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Unravel
Sixteen-year-old Marguerite knows her uncle doesn’t like her. True, she’s in line for the throne before him and he contends she’s too deaf to rule, but she’s known since he broke her hand to keep her from using sign language. Now, as the kingdom’s Bishop-Princep, Uncle Reichard has declared war on magic and Marguerite must hide the fact that she’s a witch.
While witnessing her first witch trial, Marguerite rescues a child from death with the help of a handsome, itinerant acrobat, Tys. Marguerite flees, hiding in the neighboring empire where magical gifts can flourish. Before her training is complete, war threatens. She returns home, only to witness her uncle seizing the throne. He isolates and imprisons her. Marguerite’s love for her people drives her to continue defying him. But to challenge him means she’ll have to rely on her homemade invisibility cloak, questionable allies, and Tys, the one boy she never should have trusted.
While witnessing her first witch trial, Marguerite rescues a child from death with the help of a handsome, itinerant acrobat, Tys. Marguerite flees, hiding in the neighboring empire where magical gifts can flourish. Before her training is complete, war threatens. She returns home, only to witness her uncle seizing the throne. He isolates and imprisons her. Marguerite’s love for her people drives her to continue defying him. But to challenge him means she’ll have to rely on her homemade invisibility cloak, questionable allies, and Tys, the one boy she never should have trusted.
364 pages, Paperback
First published February 15, 2022
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
March 14, 2022
A must-read for any fan of fantasy, witchcraft, or strong characters. The book tells the story of Marguerite, a teen hunted by her uncle who would do anything to get the trone. There she must face the plotting and the twisted mind of the uncle who would do anything to implement his closed-minded government, putting women back in the background and of course eliminating witchcraft. Under the watchful eye of this character, Marguerite must hide a little secret, she has the ability to do magic. Yet that's not the reason why his uncle hates her, she was born deaf, and according to his uncle, that makes her even more unfit to rule. After years of abuse and the memory of her hand being destroyed with a hammer to stop her from using sign language she finally decided to break free. Then, on the edge of war, she goes on a quest to find her power and get her rightful birthright back. On the way, she finds multiple friends and help in places where she never thought possible.
The story catches you from the very start, the characterization is on point and the world and society of the pages is simply magical. A book that without a doubt I would read over and over again.
The story catches you from the very start, the characterization is on point and the world and society of the pages is simply magical. A book that without a doubt I would read over and over again.
April 3, 2022
I have received this ARC from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
Unravel was a very interesting book. In it, you will meet Marguerite and she's about 16 years old. She is also deaf but that doesn't stop her from doing anything. It also doesn't hurt that she has magical hearing aids either.
It was definitely interesting for her to have them because she acts like someone who doesn't have a hearing disability most of the time. Then she gets frustrated with how society treats deaf people. Which, yes, I can see why because it is frustrating and annoying to see people mistreated. It also hurt close to home because her own uncle hates people that are deaf.
With each twist, character, and turn that came my way the pages just kept flying by. I never found myself bored with what was happening because I just wanted to know what was going to happen next. Especially when it came to the crown and the evil uncle. Don't even get me started on the world building because I couldn't get enough of it.
If this ever becomes a movie or show, I will watch it without hesitation. I need to see Marguerite grow into the badass she was born to become. Definitely happy that I got the chance to jump into this.
Unravel was a very interesting book. In it, you will meet Marguerite and she's about 16 years old. She is also deaf but that doesn't stop her from doing anything. It also doesn't hurt that she has magical hearing aids either.
It was definitely interesting for her to have them because she acts like someone who doesn't have a hearing disability most of the time. Then she gets frustrated with how society treats deaf people. Which, yes, I can see why because it is frustrating and annoying to see people mistreated. It also hurt close to home because her own uncle hates people that are deaf.
With each twist, character, and turn that came my way the pages just kept flying by. I never found myself bored with what was happening because I just wanted to know what was going to happen next. Especially when it came to the crown and the evil uncle. Don't even get me started on the world building because I couldn't get enough of it.
If this ever becomes a movie or show, I will watch it without hesitation. I need to see Marguerite grow into the badass she was born to become. Definitely happy that I got the chance to jump into this.
June 21, 2022
ARC copy provided in exchange for an honest review. This in no way changes my rating or review.
3 ADVENTUROUS STARS
Three Minute Thoughts:
Unravel was interesting! I loved that it was a fantasy novel with deaf rep, however I found that I was never fully invested in the story, and I didn’t particularly connect with the characters. Nonetheless, I still enjoyed the book. The romance was adorable, and there were also a few humourous sections that I enjoyed, plus the nod to the classic ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ song was wonderful! Overall, I’m glad I read this, but I wouldn’t reread.
The Extended, Long, and Very-Probably-Messy Review:
Hmm. I’m not sure how to feel about Unravel. On one hand, I’m glad we finally have a fantasy book with deaf rep (OwnVoices too), but on the other hand I just couldn’t fully get into this story. I didn’t click with the writing style and I considered DNF-ing the book at one stage, and while I’m glad I continued, I’m still a little underwhelmed by this novel overall.
The characters were interesting but I just didn’t really connect with them, though I loved Tys’ humour, and the romance overall. There were also some wonderful side characters, but I still wasn’t fully invested in anyone, which disappointed me.
“Our lips carry on a dialogue of longing and loss, sweetness and sorrow, in a language only we two could understand.”
(This quote may not be in the published version of this novel, it was copied from the advanced reader’s copy.)
The world and magic system was interesting, but not especially unique, though I did love the different kinds of magic and the way that our MC wove her magic into sewing. The little passages at the start of each chapter that talked about different stitches etc. were also super cute, I really liked them!
And I have to mention the little ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ retelling, because I loved that little easter egg!! It was so clever and fun to read, and I definitely think the author has massive potential and talent.
Overall, this wasn’t my favourite book, but it wasn’t my least favourite either! I’m glad I read it, though I doubt I’ll ever reread. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC copy provided in exchange for an honest review :).
3 ADVENTUROUS STARS
Three Minute Thoughts:
Unravel was interesting! I loved that it was a fantasy novel with deaf rep, however I found that I was never fully invested in the story, and I didn’t particularly connect with the characters. Nonetheless, I still enjoyed the book. The romance was adorable, and there were also a few humourous sections that I enjoyed, plus the nod to the classic ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ song was wonderful! Overall, I’m glad I read this, but I wouldn’t reread.
The Extended, Long, and Very-Probably-Messy Review:
Hmm. I’m not sure how to feel about Unravel. On one hand, I’m glad we finally have a fantasy book with deaf rep (OwnVoices too), but on the other hand I just couldn’t fully get into this story. I didn’t click with the writing style and I considered DNF-ing the book at one stage, and while I’m glad I continued, I’m still a little underwhelmed by this novel overall.
The characters were interesting but I just didn’t really connect with them, though I loved Tys’ humour, and the romance overall. There were also some wonderful side characters, but I still wasn’t fully invested in anyone, which disappointed me.
“Our lips carry on a dialogue of longing and loss, sweetness and sorrow, in a language only we two could understand.”
(This quote may not be in the published version of this novel, it was copied from the advanced reader’s copy.)
The world and magic system was interesting, but not especially unique, though I did love the different kinds of magic and the way that our MC wove her magic into sewing. The little passages at the start of each chapter that talked about different stitches etc. were also super cute, I really liked them!
And I have to mention the little ‘Twelve Days of Christmas’ retelling, because I loved that little easter egg!! It was so clever and fun to read, and I definitely think the author has massive potential and talent.
Overall, this wasn’t my favourite book, but it wasn’t my least favourite either! I’m glad I read it, though I doubt I’ll ever reread. Thank you to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the ARC copy provided in exchange for an honest review :).
March 8, 2022
A rich, fast-paced and enjoyable YA fantasy which follows Sixteen year old Marguerite, granddaughter to the King of Valonia. When the King dies and her father is swiftly dealt with by her scheming uncle Reichard, the Kingdom’s former Bishop- Princep seizes the throne—despite being behind Marguerite in the line succession. Contending she’s too deaf to rule.
Having broken her hand for using sign language, Marguerite is used to his hatred but with his war on witchcraft taking any lives, she must hide her own magic of Skeincraft—the magical craft of seeing & embroidery.
Fleeing from her homeland having rescued a child from a death sentence and with the help of a handsome acrobat, Marguerite manages to hide in a neighbouring empire where magic is able to flourish and she finally begins her training.
