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Walk Between Worlds
Sergeant Major Scratch Keyes of the King’s Guard is having a bad day.
On what should be the biggest night of her life, everything suddenly goes horribly wrong. First, her king denies her the promotion she rightfully earned, as well as the knighthood that goes along with it. And then, when Scratch is wallowing somewhere near the fetid rock bottom, she and her best friend, the flamboyant and carefree Sergeant James Ursus, are arrested for orchestrating the abduction of Princess Frances and sentenced to death. On the whole, things could be better.
Luckily, help comes in the form of the mysterious Shae siblings—Vel and Umbrella—who inform the doomed pair that the issue of the missing Princess is far more complicated than it appears. After a daring escape, the four embark on an ill-advised rescue mission through a forest filled with beasts, bandits, and mysterious fair folk, bringing nothing with them but a kitchen knife and the vague outline of a plan. Their destination is the Between, a sacred and shadowy fae-guarded place that promises to deliver Scratch and James to the princess—if they manage to survive.
But Scratch didn’t rise above her humble childhood in the Royal City slums by accepting things at face value. It’s clear that the enigmatic Shaes are hiding something, but what do they know? Who are they working with? And why, in the name of all the divine constellations in the scrambled sky, can't Scratch stop staring at Brella?
Samara Breger’s debut novel, Walk Between Worlds is a romantic queer fantasy adventure that will make you laugh even as it keeps you on the edge of your seat.
On what should be the biggest night of her life, everything suddenly goes horribly wrong. First, her king denies her the promotion she rightfully earned, as well as the knighthood that goes along with it. And then, when Scratch is wallowing somewhere near the fetid rock bottom, she and her best friend, the flamboyant and carefree Sergeant James Ursus, are arrested for orchestrating the abduction of Princess Frances and sentenced to death. On the whole, things could be better.
Luckily, help comes in the form of the mysterious Shae siblings—Vel and Umbrella—who inform the doomed pair that the issue of the missing Princess is far more complicated than it appears. After a daring escape, the four embark on an ill-advised rescue mission through a forest filled with beasts, bandits, and mysterious fair folk, bringing nothing with them but a kitchen knife and the vague outline of a plan. Their destination is the Between, a sacred and shadowy fae-guarded place that promises to deliver Scratch and James to the princess—if they manage to survive.
But Scratch didn’t rise above her humble childhood in the Royal City slums by accepting things at face value. It’s clear that the enigmatic Shaes are hiding something, but what do they know? Who are they working with? And why, in the name of all the divine constellations in the scrambled sky, can't Scratch stop staring at Brella?
Samara Breger’s debut novel, Walk Between Worlds is a romantic queer fantasy adventure that will make you laugh even as it keeps you on the edge of your seat.
244 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 31, 2021
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1257 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 74 reviews
December 2, 2021
I’ve been trying to decide where to start with this review and I’m still not sure, so I’ll start with what matters most: I liked this book a lot. It’s a debut and I’m very much looking forward to the author’s future stories.
I usually try not to say too much about what the book is about, just enough to whet potential readers’ appetite, but I’ll write a tad more in this review. Fear not, however, I’m not spoiling anything, everything I mention happens in the first pages (and figures in the official blurb too).
Raised in the Royal City slums by a mother she’s not keen on ever seeing again, Scratch Keyes wasn’t sure she’d ever amount to anything. Yet here she is, at twenty-five, a Sergent Major in the King’s Guard, about to be knighted as a reward for a brilliant strategy in the latest battle. The night takes an unexpected turn when the King doesn’t mention her, she gets high with the Princess, and ends the night in the dungeon with her best friend James, sentenced to death without trial for the abduction of the aforementioned princess. A mysterious woman breaks them out of jail and takes them to her siblings, Shovel and Umbrella Shae, who proceed to explain that the already absurd circumstances are indeed even more complex. Scratch and James have no choice but to follow Vel and Brella to the Between and further in a quest to save the Princess. Maybe. Probably? The Shaes obviously aren’t telling the whole truth, and Scratch doesn’t trust them farther than she could throw them (which is actually quite far for such a tiny being).
Like Scratch, I kept being surprised while I was reading. Whenever I thought I knew where the journey was taking me, there were twists. Breger created a fascinating world, both familiar and magical. Scratch and Brella are layered and lovable, as is James. I wish Vel had been a little more developed, but I guess choices have to be made and the main relationship is between Scratch and Brella, the guys are just along for the ride. Both Brella and Scratch learn major lessons on their journey, there’s real character growth. The ending is at once satisfying and open, which leads me to hope for a sequel someday.
All in all, Walk Between Worlds is a very promising (and funny, did I mention funny?) debut novel.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
I usually try not to say too much about what the book is about, just enough to whet potential readers’ appetite, but I’ll write a tad more in this review. Fear not, however, I’m not spoiling anything, everything I mention happens in the first pages (and figures in the official blurb too).
Raised in the Royal City slums by a mother she’s not keen on ever seeing again, Scratch Keyes wasn’t sure she’d ever amount to anything. Yet here she is, at twenty-five, a Sergent Major in the King’s Guard, about to be knighted as a reward for a brilliant strategy in the latest battle. The night takes an unexpected turn when the King doesn’t mention her, she gets high with the Princess, and ends the night in the dungeon with her best friend James, sentenced to death without trial for the abduction of the aforementioned princess. A mysterious woman breaks them out of jail and takes them to her siblings, Shovel and Umbrella Shae, who proceed to explain that the already absurd circumstances are indeed even more complex. Scratch and James have no choice but to follow Vel and Brella to the Between and further in a quest to save the Princess. Maybe. Probably? The Shaes obviously aren’t telling the whole truth, and Scratch doesn’t trust them farther than she could throw them (which is actually quite far for such a tiny being).
