Falling Through the Weaving: Roots and Stars Book One

by Leia Talon

As Shelta’s music bridges worlds, her fate is intertwined with three men who share the same soul:

A Scottish spymaster.
A mountain man hunted by outlaws.
A Viking demigod with the secrets of dragons.

To be a family they must pay Time's price:

Love.
Grieve.
Surrender.
Fight.

With elements of Outlander, Thor, and The Time Traveler's Wife, book one in the ROOTS AND STARS series follows a time-traveling musician who weaves her destiny with three men in alternate histories, and plunges so far into the past that dragons still exist.

Genres: Time Travel

411 pages, Kindle Edition

Published March 3, 2021

Reviews

[Elysia Strife · Rating 5 out of 5]

A fantastical romance where music is magic and the future can go any one of a million directions…

This book is sweet and steamy with a dreamy vibe that will suck you in. Talon is a master of eloquent narration and has tied together a blend of subgenres in a way that makes them feel like they belong together. Like cowboys? How about Scottish Lords? Maybe you prefer Norsemen. Dragons? How about mages? Blend Outlander and Game of Thrones with a few cowboys and gods and you’ll almost capture the essence. Falling Through the Weaving has something for every romance reader.

Shelta is a relatable character put in an extraordinary life situation. Talon keeps the mystery of Shelta’s teleportations going until the very end. The tension eats at you, making you have to turn the page to see what Shelta will have to survive next. She is forgiving, full of love, a talented musician, and not afraid to wield a sword or live each day to the fullest. She accepts the challenge of being thrown through life at a whim and never lets it deter her from living in the present. It is inspiring to watch Shelta fight her way through an unpredictable journey in search of family, love, stability, and dragons.

This romance is like nothing I have ever read. The concepts of the soul across dimensions and timelines in Falling Through the Weaving is magnificent and shows just how powerful love is—that it can transcend the human spirit.

If you read this and enjoy it, you're going to love book 2 even more!

[Kat Turner · Rating 5 out of 5]

For anyone searching for a truly epic love story packed with action, adventure, self-discovery, and sexiness, Falling Through the Weaving DELIVERS. Follow Shelta along in her fantastical travels as she reckons with an unusual power that is both a blessing and a curse, showing her great loves and transformative experiences that may slip from her grasp as fate decrees. Through it all, she is forced to confront her core values-what matters most, needs vs. wants.

There is so much satisfaction packed into this story, which offers fun and lighthearted romps interspersed with deeper philosophical questions on love, destiny, and attachment. Something for everyone. The world does not always supply big answers to the big questions posed, yet magic comes in the revelations accrued from smaller, yet more transformative, moments. A spellbinding, genre-bending delight for fans of romance and fantasy alike.

[Lily Lawson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leia Talon's imagination guided me through the story of a heroine I rooted for from the off. This time travelling fantasy could have left me lost and confused by it's many aspects if written by a lesser writer. Talon gives such attention to each character and each setting that every time Shelta lands I believed she was staying. As this is book 1 I can see more journeys through time and self discovery for our heroine. I am an eternal student so the historical references pulled me in. Clever world building and character development kept me engaged with this very well written book. Looking forward to more. The journey has just begun.

[Sevannah Storm · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't usually rave about a book, but I loved the premise, and Shelta sucked me in with her quiet desperation to end time traveling.
There were so many times I shed a tear, and if anyone knows me, I hate to cry. Falling Through The Weaving is a stunning book, filled with lovable characters and intricate world-building, no matter in which timeline Shelta landed. Leia hits the feels too, making me hope Shelta falls in love over and over even as I mourn the loss of the last man she loved.
Definitely a worthy read!

[D. Lambert · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the unique take on time travel in this; the subject is a victim of it more than anything! Similarly, the romance aspect has its own flavours as we meet and come to love three similar, yet distinctive, romantic interests. The strong fantasy aspects creep in, coming to a head at the end. A tale of heart break, hope and true, deep, love, this book was different, but good fun!

[Sunsette Skye · Rating 3 out of 5]

What if A Swiftly Tilting Planet was a romance? I don't know if the adventures of Charles Wallace were an inspiration, but the adventures of Shelta -- a mysteriously gifted woman lost in time and space for a higher purpose unknown to her -- certainly recall the final adventure of Madeleine L'Engle's wunderkind protagonist. This review is based on an Advance Review Copy of the text.