But with war on the horizon, she returns home but is swiftly imprisoned. But her love for her people is vast and Marguerite continues to defy him but if order to save Valonia she has to rely on her homemade invisibility cloak, questionable allies and Tys, the one boy she never should have trusted.
The medieval inspired world building and magic system (which even explores why magic is found more often in women than in men) is absolutely lovely and the varying types of magic that’s portrayed(Herbcraft, Stonecraft, Skeincraft, etc) was really interesting. Though I must admit Skeincraft-magic used through sewing and embroidery) was probably my favourite of them all. It’s also the magic variant we get the most detail about as it’s our protagonist, Marguerite’s specialty.
Marguerite was a really compelling character that really goes through a lot of awful things in such a short amount of time but, she’s an incrediblly strong and determined protagonist who genuinely cares about her people. I loved how openly caring she is and doesn’t loose her selfless nature despite her uncles awful treatment of her. I also loved watching Marguerite develop her magical skills, plotting to take down her enemies (mostly her uncle) and save her kingdom from war—which is pretty badass.
I also really enjoyed seeing deaf/HOH rep which has been lacking in fiction (especially fantasy) for a while— I’d definitely love to see more books like this in future.
Overall, a fast paced and spellbindingly witchy YA fantasy debut with rival kingdoms, political intrigue, romance and an endearing MC I know everyone is going to love.
Also a massive thank you to Sowrd and Silk Books and Netgalley for the e-arc.
Having broken her hand for using sign language, Marguerite is used to his hatred but with his war on witchcraft taking any lives, she must hide her own magic of Skeincraft—the magical craft of seeing & embroidery.
Fleeing from her homeland having rescued a child from a death sentence and with the help of a handsome acrobat, Marguerite manages to hide in a neighbouring empire where magic is able to flourish and she finally begins her training.
But with war on the horizon, she returns home but is swiftly imprisoned. But her love for her people is vast and Marguerite continues to defy him but if order to save Valonia she has to rely on her homemade invisibility cloak, questionable allies and Tys, the one boy she never should have trusted.
The medieval inspired world building and magic system (which even explores why magic is found more often in women than in men) is absolutely lovely and the varying types of magic that’s portrayed(Herbcraft, Stonecraft, Skeincraft, etc) was really interesting. Though I must admit Skeincraft-magic used through sewing and embroidery) was probably my favourite of them all. It’s also the magic variant we get the most detail about as it’s our protagonist, Marguerite’s specialty.
Marguerite was a really compelling character that really goes through a lot of awful things in such a short amount of time but, she’s an incrediblly strong and determined protagonist who genuinely cares about her people. I loved how openly caring she is and doesn’t loose her selfless nature despite her uncles awful treatment of her. I also loved watching Marguerite develop her magical skills, plotting to take down her enemies (mostly her uncle) and save her kingdom from war—which is pretty badass.
I also really enjoyed seeing deaf/HOH rep which has been lacking in fiction (especially fantasy) for a while— I’d definitely love to see more books like this in future.
Overall, a fast paced and spellbindingly witchy YA fantasy debut with rival kingdoms, political intrigue, romance and an endearing MC I know everyone is going to love.
Also a massive thank you to Sowrd and Silk Books and Netgalley for the e-arc.
February 27, 2022
This is a fairly rudimentary hero's journey/save the cat story that religiously hits every beat. It's the standard plot of an evil uncle/advisor/etc vying for power and a handsome boy come to rescue a disadvantaged girl. It leans into that old dichotomy of man vs woman, these two groups having different roles in society and different forms of magic. At one point the protagonist, who is in line to be queen, is suprised that a woman in power isn't "mannish". Ok.
The setting is Europe. That's it. If it wasn't obvious from the French and Dutch being dropped in, the names of the countries sure give it away. Haps-Burdia was particularly funny. Do the Habsburgs exists in this world? In universe, what is the origin of that country's name? This is being marketed as YA, so maybe teenagers won't pick up how the map looks like a kind of warped map of Europe, or get the references. Like, Iferia? Really?
The main character is 16, but talks like she's in her 40s. It's weird, because while she talks like she's an older woman, she acts helpless. She's shuffled around between people who have control over her. She has little say, or inclination to say, over what goes on. Things happen to her, she doesn't make them happen. That is a critical problem with a protagonist.
This was written in first person, which I think was a mistake. It sounds like it was written by a writer, not a 16-year-old princess who likes embroidery. To mask that there is a severe lack of descriptions. It's like being on a train, the scenery rushing past in a blur. Even her embroidery and the clothes she made are described very tersely. Her in-story storytelling doesn't match the book's writing style at all.
The protagonist, whose name I cannot remember, is Deaf/HOH. It doesn't matter, it's not consequential at all. She has magic hearing aids, which I think was the most creative part of the book. She learns sign language, one that is conveniently used in every country, very quickly. She, and her boyfriend, are fluent in a matter of weeks. So many people know sign language, and she's verbal which is a big help. The only people who have a problem with her being Deaf are her uncle and some lady later on. No one else cares. There are no barriers to communication, she's never snuck up on or scared, it's all good. I like diversity for the sake of diversity, stories where the point of a marginalized character isn't to extract their pain for entertainment. But, this is just not realistic to me. The protagonist acts like being Deaf is a big deal in society, but it never is in this story. Like, if you stuck a hearing girl in her spot it would be exactly the same. Maybe that's the point, but I don't think so.
The magic...I don't know what to say about it. It's not an original idea, crafting-as-magic. Tamora Pierce wrote an entire series about it. It's not clear how the skeinmagic works. Like, do different stitches do different things? Does the embroiderer just wish super hard to make something magic and it happens? That's how it seems to work, no training required. How did this magic work before people learned to make thread, to weave, back when we wore animal skins and felt? So much more could have been done. What about weaving spells into her hair? Weaving a basket, or a chair? Knots/tatting? Get creative with it.
Stuff just kind of happens. Like, as the protagonist is being shipped to more competent people, there are these bizarre filler scenes. Ice skating, tightrope walking, a puppet show, some twelve days of Christmas thing. None of it matters. When serious stuff happens the protagonist seems to be more put out by it than deeply emotionally invested. Near the halfpoint she is put into a rather harrowing position for a long period of time, but gets out with no ill effects. No trauma, no lasting injury, perfectly fine. So, why does this happen if it doesn't matter?
The uncle is so obviously bad it's goofy. It's amazing he amassed any power at all, given how very open he is with his evildoing. Even more amazing how the population offers little to no resistance to him . His father (the king), and his brother, just kind of let him do whatever. The political decision making in this book is very, very questionable.
The more I think about, the more things bother me. There's this thing where stuff ends in -eaux for reasons of French. It's so tacky, I see it all the time in New Orleans. To geaux, gazebeaux, oh neaux, etc. I hate it. There are logic issues with the worldbuilding and plot. Just one example is
It reads like a first book. There are plenty of basic tropes, cheesy dialogue, and unsurprising twists. I get the impression the author doesn't read much fantasy, or YA. It's very unoriginal.
The setting is Europe. That's it. If it wasn't obvious from the French and Dutch being dropped in, the names of the countries sure give it away. Haps-Burdia was particularly funny. Do the Habsburgs exists in this world? In universe, what is the origin of that country's name? This is being marketed as YA, so maybe teenagers won't pick up how the map looks like a kind of warped map of Europe, or get the references. Like, Iferia? Really?
The main character is 16, but talks like she's in her 40s. It's weird, because while she talks like she's an older woman, she acts helpless. She's shuffled around between people who have control over her. She has little say, or inclination to say, over what goes on. Things happen to her, she doesn't make them happen. That is a critical problem with a protagonist.
This was written in first person, which I think was a mistake. It sounds like it was written by a writer, not a 16-year-old princess who likes embroidery. To mask that there is a severe lack of descriptions. It's like being on a train, the scenery rushing past in a blur. Even her embroidery and the clothes she made are described very tersely. Her in-story storytelling doesn't match the book's writing style at all.
The protagonist, whose name I cannot remember, is Deaf/HOH. It doesn't matter, it's not consequential at all. She has magic hearing aids, which I think was the most creative part of the book. She learns sign language, one that is conveniently used in every country, very quickly. She, and her boyfriend, are fluent in a matter of weeks. So many people know sign language, and she's verbal which is a big help. The only people who have a problem with her being Deaf are her uncle and some lady later on. No one else cares. There are no barriers to communication, she's never snuck up on or scared, it's all good. I like diversity for the sake of diversity, stories where the point of a marginalized character isn't to extract their pain for entertainment. But, this is just not realistic to me. The protagonist acts like being Deaf is a big deal in society, but it never is in this story. Like, if you stuck a hearing girl in her spot it would be exactly the same. Maybe that's the point, but I don't think so.