Like Scratch, I kept being surprised while I was reading. Whenever I thought I knew where the journey was taking me, there were twists. Breger created a fascinating world, both familiar and magical. Scratch and Brella are layered and lovable, as is James. I wish Vel had been a little more developed, but I guess choices have to be made and the main relationship is between Scratch and Brella, the guys are just along for the ride. Both Brella and Scratch learn major lessons on their journey, there’s real character growth. The ending is at once satisfying and open, which leads me to hope for a sequel someday.
All in all, Walk Between Worlds is a very promising (and funny, did I mention funny?) debut novel.
I received a copy from the publisher and I am voluntarily leaving a review.
January 29, 2022
“All you need for this is a knife, a good friend and a few sacred words.”
Sergeant Major Scratch Keyes has dedicated her life to the King’s Guard, but instead of the promotion she is expecting, she is arrested (along with her best friend James) for abducting the Princess (which she definitely didn’t do). Luckily, the mysterious Shae siblings, Brella and Vel, break them out of prison with a mission in mind - travel through a forest of beasts, bandits and fair folk to rescue the Princess.
Samara Breger sent this book to me months ago, and I (embarrassingly) have only just read it. I put it off for so long, because it’s one of those books I was sure I would love, and boy was I ever right. It is a delightfully queer fantasy adventure that made me laugh out loud and cry and reminded me why it is that I love storytelling.
Not to get too ~ hashtag personal ~ but I’ve had a pretty rough start to the new year! Reading a book with a sapphic main character, who has a scar on her face and whose pants were too tight brought me an immeasurable amount of comfort. In addition to Scratch as a brilliant main character, Brella, Vel and James were incredible and the banter was top notch. I also loved the characters they encounter on their way through the forest - very Alice in Wonderland.
The gay pining in this book??? Top tier. Everyone, and I mean EVERYONE, was experience some kind of queer panic. There was one argument between the central couple and it lasted all of 5 pages because they were so desperately gay and in love. THIS is the representation we need.
Damn near every page of this book is quotable. I have written “would get this tattooed” in the margin on no less than three occasions. While this is a book for adults, it still emphasizes the more important messages of fairytales that, despite a distance from childhood, many of us still sorely need to hear. We are worthy of love, both from ourselves and others. We are allowed to have adventures and be ourselves. We all have the capability to be good and see good.
A quote for all of you hopeless romantics 🥰:
“The woman was all breakfast — bright, welcome breakfast, like the yolk of an egg or the underside of a griddled cake. She was an apparition of morning time, and Scratch had always liked morning best.”
Playlist Between Worlds:
- The Sun Is In Your Eyes - Voice Memo // Jacob Collier
- lavender and heaven // iris
- A Burning Hill // Mitski
February 23, 2022
Sergeant Major Scratch Keyes lost everything that mattered to her in a matter of hours. She was denied her rightfully earned knighthood, arrested and thrown in the dungeon to be hanged in the morning for supposedly kidnapping the Princess. To make matters worse, her best friend James is sharing the dungeon and the gallows with her. With nothing left to lose Scratch and James go along with Brella, her brother Vel and their plan to rescue the Princess.
Breger’s deft touch at world building is seamlessly grounded with our reality. It just all feels so normal and yet magic abounds. The storyline had me constantly wondering what would happen next with all its gratifying twists and turns. The main characters are compelling with the close friendship between Scratch and the hysterically humorous James being at the heart of the novel.
This is the debut novel by Breger and I cannot wait to read her next one.
I received an advance review copy from Bywater Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Breger’s deft touch at world building is seamlessly grounded with our reality. It just all feels so normal and yet magic abounds. The storyline had me constantly wondering what would happen next with all its gratifying twists and turns. The main characters are compelling with the close friendship between Scratch and the hysterically humorous James being at the heart of the novel.
This is the debut novel by Breger and I cannot wait to read her next one.
I received an advance review copy from Bywater Books and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
September 11, 2021
I am very glad that I was given the chance to read Walk Between Worlds by debut novelist Samara Breger. This book turned out to be a fantastic read, and it’s even in a genre I don’t normally choose.
The story is compelling, intriguing, mysterious, and romantic with an underlying wittiness that sometimes had me laughing out loud. There is also a fair dose of angst scattered throughout the tale that kind of brings you back to the seriousness of the overall story.
The setting of this world initially seems to be similar to our medieval times with the addition of magic and fair folk that turns this medieval mystery and intrigue into a truly entertaining fantasy.
The characters, especially Scratch, James, Brella and Vel really make this story special. They are very unorthodox heroes with quirks that are both endearing and hilarious. Scratch especially is an important character because a huge part of this tale is about her finding her place in the world. I loved how LGBT folk seemed to be accepted as the norm in this world, and the romance between Scratch and Brella as well as James and Vel was lovely to see in the tale.
The book has an open ending with much of the story left for the future, so I’m assuming (and hoping) that there will be another novel coming later on. If there is, I will definitely want to read it.
I received an ARC from Bywater Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
The story is compelling, intriguing, mysterious, and romantic with an underlying wittiness that sometimes had me laughing out loud. There is also a fair dose of angst scattered throughout the tale that kind of brings you back to the seriousness of the overall story.
The setting of this world initially seems to be similar to our medieval times with the addition of magic and fair folk that turns this medieval mystery and intrigue into a truly entertaining fantasy.
