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Sorrowfish
TWO WORLDS. ONE FATE.
A bard. A wizard...and a college student from Kentucky.
Sara is having crazy dreams. Gryphon and dragon crazy. The scary part is waking up, safe in her apartment, with scratches and splinters. Is she losing it because of stress? One more unfinished sculpture will fully tank her grades. Goodbye bachelor's degree, hello failure. Her twin sister is in a coma. And on top of everything else, her best friend Peter wants a date.
It's enough to make anyone sleepwalk.
Choosing to defy the Conclave, Bard-in-training Trystan risks capture and mind control to find a magical lute through a shadow network. Luthier-wizard Dane meets a sinister stranger and barely escapes with his life. Together, they must end an ancient curse, guided by a fae they only know as Sara.
A bard. A wizard...and a college student from Kentucky.
Sara is having crazy dreams. Gryphon and dragon crazy. The scary part is waking up, safe in her apartment, with scratches and splinters. Is she losing it because of stress? One more unfinished sculpture will fully tank her grades. Goodbye bachelor's degree, hello failure. Her twin sister is in a coma. And on top of everything else, her best friend Peter wants a date.
It's enough to make anyone sleepwalk.
Choosing to defy the Conclave, Bard-in-training Trystan risks capture and mind control to find a magical lute through a shadow network. Luthier-wizard Dane meets a sinister stranger and barely escapes with his life. Together, they must end an ancient curse, guided by a fae they only know as Sara.
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Published January 20, 2021
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About the author
Anne C. Miles
4 books93 followersAnne C. Miles, award-winning author, was born in Chicago Heights, Illinois in 1971. She studied modern languages (Spanish, French, and German) at Kentucky Wesleyan College and Murray State University. In 2001 she founded a web design studio in her kitchen. She earned a degree in Visual Communications and married Rodney Miles in 2003. Anne was confirmed in the Anglican Church (ACNA, High Anglican) in 2016. She takes communion once a week. When Anne isn't working or writing, she plays violin badly and spoils her grandchildren.
Her book, Sorrowfish, was named Best Fantasy 2019 by Indies Today. One of the chapters of her second unpublished book was named as an Honorable Mention in the Writers of the Future Contest, first quarter of 2020.
Her book, Sorrowfish, was named Best Fantasy 2019 by Indies Today. One of the chapters of her second unpublished book was named as an Honorable Mention in the Writers of the Future Contest, first quarter of 2020.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 39 reviews
May 16, 2020
Sorrowfish is an intriguing merged-worlds kind of story, where Sara Moore in Kentucky has waking dreams of a magical world and Dane in Canard is visited by a Fae. There are shades of Ted Dekker's The Complete Circle Series, where both worlds affect each other and Sara is the key to the overlap with her creative gifts.
I love the rich mythology Miles has created, with the World Tree and the Storm King, the Song and the dewin, the Fae and their bonding, gnomes and deemlings, the ties to earth and creative acts. It's all very beautiful and symbolic. Even the title, Sorrowfish takes on great meaning as you journey with Sara, Dane, and Trystan.
But to get there... Where some books have a great start and then let you down with a mediocre ending, Sorrowfish muddles through the beginning until you want to yell at it and then speeds up to a tense middle and an impressive ending. It's an awkward mix between just too slow to keep your attention and yet just too much that it's all so confusing. It's only somewhere midway when the various arcs really begin to overlap that things start to fall into place. But it's not quite an easy oh, that's what she means ping of understanding, more of a pfft, maybe I need to go and read the beginning again to figure this out... which is not quite a reaction I really like as a reader.
Maybe it's because it tries to follow three arcs at once and the correlation isn't really apparent until much later. There's just a little too much going on.
(Stupid aside: Miles uses "dan" in a name sort of like "son of", but "dan" in Malay is "and", so my bilingual brain keeps interpreting that as TWO PEOPLE.)
Overall, I think Sorrowfish is worth a read if you can get through the slightly confusing start.
Note: I received a digital copy of this book from the author. I was given the book with no expectation of a positive review and the review is my own.
I love the rich mythology Miles has created, with the World Tree and the Storm King, the Song and the dewin, the Fae and their bonding, gnomes and deemlings, the ties to earth and creative acts. It's all very beautiful and symbolic. Even the title, Sorrowfish takes on great meaning as you journey with Sara, Dane, and Trystan.
But to get there... Where some books have a great start and then let you down with a mediocre ending, Sorrowfish muddles through the beginning until you want to yell at it and then speeds up to a tense middle and an impressive ending. It's an awkward mix between just too slow to keep your attention and yet just too much that it's all so confusing. It's only somewhere midway when the various arcs really begin to overlap that things start to fall into place. But it's not quite an easy oh, that's what she means ping of understanding, more of a pfft, maybe I need to go and read the beginning again to figure this out... which is not quite a reaction I really like as a reader.
Maybe it's because it tries to follow three arcs at once and the correlation isn't really apparent until much later. There's just a little too much going on.
(Stupid aside: Miles uses "dan" in a name sort of like "son of", but "dan" in Malay is "and", so my bilingual brain keeps interpreting that as TWO PEOPLE.)
Overall, I think Sorrowfish is worth a read if you can get through the slightly confusing start.
Note: I received a digital copy of this book from the author. I was given the book with no expectation of a positive review and the review is my own.
May 25, 2020
Canard is a world in trouble. It is sustained by a life-giving song which emanates from a huge, damaged tree. The Conclave, a severe religious order, is purportedly working to keep the tree alive and nurture it back to health. Yet the tree continues to grow weaker.
Trystan dan Tenkor, a prince and bard-in-training, Danethor Thomas Whitley, a dewin (wizard), and Sara Moore, an artist and college student in our world, are linked to the attempt to rescue the tree. Anne C. Miles, weaves their stories together with great skill. I learned to love the beauty of Canard and was troubled by the unfolding evil in the leadership of the Conclave. It is a beautiful story, with surprising plot turns and characters that captured my interest and allegiance.
There were many surprising and delightful moments in the plot. Without giving away too much, in one poignant moment, Danethor had been captured by the Conclave and was being pressured to cooperate. To me it was clear he would be tortured until he broke or died. I was calling for him, as a reader, to pretend to collaborate. He did not and the following events, although unexpected, were very satisfying.
The world that Anne Miles has created is also filled with very imaginative and enthralling entities: gnomes, fae, Chymaera, tunebells, grotesques, and Caprices, to name a few. They each have unique properties and characteristics. They lend excitement to the world exploration that is a significant part of this story.
At this point, I would like to add a personal note describing why this story was particularly significant to me. As a scientist and Christ-follower, I tend to see God through the lens of the things I love and cherish. That is to say my love of physics, chemistry, and biochemistry leads me to see God as The Great Mind, The Supreme Logician, The Designer and Sustainer of the cosmos.
In writing this story, Anne Miles has taken a deliberately artistic and musical path. The world is sustained by the Song. Musical notes and the octave play a significant role in the world building. One of the key protagonists (Sara) is working on a sculpture that captures her “heartfire.” As a reader, seeing the world through the artistic eyes of the main characters, I received a whole new perspective that led me to see God not only as a Great Scientist but also as The Great Artist. In writing this story, Miles filled in a blind spot for me.
In closing, this is a wonderful book that I will likely read again and again. I rate it five stars.
Trystan dan Tenkor, a prince and bard-in-training, Danethor Thomas Whitley, a dewin (wizard), and Sara Moore, an artist and college student in our world, are linked to the attempt to rescue the tree. Anne C. Miles, weaves their stories together with great skill. I learned to love the beauty of Canard and was troubled by the unfolding evil in the leadership of the Conclave. It is a beautiful story, with surprising plot turns and characters that captured my interest and allegiance.