The magic...I don't know what to say about it. It's not an original idea, crafting-as-magic. Tamora Pierce wrote an entire series about it. It's not clear how the skeinmagic works. Like, do different stitches do different things? Does the embroiderer just wish super hard to make something magic and it happens? That's how it seems to work, no training required. How did this magic work before people learned to make thread, to weave, back when we wore animal skins and felt? So much more could have been done. What about weaving spells into her hair? Weaving a basket, or a chair? Knots/tatting? Get creative with it.
Stuff just kind of happens. Like, as the protagonist is being shipped to more competent people, there are these bizarre filler scenes. Ice skating, tightrope walking, a puppet show, some twelve days of Christmas thing. None of it matters. When serious stuff happens the protagonist seems to be more put out by it than deeply emotionally invested. Near the halfpoint she is put into a rather harrowing position for a long period of time, but gets out with no ill effects. No trauma, no lasting injury, perfectly fine. So, why does this happen if it doesn't matter?
The uncle is so obviously bad it's goofy. It's amazing he amassed any power at all, given how very open he is with his evildoing. Even more amazing how the population offers little to no resistance to him . His father (the king), and his brother, just kind of let him do whatever. The political decision making in this book is very, very questionable.
The more I think about, the more things bother me. There's this thing where stuff ends in -eaux for reasons of French. It's so tacky, I see it all the time in New Orleans. To geaux, gazebeaux, oh neaux, etc. I hate it. There are logic issues with the worldbuilding and plot. Just one example is
It reads like a first book. There are plenty of basic tropes, cheesy dialogue, and unsurprising twists. I get the impression the author doesn't read much fantasy, or YA. It's very unoriginal.
February 1, 2022
You know what I love in a story? A really good villain. One who is so awful and easy to hate, you just hope if you glare hard enough at the pages, he will burst into flames. And Unravel gives us exactly that in Uncle Reichard. The book starts with him coordinating a witch burning, and not only that, he wants to burn a toddler because his mother defied the Fates by saving him with magic.
Princess Marguerite is caught in the middle of this when she steals away with the toddler along with some other stranger, glowing with magic, and thus sets off Marguerite's story into learning her Skeincraft (embroidery magic) while navigating the world as a deaf woman in the midst of a budding war.
This is a fast-paced book with many twists and turns, taking Marguerite all over the Empire while she falls in and out of love and danger. This was an epic, political-based YA fantasy with a unique magic system and disability representation. It's a must read for 2022 and currently only $4.99 on Kindle....so what are you waiting for?
Princess Marguerite is caught in the middle of this when she steals away with the toddler along with some other stranger, glowing with magic, and thus sets off Marguerite's story into learning her Skeincraft (embroidery magic) while navigating the world as a deaf woman in the midst of a budding war.
This is a fast-paced book with many twists and turns, taking Marguerite all over the Empire while she falls in and out of love and danger. This was an epic, political-based YA fantasy with a unique magic system and disability representation. It's a must read for 2022 and currently only $4.99 on Kindle....so what are you waiting for?
January 13, 2022
Deaf. Princess. Witch.
Some identities you embrace.
Some will get you killed.
A fantastic tale of magic, adventure and first romance. Authentic presentation of deaf experience within a fantasy world. Flirting and danger go hand-in-hand between Marguerite and Tys as they find their path and purpose in this world that wants to tear them apart.
Some identities you embrace.
Some will get you killed.
A fantastic tale of magic, adventure and first romance. Authentic presentation of deaf experience within a fantasy world. Flirting and danger go hand-in-hand between Marguerite and Tys as they find their path and purpose in this world that wants to tear them apart.
February 22, 2022
This book was a wild trip. There's a lot of moving parts, enough to make your head spin, but they all come together to create a complex and enrapturing read.
Our main character is a 16 year old deaf princess who hides her magical powers because her zealot of an uncle is on a mission to purge the land of witchcraft. Things happen, and she must learn to embrace and expand her powers in order to save her kingdom from ruin.
At its core this is a pretty straightforward plot, but the author weaves in fascinating details, embellishes the story, and manages to create a wholly fascinating tale. I've never read about a magic system such as this one: there are witches who can weave spells into textiles, manipulate metals to hold enchantments, or knot spells into rope, and others blessed with Sight who can see the Otherlight, a glow of magic that emanates from magic wielders. The author even threw in a detail explaining why there aren't as many men blessed with magic: magic is lost or suppressed when an individual kills, considering the fact that men are tasked with duties such as hunting or battle, killing in some shape or form is inevitable resulting in losing their magical abilities. Isn't that so neat?!
I did feel like I was scrambling to get a foothold when numerous landmarks and religious terms were first introduced. But overall I think the story pacing was good, it didn't feel like the author spent too much or too little time on any specific parts of the plot. I absolutely adore the love interest, Tys, with my whole heart, and thought the romance and dialogue between the two was so so sweet. I wish there was an epilogue or the story continued for a few more chapters so we could see how the kingdom adjusts under its new ruler, or where the romantic relationship goes, or to tie up some loose ends because it did feel like a very abrupt ending.
3.5 rounded up to 4 out of 5 stars.
Special shout out to my kindle for its ability to translate words and phrases!
Thank you Netgalley and Sword and Silk Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Our main character is a 16 year old deaf princess who hides her magical powers because her zealot of an uncle is on a mission to purge the land of witchcraft. Things happen, and she must learn to embrace and expand her powers in order to save her kingdom from ruin.
At its core this is a pretty straightforward plot, but the author weaves in fascinating details, embellishes the story, and manages to create a wholly fascinating tale. I've never read about a magic system such as this one: there are witches who can weave spells into textiles, manipulate metals to hold enchantments, or knot spells into rope, and others blessed with Sight who can see the Otherlight, a glow of magic that emanates from magic wielders. The author even threw in a detail explaining why there aren't as many men blessed with magic: magic is lost or suppressed when an individual kills, considering the fact that men are tasked with duties such as hunting or battle, killing in some shape or form is inevitable resulting in losing their magical abilities. Isn't that so neat?!
I did feel like I was scrambling to get a foothold when numerous landmarks and religious terms were first introduced. But overall I think the story pacing was good, it didn't feel like the author spent too much or too little time on any specific parts of the plot. I absolutely adore the love interest, Tys, with my whole heart, and thought the romance and dialogue between the two was so so sweet. I wish there was an epilogue or the story continued for a few more chapters so we could see how the kingdom adjusts under its new ruler, or where the romantic relationship goes, or to tie up some loose ends because it did feel like a very abrupt ending.
3.5 rounded up to 4 out of 5 stars.
Special shout out to my kindle for its ability to translate words and phrases!
Thank you Netgalley and Sword and Silk Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
February 16, 2022
WOW. This book is enchanting! Witches burned at the stake. A little boy saved from death…TWICE. A deaf princess with magical powers. An enemy who is more ally than foe (Or is he?). A power-hungry man after the throne. All my favorite things stitched into one! The way this author weaves together a story that contains common tropes but makes it fresh and unique. To put is simply: bewitching. The details and thought put into this debut novel are nothing short of magical. When it came to the main character, Marguerite, I was worried it would fall flat. I was proven wrong in the best way possible! The author captured what it is like for the deaf and hard of hearing and how to communicate. It was written beautifully and respectfully done. I look forward to reading more work by Amelia Loken. Thank you to NetGalley and Sword and Silk Books for the digital copy.
March 2, 2022
This is a book that I would definitely recommend to people who love YA fantasy. There's some fun characters, world, magic, and romance. However, I don't think it would appeal to people outside that lovers-of-YA-fantasy group.
My full video review with detailed thoughts is at https://youtu.be/u59KqqJaLEw
This is a story about Marguerite, a princess with an evil uncle who is conspiring to steal the kingdom. Thrown into this mix is craft-based magic, sweet soulmates, and strong chosen-one vibes.
I liked how this book helped us understand its magic and politics. It didn't take it too slow, but it didn't shove it all in our face at once either. It helps that Marguerite was learning along with us the details of the magic.
However, where I didn't connect with this book was in the descriptions—particularly in emotional reactions. This book is so fast paced that it doesn't take time to really describe what is happening. It also doesn't take much time to let us feel the emotions of our main character. For this reason, I found it hard to get emotionally attached to her and her story.
Thanks to Sword and Silk Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book to review. All opinions are my own.