The characters, especially Scratch, James, Brella and Vel really make this story special. They are very unorthodox heroes with quirks that are both endearing and hilarious. Scratch especially is an important character because a huge part of this tale is about her finding her place in the world. I loved how LGBT folk seemed to be accepted as the norm in this world, and the romance between Scratch and Brella as well as James and Vel was lovely to see in the tale.
The book has an open ending with much of the story left for the future, so I’m assuming (and hoping) that there will be another novel coming later on. If there is, I will definitely want to read it.
I received an ARC from Bywater Books for an honest review.
Rainbow Reflections: https://rainbowreflections.home.blog/
December 13, 2021
A good debut for Breger.
Her characters are unique in their own way, and yet they filled a puzzle once joined by others. I'm curious to see how the group works to take Frances' crown.
Her characters are unique in their own way, and yet they filled a puzzle once joined by others. I'm curious to see how the group works to take Frances' crown.
December 29, 2024
3.5 stars. This was a solidly good time! I read and loved the other book by this author (a long time dead) and was excited to see this one with a narrator I’ve enjoyed before. The MC was easy to root for, the world building with the fae stuff was intriguing, and the romance (while a little fast) was really sweet. Overall, solidified the author as one I will be sure to keep an eye out for new works in the future.
April 18, 2023
Rounding down
Much funnier than I expected. The writing style was charming and had some witty setups.
Romance wise, there was a lot of indication of simmering attraction but not a lot in-between attraction and love. It just turned a little to quickly for me. There was a twist they pulled later in the read that I felt like didn't have enough time to naturally work itself out. Overall if there was just a little more to the book, maybe another 50 pages, there would have been time to sort out some of the quick plot points.
Certainly a unique voice to this one which was charming, however it is a debut and did have a bit of bumps.
Much funnier than I expected. The writing style was charming and had some witty setups.
Romance wise, there was a lot of indication of simmering attraction but not a lot in-between attraction and love. It just turned a little to quickly for me. There was a twist they pulled later in the read that I felt like didn't have enough time to naturally work itself out. Overall if there was just a little more to the book, maybe another 50 pages, there would have been time to sort out some of the quick plot points.
Certainly a unique voice to this one which was charming, however it is a debut and did have a bit of bumps.
August 26, 2021
I couldn't put this book down, and now that it's over I find that I miss it. As an avid fan of lesbian fiction, I found Breger's book to be refreshingly original and well-written. From the very beginning, she plunges us into a vibrant world filled with characters whose stories are at once incredibly relatable and outlandish. Her dialogue is effortlessly witty and laugh-out-loud hilarious, often transitioning seamlessly from raunchy banter to serious plotting in the span of a conversation. The book centers queer love stories without beating you over the head with their development. While it starts off as what seems like a simple story of finding a missing princess, Walk Between Worlds quickly transforms into an intricate web of mysteriously interconnected backstories and anti-monarchist fervor set against the backdrop of a very tender and vulnerable love story. During a time when everything feels overwhelming and the world seems like one big dumpster fire, Walk Between Worlds was a welcome escape. My only gripe with the book is that after such a beautiful setup, the ending feels a little bit rushed. Still, though I have no idea what is going to happen next and I can’t wait to find out.
February 7, 2022
Scratch Keyes is destined for greatness. She can already taste the accolades following her recent triumph on the battlefields. And then she is denied. More so, she is unceremoniously tossed into the dungeons on a trumped-up charge. And that is only the beginning…
Scratch and her best friend James embark on a journey to clear their names. And in order to do that, they need to blindly trust Vel and Brella Shae, something that does not come easily to Scratch... James, on the other hand, will follow Scratch to the ends of the world (and beyond, if need be).
Walk Between Worlds is reminiscent of the fantasy authors I read growing up, but Ms Breger has a unique voice that can hold its own. Taken at face value, the book seems unremarkable in the vast genre that is fantasy. Ms Breger’s details, however, set the book apart and nothing ever feels like it was already done somewhere else. This in itself is quite a feat! Add to this humor, a dash of drama and a plot that is delightfully unpredictable and you have a story that stands tall amongst its peers.
I loved the fact that Ms Breger incorporated forms of magic other than spells or unexplainable magical abilities! The magical creatures (fae) added a distinct layer to the tale and their involvement deepened the mystery. Furthermore, queer relationships are seen as commonplace, which is something few other genres can accomplish as fully as fantasy can. The romance takes a backseat to adventure initially, but as Scratch and Brella grow closer, their relationship changes and we bear witness to just how magical attraction and love can be...
The book has an open ending and I cannot wait to read more about Scratch and her adventures.
*whispers* There will be more, right???
Scratch and her best friend James embark on a journey to clear their names. And in order to do that, they need to blindly trust Vel and Brella Shae, something that does not come easily to Scratch... James, on the other hand, will follow Scratch to the ends of the world (and beyond, if need be).
Walk Between Worlds is reminiscent of the fantasy authors I read growing up, but Ms Breger has a unique voice that can hold its own. Taken at face value, the book seems unremarkable in the vast genre that is fantasy. Ms Breger’s details, however, set the book apart and nothing ever feels like it was already done somewhere else. This in itself is quite a feat! Add to this humor, a dash of drama and a plot that is delightfully unpredictable and you have a story that stands tall amongst its peers.
I loved the fact that Ms Breger incorporated forms of magic other than spells or unexplainable magical abilities! The magical creatures (fae) added a distinct layer to the tale and their involvement deepened the mystery. Furthermore, queer relationships are seen as commonplace, which is something few other genres can accomplish as fully as fantasy can. The romance takes a backseat to adventure initially, but as Scratch and Brella grow closer, their relationship changes and we bear witness to just how magical attraction and love can be...