There were many surprising and delightful moments in the plot. Without giving away too much, in one poignant moment, Danethor had been captured by the Conclave and was being pressured to cooperate. To me it was clear he would be tortured until he broke or died. I was calling for him, as a reader, to pretend to collaborate. He did not and the following events, although unexpected, were very satisfying.
The world that Anne Miles has created is also filled with very imaginative and enthralling entities: gnomes, fae, Chymaera, tunebells, grotesques, and Caprices, to name a few. They each have unique properties and characteristics. They lend excitement to the world exploration that is a significant part of this story.
At this point, I would like to add a personal note describing why this story was particularly significant to me. As a scientist and Christ-follower, I tend to see God through the lens of the things I love and cherish. That is to say my love of physics, chemistry, and biochemistry leads me to see God as The Great Mind, The Supreme Logician, The Designer and Sustainer of the cosmos.
In writing this story, Anne Miles has taken a deliberately artistic and musical path. The world is sustained by the Song. Musical notes and the octave play a significant role in the world building. One of the key protagonists (Sara) is working on a sculpture that captures her “heartfire.” As a reader, seeing the world through the artistic eyes of the main characters, I received a whole new perspective that led me to see God not only as a Great Scientist but also as The Great Artist. In writing this story, Miles filled in a blind spot for me.
In closing, this is a wonderful book that I will likely read again and again. I rate it five stars.
October 11, 2021
~I'd like to thank the awesome author for sending me a free copy in exchange for my honest review!~
Sorrowfish was a really interesting book, and a one of a kind fantasy, I loved it!
In this book, Miles takes multiple different, seemingly unrelated POVs, and blends them together as the story goes on. There were mainly two different "kinds" of POVs, the ones in the fantasy world and in the modern one. I found myself liking the modern one better than the ones set in the fantasy world, but really, I enjoyed them all. However, in the beginning of the book (or just before the POV start coming together) it was a bit confusing, and hard to remember who's who when there are so many to remember. Although, I can't think of a better way to have this done, so yeah. XD
Also, I really liked the ending. Even though it wasn't much of a cliffhanger, it felt perfect for the book, and it was done beautifully.
All in all, I must say, I really enjoyed this book. Even though I'm not a huge fan of fantasy, this book really drew me in, and I look forward to reading the sequel!
Recommended!
~Full Review To Come~
Sorrowfish was a really interesting book, and a one of a kind fantasy, I loved it!
In this book, Miles takes multiple different, seemingly unrelated POVs, and blends them together as the story goes on. There were mainly two different "kinds" of POVs, the ones in the fantasy world and in the modern one. I found myself liking the modern one better than the ones set in the fantasy world, but really, I enjoyed them all. However, in the beginning of the book (or just before the POV start coming together) it was a bit confusing, and hard to remember who's who when there are so many to remember. Although, I can't think of a better way to have this done, so yeah. XD
Also, I really liked the ending. Even though it wasn't much of a cliffhanger, it felt perfect for the book, and it was done beautifully.
All in all, I must say, I really enjoyed this book. Even though I'm not a huge fan of fantasy, this book really drew me in, and I look forward to reading the sequel!
Recommended!
~Full Review To Come~
June 5, 2020
"Sorrowfish" (Book One of the Lorica Series) by Anne C. Miles, is an adventure-fantasy, with a dash of romance. Wonderfully written and creative, Miles has woven a rich tale that is as much lyrical as it is moving and engrossing.
I was fascinated by Miles' world-building within Canard, a place humans visit in their dream state. Miles includes glimpses into the fascinating world of gnomes (and their affectionate bonds with humans), gargoyles/Watchers, a gryphon race known as the Chymaera, dwarves, dragons, a mysterious World Tree, and a central, ancient figure known as the Storm King. Though fantastical, the novel's characters are unique, memorable, and I cared.for them. The author masterfully fleshes out each character--their characteristics and descriptions easy to picture.
The story revolves around three main characters: Trystan, a Prince/bard who begins courting a supernatural, forbidden instrument; Dane, a cabinetmaker who uses his mysterious gift-talents to create illegal, supernatural instruments; and earthbound Sara; a university art student grappling with family issues, questions about her own identity, and mental health concerns. The three characters eventually collide where each is forced to face the Cantors, a monk-priestly religious order that maintains a firm grip on Canard and uses any means necessary to destroy those who run counter to them.
Any weaknesses for this novel? There is a glossary provided at the rear of the book due to mostly unfamiliar terms that may take a bit of time to adjust to. Perhaps moving the glossary to the novel's front might be helpful? But this is a minor issue for me.
"Sorrowfish" is unforgettable and unique, with a redemptive arc within the story that is natural and subtly told. I recommend this novel to lovers of fantasy, especially fantasy with a redemptive arc. I hope it gets made into a film someday!
I look forward to Book Two!
-Sean Elliot Russell
I was fascinated by Miles' world-building within Canard, a place humans visit in their dream state. Miles includes glimpses into the fascinating world of gnomes (and their affectionate bonds with humans), gargoyles/Watchers, a gryphon race known as the Chymaera, dwarves, dragons, a mysterious World Tree, and a central, ancient figure known as the Storm King. Though fantastical, the novel's characters are unique, memorable, and I cared.for them. The author masterfully fleshes out each character--their characteristics and descriptions easy to picture.
The story revolves around three main characters: Trystan, a Prince/bard who begins courting a supernatural, forbidden instrument; Dane, a cabinetmaker who uses his mysterious gift-talents to create illegal, supernatural instruments; and earthbound Sara; a university art student grappling with family issues, questions about her own identity, and mental health concerns. The three characters eventually collide where each is forced to face the Cantors, a monk-priestly religious order that maintains a firm grip on Canard and uses any means necessary to destroy those who run counter to them.
Any weaknesses for this novel? There is a glossary provided at the rear of the book due to mostly unfamiliar terms that may take a bit of time to adjust to. Perhaps moving the glossary to the novel's front might be helpful? But this is a minor issue for me.
"Sorrowfish" is unforgettable and unique, with a redemptive arc within the story that is natural and subtly told. I recommend this novel to lovers of fantasy, especially fantasy with a redemptive arc. I hope it gets made into a film someday!
I look forward to Book Two!
-Sean Elliot Russell
November 30, 2019
FROM KIRKUS!
"In Miles’ debut fantasy novel, an art student’s dreams bring her into contact with a wizard and his extraordinary realm.
Sara Moore studies sculpture at the Hite Institute for the Arts in Louisville, Kentucky. She’s having trouble finishing her final piece that will allow her to graduate and begin a rewarding career as an artist. Her troubled personal life isn’t helping matters; her twin sister, Marilla, has been in a coma following a car accident eight months ago, and her best friend, Peter, could be the love of her life, if only she’d commit to their relationship. Also, Sara’s been having vivid dreams about a strange gnome—and once, she woke with a splinter after dreaming of touching a wooden table. Meanwhile, on a world called Canard, Dane Whitley is a “dewin,” or music mage, who’s capable of harnessing the divine Song without going mad from the accompanying Dissonance. He crafts magical instruments that are forbidden by the conclave, the religious order that’s ruled Canard since the good Storm King sacrificed himself to save the people from the evil Wyrm. Later, when Dane sees an elusive “fae” spirit named Sara, she tells him, “Fire. Fire everywhere. Run.” He follows her command and barely escapes being burned alive by conclave acolytes. Can Dane and Sara somehow forge a bond and solve the problems that plague each other’s lives? Miles offers a dense emotional tapestry for fantasy fans who may be looking for more than swords and sorcery. The intensive worldbuilding involves gnomes who raise human children (known as “deemlings”), shape-changers known as “chymaera,” and a monumentally epic World Tree (“The Tree was enormous, bone white, its top shrouded. It had split perfectly down the center....Clouds served as the Tree’s canopy”). However, although Canard’s narrative ambles forward with wild invention, Sara’s more grounded narrative sings more strongly. The complex family dynamics surrounding Marilla’s situation, for example, could fuel its own novel. Miles’ final revelations promise further layering of reality and fantasy in a planned sequel.