My full video review with detailed thoughts is at https://youtu.be/u59KqqJaLEw
This is a story about Marguerite, a princess with an evil uncle who is conspiring to steal the kingdom. Thrown into this mix is craft-based magic, sweet soulmates, and strong chosen-one vibes.
I liked how this book helped us understand its magic and politics. It didn't take it too slow, but it didn't shove it all in our face at once either. It helps that Marguerite was learning along with us the details of the magic.
However, where I didn't connect with this book was in the descriptions—particularly in emotional reactions. This book is so fast paced that it doesn't take time to really describe what is happening. It also doesn't take much time to let us feel the emotions of our main character. For this reason, I found it hard to get emotionally attached to her and her story.
Thanks to Sword and Silk Books and NetGalley for a copy of this book to review. All opinions are my own.
February 11, 2022
This is the first time I've ever read a novel from the pov of a Deaf protagonist, and also the first time I've read anything from a Kickstarted publisher. Sword & Silk publishing's mission is to publish feminist works, and while I had never heard of them before this, I like that Unravel takes the usual patriarchal trope of girls slogging through an endless tedium of handwork and turns it on its head. This book is largely fast-moving action-adventure with an action-plot-relevant romantic subplot. I'm not entirely satisfied with the depth of the world-building or character development, but the story itself was satisfying enough that I didn't want to put it down. Also, importantly, I should say that I nearly backed out on the first page when I saw that it was written in first person, present tense, but then I realized that there is a brilliant reason for it and had stopped noticing within the first five pages.
I want to see more Deaf-pov fiction. Not feel-good-inspirational-bullshit, but books like this, where hearing loss is a challenge to work with but not a flaw to erase or something wrongly interpreted as an all-consuming disability that prevents a protagonist from living a rich and vibrant life. I didn't know I wanted this until now, so kudos to Loken for making me crave more.
Also, Celin Chen's cover art is gorgeous.
ARC
I want to see more Deaf-pov fiction. Not feel-good-inspirational-bullshit, but books like this, where hearing loss is a challenge to work with but not a flaw to erase or something wrongly interpreted as an all-consuming disability that prevents a protagonist from living a rich and vibrant life. I didn't know I wanted this until now, so kudos to Loken for making me crave more.
Also, Celin Chen's cover art is gorgeous.
ARC
May 11, 2022
Unraveled by Amelia Loken is a clever take on the hero novel. I loved how the main character Marguerite embraced her disability. Even when times were hard she kept her head held high and persevered. I have never seen a deaf character in a book before and it was refreshing to see the representation. I like how she used both aids, hair pins, and sign language to communicate.
The enjoyed the magic system in the book. It was unique and I have never read anything like it before. Marguerite embraced her magic letting it be an aid to her and the people she cared most about. It was interesting seeing the different types of magic put to use and how both men and women could use magic.
Her Uncle is the perfect villain. He is easily one of the evilest characters I have ever read about. Some of the things he did to Marguerite and others are hard to read about. I enjoyed his fall from grace.
One of the few flaws I had with the book is that parts of it were a little slow to get through.
The enjoyed the magic system in the book. It was unique and I have never read anything like it before. Marguerite embraced her magic letting it be an aid to her and the people she cared most about. It was interesting seeing the different types of magic put to use and how both men and women could use magic.
Her Uncle is the perfect villain. He is easily one of the evilest characters I have ever read about. Some of the things he did to Marguerite and others are hard to read about. I enjoyed his fall from grace.
One of the few flaws I had with the book is that parts of it were a little slow to get through.
April 7, 2023
This beautifully-written novel full of adventure, magic, and romance grabbed hold of my heart and never let go! Marguerite is a compassionate and resourceful heroine who knows who she is even when the world tries to define that for her. I never knew how much I needed a story about textile magic until I read this book! The author wove her own experience as a deaf/hard-of-hearing individual and ASL interpreter into Marguerite’s story, and the results are a gorgeous tapestry of political intrigue, swordplay, romance, and feminist magic.
April 16, 2022
This was an EARC from Netgalley.
I really enjoyed Unravel. I’ve never seen or read a book with the main character deaf. I really enjoyed it. While the magic and world building are astounding, I think it’s well thought out without shifting the focus of the book away from the importance of deafness. The magic system was amazing and the plot was well developed. This is defiantly a book is buy for myself.
I also highly enjoyed the embroidery aspect of the book. My grandmother has taught my a little when I was young I’ve never seen sewing as a part of a magic system. It was incredibly cool and I really loved it!
I really enjoyed Unravel. I’ve never seen or read a book with the main character deaf. I really enjoyed it. While the magic and world building are astounding, I think it’s well thought out without shifting the focus of the book away from the importance of deafness. The magic system was amazing and the plot was well developed. This is defiantly a book is buy for myself.
I also highly enjoyed the embroidery aspect of the book. My grandmother has taught my a little when I was young I’ve never seen sewing as a part of a magic system. It was incredibly cool and I really loved it!
on-time-out
March 24, 2022DNF/PAUSED @ 9%
I had picked this up expecting a book about a Deaf princess in a fantasy novel, so while her magical hearing aids were neat, they also weren't at all what I was expecting. Between that and the over-the-top religious evil that is her uncle, this just wasn't what I felt like reading right now.
I had picked this up expecting a book about a Deaf princess in a fantasy novel, so while her magical hearing aids were neat, they also weren't at all what I was expecting. Between that and the over-the-top religious evil that is her uncle, this just wasn't what I felt like reading right now.
June 23, 2022
Great first book from this author! It sagged in the middle, but the last 100 pages had me staying up far too late to finish. Loved the descriptions of all the embroidery too!
May 2, 2022
*I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
This book was fantastic! It has such an interesting combination of elements (magic, sewing, embroidery, acrobatics, court intrigue, sign language, witches, mages, war) that don’t seem as if they’d all fit together, but they do. Quite well, actually.
I immediately cared about Marguerite (almost 16 at the beginning) and wanted everything to work out for her. She was intelligent, clever, compassionate, and cared deeply for her country. Despite her many obstacles, she was determined to do what was right and refused to be defeated. Tys (probably 17-19 at the beginning) was very easy to like. He was lighthearted in ways that Marguerite was not and found ways to draw out her laughter, but he was also fiercely committed to what he felt was right. They complemented and strengthened one another. I loved Tys's determination to win her over.
A lot happens in this book (it spans more than a year, if I remember correctly), but it didn't feel long. I'm surprised it took me almost two weeks to read it since I never wanted to put it down, but I suppose I do have other things going on in my life that require my attention. Although I am content with the ending, I feel like there could be room for another book because of some loose threads. If the author decides to write another one, I will absolutely read it. I would love to see more of the characters.
How it ends:
Note: A little swearing, some in French. Torture.
This book was fantastic! It has such an interesting combination of elements (magic, sewing, embroidery, acrobatics, court intrigue, sign language, witches, mages, war) that don’t seem as if they’d all fit together, but they do. Quite well, actually.
I immediately cared about Marguerite (almost 16 at the beginning) and wanted everything to work out for her. She was intelligent, clever, compassionate, and cared deeply for her country. Despite her many obstacles, she was determined to do what was right and refused to be defeated. Tys (probably 17-19 at the beginning) was very easy to like. He was lighthearted in ways that Marguerite was not and found ways to draw out her laughter, but he was also fiercely committed to what he felt was right. They complemented and strengthened one another. I loved Tys's determination to win her over.
A lot happens in this book (it spans more than a year, if I remember correctly), but it didn't feel long. I'm surprised it took me almost two weeks to read it since I never wanted to put it down, but I suppose I do have other things going on in my life that require my attention. Although I am content with the ending, I feel like there could be room for another book because of some loose threads. If the author decides to write another one, I will absolutely read it. I would love to see more of the characters.
How it ends:
Note: A little swearing, some in French. Torture.
March 10, 2022
ARC provided by NetGalley and the publishers! Thank you so much for allowing me to read this early in exchange for an honest review!
So... an honest review. An honest review of this book is that it feels like way too much happened while also NOTHING happened. It makes it so hard to pinpoint specifics about what's wrong, because everything just doesn't add up? Which is so sad.
The world-building and magic system is convoluted and uninspired, which sucks to say. The magic system at least had promise (I love magic systems that work in specifics, especially crafts), but ultimately there was nothing there. We never learned anything about magic, not how it was done. We just know she stitches and magic happens, and this is a well established kind of magic but it just isn't explored at all.