The book has an open ending and I cannot wait to read more about Scratch and her adventures.
*whispers* There will be more, right???
February 22, 2022
Walk Between Worlds was a charming, thoughtful, and hilarious debut that I so, so hope gets a sequel. I adored all of the characters, but I have to say, no matter how much I loved our main cast of Scratch, Brella, James & Vel the various fae folk were true scene stealers. And the love story of Aunt and Uncle?! Reader, I CRIED.
I did this as an audiobook and the narration was excellent.
TL;DR: Highly recommend to anyone looking for a lighthearted (but still full of heart) queer fantasy tale.
Many thanks to the author for sending me a code for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This did not impact my opinions at all. And now I’ve definitely gotta get my hands on a physical copy for my shelf!
Love sapphic books, too? Let's be friends! Booktok | Bookstagram | Twitter
I did this as an audiobook and the narration was excellent.
TL;DR: Highly recommend to anyone looking for a lighthearted (but still full of heart) queer fantasy tale.
Many thanks to the author for sending me a code for this audiobook in exchange for an honest review. This did not impact my opinions at all. And now I’ve definitely gotta get my hands on a physical copy for my shelf!
Love sapphic books, too? Let's be friends! Booktok | Bookstagram | Twitter
January 9, 2022
A copy of the book was provided to Sapphic Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
Walk in between worlds is a book that managed to make me emotionally attached to a kitchen knife.
The book follows the adventures of Sergeant Scratch, a promising King guard with big plans for her career, a short stature and a strong temperament.
This book has many comical sketches that made me giggle, I should have seen this coming since the writer is also a comedian.
Scratch is matched with her inseparable friend James who is a good lad and an amazing friend.
When the promising future in the army gets twisted when Scratch becomes a unlikely damsel in distress, imprisoned with James for a crime that they didn’t commit, it's time for the Shae siblings to come to the rescue.
Vel and his sister Brella save the day but bring more complications and magic on the table.
I deeply loved the discussion about the “seamstress”.
I won’t say too much because I can’t spoil the book but different gender roles are involved.
In the turbulent and political intrigues that follow Scratch and James there are the “Walk between worlds” and magical creatures “Fae” encounters.
I have to be honest I didn’t feel as much passion for the main romance happening as much as I did for a story told by two faes that Scratch meets.
It wasn’t badly written, just didn’t feel as smooth and natural.
Scratch character growth is intense and quite turbulent, she still fights with the skills she learnt from her training in the king's guard.
I think it is good for once that in a Fantasy book the hero doesn't just throw away a life they fought hard for to go run in the magical lands with the fairies but keep pursuing and use their talent for a rightful cause.
This reading was really funny and relaxing since the story is not overly complicated and I couldn’t put my book down because I could see that there was a lot in Scratch story to be told.
I love when fantasy books have that funny tone and ease in the story telling.
I always have a soft spot for small stubborn characters that are misjudged by their size.
I can’t wait for a sequel or another story by Samara Breger.
If you want a fun read with a lot of cute tropes, to learn why Scratch is called Scratch and why I got so emotionally attached to a kitchen knife please read this book!
Walk in between worlds is a book that managed to make me emotionally attached to a kitchen knife.
The book follows the adventures of Sergeant Scratch, a promising King guard with big plans for her career, a short stature and a strong temperament.
This book has many comical sketches that made me giggle, I should have seen this coming since the writer is also a comedian.
Scratch is matched with her inseparable friend James who is a good lad and an amazing friend.
When the promising future in the army gets twisted when Scratch becomes a unlikely damsel in distress, imprisoned with James for a crime that they didn’t commit, it's time for the Shae siblings to come to the rescue.
Vel and his sister Brella save the day but bring more complications and magic on the table.
I deeply loved the discussion about the “seamstress”.
I won’t say too much because I can’t spoil the book but different gender roles are involved.
In the turbulent and political intrigues that follow Scratch and James there are the “Walk between worlds” and magical creatures “Fae” encounters.
I have to be honest I didn’t feel as much passion for the main romance happening as much as I did for a story told by two faes that Scratch meets.
It wasn’t badly written, just didn’t feel as smooth and natural.
Scratch character growth is intense and quite turbulent, she still fights with the skills she learnt from her training in the king's guard.
I think it is good for once that in a Fantasy book the hero doesn't just throw away a life they fought hard for to go run in the magical lands with the fairies but keep pursuing and use their talent for a rightful cause.
This reading was really funny and relaxing since the story is not overly complicated and I couldn’t put my book down because I could see that there was a lot in Scratch story to be told.
I love when fantasy books have that funny tone and ease in the story telling.
I always have a soft spot for small stubborn characters that are misjudged by their size.
I can’t wait for a sequel or another story by Samara Breger.
If you want a fun read with a lot of cute tropes, to learn why Scratch is called Scratch and why I got so emotionally attached to a kitchen knife please read this book!
October 23, 2021
Thank you so much to Samara for sending me a copy of this book! I was laughing hysterically from the first page onward.
If you're looking for a quick read that is hysterical, heartfelt, and all-around fun, this is a great read for you! You'll fall in love with the quirky and determined characters, following them into an intense plot full of adventure and romance.
Do yourself a favor and add this LGBTQ+ knight story to your TBR!
If you're looking for a quick read that is hysterical, heartfelt, and all-around fun, this is a great read for you! You'll fall in love with the quirky and determined characters, following them into an intense plot full of adventure and romance.
Do yourself a favor and add this LGBTQ+ knight story to your TBR!