A richly conceived fantasy with a grand emotional payoff."
– Kirkus Reviews
"In Miles’ debut fantasy novel, an art student’s dreams bring her into contact with a wizard and his extraordinary realm.
Sara Moore studies sculpture at the Hite Institute for the Arts in Louisville, Kentucky. She’s having trouble finishing her final piece that will allow her to graduate and begin a rewarding career as an artist. Her troubled personal life isn’t helping matters; her twin sister, Marilla, has been in a coma following a car accident eight months ago, and her best friend, Peter, could be the love of her life, if only she’d commit to their relationship. Also, Sara’s been having vivid dreams about a strange gnome—and once, she woke with a splinter after dreaming of touching a wooden table. Meanwhile, on a world called Canard, Dane Whitley is a “dewin,” or music mage, who’s capable of harnessing the divine Song without going mad from the accompanying Dissonance. He crafts magical instruments that are forbidden by the conclave, the religious order that’s ruled Canard since the good Storm King sacrificed himself to save the people from the evil Wyrm. Later, when Dane sees an elusive “fae” spirit named Sara, she tells him, “Fire. Fire everywhere. Run.” He follows her command and barely escapes being burned alive by conclave acolytes. Can Dane and Sara somehow forge a bond and solve the problems that plague each other’s lives? Miles offers a dense emotional tapestry for fantasy fans who may be looking for more than swords and sorcery. The intensive worldbuilding involves gnomes who raise human children (known as “deemlings”), shape-changers known as “chymaera,” and a monumentally epic World Tree (“The Tree was enormous, bone white, its top shrouded. It had split perfectly down the center....Clouds served as the Tree’s canopy”). However, although Canard’s narrative ambles forward with wild invention, Sara’s more grounded narrative sings more strongly. The complex family dynamics surrounding Marilla’s situation, for example, could fuel its own novel. Miles’ final revelations promise further layering of reality and fantasy in a planned sequel.
A richly conceived fantasy with a grand emotional payoff."
– Kirkus Reviews
October 25, 2020
Sorrowfish is the first novel I have read that was written by Anne C. Miles.
This is the first novel in the Call of the Lorica series.
I think this novel could be considered either epic fantasy or high fantasy with a blend of New Adult as well.
Ms. Miles does stellar job in the world-building component of the story. She creates a world of Canard that is both vivid and alive. She has populated this world with humans, gnomes, Watchers, Chymaera, tunebells, deemas, and dewins.
The magic system is very original. It appears the magic in this world is generated through song and music. The abilities are only in some people in Canard. There is also an opposing force called Dissonance which, I think, disrupt the natural magic that is powered by the tree.
Sorrowfish has two main characters: Dane and Sara. Dane is a person who makes lutes and has the rare ability to sing that creates magic. Sara who is a college student from Kentucky and dealing with family issues along with her own magical abilities.
Trystan, a major secondary character, is a bard-in-training to contend with the Conclave who is responsible for protecting the tree. The Conclave is also responsible for rooting out and dealing with people who have magical ability such as Dane.
As I read the story, I found the world of Canard and the characters, who inhabited it, to be engaging, compelling, and interesting. I was invested in Dane, Trystan, and several of the other secondary characters such as Trystan’s mentor, and Bell who had a budding romance with Dane. I wanted to spend more time with these characters, especially Trystan, Bell, and some of the characters in the Conclave.
Not only did I want to learn more about Trystan, I was also interested in learning more about his mentor and what they did in their conflict with the Conclave. I think if the Trystan plot was developed and expanded, I would have learned more about the Conclave, what they did, and the tree they protect.
If the character of Bell was deepened and embellished, I think I would have learned more about her being held by the Conclave and maybe a bit more about Cantor Siles, Brother Aric, and Brother Bren who are part of the Conclave.
As much as I enjoyed the world of Canard and its characters, the enjoyment was hindered by Sara’s character arc. At the beginning of the story, Sara’s family issues are front and center as she deals with her feelings of her twin sister in a coma, her trying to meet the graduation requirements in her final year of college, and the complicated issues she has with each of her parents. I did not find Sara to be engaging nor compelling and I was not interested in character arc. When I come to the part of the story that took place in Kentucky, I would either put the book down or skim until the story returns to Canard.
Ms. Miles created a captivating and enthralling world in Canard and interesting characters such as Dane and Trystan, but I could not put aside my qualms about Sara and her story in Kentucky.
I rate Sorrowfish 3 stars.
This is the first novel in the Call of the Lorica series.
I think this novel could be considered either epic fantasy or high fantasy with a blend of New Adult as well.
Ms. Miles does stellar job in the world-building component of the story. She creates a world of Canard that is both vivid and alive. She has populated this world with humans, gnomes, Watchers, Chymaera, tunebells, deemas, and dewins.
The magic system is very original. It appears the magic in this world is generated through song and music. The abilities are only in some people in Canard. There is also an opposing force called Dissonance which, I think, disrupt the natural magic that is powered by the tree.
Sorrowfish has two main characters: Dane and Sara. Dane is a person who makes lutes and has the rare ability to sing that creates magic. Sara who is a college student from Kentucky and dealing with family issues along with her own magical abilities.
Trystan, a major secondary character, is a bard-in-training to contend with the Conclave who is responsible for protecting the tree. The Conclave is also responsible for rooting out and dealing with people who have magical ability such as Dane.
As I read the story, I found the world of Canard and the characters, who inhabited it, to be engaging, compelling, and interesting. I was invested in Dane, Trystan, and several of the other secondary characters such as Trystan’s mentor, and Bell who had a budding romance with Dane. I wanted to spend more time with these characters, especially Trystan, Bell, and some of the characters in the Conclave.
Not only did I want to learn more about Trystan, I was also interested in learning more about his mentor and what they did in their conflict with the Conclave. I think if the Trystan plot was developed and expanded, I would have learned more about the Conclave, what they did, and the tree they protect.
If the character of Bell was deepened and embellished, I think I would have learned more about her being held by the Conclave and maybe a bit more about Cantor Siles, Brother Aric, and Brother Bren who are part of the Conclave.
As much as I enjoyed the world of Canard and its characters, the enjoyment was hindered by Sara’s character arc. At the beginning of the story, Sara’s family issues are front and center as she deals with her feelings of her twin sister in a coma, her trying to meet the graduation requirements in her final year of college, and the complicated issues she has with each of her parents. I did not find Sara to be engaging nor compelling and I was not interested in character arc. When I come to the part of the story that took place in Kentucky, I would either put the book down or skim until the story returns to Canard.
Ms. Miles created a captivating and enthralling world in Canard and interesting characters such as Dane and Trystan, but I could not put aside my qualms about Sara and her story in Kentucky.
I rate Sorrowfish 3 stars.
dnf
August 24, 2020Great writing and world building, but the female main character didn't work for me. Perhaps if I had finished I would have seen her growth and the reason she was immature in the beginning was to set up a character arc, but I ended up wanting to skip all of her POV chapters. I really liked the male MC, the gnomes, and his world, but I felt like we knew the female MC better when I really would have liked for the focus to be on him.