And the world-building... I hate to say it, but it feels downright lazy. It's just a mishmash of French and Dutch names. REAL WORLD FRENCH AND DUTCH PLACES. WITH A FEW LETTERS SWITCHED. French is directly used. It's hard to read. I don't mind standard European-inspired fantasy, I think everyone on earth is conditioned to accept it even if we want more diverse fantasy. But this is too blatant, it's physically painful.
The main and only draw of this story is the protagonist is Deaf/HOH. That's it, and as a hearing person I don't want to speak over Actual people being depicted here, but it just... doesn't connect. She's given a magical hearing aid, which is actually really interesting. But she experiences next to no hardships from her disability despite spending most of the book bemoaning that she's treated so poorly, when there's really only TWO characters (both absurdly cartoonish villains) who truly treat her poorly because of it.
Also, sign language is a thing here! But any excitement I had soon fizzled out. See our protagonist (verbal) and her hearing love interest become fluent in sign language in a couple weeks from scratch. And despite traveling all over, this is universally used. She faces no communication barriers. Because sign language is definitely universal and doesn't have languages and dialects of its own, right?
I'm giving this two stars because there WAS potential here, but it just missed the mark. A shame.
So... an honest review. An honest review of this book is that it feels like way too much happened while also NOTHING happened. It makes it so hard to pinpoint specifics about what's wrong, because everything just doesn't add up? Which is so sad.
The world-building and magic system is convoluted and uninspired, which sucks to say. The magic system at least had promise (I love magic systems that work in specifics, especially crafts), but ultimately there was nothing there. We never learned anything about magic, not how it was done. We just know she stitches and magic happens, and this is a well established kind of magic but it just isn't explored at all.
And the world-building... I hate to say it, but it feels downright lazy. It's just a mishmash of French and Dutch names. REAL WORLD FRENCH AND DUTCH PLACES. WITH A FEW LETTERS SWITCHED. French is directly used. It's hard to read. I don't mind standard European-inspired fantasy, I think everyone on earth is conditioned to accept it even if we want more diverse fantasy. But this is too blatant, it's physically painful.
The main and only draw of this story is the protagonist is Deaf/HOH. That's it, and as a hearing person I don't want to speak over Actual people being depicted here, but it just... doesn't connect. She's given a magical hearing aid, which is actually really interesting. But she experiences next to no hardships from her disability despite spending most of the book bemoaning that she's treated so poorly, when there's really only TWO characters (both absurdly cartoonish villains) who truly treat her poorly because of it.
Also, sign language is a thing here! But any excitement I had soon fizzled out. See our protagonist (verbal) and her hearing love interest become fluent in sign language in a couple weeks from scratch. And despite traveling all over, this is universally used. She faces no communication barriers. Because sign language is definitely universal and doesn't have languages and dialects of its own, right?
I'm giving this two stars because there WAS potential here, but it just missed the mark. A shame.
April 12, 2022
Unravel starts very strong, reeling you in emotionally with the terror of a witch trial, the fear and courage of Marguerite and the desire for her to both be safe and save the world. The action is none-stop, with a good plot running you along, keeping you interested, never quite taking the turn you expect. All this is very well done, and I was even more excited to see the deaf community represented... but somehow my interest dwindled in the middle.
There were many little things that kept bothering me. I didn't like that Marguerite basically never faced any difficulties due to her deafness, she always had a magical way to hear what was going on - which feels quite disrespectful to the deaf community, while it is nice to have representation, giving the hero the ability to hear all the time defies the choice.
Then, I'm bilingual in French, so the constant swearing in French bothered me a lot. It's not because it's in another language that you're not swearing, and the swearing is really not regal at all - Marguerite keeps alternating between "Sh*t" and "Buckets of Sh*t" or the two at the same time. That's the literal translation, and not just once or twice, but a very good dozen times (probably more). Also, her father calls her "mignon" every time he addresses her, which is the masculine form of the word, which once again kept making me roll my eyes. Those are the only words in French, but because they are used over and over and badly used it got very annoying. If you are going to use a foreign word a lot, do check the meaning and ask natives if there are better alternatives.
I am curious to see the next books of the author, but will not keep reading the series.
There were many little things that kept bothering me. I didn't like that Marguerite basically never faced any difficulties due to her deafness, she always had a magical way to hear what was going on - which feels quite disrespectful to the deaf community, while it is nice to have representation, giving the hero the ability to hear all the time defies the choice.
Then, I'm bilingual in French, so the constant swearing in French bothered me a lot. It's not because it's in another language that you're not swearing, and the swearing is really not regal at all - Marguerite keeps alternating between "Sh*t" and "Buckets of Sh*t" or the two at the same time. That's the literal translation, and not just once or twice, but a very good dozen times (probably more). Also, her father calls her "mignon" every time he addresses her, which is the masculine form of the word, which once again kept making me roll my eyes. Those are the only words in French, but because they are used over and over and badly used it got very annoying. If you are going to use a foreign word a lot, do check the meaning and ask natives if there are better alternatives.
I am curious to see the next books of the author, but will not keep reading the series.
September 25, 2023
Book Review: Unravel
Amelia Loken
YA Fantasy
2021
I met author Amelia Loken at a recent book writing conference presented by the Society of Children’s Books Authors and Illustrators. She was presenting a seminar on non-verbal language, and I found it very stimulating. In the talk she touched on the vast range of communication from body language, tells, psychology of touch, places of import, to semaphores and more direct signed language. I was brimming with ideas on how to incorporate some of these tools into my story telling, then she tossed out a term I’d never heard before when talking about her book Unravel: embroidery magic. I had to know more.
At lunch I asked the author to explain a bit about the magic system in Unravel and she said it was akin to the wands in Harry Potter magic, “But you can’t just whip it around. You have to work hard to harness it.” And boy does this gal harness her skeinwitch prowess. Skeinwitch – another great term in this work. This book is surprising in so many ways. A deaf witch is not enough; we must add princess with a kingdom in peril to the list! And you’ll be glad she has her skeinwitch powers with which to protect it, or at least try. This book is as ambitious as it is rife with romance and the development and systems of magic are helpful in keeping us grounded to limits. Yet, as we know, the often-changing timber of our youthful hearts can bely greater knowing.
Essentially the plot revolves around a teenage princess who is deaf (but she can hear with the semi-magical combs she wears in her hair that work as hearing aids) as she attempts to thwart her evil uncle as he tries to usurp the throne. She has numerous obstacles in her path, not least of which are her powers of magic (which must remain hidden-disguised unbeknownst to her). The skein hits the fan when her grandfather, the King, dies and the is a scramble for the crown. There is gallantry a plenty as the action kicks into gear and the protagonist is poised yet sincere in her attempts to protect her home mountains.
Though Valonia is a fictious land the feeling is horseback & knights with a very French flair. As if the War of Roses unfurled across France. There are many moving parts in both politics and novels, and Ms. Loken delivers with aplomb. There is a great sense of fleeing, hiding, secret bases, friends to enemies, and enemies to lovers. Lots to love about the ever evolving, yet straight forward guise of the love interest, a competing kingdom’s prince who happens to possess rope magic and is as lithe an acrobat as exists in Circe du Soliel.
Amelia Loken weaves an impressive story fraught with adventure, original ideas and memorable players. The magic is frugal and calculated, using for ill comes with serious consequences, i.e. if you kill someone with magic you lose your magical powers. If you like horse and rider, knights and witches, palace intrigue, sign language and deaf witch princess, there is plenty in Unravel to tie you up.
Amelia Loken
YA Fantasy
2021
I met author Amelia Loken at a recent book writing conference presented by the Society of Children’s Books Authors and Illustrators. She was presenting a seminar on non-verbal language, and I found it very stimulating. In the talk she touched on the vast range of communication from body language, tells, psychology of touch, places of import, to semaphores and more direct signed language. I was brimming with ideas on how to incorporate some of these tools into my story telling, then she tossed out a term I’d never heard before when talking about her book Unravel: embroidery magic. I had to know more.
At lunch I asked the author to explain a bit about the magic system in Unravel and she said it was akin to the wands in Harry Potter magic, “But you can’t just whip it around. You have to work hard to harness it.” And boy does this gal harness her skeinwitch prowess. Skeinwitch – another great term in this work. This book is surprising in so many ways. A deaf witch is not enough; we must add princess with a kingdom in peril to the list! And you’ll be glad she has her skeinwitch powers with which to protect it, or at least try. This book is as ambitious as it is rife with romance and the development and systems of magic are helpful in keeping us grounded to limits. Yet, as we know, the often-changing timber of our youthful hearts can bely greater knowing.