August 26, 2021
Like lots of people during the pandemic, I've been leaning on lighter, more hopeful media to help insulate me from the ever-rising tide of global anxiety. I've had... pretty mixed luck. It's hard to find something that appeases my escapist desire to check out of this hateful place for a couple of hours without also sacrificing depth, nuance, and/or good writing, but THIS IS IT! Walk Between Worlds has virtually everything I'm looking for in entertainment: lovable, complex characters, a compelling queer romance that's feel-good without being trite, and enough intrigue to keep me turning the pages without giving me an aneurism. It's also beautifully written - the author's style is rich and lyrical but not overwrought, balancing dense, evocative descriptions, witty dialogue, and deadpan humor effortlessly. I'm not great at suspending my disbelief, so fantasy can be pretty iffy for me, but the world the author crafts is so warm-blooded and three-dimensional that I was thoroughly absorbed from the start. Funny, heartfelt, full of adventure - highly recommend!!
October 25, 2021
Truly a delightful book. Fun and charismatic characters take us on a journey between worlds and through themselves. The sweetness and tenderness in these pages make for a wonderful book-reading experience.
October 29, 2021
Whoa. This is Samara Breger's debut novel - and it is a very promising start.
High Fantasy.
King Ingomar of Ivinscount is conquering and annexing neighboring lands, and Sergeant Major Scratch Keyes is perhaps, the most brilliant strategist of the King's Guard. Her "octagon" strategem had defeated the defenders of the Western Wilds in a single battle. Surely the king had noticed and it was time for her promotion to Lady Commander? But, no. As a rustic from Tangled Lake - not to mention being a woman - she'd hit the ceiling. When, disappointment reigning, she'd been followed by Princess Frances as she retreated to her hidden thinking spot on the castle grounds - and, later that night, she and her best friend James are thrown into a dungeon, accused of kidnaping or killing the Princess, who'd not been seen since - was this the end?
Not quite. She and James are busted out by Brella and Vel and escorted on a trip through fae woods to the Beyond and thence to the Kingdom of Koravia on a quest to rescue the Princess. Plenty of adventure is in store!
This was very imaginative - and very fae-heavy, a genre of fantasy I'm not very familiar with. Well written, all four of the main characters (Scratch and Brella, James and Vel) are well drawn, all of the side characters are entertaining and distinct. Dreams, interactions with the fae and pursuing bounty hunters, and events upon arrival in Koravia kept me on the edge of my seat, reading with fascination and enjoyment.
The story is unresolved at the end; I can see how I expect immediate issues will resolve, but the big issues - what the future holds for Ivinscourt vis a vis Koravia, and the roles the main characters hold in that - are a story yet to come.
Which is to say, I expect there will be a sequel. And that makes me happy.
High Fantasy.
King Ingomar of Ivinscount is conquering and annexing neighboring lands, and Sergeant Major Scratch Keyes is perhaps, the most brilliant strategist of the King's Guard. Her "octagon" strategem had defeated the defenders of the Western Wilds in a single battle. Surely the king had noticed and it was time for her promotion to Lady Commander? But, no. As a rustic from Tangled Lake - not to mention being a woman - she'd hit the ceiling. When, disappointment reigning, she'd been followed by Princess Frances as she retreated to her hidden thinking spot on the castle grounds - and, later that night, she and her best friend James are thrown into a dungeon, accused of kidnaping or killing the Princess, who'd not been seen since - was this the end?
Not quite. She and James are busted out by Brella and Vel and escorted on a trip through fae woods to the Beyond and thence to the Kingdom of Koravia on a quest to rescue the Princess. Plenty of adventure is in store!
This was very imaginative - and very fae-heavy, a genre of fantasy I'm not very familiar with. Well written, all four of the main characters (Scratch and Brella, James and Vel) are well drawn, all of the side characters are entertaining and distinct. Dreams, interactions with the fae and pursuing bounty hunters, and events upon arrival in Koravia kept me on the edge of my seat, reading with fascination and enjoyment.
The story is unresolved at the end; I can see how I expect immediate issues will resolve, but the big issues - what the future holds for Ivinscourt vis a vis Koravia, and the roles the main characters hold in that - are a story yet to come.
Which is to say, I expect there will be a sequel. And that makes me happy.
January 24, 2022
3.5/5
I thought some of the plot was done clumsily, but overall really enjoyed it! The author has a great writing style; that was probably my favorite part. The romance felt a bit rushed, especially since the book only takes place over the course of a week, but besides that I enjoyed it and really cared about the characters and their relationship with each other.
I thought some of the plot was done clumsily, but overall really enjoyed it! The author has a great writing style; that was probably my favorite part. The romance felt a bit rushed, especially since the book only takes place over the course of a week, but besides that I enjoyed it and really cared about the characters and their relationship with each other.
January 2, 2022
Wow! This was such a delight to read. A grand, whimsical adventure for all of your pandemmy escapism needs. I got sucked in by Scratch and the characters around her immediately and became intensely interested in how their story would unfold.
I’ve been reading more fantasy in the past two years than I ever have before and this novel fits right in with a few refreshing departures from the genre. If you are looking for sex, drugs, politics, and horrifying magical creatures that strike hard bargains with the humans they encounter, look no further. I hope that there’s either a sequel or that this gets optioned for a televised series. I need more Scratch in my life.
I’ve been reading more fantasy in the past two years than I ever have before and this novel fits right in with a few refreshing departures from the genre. If you are looking for sex, drugs, politics, and horrifying magical creatures that strike hard bargains with the humans they encounter, look no further. I hope that there’s either a sequel or that this gets optioned for a televised series. I need more Scratch in my life.