Falling Through the Weaving is the first book in the Roots and Stars series by Leia Talon, releasing on March 3, 2021; it is also the second book in her wider World Tree Chronicles universe, following Shelta's Songbook: Poetry and Prose from the Vaults of the Keeper (which I have not read). The story follows one Shelta Raine, a native of North America from the 20th century who erratically skipped her way through time into the 21st and then to an alternate past -- one which is slightly more just and fair than the histories she remembers. She comes to take three different lovers over the course of the story and starts a family with them -- a polygamous family, albeit one at a time.

We start in medias res as Shelta decides to walk out of her life before she gets too attached to her wonderful living situation at the moment. It turns out that she just randomly falls forward in time sometimes when she touches a tree. Starting out in 2035, she prepares for a trip to someplace (hopefully) a little less desolate than the 2020 twitter meme, and finds herself in Scotland next to tall, dark, handsome, and surprisingly unflappable. Shelta has a compelling personality, and in fact, this is the case for virtually everyone of any importance in the story: everyone is charming and wonderful and lovely. It is easy to identify with her triumphs and failures, and as we see her past via flashback, I think much of the audience will feel as I did: how has one person been allowed to be hurt so many times by such a weird condition? Her romantic journey for the first half of the book is engrossing and gratifying.

This being the case, I think it is unfortunate that the book undermines its greatest strength by taking us away from the cast it builds up for the first half of the story and gives us two substitute casts that perform nearly the same functions in a row for much less time each. By doing this, it makes it easier to notice the weaker point of Talon's writing: the worldbuilding. Each of the three pasts showcased in the novel is an alternate history from our own, but shows an at-times uncomfortable characterization which makes it unclear how much is the result of surface-level authorial knowledge versus a conscious choice in order to weave together the mythologies of three disparate societies. (This felt most stark in the Wild West period and its indigenous people, particularly since we spent the most time in Scotland, which occasionally would showcase very precise bits of knowledge). This goes hand-in-hand with a tendency for all the likable characters to espouse very modern, progressive ideas with absolutely no hesitation regardless of era. Some of it is definitely intentional, but how much is hard to tell.

On a similar note, at times Shelta is quite careful about what modern knowledge she introduces to the past, and at times she is very casual about it. Some of it within the story is clearly Shelta being a fallible person, but other times when it goes unremarked-upon it does feel inconsistent in a way that you're not always sure is intentional, because the narrative is very strong and forthright about the morals it espouses on other points (and, to be clear, they're good morals I endorse wholly).

The story ends on clear sequel bait -- there are precious few answers given, though they're the answers I mostly expected to get out of the story, so it's not as if things were held back solely for the sake of being put in a later book. Talon simply wants to tell a quite large story with a broad cast. Having not read Shelta's Songbook: Poetry and Prose from the Vaults of the Keeper, the previous release in the universe, I'd call Falling Through the Weaving the 'roots' of the 'Roots and Stars' series. Oh, and the ending is arguably HEA. I'd say it's 'step 1/x' in the HEA.

VERDICT
You should totally read if:
- You want to see charming, lovable, wholesome characters being charming, lovable, and wholesome together
- You would enjoy a brief, rousing adventure through three disparate eras
- You are a patient reader who can wait a while to get important questions answered

You should probably pass if:
- You are not a fan of stories that revolve heavily around fate and destiny
- You expect rigorous familiarity with historical eras and avoidance of anachronisms

[Nina Castle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow what an incredible ride! Talon has the timeless voice of a classic, undying author. From beginning to end, the writing was masterful. The artistry of it was intoxicating, each page a new brushstroke against the canvas of not just one life, but many across time. I really felt like I was living it with her.

[Beth Patterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

The archetype of fate versus free will has been a timeless theme in fiction. Yet Leia Talon manages to give it a brand-new spin in her stunning debut novel Falling Through the Weaving. Like Sophocles, she reminds the reader that if we cannot choose our fates, we can still decide how to respond to the circumstances of each moment.

But the comparison ends there, as she offers us a vivid epic told through the eyes of the canny, free-spirited heroine Shelta. The narrative is sensual, compelling, and often synesthetic. Shelta takes us on a musical journey through multiple worlds that are interwoven like an intricate polyphony. We’re treated to some glorious battle action, ruggedly beautiful settings, and mystical dreams. But Shelta’s impending choices between love and fear are what will keep you on the edge of your seats.

The adventure has just begun…or has it been in motion for eons? Hold on to your dragons, readers. You’re in for a wild ride!