January 28, 2022
"He said not all people who did terrible things were evil. Most were selfish or believed lies, and some were just sorrowfish. Acting from pain." - page 271
Inter dimensional travel while sleeping. That old premis, This story jumps between Sara, a girl from louisiana in the 2000's and a magical realm with a bard.
The story mirrored each other for a while. Dane and Jax are trying to save Belle, while Sara is trying to save her twin sister.
These two stories become one when Sara gets pulled into Dane's story. One minute taking a nap, the next she is supposed to help a gnome and a bard save them from some evil beings!
This story is ace friendly. There are relationships in the story line, but the story doesn't hinge on a relationship.
This story is a wild ride from start to finish. It's the first in the series but doesn't feel like it. It does a good job at explaining the contrast and similarities between the "real" world and the other world.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only
Inter dimensional travel while sleeping. That old premis, This story jumps between Sara, a girl from louisiana in the 2000's and a magical realm with a bard.
The story mirrored each other for a while. Dane and Jax are trying to save Belle, while Sara is trying to save her twin sister.
These two stories become one when Sara gets pulled into Dane's story. One minute taking a nap, the next she is supposed to help a gnome and a bard save them from some evil beings!
This story is ace friendly. There are relationships in the story line, but the story doesn't hinge on a relationship.
This story is a wild ride from start to finish. It's the first in the series but doesn't feel like it. It does a good job at explaining the contrast and similarities between the "real" world and the other world.
I received a complimentary copy of the book from the author via Voracious Readers Only
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 12, 2021
Sara Moore is a college student in Kentucky, struggling to finish her senior project and graduate after an accident put her twin in a coma. At night, she dreams of a far-off land with quaint humans and fairytale gnomes. Sara doesn’t understand that her dreams are real, and on Canard she’s considered a fabled Fae.
Dane Whitley is a cabinet maker who holds a dangerous secret: he is Dewin and uses the Song to create magical lutes. Trystan is a bard-in-training who is seeking one of the extraordinary lutes. And both are hiding their secrets from the powerful religious Conclave.
Spanning two worlds and several characters, Sorrowfish by Anne C. Miles is an ambitious, good vs. evil fantasy. The tale alternates between the point-of-views of several characters, with Sara and Dane being the primary storytellers and several other characters adding voice and knowledge to enhance the plot. There is a steep learning curve as Ms. Miles tosses readers right into the thick of her world and the ongoing plot. (She’s developed a website with the primary characters, locations, and concepts, which enhances the experience: https://www.annecmiles.com/sorrowfish/)
The overall concept of the story is a classic good vs. evil retelling. On Canard, music is magic and life. There is THE SONG which has been corrupted and sews dissidence into the world. The powerful ruling Conclave is founded in religion and provides order for the world. But there is another version of the facts that is spread by a secret group called the Spinners. They tell how the Conclave is corrupt and twisting the Song into dissidence. Sorrowfish marks the beginning of what could be a turn in events and the start of a new world order.
The path of Sara and Dane is filled with bends and twists. Each must find their own truths in order to move forward. Sorrowfish is long and winding, but filled with rich detail and an interesting mythology. There is a varied and expansive cast of characters that help shape the storyline. My favorites include the gnome protectors Pezzik and Jax, Sara’s best friend Peter, and the Chymaera who are shapeshifting beings that create stone figures that are semi-autonomous helpers of the Conclave.
Narration: Sorrowfish is shared via the third person POVs of multiple characters. The narrator uses the same neutral voice for all POVs. It is a bit rough around the edges, but it’s easy to follow when the POV changes. The narrator does an excellent job altering the dialogue keeping each character unique whether old, young, man, or woman. She adds accents to distinguish various locales and adjusts her tone to match various creatures’ temperaments. Her overall voice is youthful and fitting for the main characters of Sara and Dane. She infuses the dialogue with the appropriate emotions.
In the end, I really enjoyed this epic fantasy. It was long and winding, filled with familiar and unique. Ms. Miles has created an interesting world, and Sorrowfish is just the first chapter in a much larger tale. I look forward to finding out what comes next for Sara and Dane.
Story: A-/B+
Narration: A-
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by author.
Dane Whitley is a cabinet maker who holds a dangerous secret: he is Dewin and uses the Song to create magical lutes. Trystan is a bard-in-training who is seeking one of the extraordinary lutes. And both are hiding their secrets from the powerful religious Conclave.
Spanning two worlds and several characters, Sorrowfish by Anne C. Miles is an ambitious, good vs. evil fantasy. The tale alternates between the point-of-views of several characters, with Sara and Dane being the primary storytellers and several other characters adding voice and knowledge to enhance the plot. There is a steep learning curve as Ms. Miles tosses readers right into the thick of her world and the ongoing plot. (She’s developed a website with the primary characters, locations, and concepts, which enhances the experience: https://www.annecmiles.com/sorrowfish/)
The overall concept of the story is a classic good vs. evil retelling. On Canard, music is magic and life. There is THE SONG which has been corrupted and sews dissidence into the world. The powerful ruling Conclave is founded in religion and provides order for the world. But there is another version of the facts that is spread by a secret group called the Spinners. They tell how the Conclave is corrupt and twisting the Song into dissidence. Sorrowfish marks the beginning of what could be a turn in events and the start of a new world order.
The path of Sara and Dane is filled with bends and twists. Each must find their own truths in order to move forward. Sorrowfish is long and winding, but filled with rich detail and an interesting mythology. There is a varied and expansive cast of characters that help shape the storyline. My favorites include the gnome protectors Pezzik and Jax, Sara’s best friend Peter, and the Chymaera who are shapeshifting beings that create stone figures that are semi-autonomous helpers of the Conclave.
Narration: Sorrowfish is shared via the third person POVs of multiple characters. The narrator uses the same neutral voice for all POVs. It is a bit rough around the edges, but it’s easy to follow when the POV changes. The narrator does an excellent job altering the dialogue keeping each character unique whether old, young, man, or woman. She adds accents to distinguish various locales and adjusts her tone to match various creatures’ temperaments. Her overall voice is youthful and fitting for the main characters of Sara and Dane. She infuses the dialogue with the appropriate emotions.
In the end, I really enjoyed this epic fantasy. It was long and winding, filled with familiar and unique. Ms. Miles has created an interesting world, and Sorrowfish is just the first chapter in a much larger tale. I look forward to finding out what comes next for Sara and Dane.
Story: A-/B+
Narration: A-
Originally posted at That's What I'm Talking About
Review copy provided by author.
April 6, 2020
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: Sorrowfish (The Call of the Lorica)
Author: Anne C. Miles
Star Rating: 3.5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 7/10
Cover: 6/10
Of the 17 readers:
12 would read another book by this author.
9 thought the cover was good or excellent.
14 felt it was easy to follow.
12 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 10 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
10 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
12 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘A slow start but gets much better. An enjoyable fantasy adventure, rather gritty in parts, with strong, interesting characters. Sadly, the cover’s a bit messy with way too much going on for the eye to focus on.’ Male reader, aged 54
‘I suspect anybody with musical interests might find this a particularly intriguing magical story. A mix of fantasy world/this world, this is a complex story full of wonderfully strange characters. The author’s imagination is superb, offering adults and old young adults a very entertaining read.’ Female reader, aged 43
‘A good sprinkling of humor in this exciting fantasy adventure based around the power of song. Although it’s confusing in parts and starts with a clumsy first chapter, there’s much going for it. The author knows her characters and develops them well in the story. Also, the ending is satisfying and enjoyable. Possibly the cover needs reworking and simplifying. Liked it!’ Female reader, aged 39
To Sum It Up:
‘A cleverly plotted fantasy adventure sprinkled with interesting characters and topped with a little humor.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
Title: Sorrowfish (The Call of the Lorica)
Author: Anne C. Miles
Star Rating: 3.5 Stars
Number of Readers: 17
Stats
Editing: 8/10
Writing Style: 7/10
Content: 7/10
Cover: 6/10
Of the 17 readers:
12 would read another book by this author.