October 1, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
This story is kind of adorable. No, scratch that. It is adorable. Scratch grew up poor and hungry, and when the army came calling, she answered. Finally able to take out all of her anger and rage on a target, finally able to fight back against the unfairness of life in a way she hadn’t been able to before, she blossomed. Even so, Scratch was always aware of her appearance. Too small, with her Lakeland’s pale hair and blue eyes; too obviously a woman, compared to the men around her, she had to be twice as fast, twice as mean, and absolutely beyond reproach, giving no one any reason to think her weak or undeserving of her rank and position.
Scratch does her best to be a good soldier. To do what she’s told. To be good at what she does. But it’s when she’s talking to Brella by the campfire, discussing the people she’s killed — often people who would have killed her, or her friends, her fellow guards or even the king — that she shows just how fragile she is. She doesn’t feel ashamed of the killing, but she does regret that it had to be done.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
This story is kind of adorable. No, scratch that. It is adorable. Scratch grew up poor and hungry, and when the army came calling, she answered. Finally able to take out all of her anger and rage on a target, finally able to fight back against the unfairness of life in a way she hadn’t been able to before, she blossomed. Even so, Scratch was always aware of her appearance. Too small, with her Lakeland’s pale hair and blue eyes; too obviously a woman, compared to the men around her, she had to be twice as fast, twice as mean, and absolutely beyond reproach, giving no one any reason to think her weak or undeserving of her rank and position.
Scratch does her best to be a good soldier. To do what she’s told. To be good at what she does. But it’s when she’s talking to Brella by the campfire, discussing the people she’s killed — often people who would have killed her, or her friends, her fellow guards or even the king — that she shows just how fragile she is. She doesn’t feel ashamed of the killing, but she does regret that it had to be done.
Read Elizabeth’s review in its entirety here.
December 3, 2021
I thought this was a delightful sapphic fantasy about the strength of women and the power of love.
I felt there were wonderfully strong elements of heroism, intrigue, betrayal and redemption. I thought that Scratch was a fantastic heroine, with immense strength in the face of the way she was raised and the circumstances in which she is surrounded by. Even though she is small and fair, she is a member of the King’s Guard and she rightfully belongs there because she is worthy, both in ability and intelligence. But on the night she is supposed to get a promotion, she is for one, rejected of the promotion, AND accused of kidnapping the Princess. To say things have gone horribly wrong is an understatement…
She and her best friend James are locked in a cell to await their execution, when their salvation comes in the form of a brother and sister who spirit them away on a harrowing adventure, where Scratch learns that there is more to the Princesses disappearance than anyone knows.
The Shae siblings, Shovel and Umbrella (Brella) are holding darker mysteries close and it may mean the destruction for Scratch. But it doesn’t stop her from becoming enamored by Brella, who’s beauty captures Scratch entirely. The journey the four of them take and the paths they are set on are full of danger. And the obstacles that seek to hinder their path may be closer than Scratch imagined.
For a debut novel, this is impeccable. I found it to be sweet and bold. The world building was phenomenal and the character building was really something. There are great levels to these characters, but Scratch was a cut above the rest for me. I loved how strong she was in the face of everything she endured. Instead of letting her past hold her back, she learned from it and grew into a stronger woman for it. I loved this and I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next!
I felt there were wonderfully strong elements of heroism, intrigue, betrayal and redemption. I thought that Scratch was a fantastic heroine, with immense strength in the face of the way she was raised and the circumstances in which she is surrounded by. Even though she is small and fair, she is a member of the King’s Guard and she rightfully belongs there because she is worthy, both in ability and intelligence. But on the night she is supposed to get a promotion, she is for one, rejected of the promotion, AND accused of kidnapping the Princess. To say things have gone horribly wrong is an understatement…
She and her best friend James are locked in a cell to await their execution, when their salvation comes in the form of a brother and sister who spirit them away on a harrowing adventure, where Scratch learns that there is more to the Princesses disappearance than anyone knows.
The Shae siblings, Shovel and Umbrella (Brella) are holding darker mysteries close and it may mean the destruction for Scratch. But it doesn’t stop her from becoming enamored by Brella, who’s beauty captures Scratch entirely. The journey the four of them take and the paths they are set on are full of danger. And the obstacles that seek to hinder their path may be closer than Scratch imagined.
For a debut novel, this is impeccable. I found it to be sweet and bold. The world building was phenomenal and the character building was really something. There are great levels to these characters, but Scratch was a cut above the rest for me. I loved how strong she was in the face of everything she endured. Instead of letting her past hold her back, she learned from it and grew into a stronger woman for it. I loved this and I can’t wait to see what this author brings us next!
September 1, 2021
A copy of the book was provided to Sapphic Book Club in exchange for an honest review.
This was an enjoyable fantasy read. From what I can tell, this is the debut novel and I thought it was well done. This book follows Scratch, a member of the King's Guard (army) who finds themselves being accused of kidnapping the princess. She is aided in finding the princess and avoiding the King's Guard by her best friend James, and the Shae siblings, Vel and Brella.
The story relies heavily on classic fantasy tropes, which didn't bother me, and actually, I felt like it helped the story. The fantasy tropes gave more room for Breger to explore the aspects of the story that aren't a part of the tropes, specifically the fae and magical aspects. I really liked the fae content but wished there was more of it. The book is called Walk Between Worlds but its only a very small part of the story.
I like Scratch but most of the book is spent with her dealing with a lot of emotional turmoil which makes it hard to nail down who she is has a character. Near the very end of the book, we get to see Scratch as she is viewed by most characters (including her), and I would love to see more of this version.