[Jenna McKinley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an immersive, entertaining story with a great balance of romance, history (or alternate history), and fantasy. We get not one but three swoonworthy heroes, along with a relatable, strong heroine with a fascinating past. The settings and characters come to life through vivid, lyrical writing. Definitely recommend for fans of Outlander looking for a bit more fantasy and a more expansive take on time travel!

[W.A. Stanley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an advance reader copy of Falling Through the Weaving for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Some books are difficult to pigeonhole, as they touch a number of genres throughout the tale. Falling Through the Weaving is one such tale: a fantasy, though, for much of the book, the fantastic elements are narrow; a historical fiction, though the history is different from what we know; an epic romance, but it extends past the standard singular love interest; a mystery that is slowly revealed and links back to the fantasy elements.

This is the first book in the Roots and Stars duology, to be concluded with Dragons in the Weaving (which I am yet to read, as I don't want my thoughts about these books to blur into each other), and ends on a cliffhanger. As a result, while this ending works incredibly well at enticing readers to read the next book, that next book is required reading to enjoy the whole story.

The novel tells the story of Shelta Raine, who is transported from the year 2035 to 1753 through a portal revealing itself in a tree. While Shelta has been travelling this way for most of her life, up until this point, she had always travelled forwards. Instead, she finds herself almost 300 years in the past, and instead of still being in Canada, she was transported to Scotland, in a past different to what the history books have said. Shelta soon meets Killian Maclean, and love blossoms.

That plot summary is a gross oversimplification, but to provide more detail would be to risk of spoiling the book and its surprises. There's much more to the story, but that's best left for the reader to discover.

Despite a number of twists, turns and an overarching mystery, Falling Through the Weaving still feels a little overlong, particularly during the first half. While the book moves at a deliberate pace, delicately unveiling the story and romance, it feels longer than it needs to. During the second half, though, the pace picks up and works better. As it moves towards the climax, it all comes together beautifully.

A large portion of the first half is dedicated to Shelta and Killian's romance. Through much of this, their interactions are cute as they get to know each other, peppered with Shelta's attraction to Killian. Aside from a few bonding moments, the romance progresses a little too suddenly for my liking. Throughout the second half, this thread continues through the book's twists and turns, and this aspect works better.

While the pacing and fast developing romance don't entirely work, the author's prose more than makes up for it. Told from Shelta's first person perspective, the writing is lyrical, presenting a world full of beauty, despite the ugliness of its events. This lyrical prose complements an overarching musical theme, and I found reading this prose was akin to reading the lyrics to a beautiful and emotive song. While the book features steamy love scenes, they are presented beautifully, reading more like poetry than erotica.

As the point of view character, all the events in the book are told from Shelta's perspective. The author has crafted a wonderful character, and through this narration, the reader is treated to her innermost thoughts and backstory, providing far more detail about the character, and a far greater opportunity to empathise with her. This is blended into the narrative masterfully, beckoning the reader to learn more about her character.

With such a deep exploration from its protagonist's perspective, the other characters are coloured by this lens. While they aren't explored with the same level of depth, they remain engaging. Killian, who much of the book explores, receives most of this attention, shines brightest, not because of his character, but because of how Shelta sees him.

While its mystery and fantasy elements draw the reader in, this is a story about love, written in a way that is evocative of such love. While some of the pacing feels a little too slow and the romance's initial progression doesn't feel earned, this is still a majestic story, presented in a beautiful way.

My full review will be available on my website from 3 August, 2022. To read my full thoughts (including my thoughts about Dragons in the Weaving on 5 July, as well as a host of others), click here.

[R. Lee Fryar · Rating 4 out of 5]

Falling Through the Weaving is one of those books that is going to be something you like or don’t like. If you are looking for a lot of action, a ton of working magic, or a consistent fantasy world to stay in, it’s not for you. If you enjoy heavy description, a more mythical source of magic involving gods and goddesses, and a protagonist that isn’t the typical fantasy heroine, you probably will enjoy the book.
The writing is lush and lyrical, and the time given to description will interest readers who want that visual depth. The protagonist, Shelta, is not your typical “plucky” fantasy heroine. She struggles with her place in life—a lot. She ends up a mother, being dragged from place to place, loved, but finding it hard to reconcile her destiny with what the world expects of her and what she expects of herself. It’s largely a quiet fantasy, meant to cause the reader to reflect on what it means to be a mother in a fantasy world, reconciling domestic life with fantasy destiny.
That in itself is enough to recommend it to readers looking for something different in the fantasy market.