9 thought the cover was good or excellent.
14 felt it was easy to follow.
12 would recommend this story to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 10 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting a story’.
Of all the readers, 7 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
10 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
12 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
‘A slow start but gets much better. An enjoyable fantasy adventure, rather gritty in parts, with strong, interesting characters. Sadly, the cover’s a bit messy with way too much going on for the eye to focus on.’ Male reader, aged 54
‘I suspect anybody with musical interests might find this a particularly intriguing magical story. A mix of fantasy world/this world, this is a complex story full of wonderfully strange characters. The author’s imagination is superb, offering adults and old young adults a very entertaining read.’ Female reader, aged 43
‘A good sprinkling of humor in this exciting fantasy adventure based around the power of song. Although it’s confusing in parts and starts with a clumsy first chapter, there’s much going for it. The author knows her characters and develops them well in the story. Also, the ending is satisfying and enjoyable. Possibly the cover needs reworking and simplifying. Liked it!’ Female reader, aged 39
To Sum It Up:
‘A cleverly plotted fantasy adventure sprinkled with interesting characters and topped with a little humor.’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
April 15, 2020
I got this book as a free gift from the author to help during the self-isolation this year. What a great find! Truly original “magical” system, and I loved the way that it flicked back and for the between time. Better yet, I actually LIKED all the characters! That seems to happen so rarely these days. I was worried at first that this would be yet another petulant selfish young adult coming of age plot—thankfully it was not at all. Lots of imaginative hybrid beings, that tugged at my heart. As a bonus, the prose was lovely. I really enjoyed this book—it was just what I needed.
It seems to be part of a series, but this stood alone as well (just the way 8 like them). I will happily pay for the next installment. Thank you wonderful author!
It seems to be part of a series, but this stood alone as well (just the way 8 like them). I will happily pay for the next installment. Thank you wonderful author!
April 28, 2020
I loved this book! The adventure aspect was exciting and fun, with the occasional worrisome parts, with new kinds of characters. I especially loved the gnomes (like dogs who can cook and hug!). Chesed is one of my all time favorite characters. You will love him. Sara's story drew me in immediately. I was right with her as she shifted from outrage over her problems to a deeper understanding, and her story gently helped me understand things in my own life. I loved this "self-help" aspect of the book though one could easily read the book without that lens. Especially in this time of difficulties, this is a hopeful, adventurous, GOOD book. It ends on a cliffhanger so there is sure to be another. I can't wait for the next!
August 30, 2020
Praise for Sorrowfish!
Anne Miles bends genres with her dystopian fantasy, Sorrowfish. This thoughtfully conceived quest bridges worlds and forces readers to look deeply into their psyche and the institutions of our time. A melting pot of characters comes to a boil as gnomes and magic and beasts break barriers in this page-turning epic that will keep you in suspense and have you cheering until the very end. This is one of the best adventures I’ve read in recent years. I closed the book with a new outlook on my own life, refreshed and renewed, changed just as much as the characters by the triumphant conclusion. Sorrowfish is a must read for those who enjoy great storytelling and still believe that life is more than just being Sorrowfish.
-Michael Holiday
Anne Miles bends genres with her dystopian fantasy, Sorrowfish. This thoughtfully conceived quest bridges worlds and forces readers to look deeply into their psyche and the institutions of our time. A melting pot of characters comes to a boil as gnomes and magic and beasts break barriers in this page-turning epic that will keep you in suspense and have you cheering until the very end. This is one of the best adventures I’ve read in recent years. I closed the book with a new outlook on my own life, refreshed and renewed, changed just as much as the characters by the triumphant conclusion. Sorrowfish is a must read for those who enjoy great storytelling and still believe that life is more than just being Sorrowfish.
-Michael Holiday
June 20, 2019
I received this book as an ARC and was delighted. I read part of it as part of my book club assignment on a book social media site and was drawn in. The author graciously sent me a copy to read as a beta reader. It was even better and thoroughly drew me in. The fantasy world is lush, but not so detailed as to bore me. The action is brisk and the characters lively. It's one of those books you keep reading and don't want to stop and then are disappointed when you finish it. I hear a game is being made off it, which makes perfect sense, the fantasy world is so well-crafted.
September 1, 2019
Great Story
Miles pens a great story in Sorrowfish. One thing I like about fantasy books is the creative names for characters and beings. This story was very well put together, and I enjoyed embarking on this journey with Sara. Miles shows the audience these creative worlds, and brings the reader in. It's a great paced story, and has wonderfully developed characters. It is not always easy to determine good versus evil, but it shows the unpredictability of the story. This is the first book of Miles's that I've read, and I look forward to reading more by this author.
Miles pens a great story in Sorrowfish. One thing I like about fantasy books is the creative names for characters and beings. This story was very well put together, and I enjoyed embarking on this journey with Sara. Miles shows the audience these creative worlds, and brings the reader in. It's a great paced story, and has wonderfully developed characters. It is not always easy to determine good versus evil, but it shows the unpredictability of the story. This is the first book of Miles's that I've read, and I look forward to reading more by this author.
October 2, 2020
Quite the lovely book to read. There is a layering to this story that makes it quite a pleasant, fulfilling read. Miles had worked so much detail and creativity into Sorrowfish, and it was a fine companion for several sleepless nights with my infant daughter, not that she appreciated it, the heathen. Well worth the read.
August 26, 2019
I received this as an ARC, and will be purchasing a "real" copy when it's released.
It's a sweet book that combines hypocrisy and heroism in a well-realized pre-industrial fantasy world with the final semester travails of an art student in 21st century Louisville. The organization of both magic and religion around music, the introduction of a brilliant original species, and the whimsical treatment of gargoyles combine to add a great deal of freshness and interest to the world of Canard, while the issues of guilt, grief, ambition and personal accountability complicating Sara's modern-day experience lend a bit of relatable angst. There are some lovely twists, as the interplay between the two worlds thickens.
I will definitely share this with my friends who read YA fantasy, and look forward to the next installment. Keep writing!
It's a sweet book that combines hypocrisy and heroism in a well-realized pre-industrial fantasy world with the final semester travails of an art student in 21st century Louisville. The organization of both magic and religion around music, the introduction of a brilliant original species, and the whimsical treatment of gargoyles combine to add a great deal of freshness and interest to the world of Canard, while the issues of guilt, grief, ambition and personal accountability complicating Sara's modern-day experience lend a bit of relatable angst. There are some lovely twists, as the interplay between the two worlds thickens.
I will definitely share this with my friends who read YA fantasy, and look forward to the next installment. Keep writing!
July 20, 2020
The characters were vivid, the settings enchanting. I even cracked a smile more than once, a rarity (IMO) in this genre. It reminded me most of all of Charles de Lint's Memory and Dream, which explores many of the same themes (even with an artist main character) but from a completely different perspective. Great fun, looking forward to the next!
March 31, 2021
Two Characters from different Realities, both with Fears cause by inadequacies trying to move forward. Each trying to accomplish what needs to be done but their self doubts getting in the way. This is just the start, as the story progresses each of them must face their fears and amount to more then they originally were.
Narrator does a Wonderful job with the characters and the storyline.
Narrator does a Wonderful job with the characters and the storyline.
March 24, 2021
There are two distinctly different storylines and I had trouble figuring out what was really going on. Then all of a sudden, about halfway through, it all started making sense to me. It was like the lightbulb went on, and I loved how it all came together.