I hope a sequel is on its way because I want to see Scratch in her prime. With the tropes, I wouldn't be disappointed if there isn't a sequel, but it would be nice to see the story continue.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to any other books that Breger releases. I recommend this for fans of YA fantasy books.
This was an enjoyable fantasy read. From what I can tell, this is the debut novel and I thought it was well done. This book follows Scratch, a member of the King's Guard (army) who finds themselves being accused of kidnapping the princess. She is aided in finding the princess and avoiding the King's Guard by her best friend James, and the Shae siblings, Vel and Brella.
The story relies heavily on classic fantasy tropes, which didn't bother me, and actually, I felt like it helped the story. The fantasy tropes gave more room for Breger to explore the aspects of the story that aren't a part of the tropes, specifically the fae and magical aspects. I really liked the fae content but wished there was more of it. The book is called Walk Between Worlds but its only a very small part of the story.
I like Scratch but most of the book is spent with her dealing with a lot of emotional turmoil which makes it hard to nail down who she is has a character. Near the very end of the book, we get to see Scratch as she is viewed by most characters (including her), and I would love to see more of this version.
I hope a sequel is on its way because I want to see Scratch in her prime. With the tropes, I wouldn't be disappointed if there isn't a sequel, but it would be nice to see the story continue.
Overall, I enjoyed this book and look forward to any other books that Breger releases. I recommend this for fans of YA fantasy books.
November 3, 2021
read if you like: jesper (soc), game of thrones, aelin, queernormative worlds
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first of all, all my love to the author, Samara, who not only sent me a copy of her book but wrapped it in the cutest packaging & included a handwritten card. you add how absolutely perfect this book was & idk how you top that? she has forever set the bar??
the more books i read the more i see how truly deprived we are of queer adult/new adult fantasies so this was an absolute BREATH of fresh air. i was, quite literally, hooked on pg 6. a GRIPPING start, absolutely obsessed.
standalone fantasies are tough bc i find authors either get way too lost in the sauce on world-building OR not nearly enough to truly feel like a fantasy.
samara found the perfect balance in this & while i will forever be wanting more of scratch & brella's story (but i always want more, sue me) this left you wanting more in a yearny/longing way, not bc you're missing plot points
this was definitely a more character/romance-forward book and i loved every single minute of it bc the characters were PERFECT. like love love loved them all. brella was a brewer & i just have to call that fact out bc it was just v hot???🍻
the dialogue, the voice, the parallels to parental/familial/generational trauma were STUN👏🏼NING👏🏼
this book was SO playful, i was smirking, laughing, crying, sweating (🌶️), the whole damn shebang. if it's not obvious, this should rocket to the top of your tbr before the end of the year. it's on sale on amazon & b&n rn and at 232 pages it is v easy to sneak in 😉
.
.
first of all, all my love to the author, Samara, who not only sent me a copy of her book but wrapped it in the cutest packaging & included a handwritten card. you add how absolutely perfect this book was & idk how you top that? she has forever set the bar??
the more books i read the more i see how truly deprived we are of queer adult/new adult fantasies so this was an absolute BREATH of fresh air. i was, quite literally, hooked on pg 6. a GRIPPING start, absolutely obsessed.
standalone fantasies are tough bc i find authors either get way too lost in the sauce on world-building OR not nearly enough to truly feel like a fantasy.
samara found the perfect balance in this & while i will forever be wanting more of scratch & brella's story (but i always want more, sue me) this left you wanting more in a yearny/longing way, not bc you're missing plot points
this was definitely a more character/romance-forward book and i loved every single minute of it bc the characters were PERFECT. like love love loved them all. brella was a brewer & i just have to call that fact out bc it was just v hot???🍻
the dialogue, the voice, the parallels to parental/familial/generational trauma were STUN👏🏼NING👏🏼
this book was SO playful, i was smirking, laughing, crying, sweating (🌶️), the whole damn shebang. if it's not obvious, this should rocket to the top of your tbr before the end of the year. it's on sale on amazon & b&n rn and at 232 pages it is v easy to sneak in 😉
January 21, 2022
This book is EVERYTHING. It made me so happy to read all of my favorite things in a single book: being bad at feelings, true love, multiple queer storylines, a quest full of magical beings, mommy-issues; all laid out with great world building and joyful storytelling .
The actual plot here concerns Scratch, a soldier wunderkind who is devastated when she gets passed up for promotion, and then, even worse, gets framed for kidnapping the princess. When two rogue strangers break her and her best friend James out of prison, the four of team up to travel through a magical forest and into enemy terrain in hopes of retrieving the princess and clearing Scratch's name. But it quickly becomes clear to Scratch that her forest guides, siblings Vel and Brella, are hiding something. Well, many things.
Brella by the way is short for Umbrella, and Vel? You guessed it, Shovel. It's those kinds of small absurd details that make the world Breger builds so interesting and the book so fun to read. The author has such a clear voice in the writing, I found myself continually delighted with witty exchanges between characters about dirty books, run-ins with fair folk, and slowly, falling in love. Both Scratch and Brella learn lessons and grow as characters along the way. It's like an early aughts rom-com got spliced into a 90s fantasy, oh, and it's funny. Really really funny.
The ending of the book is both satisfying and sets the reader up for so much more, and I hope Breger writes a sequel someday. I would've loved to see some of the secondary characters, like James and Vel (and Uncle, loved Uncle) get their own storylines. And frankly, I'd love to see Scratch's battle tactics in action.
The actual plot here concerns Scratch, a soldier wunderkind who is devastated when she gets passed up for promotion, and then, even worse, gets framed for kidnapping the princess. When two rogue strangers break her and her best friend James out of prison, the four of team up to travel through a magical forest and into enemy terrain in hopes of retrieving the princess and clearing Scratch's name. But it quickly becomes clear to Scratch that her forest guides, siblings Vel and Brella, are hiding something. Well, many things.
