, and political intrigue, that I didn't realise it was a sort of prequel. while I was not already familiar with these characters, the story felt quite interesting and intriguing and I might go on to read the full-length novels soon, lets see!
#NetGalley
#NetGalley
December 20, 2020
i received an arc!
this is was really good, i haven't read thorn yet but it definitely convinced me to read it
this is was really good, i haven't read thorn yet but it definitely convinced me to read it
December 7, 2020
Brambles is a prequel novella to the full length and wonderful Thorn (you can see my review here). This story finds Alyrra quite a bit younger and back in time in her original lands. This really is a brief origin story about why Alyrra found herself on the end of Valka’s wrath and how the plot for Thorn eventually unravels.
I hated Alyrra’s brother and Valka in Thorn so this wasn’t the nicest company to be keeping in this novella. These two were bullies in Alyrra’s life, manipulating and controlling. Alyrra’s mother wasn’t much better either. I always hated that Alyrra didn’t have any allies at the beginning of Thorn and this is what we see in Brambles. BUT this was still a very engaging world to be in. Reading about villians can still be fulfilling!
The world created in this series is intruiging, pretty fresh and as a collective, I’ll alwaysbe happy to read in this world. If you aren’t aware, the second book in the series The Theft of Sunlight is coming in March 2021 and I couldn’t be more excited about it. Whilst Brambles is not essential reading to the series, it’s a welcome snippet and insight into the grand story.
Thank you to the author for the early review copy.
This review can be found on A Take From Two Cities Blog.
I hated Alyrra’s brother and Valka in Thorn so this wasn’t the nicest company to be keeping in this novella. These two were bullies in Alyrra’s life, manipulating and controlling. Alyrra’s mother wasn’t much better either. I always hated that Alyrra didn’t have any allies at the beginning of Thorn and this is what we see in Brambles. BUT this was still a very engaging world to be in. Reading about villians can still be fulfilling!
The world created in this series is intruiging, pretty fresh and as a collective, I’ll alwaysbe happy to read in this world. If you aren’t aware, the second book in the series The Theft of Sunlight is coming in March 2021 and I couldn’t be more excited about it. Whilst Brambles is not essential reading to the series, it’s a welcome snippet and insight into the grand story.
Thank you to the author for the early review copy.
This review can be found on A Take From Two Cities Blog.
November 17, 2020
I loved Thorn so much and it was wonderful being back in this world and especially being able to see exactly what happened which led to to the events in Thorn. Despite it being a short story it gave the main character a lot more depth and we can see why later she would be so conflicted about things.
It's a great story and i highly recommend reading this after you read Thorn.
It's a great story and i highly recommend reading this after you read Thorn.
November 4, 2020
Finally! We get to hear the story that caused THORN to start with such a bang. Since Alyrra's unpopularity in court is briefly summarized in THORN, there aren't any huge surprises here but I very much wanted to hear that story in more detail and BRAMBLES definitely enriches Alyrra's backstory. We get to experience more of the conniving and vengeful Valka, see the beginnings of the (gloriously nameless) brother's abuse, and meet the wind for the first time. The unfortunate reality is that standing up for what's right doesn't always result in immediate justice. It's often unpopular (especially with those in positions of power) and frequently punished, as anyone who has done it can likely tell you. I love that illustration here, as well as the tender beginnings of Alyrra's relationship with the more vulnerable working class people with whom she shares such genuine camaraderie throughout THORN.
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