Now that I understand Anne C. Miles’ style, I would not hesitate to pick up another of her books.
I didn’t have any issues with the narration by Kae Marie Denino. A solid performance.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
Now that I understand Anne C. Miles’ style, I would not hesitate to pick up another of her books.
I didn’t have any issues with the narration by Kae Marie Denino. A solid performance.
I was given this free review copy audiobook at my request and I have voluntarily left this review.
June 11, 2019
I received this as an ARC. It was an amazing story, with wonderfully vivid descriptions, world-building, and character development. I will be back soon with a more in-depth review!
September 19, 2020
Sorrowfish (The Call of the Lorica, #1) introduces the reader to a unique and complex world governed by music that collides with our own in a most ingenious way. Miles has created something magical and so well imagined—her writing is lyrical and her settings rich with detail. Looking forward to the next in the series!
February 21, 2021
Although it's quite different from what I normally read, I really liked this book. It's a portal fantasy with a mix of characters from our world and a fantasy world, and it has great characterization throughout. Even though it's a fantasy novel, I thought the scenes taking place in our world were especially well done, though there was some great imagery in the fantasy world as well. The description was often vivid but never overdone.
It is a Christian book with religious themes, and though I'm not the target audience for such fiction, for the most part I didn't find it intrusive. There were a couple parts in the book that made it clear that the religion in the fantasy realm is the same as Christianity in ours, though the particular aspects of it go by different names. There is some additional worldbuilding done with the fantasy world's religion that made it rich and interesting. The cultures there were well fleshed-out and the society felt real.
There's plenty of danger and adventure in this book, but it is thoughtful as well, with themes that wrap up nicely at the end of the book. In the first half, I found myself wondering when the two different worlds would intersect, but eventually they did come together in a satisfying climax. Overall, if Sorrowfish sounds like your cup of tea, you won't be disappointed.
It is a Christian book with religious themes, and though I'm not the target audience for such fiction, for the most part I didn't find it intrusive. There were a couple parts in the book that made it clear that the religion in the fantasy realm is the same as Christianity in ours, though the particular aspects of it go by different names. There is some additional worldbuilding done with the fantasy world's religion that made it rich and interesting. The cultures there were well fleshed-out and the society felt real.
There's plenty of danger and adventure in this book, but it is thoughtful as well, with themes that wrap up nicely at the end of the book. In the first half, I found myself wondering when the two different worlds would intersect, but eventually they did come together in a satisfying climax. Overall, if Sorrowfish sounds like your cup of tea, you won't be disappointed.
December 6, 2020
In general, I liked the idea of the story. Magic system was original (at least for me), the world was filled with magical creatures. I very much enjoyed the connection with nature accent in this book.
My biggest problem with this story was characters. There were too much of them and in the first half, or even two thirds of the book I felt very confused who is the MC, apart from Sara. Some side characters appeared and disappeared without explanation (?)
But, all in all, I believe this story has a great potential.
My biggest problem with this story was characters. There were too much of them and in the first half, or even two thirds of the book I felt very confused who is the MC, apart from Sara. Some side characters appeared and disappeared without explanation (?)
But, all in all, I believe this story has a great potential.
January 4, 2022
Excellent world-building, great characters!
The biggest drawback to this story is that it stops. The next installment is awaiting publication. That's the heartbreak of reading living authors, and fresh publications. I am following the author and have hopes that future books will be available through Kindle Unlimited - my budget will not support my addiction otherwise.
The biggest drawback to this story is that it stops. The next installment is awaiting publication. That's the heartbreak of reading living authors, and fresh publications. I am following the author and have hopes that future books will be available through Kindle Unlimited - my budget will not support my addiction otherwise.
June 4, 2020
The Song is everywhere. It is what keeps the world alive. But it was broken long ago, and now Dissonance manifests itself as evil. Whenever someone lies or tricks another, the Dissonance grows. Lately, Dissonance has been overpowering The Song in Canard, and crops have not been growing as well as they should. Dane, the dewin luthier practices The Song in secret and creates illegal enchanted instruments for bards to use. Trystan is one such bard, dedicated learning more about The Song and ridding the world of Dissonance. They, along with Dane’s gnome friends, must risk everything to try to fix the Tree and restore The Song to its former glory. Will the Storm King awaken in time to defeat the evil Wyrm again? Luckily, Sara, a normal girl from our time, may be able to help as she crosses over into Dane’s world while she sleeps. Can she hear the song and use it to help his world?
This book was absolutely amazing. Let me just say that right now. If you were already thinking about reading it, go ahead and pick this book up; you don’t even have to read the rest of my review! I will say that I was a little hesitant from the title of the novel, as “Sorrowfish” just sounds a bit …strange. And not in a good way. But, the book definitely ties it in and actually makes me want to use this new word in my own daily life! Miles created something beautiful–with this one word and her entire novel, both.
As I read through, I discovered that I needed to grab a pencil and keep it with me. I normally HATE annotating books I read for fun, because I love keeping them as pristine as possible. But, I had to make an exception with this novel. There were just so many amazing insights into my own life and thoughts that I needed to record. These are lines that I know I will be going back to again and again in my life, and they were scattered throughout the novel. Each time I came across one, it resonated within my being, within my mind. This wasn’t just a book I was reading for fun–this was a book I needed to read. I needed to see these pieces of advice and insights into the world. I know that I will now become a better person because of them 🙂
Even if this book is not as awe-inspiring for you as it was for me, it is still a great, fun read! It takes you on an adventure, not just through one magical fantasy world, but also through our own contemporary world. There are all kinds of different races, each unique in their own right and each with their own motivations and lore. There are gnomes, Cyntae, fae, dewin, and chymaera. There are humans and stone riders, The Storm King and the Wrym. All of which are intertwined and have vital roles to play in this universe. The characters themselves are all fully fleshed, dynamic, and sympathetic. I felt as if I were traveling along beside them, ready to hear The Song.
I was also very impressed with the dialogue. I tend to be very picky with my dialogue, and if it sounds just a bit off or awkward, it throws me out of the book. But in this case, the dialogue was natural and witty. Each character had their own specific way of talking, especially Sara, who speaks in old movie quotes–a quirk to her character that was just enough to give her more realism, but not enough to become an overpowering idiosyncrasy. The dialogue flows smoothly throughout, and I could see each character’s motivations and thoughts behind what they were saying.
The writing style itself is also beautiful. The cadence of the words and sentences are even and each character fits with the others nicely. If each piece of this novel–dialogue, character, plot, writing style, etc.–were puzzle pieces, this novel was a large and fully completed puzzle. Each piece fit snugly with the others.
I seriously cannot gush enough about this novel. It was inspiring and honestly, life-changing. It helped change my perspective on a few things, and I am all for opening my eyes to the intricacies of the world around me. I just didn’t expect it in a fantasy novel! This was a great beginning to The Call of the Lorica series, and you can bet that I am going to continue with the next books! I’m all lined up to grab the second book as a pre-release!
See this and my other book reviews at thebookdragondotblog.wordpress.com
This book was absolutely amazing. Let me just say that right now. If you were already thinking about reading it, go ahead and pick this book up; you don’t even have to read the rest of my review! I will say that I was a little hesitant from the title of the novel, as “Sorrowfish” just sounds a bit …strange. And not in a good way. But, the book definitely ties it in and actually makes me want to use this new word in my own daily life! Miles created something beautiful–with this one word and her entire novel, both.