Essentially the plot revolves around a teenage princess who is deaf (but she can hear with the semi-magical combs she wears in her hair that work as hearing aids) as she attempts to thwart her evil uncle as he tries to usurp the throne. She has numerous obstacles in her path, not least of which are her powers of magic (which must remain hidden-disguised unbeknownst to her). The skein hits the fan when her grandfather, the King, dies and the is a scramble for the crown. There is gallantry a plenty as the action kicks into gear and the protagonist is poised yet sincere in her attempts to protect her home mountains.
Though Valonia is a fictious land the feeling is horseback & knights with a very French flair. As if the War of Roses unfurled across France. There are many moving parts in both politics and novels, and Ms. Loken delivers with aplomb. There is a great sense of fleeing, hiding, secret bases, friends to enemies, and enemies to lovers. Lots to love about the ever evolving, yet straight forward guise of the love interest, a competing kingdom’s prince who happens to possess rope magic and is as lithe an acrobat as exists in Circe du Soliel.
Amelia Loken weaves an impressive story fraught with adventure, original ideas and memorable players. The magic is frugal and calculated, using for ill comes with serious consequences, i.e. if you kill someone with magic you lose your magical powers. If you like horse and rider, knights and witches, palace intrigue, sign language and deaf witch princess, there is plenty in Unravel to tie you up.
March 14, 2022
I’ve been looking forward to reading this book ever since I heard the premise last year. I think the tagline says it all: Deaf. Witch. Princess. Some identities you embrace. Some will get you killed.
UNRAVEL tells the story of Marguerite, a deaf princess who wields magic through her embroidery. She’s heir to the throne, but her uncle will do anything to stop a deaf girl from ruling. And since her uncle despises magic, she must hide the fact that she’s a witch. When he betrays her family and takes the throne, she has to fully embrace her powers, draw on all her strength, and call on her instincts to decide just who she can trust.
This book is a breathtaking journey with a unique magic system and a creative fantasy world. I was immediately pulled into the story with the first scene of the witch trial and was fascinated by the different magic abilities. The worldbuilding is phenomenal! The author deftly describes the various regions and paints a vivid picture of the people who inhabit them. The characters are interesting and multi-layered, and the author kept me on my toes throughout, wondering who was on Marguerite’s side! Marguerite herself is strong and resilient, and I loved how she didn’t let her disability define her or become an insurmountable obstacle. Tys is a swoon-worthy love interest that you just can’t help but adore – and I loved the acrobat theme threaded through the story and how Tys draws similarities between his magical ability and Marguerite’s. Brilliant!
My favorite aspect of the book is the disability rep, something that’s badly needed in YA, and particularly YA fantasy. As a hard of hearing person myself since the age of 16 (coincidentally Marguerite’s age in the book) it made my heart swell to see myself represented. I would have loved to read something like this when I was that age.
This is a beautifully written and highly imaginative tale. I strongly recommend UNRAVEL!
UNRAVEL tells the story of Marguerite, a deaf princess who wields magic through her embroidery. She’s heir to the throne, but her uncle will do anything to stop a deaf girl from ruling. And since her uncle despises magic, she must hide the fact that she’s a witch. When he betrays her family and takes the throne, she has to fully embrace her powers, draw on all her strength, and call on her instincts to decide just who she can trust.
This book is a breathtaking journey with a unique magic system and a creative fantasy world. I was immediately pulled into the story with the first scene of the witch trial and was fascinated by the different magic abilities. The worldbuilding is phenomenal! The author deftly describes the various regions and paints a vivid picture of the people who inhabit them. The characters are interesting and multi-layered, and the author kept me on my toes throughout, wondering who was on Marguerite’s side! Marguerite herself is strong and resilient, and I loved how she didn’t let her disability define her or become an insurmountable obstacle. Tys is a swoon-worthy love interest that you just can’t help but adore – and I loved the acrobat theme threaded through the story and how Tys draws similarities between his magical ability and Marguerite’s. Brilliant!
My favorite aspect of the book is the disability rep, something that’s badly needed in YA, and particularly YA fantasy. As a hard of hearing person myself since the age of 16 (coincidentally Marguerite’s age in the book) it made my heart swell to see myself represented. I would have loved to read something like this when I was that age.
This is a beautifully written and highly imaginative tale. I strongly recommend UNRAVEL!
June 4, 2022
Fairytale stories in Hamlet trappings
Sagging middle. I hate that it had it, especially in an otherwise delightful book, but I don't know how it could have been written any other way. Because that information had to be given for the end to work.
Now, that being said, I absolutely adored the protagonist. One, super refreshing to have a deaf/hard-of-hearing protagonist in a book. I mean. Don't get me wrong. That's not why I love her. I love her because she's wonderful and both feminine and fierce. You want a protagonist that's like "No, thanks. I like my dresses," while also balancing out on every limb to make sure her people and the ones she loves are safe? Marguerite is your gal. She's basically a fairytale princess, because this is a fairytale. I mean, crap, the Princess and the Pea story is straight up featured here. Other fairytales are a lot more subtly hidden in these pages, but that's okay. This is good.
I shipped the pairing pretty much from the moment that they met. I know, I shouldn't be presumptuous, but he is a good guy and she needed one of those, especially a protector type to keep her safe while she does her whole saving the world thing. Or at least saving her home. I have absolutely no doubt in my mind they're going to live happily ever after.
The magic system had rules, but I definitely think this was more soft than hard. Which is fine. They're both equally valid.
Yeah. This is a fairytale.
Oh, and I loved the French. Learning it over Spanish in high school paid off again! Yay!
But this story also has a lot in common with Shakespeare's tragedies. Specifically, Hamlet. I mean, this would be classified as a comedy because a wedding is implied at the end and it's not a raging bloodbath at the end. But the storyline is similar enough that it brought me joy. Actually, the more I think about it, the more I decide that this is a retelling of Hamlet.
Sagging middle. I hate that it had it, especially in an otherwise delightful book, but I don't know how it could have been written any other way. Because that information had to be given for the end to work.
Now, that being said, I absolutely adored the protagonist. One, super refreshing to have a deaf/hard-of-hearing protagonist in a book. I mean. Don't get me wrong. That's not why I love her. I love her because she's wonderful and both feminine and fierce. You want a protagonist that's like "No, thanks. I like my dresses," while also balancing out on every limb to make sure her people and the ones she loves are safe? Marguerite is your gal. She's basically a fairytale princess, because this is a fairytale. I mean, crap, the Princess and the Pea story is straight up featured here. Other fairytales are a lot more subtly hidden in these pages, but that's okay. This is good.
I shipped the pairing pretty much from the moment that they met. I know, I shouldn't be presumptuous, but he is a good guy and she needed one of those, especially a protector type to keep her safe while she does her whole saving the world thing. Or at least saving her home. I have absolutely no doubt in my mind they're going to live happily ever after.
The magic system had rules, but I definitely think this was more soft than hard. Which is fine. They're both equally valid.
Yeah. This is a fairytale.
Oh, and I loved the French. Learning it over Spanish in high school paid off again! Yay!
But this story also has a lot in common with Shakespeare's tragedies. Specifically, Hamlet. I mean, this would be classified as a comedy because a wedding is implied at the end and it's not a raging bloodbath at the end. But the storyline is similar enough that it brought me joy. Actually, the more I think about it, the more I decide that this is a retelling of Hamlet.
January 10, 2022
A YA fantasy about a girl whose magic flows through her stitching and textile work? With thematic use of thread-work as a means of establishing language, providing a conduit for power and expression, and preserving history? Yes, please!
Unravel is a complex, immersive story that uses familiar fantasy tropes (a noble-hearted princess, a usurper on the throne, a roguish love interest) yet unfolds with unique details and layered symbolism that set it apart from a lot of war-torn fantasy stories readers might have already encountered. Our heroine is deaf, and her deafness ties directly into her journey to claim her identity and her power. Gender also plays a role in the establishment and retention of power, but Loken gives us both male and female authority figures, few of whom operate with exclusively selfless motives. Unravel also includes a close look at the links between language and power, and how that power shifts pending our access to or exclusion from various forms of communication. We also have themes on grief, trauma, and reconciliation, as well as the perversion of religion to promote personal gain.
The adventure is propulsive, and readers will find plenty to keep them turning pages between the budding romance and the heroine's journey to save her kingdom from her nefarious uncle. It's also a visceral and sometimes brutal read, with some disturbing torture scenes that might not be for all readers. All of it feels intrinsic to the plot and themes, with nothing tossed in for shock effect. The result is a moving story about a girl who undergoes extreme hardship to reach a place of power, love, and profound hope for the future that might unfold, or should we say, the future that might unravel?