[Cheryl Burman · Rating 5 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed Leia Talon's first book in this series. Shelta longs for a 'normal' life, knowing that any time she can be dragged into another world, simply by brushing the wrong tree. Normally she moves forward in time but suddenly she's going backwards. Will the time travel stop and let her stay with the man she loves? And what about their child? And when it happens all over again, you feel her despair. But there is a plan behind all this, and that's what she must discover. It's all to do with dragons and goddesses.
Talon's lyrical writing draws you into Shelta's world, or worlds, and her characters ring true. Although the first in a series, I was pleased we weren't left on a cliff hanger, while at the same time, there are many more questions to be answered and a great cast to take us on the journey.
Highly recommend for lovers of women's fiction as well as fantasy.

[Sarina Langer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm so behind on reviews that I genuinely don't remember when I finished this, I just know it wasn't today. May have been September :| (on that note, I'm pretty sure I didn't start reading this in late September, either?)

Anyway, I really loved this and it weirdly hit home with me despite nothing comparable ever having happened to me. There was a lot of pain and heartache in this, and while I felt the heartbreak along with the main character, I also found this a strangely soothing, healing read. The magic in this is beautiful.

I just know I loved the voice and will be reading more by Leia Talon.

[Illusode · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.4 Stars
Mysterious, grounded, yearning adventure and romance

Oh wow, well you know from the beginning that it's going to hurt but it's still so beautiful that you can't look away. And if you make it through the heartache, then it pays off: rewarding you with a truly magical restoration of faith and love and connection... all that is yearned for through the story.

My only complaint is that it's told from one POV throughout, a pet peeve..

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Caebks8 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Captivating, well-written, fun travels through time. The author's prose is fresh, distinctive, and delights the ear. The lead character is obviously evolving and I like accompanying her on this development, except, of course, her occasional use of words this elder finds offensive.

The second book promises a deeper understanding of the character and of the character's understanding of the worlds in which she finds herself. I look forward to witnessing these evolutions with her, not to mention discovering the imaginative adventures sure to come.

[Halla Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful and inspiring tale

Shelta’s journey of discovery left me with an enormous sense of peace and trust. A vivid and lyrical exploration of a woman hurled through time and reality finding her centre. Beautiful romance elements and a wonderful adventure. I look forward to the next part of the tale!

[Kristen Servatius · Rating 4 out of 5]

I wasn’t sure what to expect with this book that only has 22 reviews.

It started out with major Outlander vibes but evolved into a totally different theme. It’s a shorter fantasy book so sometimes the characters just have to accept things at face value and I had to remind myself to not read too deeply into somethings. Overall, I really enjoyed this and with read the next one.

[Jeanne Richardson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 1st book I've read written by Leia Talon; I can’t wait to read more of her books.

She has written a fantastic book that keeps you wanting more.

I received a free copy of this book via booksprout and I’m voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Leis Talon is a gifted, imaginative & entertaining humorous writer. I truly enjoyed reading Falling through the Weaving! I could not put this book down , so needless to say it was well worth the bags under my eyes.

[MM Book · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have nothing against Falling Through The Weaving. It's just didn't interest me because it wasn't what I thought it was: I only read mm or gay stories.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Kimberly Mullins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Main character faces personal challenges and decisions that will affect more than just her. I enjoyed and look forward to book 2.

[Denise Bro · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved This Book!! What A Page Turner!! I loved how the author developed Shelta's character - how she came to know why her life evolved as it did. Magical!! I couldn't put it down!

[Nelleke · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was such a joy to read! I almost wished it was longer so I could spend more time with Shelta, Killian, Troy, Nikolas and Brendan but the pace is well done and makes me as a reader understand the feeling of being ripped away suddenly that Shelta feels.

Shelta is very likable as a main character. I like that she makes (mostly) well thought out choices and still faces struggle. I thought her worldview was very interesting and unique. She's so selfless and truly wants to open herself up and be vulnerable. Her heart, through her music, really is her strength. Which, I feel, is rare in female characters in fantasy and it made me love her even more.

I adored the magical elements of the book and how it lets you wait and search for answers along with Shelta. The story treats real legends, myths and cultures with respect while also adding new twists and turns to them. It makes the end incredibly satisfying!

I'm very excited to read the second book and I cannot recommend this one enough!