As I read through, I discovered that I needed to grab a pencil and keep it with me. I normally HATE annotating books I read for fun, because I love keeping them as pristine as possible. But, I had to make an exception with this novel. There were just so many amazing insights into my own life and thoughts that I needed to record. These are lines that I know I will be going back to again and again in my life, and they were scattered throughout the novel. Each time I came across one, it resonated within my being, within my mind. This wasn’t just a book I was reading for fun–this was a book I needed to read. I needed to see these pieces of advice and insights into the world. I know that I will now become a better person because of them 🙂
Even if this book is not as awe-inspiring for you as it was for me, it is still a great, fun read! It takes you on an adventure, not just through one magical fantasy world, but also through our own contemporary world. There are all kinds of different races, each unique in their own right and each with their own motivations and lore. There are gnomes, Cyntae, fae, dewin, and chymaera. There are humans and stone riders, The Storm King and the Wrym. All of which are intertwined and have vital roles to play in this universe. The characters themselves are all fully fleshed, dynamic, and sympathetic. I felt as if I were traveling along beside them, ready to hear The Song.
I was also very impressed with the dialogue. I tend to be very picky with my dialogue, and if it sounds just a bit off or awkward, it throws me out of the book. But in this case, the dialogue was natural and witty. Each character had their own specific way of talking, especially Sara, who speaks in old movie quotes–a quirk to her character that was just enough to give her more realism, but not enough to become an overpowering idiosyncrasy. The dialogue flows smoothly throughout, and I could see each character’s motivations and thoughts behind what they were saying.
The writing style itself is also beautiful. The cadence of the words and sentences are even and each character fits with the others nicely. If each piece of this novel–dialogue, character, plot, writing style, etc.–were puzzle pieces, this novel was a large and fully completed puzzle. Each piece fit snugly with the others.
I seriously cannot gush enough about this novel. It was inspiring and honestly, life-changing. It helped change my perspective on a few things, and I am all for opening my eyes to the intricacies of the world around me. I just didn’t expect it in a fantasy novel! This was a great beginning to The Call of the Lorica series, and you can bet that I am going to continue with the next books! I’m all lined up to grab the second book as a pre-release!
See this and my other book reviews at thebookdragondotblog.wordpress.com
August 17, 2021
What is a portal fantasy if it’s not precisely a portal fantasy? What if two worlds—ours and one with magic—collide? When they do, and the fate of the world(s) rests on two people who are trying to be everything they can, that’s when things get interesting. Anne Miles’ Sorrowfish explores all these topics and more, and it was quite a read.
1. Thoughts on the plot
For once in my reading life, I actually read the blurb of the book I’m meant to be reviewing before reading the book. In this particular instance, the blurb tells very little about this story. We follow two characters in two worlds. Sara is an art student from Louisville, Kentucky, who is trying to find the inspiration to finish her final project. Instead, she is distracted by her twin sister, who is in a coma, and trying to come to terms with that. Then, we have Dane. He is a dewin, a person naturally attuned to the Song, illegally crafting musical instruments in order to save his world from people corrupting the Song. Only, in his craftings, he is pulling Sara to his world through her dreams.
At first, I had absolutely no idea what was going to happen in this book. The two worlds being written about, while equally interesting on their own, seemed to have nothing to do with one another, nor no intersection points where one is drawn to the other. Once I got into the story, however, the disparity made itself clear and that’s when things got really fascinating. The plot here was very interesting, as it managed to contain two complete stories while also intersecting together into almost a third story. Expertly woven.
2. Thoughts on the characters
The characters in this book were wildly different. It is rare that I get a chance to read about a character who fits perfectly into our world intermingling with one who fits perfectly into his own. Usually, in stories of this sort, the main character doesn’t fit and they end up finding their place in the other world. This was not the case here, and it was a great take on the concept of portal fantasy. I found the characters—all of them, in fact, including the secondary characters—to be very well crafted, with depth and enough mystery to be very, very realistic.
3. Favourite part
I think the gnomes were perhaps my favourite, as they were almost underestimated by everybody, but were actually doing precisely what they intended all along. Such fun to read, too!
4. Critique
My only real critique for this novel is that the blurb doesn’t do the story justice. It doesn’t explain much of anything about the two worlds, the dangers that lie with each, any of it. If it were not for my reading this for review, I would have passed over the book entirely based on the blurb. I am very, very glad I did not.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story was quirky and entertaining, the characters were wonderfully written and the prose was smooth and fun to read. An excellent book.
1. Thoughts on the plot
For once in my reading life, I actually read the blurb of the book I’m meant to be reviewing before reading the book. In this particular instance, the blurb tells very little about this story. We follow two characters in two worlds. Sara is an art student from Louisville, Kentucky, who is trying to find the inspiration to finish her final project. Instead, she is distracted by her twin sister, who is in a coma, and trying to come to terms with that. Then, we have Dane. He is a dewin, a person naturally attuned to the Song, illegally crafting musical instruments in order to save his world from people corrupting the Song. Only, in his craftings, he is pulling Sara to his world through her dreams.
At first, I had absolutely no idea what was going to happen in this book. The two worlds being written about, while equally interesting on their own, seemed to have nothing to do with one another, nor no intersection points where one is drawn to the other. Once I got into the story, however, the disparity made itself clear and that’s when things got really fascinating. The plot here was very interesting, as it managed to contain two complete stories while also intersecting together into almost a third story. Expertly woven.
2. Thoughts on the characters
The characters in this book were wildly different. It is rare that I get a chance to read about a character who fits perfectly into our world intermingling with one who fits perfectly into his own. Usually, in stories of this sort, the main character doesn’t fit and they end up finding their place in the other world. This was not the case here, and it was a great take on the concept of portal fantasy. I found the characters—all of them, in fact, including the secondary characters—to be very well crafted, with depth and enough mystery to be very, very realistic.
3. Favourite part
I think the gnomes were perhaps my favourite, as they were almost underestimated by everybody, but were actually doing precisely what they intended all along. Such fun to read, too!
4. Critique
My only real critique for this novel is that the blurb doesn’t do the story justice. It doesn’t explain much of anything about the two worlds, the dangers that lie with each, any of it. If it were not for my reading this for review, I would have passed over the book entirely based on the blurb. I am very, very glad I did not.
Overall, I thoroughly enjoyed this book. The story was quirky and entertaining, the characters were wonderfully written and the prose was smooth and fun to read. An excellent book.
October 25, 2021
Sorrowfish is a story about two very different worlds with very different problems which are linked by one girl. Is she an angel or is she just a troubled young woman?
There are a diverse range of characters, some of who I immediately felt something for, but not Sara, the woman in the real world. I didn’t connect with her. I think I was assuming she was the main character as she is the character in the first chapter and then she doesn’t appear for a while, so she is usurped by more interesting characters in the fantasy world. Trystan and Dane are easy to connect with. Their personalities, dreams, hopes and problems are easy to identify with even though they are not humans, and their world is well described.
I was unsure of why the prelude is there, except maybe to explain the world of Canard. I prefer to find out as the story progresses. Less telling and more showing through actions and natural conversations. Get passed the prelude and the story flows better, although the first paragraph is a little mundane rather than a reader grab.
The fantasy world is great, it consists of all the elements fantasy readers want. There are some lovely descriptions as the characters travel in their struggle to survive.
Religion, self-realisation, and being true to self were the themes which stood out for me. Religion wasn’t overwhelming, although there is a scene near the end – which I will not describe for fear of spoilers – when the links of the task in hand and religion felt a little overdone. I think Anne. C .Miles, was determined to get her message across. Sometimes less is more. However, self-realisation and being true to self was well managed and well written. They are important issues for so many people.