Unravel is a complex, immersive story that uses familiar fantasy tropes (a noble-hearted princess, a usurper on the throne, a roguish love interest) yet unfolds with unique details and layered symbolism that set it apart from a lot of war-torn fantasy stories readers might have already encountered. Our heroine is deaf, and her deafness ties directly into her journey to claim her identity and her power. Gender also plays a role in the establishment and retention of power, but Loken gives us both male and female authority figures, few of whom operate with exclusively selfless motives. Unravel also includes a close look at the links between language and power, and how that power shifts pending our access to or exclusion from various forms of communication. We also have themes on grief, trauma, and reconciliation, as well as the perversion of religion to promote personal gain.
The adventure is propulsive, and readers will find plenty to keep them turning pages between the budding romance and the heroine's journey to save her kingdom from her nefarious uncle. It's also a visceral and sometimes brutal read, with some disturbing torture scenes that might not be for all readers. All of it feels intrinsic to the plot and themes, with nothing tossed in for shock effect. The result is a moving story about a girl who undergoes extreme hardship to reach a place of power, love, and profound hope for the future that might unfold, or should we say, the future that might unravel?
Want to Read
August 29, 2022Unravel is definitely an interesting read!
Many Thanks to NetGalley and Sword and Silk Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overview:
Marguerite is deaf and knows her uncle doesn’t like her. True she’s in line for the throne but he is adamant she is too deaf to rule.
Her uncle declares war on magic and this leads Marguerite to hide her self- now she needs to hide the fact she is a witch- and with witch trials being public this is becoming harder and harder to do.
Review:
Plot- it was fine. I enjoyed the story as some escapism but it is definitely not something that’s Genre defying or anything new in the fantasy space. I will say I didn’t really feel invested in any of the characters or the story as it went on (I did debate a rare DNF but marched on).
The one thing that makes this stand out, and the massive reason I tried so hard to carry on is the Deaf representation.
Now- I’m a massive believer of reading outside your comfort zone, reading outside what is your normal and your background to be more inclusive and understand the world and other people better- so seeing disability rep in a fantasy book I was heavily invested in reading this. I also really enjoy that this is an own voices book.
Pacing wise, the story started slow for me and honestly it was a struggle to stay engaged.
World building- this side was really the highlight- it was beautifully done.
Characters- Generally neither loved or hated any singular character (Except the uncle who can rot).
I will however say the romance side of this story was very cute.
Final Thoughts,
Not the best book I have read all year, not the worst. Good Disability fantasy rep though but honestly it’s not something I would probably re-read.
Many Thanks to NetGalley and Sword and Silk Books for an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Overview:
Marguerite is deaf and knows her uncle doesn’t like her. True she’s in line for the throne but he is adamant she is too deaf to rule.
Her uncle declares war on magic and this leads Marguerite to hide her self- now she needs to hide the fact she is a witch- and with witch trials being public this is becoming harder and harder to do.
Review:
Plot- it was fine. I enjoyed the story as some escapism but it is definitely not something that’s Genre defying or anything new in the fantasy space. I will say I didn’t really feel invested in any of the characters or the story as it went on (I did debate a rare DNF but marched on).
The one thing that makes this stand out, and the massive reason I tried so hard to carry on is the Deaf representation.
Now- I’m a massive believer of reading outside your comfort zone, reading outside what is your normal and your background to be more inclusive and understand the world and other people better- so seeing disability rep in a fantasy book I was heavily invested in reading this. I also really enjoy that this is an own voices book.
Pacing wise, the story started slow for me and honestly it was a struggle to stay engaged.
World building- this side was really the highlight- it was beautifully done.
Characters- Generally neither loved or hated any singular character (Except the uncle who can rot).
I will however say the romance side of this story was very cute.
Final Thoughts,
Not the best book I have read all year, not the worst. Good Disability fantasy rep though but honestly it’s not something I would probably re-read.
Read
March 9, 2022I really cannot express how beautiful--and heart pounding--Unravel by Amelia Loken is. I finished it a couple of days ago, but my mind keeps drifting back to it. Marguerite de Perdix, the main character is a princess, a princess with many obstacles to overcome, more than the typical princess. I love her because she makes some questionable decisions along the story and faces consequences, but she does not give up.
Marguerite is also a witch--no spoiler, readers find out in the first chapter--a powerful one at that. I love all things witch-y and magic-y, but the way her powers manifest themselves and are made stronger is through a way completely new to me: through her embroidery. In fact all of the witches' and mages' powers manifest themselves through cool physical ways: herbs, ropes, etc. I was entranced by this.
Of course, since it is important that Marguerite is a princes, readers should expect power struggles, cruel rulers, and warring territories; and given that the setting is a fantastical Northern European-esque medieval kingdom, readers can also expect unequal treatment of women, witch hunts, prejudice treatment of people from other territories, and the seeming "religious" folk take power. Unravel has all of this, and then some. Top it off with a hint of romance, intrigue, and plenty of swordplay, and you've got one awesome read.
I didn't want to leave Marguerite and Tys and the land of Valonia, and I am certainly glad I took the trip. Grab this book as soon as you can!
Thanks to Sword & Silk Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC. This is an unpaid, honest review.
Marguerite is also a witch--no spoiler, readers find out in the first chapter--a powerful one at that. I love all things witch-y and magic-y, but the way her powers manifest themselves and are made stronger is through a way completely new to me: through her embroidery. In fact all of the witches' and mages' powers manifest themselves through cool physical ways: herbs, ropes, etc. I was entranced by this.
Of course, since it is important that Marguerite is a princes, readers should expect power struggles, cruel rulers, and warring territories; and given that the setting is a fantastical Northern European-esque medieval kingdom, readers can also expect unequal treatment of women, witch hunts, prejudice treatment of people from other territories, and the seeming "religious" folk take power. Unravel has all of this, and then some. Top it off with a hint of romance, intrigue, and plenty of swordplay, and you've got one awesome read.
I didn't want to leave Marguerite and Tys and the land of Valonia, and I am certainly glad I took the trip. Grab this book as soon as you can!
Thanks to Sword & Silk Books and NetGalley for the e-ARC. This is an unpaid, honest review.
January 27, 2023
I should read regency/fantasy more often. Especially when the two are interwoven (see what I did there?!) to create a story like this one.
But who doesn't love a princess willing to fight against evil, face possible death, even leave the boy she loves to save her kingdom?! Who doesn't love a boy willing to give up everything he has to save and be with said princess?! Throw a little magic into the mix, just to make things more interesting, and you have a recipe for a pretty great novel!
Amelia Loken managed to weave (sorry, I can't help it!) together a magical story that kept me hooked from early on. I loved Marguerite and her desire to protect her kingdom despite many obstacles in her path. Journeying with her through everything she went through tugged at my heart and I just wanted her to get everything she deserved and wanted. Plus, it was sooo cool to see a main character who was deaf and using "hand language" (as it's referred to in the novel)! That alone makes this book a rare and beautiful gift.
Tys was my wonderful, handsome, swoon-worthy hero in this story and he played it so well! I loved the added intrigue he brought and his devotion to the one he loves was written so beautifully. His and Margurite's adventures are far from over and I would love a chance to journey with them again!
My only note of disappointment was that I wish there was more backstory on the traditions, language and history of Valonia. There were times when trying to figure out these pieces distracted me from what was happening in the story itself. Obviously, not enough to keep me from enjoying it, but some more detailed world building would have been really helpful.
But who doesn't love a princess willing to fight against evil, face possible death, even leave the boy she loves to save her kingdom?! Who doesn't love a boy willing to give up everything he has to save and be with said princess?! Throw a little magic into the mix, just to make things more interesting, and you have a recipe for a pretty great novel!
Amelia Loken managed to weave (sorry, I can't help it!) together a magical story that kept me hooked from early on. I loved Marguerite and her desire to protect her kingdom despite many obstacles in her path. Journeying with her through everything she went through tugged at my heart and I just wanted her to get everything she deserved and wanted. Plus, it was sooo cool to see a main character who was deaf and using "hand language" (as it's referred to in the novel)! That alone makes this book a rare and beautiful gift.
Tys was my wonderful, handsome, swoon-worthy hero in this story and he played it so well! I loved the added intrigue he brought and his devotion to the one he loves was written so beautifully. His and Margurite's adventures are far from over and I would love a chance to journey with them again!