Brella by the way is short for Umbrella, and Vel? You guessed it, Shovel. It's those kinds of small absurd details that make the world Breger builds so interesting and the book so fun to read. The author has such a clear voice in the writing, I found myself continually delighted with witty exchanges between characters about dirty books, run-ins with fair folk, and slowly, falling in love. Both Scratch and Brella learn lessons and grow as characters along the way. It's like an early aughts rom-com got spliced into a 90s fantasy, oh, and it's funny. Really really funny.
The ending of the book is both satisfying and sets the reader up for so much more, and I hope Breger writes a sequel someday. I would've loved to see some of the secondary characters, like James and Vel (and Uncle, loved Uncle) get their own storylines. And frankly, I'd love to see Scratch's battle tactics in action.
November 19, 2021
What a great book! Fairies are my favourite magical beings, so this book containing fairies and an f/f romance was an absolute treat. Surprisingly, there was a lot packed in this book, which is on the smaller side. But everything was interesting and I just didn't want to stop reading. My favourite part of the book was Scratch, I just wanted to give her a hug and some cookies and hot chocolate and sit her before a warm fire. The way she fought to make herself a better life was simply inspiring. I really wish that there will be a sequel because there are some things that I'd like to know more about. Overall, a very entertaining and captivating read.
December 27, 2024
The best word to describe this book is charming. Berger does a great job writing unique characters that play off each other well. The premise of the story had a lot of potential, but the plot fell a little flat for me. I felt like the beginning of the book set up the intrigue and the end of the book was more ambiguous which I dont necessarily hate, but the middle of the book lost me a bit. I think the book honestly needed more time to establish the story so the ending would hit harder. Overall I still enjoyed the read, the relationships with both Scratch/Brella and Vel/James were fun to see play out, the dialogue was well written throughout, I just wish the plot gave a bit more.
February 7, 2022
I haven't read a lot of fiction recently, so this was just a light read from Audible to make a long car journey go quicker. It was pretty good - the characters were likeable and the story was interesting (if a little predictable). I really enjoyed the queer angle, and I quite liked the world building. Unlike many fantasy novels, this one had a natural end which could easily turn into a second book but which didn't need to.
October 23, 2021
Bywater Books always seems to have a sharp eye for adding solid new talent to its roster. Breger’s aptitude and craftsmanship for writing will no doubt be a shinny gem in its collection of award-winning authors. Her creativity and flair for storytelling shines brightly in this lovely debut.
Samara Breger was described to me as a fresh new voice in the romantic queer fantasy-adventure genre, and I absolutely agree. Walk Between Worlds showcases Breger’s ability to keep readers fully engaged and entertained from start to finish. It holds you tight one moment and thrills and delights you in the next. Its humor and satire are nothing but pure fun to read.
I am not one to typically pull a book from the shelf that’s labeled fantasy, but Walk Between Worlds’ main character Sergeant Major Scratch Keyes promptly grabbed my attention and I couldn’t turn away from her. Her story is compelling and I connected with her. She’s strong, capable and very compelling. Her solid, tenacious presence easily wins readers over, making her a memorable and appealing character.
Final remarks…
This book is well-written and highly enjoyable. The world building and characters are nicely developed, making this a solid read. It’s adorable, witty and has enough meat on its bones to take seriously. I appreciated the writer’s originality and fresh voice; I look forward to more from her.
Strengths…
Original
Well-written
Compelling
Entertaining
Samara Breger was described to me as a fresh new voice in the romantic queer fantasy-adventure genre, and I absolutely agree. Walk Between Worlds showcases Breger’s ability to keep readers fully engaged and entertained from start to finish. It holds you tight one moment and thrills and delights you in the next. Its humor and satire are nothing but pure fun to read.
I am not one to typically pull a book from the shelf that’s labeled fantasy, but Walk Between Worlds’ main character Sergeant Major Scratch Keyes promptly grabbed my attention and I couldn’t turn away from her. Her story is compelling and I connected with her. She’s strong, capable and very compelling. Her solid, tenacious presence easily wins readers over, making her a memorable and appealing character.
Final remarks…
This book is well-written and highly enjoyable. The world building and characters are nicely developed, making this a solid read. It’s adorable, witty and has enough meat on its bones to take seriously. I appreciated the writer’s originality and fresh voice; I look forward to more from her.
Strengths…
Original
Well-written
Compelling
Entertaining
December 30, 2021
After being recommended to me by a friend, I picked up a Walk Between Worlds on Amazon for some downtime reading. I quickly found it absorbing and, most importantly of all, fun. I really liked this book, despite it not being my normal kind of read. I am a sucker for good world-building with accessible characters, so Scratch's journey in this fantastical kingdom really pulled me in. In fact, I enjoyed it so much that I donated it to a local library after I finished it, because you so rarely hear this kind of voice in fiction, and I want more people to experience the twists, turns, and laughs that the author, Samara Breger, brings in the novel. 5/5 stars!
December 11, 2023
Good plot idea, was a bit disappointed that there wasn't more focus on the story and the ending felt a bit rushed and unanswered. Not sure if setting up for a 2nd book. The romance side was good, and thoroughly enjoyed the narration.
November 2, 2021
Reviewed for Library Journal.
January 25, 2022
This was a wonderful story. Quite a basic storyline with strong characters and such in-depth lore without the muck that comes with world building. It was like “this is the world, deal with whatever comes as it comes”. Scratch, James and Brella have my heart.
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