The plot has a great concept, and I enjoyed the link to creativity, music, and sculpture. The idea of a tree and song keeping a world functioning and being threatened is very imaginative, but I didn’t understand why Sara had to be in our world. The story would’ve worked just as well if she’d been a character in Canard. I do wonder where the author will be taking us in the next book and I’m sure all will become clearer as to why Sara needed to be a human and why the links between the two worlds are so important.
The confusion over who was the main character and why she needed to be human and my lack of connection to her is why I have given only 3 stars.
For those who like imaginative adventures that mix the real world with a fantasy world it’s an easy read.
There are a diverse range of characters, some of who I immediately felt something for, but not Sara, the woman in the real world. I didn’t connect with her. I think I was assuming she was the main character as she is the character in the first chapter and then she doesn’t appear for a while, so she is usurped by more interesting characters in the fantasy world. Trystan and Dane are easy to connect with. Their personalities, dreams, hopes and problems are easy to identify with even though they are not humans, and their world is well described.
I was unsure of why the prelude is there, except maybe to explain the world of Canard. I prefer to find out as the story progresses. Less telling and more showing through actions and natural conversations. Get passed the prelude and the story flows better, although the first paragraph is a little mundane rather than a reader grab.
The fantasy world is great, it consists of all the elements fantasy readers want. There are some lovely descriptions as the characters travel in their struggle to survive.
Religion, self-realisation, and being true to self were the themes which stood out for me. Religion wasn’t overwhelming, although there is a scene near the end – which I will not describe for fear of spoilers – when the links of the task in hand and religion felt a little overdone. I think Anne. C .Miles, was determined to get her message across. Sometimes less is more. However, self-realisation and being true to self was well managed and well written. They are important issues for so many people.
The plot has a great concept, and I enjoyed the link to creativity, music, and sculpture. The idea of a tree and song keeping a world functioning and being threatened is very imaginative, but I didn’t understand why Sara had to be in our world. The story would’ve worked just as well if she’d been a character in Canard. I do wonder where the author will be taking us in the next book and I’m sure all will become clearer as to why Sara needed to be a human and why the links between the two worlds are so important.
The confusion over who was the main character and why she needed to be human and my lack of connection to her is why I have given only 3 stars.
For those who like imaginative adventures that mix the real world with a fantasy world it’s an easy read.
September 5, 2021
One of the most creative fantasy worlds I've seen in a long time
This was an interesting read. The story follows several characters, with one of the main characters residing in the real world, and most living separately in a fantasy world. The fantasy realm in this book is extremely creative in my opinion, with creatures and magic being handled in unique ways that give this book its own special twist. I highly recommend giving this book a read just to see its unique take on fantasy.
I did find the book to be a bit hard to follow. The rules and definitions of many important elements are often introduced without a hint of definition, leaving the reader often wondering what in the world is happening or what this word that keeps being thrown around is supposed to be. I can report that all is indeed defined, or at least shown, in time, but the story asks the reader to stick with it until everything slowly begins to become clearer. In the end, it's quite rewarding, but there were times it didn't feel very inviting - as if you walked in on a technical conversation between experts of a field of which you've never heard.
As for the side of the story that takes place in the real world, it follows the life and drama of an art student, which I personally found far less interesting than the events of the fantasy world. That said, her story ultimately was used to good effect, but it was a bit melodramatic at times.
The heroes of the fantasy world have a lot of potential, and the villains are great. Overall there are some very likeable characters to meet in the fantasy realm, but it's hard to feel close to them until later due to the initial, almost unknowable state of their world and plight.
Without spoiling anything, I have to note that learning what "Sorrowfish" is turned out to be very rewarding. That's how I feel about this book as a whole; it's like a treasure you have to dig for. Along the way you find some things you might not like so much, but when you find the treasure itself, it's worth it.
This was an interesting read. The story follows several characters, with one of the main characters residing in the real world, and most living separately in a fantasy world. The fantasy realm in this book is extremely creative in my opinion, with creatures and magic being handled in unique ways that give this book its own special twist. I highly recommend giving this book a read just to see its unique take on fantasy.
I did find the book to be a bit hard to follow. The rules and definitions of many important elements are often introduced without a hint of definition, leaving the reader often wondering what in the world is happening or what this word that keeps being thrown around is supposed to be. I can report that all is indeed defined, or at least shown, in time, but the story asks the reader to stick with it until everything slowly begins to become clearer. In the end, it's quite rewarding, but there were times it didn't feel very inviting - as if you walked in on a technical conversation between experts of a field of which you've never heard.
As for the side of the story that takes place in the real world, it follows the life and drama of an art student, which I personally found far less interesting than the events of the fantasy world. That said, her story ultimately was used to good effect, but it was a bit melodramatic at times.
The heroes of the fantasy world have a lot of potential, and the villains are great. Overall there are some very likeable characters to meet in the fantasy realm, but it's hard to feel close to them until later due to the initial, almost unknowable state of their world and plight.
Without spoiling anything, I have to note that learning what "Sorrowfish" is turned out to be very rewarding. That's how I feel about this book as a whole; it's like a treasure you have to dig for. Along the way you find some things you might not like so much, but when you find the treasure itself, it's worth it.
December 31, 2021
Realities collide as art student Sara experiences a series of dreams that over time become more and more real. Though her present, “real” world is filled with guilt, frustration, and sorrow, her dreams link her an alternate reality where she meets a gifted craftsman, Dane. In time, the alternate reality proves to be as real as the Kentucky Sara left behind.
Years earlier, Dane’s world had been shattered when the Storm King was reportedly killed, and his ancient “Song” corrupted and outlawed. Now run by a perverse, iron-fisted “church,” Dane’s world is besieged by dark shadows and the corruption is growing stronger. Anyone suspected of being “Dewin” (a music mage) who can touch and use the broken “Song” is accused of Dissonance and arrested, imprisoned, and brainwashed or killed.
Dane and Trystan, a bard, believe the Storm King is not dead. With faith in the Storm King’s living presence, they touch the forbidden “Song” using its power for creation and healing. Hunted by the controlling power structure, they and their friends are forced to run.
When Dane grounds Sara in his world, her appearance triggers hope, but can Sara help them restore the lost faith and harmony?
Sorrowfish is a masterfully written story. The pacing is excellent as is the character development. The worldbuilding is unique, well established, and relatable. I am not a musician, but I suspect those who understand music will find this series even more appealing. The idea of creating through the power of song is compelling.
Sorrowfish is one of the best Christian fantasies I have read in a long time. I am anxiously awaiting the release of the next book in this series and strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy, Christian fantasy, or just a well-written, engaging story.
Years earlier, Dane’s world had been shattered when the Storm King was reportedly killed, and his ancient “Song” corrupted and outlawed. Now run by a perverse, iron-fisted “church,” Dane’s world is besieged by dark shadows and the corruption is growing stronger. Anyone suspected of being “Dewin” (a music mage) who can touch and use the broken “Song” is accused of Dissonance and arrested, imprisoned, and brainwashed or killed.
Dane and Trystan, a bard, believe the Storm King is not dead. With faith in the Storm King’s living presence, they touch the forbidden “Song” using its power for creation and healing. Hunted by the controlling power structure, they and their friends are forced to run.
When Dane grounds Sara in his world, her appearance triggers hope, but can Sara help them restore the lost faith and harmony?
Sorrowfish is a masterfully written story. The pacing is excellent as is the character development. The worldbuilding is unique, well established, and relatable. I am not a musician, but I suspect those who understand music will find this series even more appealing. The idea of creating through the power of song is compelling.
Sorrowfish is one of the best Christian fantasies I have read in a long time. I am anxiously awaiting the release of the next book in this series and strongly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys fantasy, Christian fantasy, or just a well-written, engaging story.
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