My only note of disappointment was that I wish there was more backstory on the traditions, language and history of Valonia. There were times when trying to figure out these pieces distracted me from what was happening in the story itself. Obviously, not enough to keep me from enjoying it, but some more detailed world building would have been really helpful.
March 15, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and Sword and Silk Books for providing a copy of Unravel in exchange for an honest review.
Unravel by Amelia Loken is a new release YA Fantasy that I immediately fell in love with! It has so many magical elements like Fairytale Retelling, Own-Voices disability rep, Enemies to Lovers, and a Chosen One female protagonist.
Marguerite is a deaf princess living under the thumb of her Uncle, Bishop-Princep Reichard of Valonia. She's also a gifted witch who uses a unique type of magic called Skiencraft to incorporate spells into cloth. Too bad her Uncle hunts witches and burns them at the stake. Unravel is the breathless story of Marguerites journey to save her gifts, her country, and her life as secrets and betrayal nips at her heels.
As a person who has dealt with hearing loss most of my life, it was fantastic to see a strong, fierce main character with deafness who slays! I loved the devices created to increase her hearing and the hand language that so many of the characters use to communicate. Margo meets many magical people in the story who help guide and support her and the themes of loyalty, honor, and love make each connection meaningful. I especially enjoyed her relationship with Tys, a acrobat mage who always seems to be in the right place at the wrong time.
I give Unravel five stars for beautiful world building, loveable character and a unique twist on a familiar Yuletide poem. This magical Own-Voices is a wonderful new release perfect for fans of fairytales, fantasy, and found families.
#Unravel #NetGalley
Unravel by Amelia Loken is a new release YA Fantasy that I immediately fell in love with! It has so many magical elements like Fairytale Retelling, Own-Voices disability rep, Enemies to Lovers, and a Chosen One female protagonist.
Marguerite is a deaf princess living under the thumb of her Uncle, Bishop-Princep Reichard of Valonia. She's also a gifted witch who uses a unique type of magic called Skiencraft to incorporate spells into cloth. Too bad her Uncle hunts witches and burns them at the stake. Unravel is the breathless story of Marguerites journey to save her gifts, her country, and her life as secrets and betrayal nips at her heels.
As a person who has dealt with hearing loss most of my life, it was fantastic to see a strong, fierce main character with deafness who slays! I loved the devices created to increase her hearing and the hand language that so many of the characters use to communicate. Margo meets many magical people in the story who help guide and support her and the themes of loyalty, honor, and love make each connection meaningful. I especially enjoyed her relationship with Tys, a acrobat mage who always seems to be in the right place at the wrong time.
I give Unravel five stars for beautiful world building, loveable character and a unique twist on a familiar Yuletide poem. This magical Own-Voices is a wonderful new release perfect for fans of fairytales, fantasy, and found families.
#Unravel #NetGalley
May 4, 2022
Marguerite is a witch in hiding, and a possible heir to the throne, which her scheming uncle has stolen. With the help of allies and her own strong will and determination, Marguerite must return from exile and challenge his corrupt rule.
Unravel rests on classic tropes of the banished true heir to the throne; evil uncle; unassuming heroine, non-specific European setting; and while there's nothing wrong with this exactly, I do think extra care then needs to be taken to explore these in an original way, or they can risk coming across as clichéd. Unfortunately I found Marguerite quite a passive protagonist. It can be hard with young female protagonists in repressive/oppressive situations such as hers to shine, due to the confines of the plot, but I did think she gets buffeted around by others an awful lot, and never really came into her own as a main character. Marguerite experiences torture and imprisonment, but I felt there was little or no exploration of the trauma she would doubtless live with after such terrible experiences. For this reason these scenes then came across as written for shock value/gratuitous. There is a lot of potential in the world of Unravel, but for me personally it didn't reach those heights.
I am grateful to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of Unravel. These opinions are my own.
Unravel rests on classic tropes of the banished true heir to the throne; evil uncle; unassuming heroine, non-specific European setting; and while there's nothing wrong with this exactly, I do think extra care then needs to be taken to explore these in an original way, or they can risk coming across as clichéd. Unfortunately I found Marguerite quite a passive protagonist. It can be hard with young female protagonists in repressive/oppressive situations such as hers to shine, due to the confines of the plot, but I did think she gets buffeted around by others an awful lot, and never really came into her own as a main character. Marguerite experiences torture and imprisonment, but I felt there was little or no exploration of the trauma she would doubtless live with after such terrible experiences. For this reason these scenes then came across as written for shock value/gratuitous. There is a lot of potential in the world of Unravel, but for me personally it didn't reach those heights.
I am grateful to NetGalley and the publisher for providing an ARC of Unravel. These opinions are my own.
January 21, 2022
I've been eagerly waiting for Unravel's publication, and recently received an eARC.
Everything about this book is a delight – the Valonian Oak illustrations at the beginning of each chapter, as well as the descriptions of stitches and dyes; the fast paced action; the peaks and valleys of hope and relief and despair and fear; the varied venues depicted in the tale.
Loken creates a world from scratch, with vying countries, complicated politics, and, embroidered throughout all that: magic! Skeincraft (especially Skeincraft), herbcraft, stonecraft, forgecraft, even othercraft – all of this magic works together in Loken's world – until it doesn't.
Best of all are the characters. We can trust that the heroine, Marguerite, is just that – a heroine, loyal to her country, loyal to magic, loyal to justice. Her choices are not always wise, but her intent is always Good. And, we can trust that the villain, Reichard, is just that – self-serving Evil, never to be trusted. The rest of the cast leaves us less certain: Is the Governor to be trusted? Does Marguerite dare befriend Renata? And what about Tys – where do his loyalties lie?
This is a story of adventure and betrayal, of revenge, and of love. Enjoy!
Everything about this book is a delight – the Valonian Oak illustrations at the beginning of each chapter, as well as the descriptions of stitches and dyes; the fast paced action; the peaks and valleys of hope and relief and despair and fear; the varied venues depicted in the tale.
Loken creates a world from scratch, with vying countries, complicated politics, and, embroidered throughout all that: magic! Skeincraft (especially Skeincraft), herbcraft, stonecraft, forgecraft, even othercraft – all of this magic works together in Loken's world – until it doesn't.
Best of all are the characters. We can trust that the heroine, Marguerite, is just that – a heroine, loyal to her country, loyal to magic, loyal to justice. Her choices are not always wise, but her intent is always Good. And, we can trust that the villain, Reichard, is just that – self-serving Evil, never to be trusted. The rest of the cast leaves us less certain: Is the Governor to be trusted? Does Marguerite dare befriend Renata? And what about Tys – where do his loyalties lie?
This is a story of adventure and betrayal, of revenge, and of love. Enjoy!
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March 14, 2022Thank you to the publishers and NetGalley for a free ARC in exchange for a review.
I was really excited about the premise of this book. A Deaf MC in a fantasy world? And she's a princess? And she's a witch? Sign me up!
I thought Loken's portrayal of Marguerite was nice, and I particularly liked that we got her perspective of other people's words, so if she didn't hear something, neither did we!
However, I began to find the book very, very slow-paced. It began to feel very "so we traveled here. and then we traveled there. and then here. etc" and I just found my mind wandering constantly. I don't know if that's because I had recently read another fairytale-esque book that was super fast paced and engaging, so maybe I was still stuck in that reader mode, but I found it very hard to get into this one.
I really enjoyed the magic system though! Skeincraft is a very cool idea for magic, I just felt like the pacing of the book and the lingering descriptions of everything held back any interest I had in world-building or characters.
However, loads of people seem to have really enjoyed this one, so give it a go for yourself. It wasn't for me, but it might be for you!
Three stars.
I was really excited about the premise of this book. A Deaf MC in a fantasy world? And she's a princess? And she's a witch? Sign me up!
I thought Loken's portrayal of Marguerite was nice, and I particularly liked that we got her perspective of other people's words, so if she didn't hear something, neither did we!
However, I began to find the book very, very slow-paced. It began to feel very "so we traveled here. and then we traveled there. and then here. etc" and I just found my mind wandering constantly. I don't know if that's because I had recently read another fairytale-esque book that was super fast paced and engaging, so maybe I was still stuck in that reader mode, but I found it very hard to get into this one.
I really enjoyed the magic system though! Skeincraft is a very cool idea for magic, I just felt like the pacing of the book and the lingering descriptions of everything held back any interest I had in world-building or characters.
However, loads of people seem to have really enjoyed this one, so give it a go for yourself. It wasn't for me, but it might be for you!
Three stars.
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