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Needle and Leaf #1
Thrice
"Steeped in a wealth of brooding Slavic folklore, Thrice is a deeply personal story of a reluctant father and the mysterious child in his care. It beautifully weaves a tale of personal survival with a much grander narrative of ill-fated bargains and dangerous magic of the past to tell a story that's both intimate and epic." — Graham McNeill, New York Times Bestselling Author of A Thousand Sons
Forced out on the road with the boy left in his care, Jovan determines to journey into the cave of the bear—to seek out those that would do him and his boy harm.
It is the boy and his bottomless well of soul-searing magic that they seek.
They would do anything to exploit it.
And Jovan would do anything to stop them.
Thrice is the first book in the Needle and Leaf series.
Forced out on the road with the boy left in his care, Jovan determines to journey into the cave of the bear—to seek out those that would do him and his boy harm.
It is the boy and his bottomless well of soul-searing magic that they seek.
They would do anything to exploit it.
And Jovan would do anything to stop them.
Thrice is the first book in the Needle and Leaf series.
279 pages, ebook
First published November 10, 2021
12 people are currently reading
1124 people want to read
About the author
Andrew D. Meredith
17 books169 followersAndrew D Meredith’s journey has taken him to many fantastical places. From selling books in the wilds of western Washington to designing and publishing board games in the great white midwest. He’s now committed to the quest he was called to so long ago: the telling of fantastical tales, and bringing to life underestimated characters willing to take on the responsibilities no one else will.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 66 reviews
August 20, 2024
My complete review of Thrice is published at Grimdark Magazine.
Thrice is Andrew D. Meredith’s charming adventure fantasy infused with Slavic folklore. As the novel opens, we are introduced to Jovan, a thirty-five-year-old needle maker who is bloodily pounding some unfortunate bloke in a fit of rage. Jovan has a well-known history of violence and is soon forced to flee town. Most of the novel chronicles Jovan’s journey toward the suitably named town of Rightness, or Righteousness as one of the characters erroneously calls it.
Jovan travels with his adopted son, Leaf, a four-year-old boy who exudes innocence but is also wise beyond his years. Despite his rage issues, Jovan’s relationship with Leaf is that of a loving, protective father who cares deeply about his son. Andrew D. Meredith beautifully conveys this relationship between Jovan and Leaf, which forms the heart and soul of Thrice. I especially enjoyed reading about the small details of their relationship, which helped make Jovan and Leaf come alive off the page.
Andrew D. Meredith’s prose in Thrice has the same classic feel as in Deathless Beast, capturing the great sense of humanity at the core of this novel. The vivid descriptions of the world are also beautifully conveyed by the author.
The plot comprises a delightful blend of folklore and classic fantasy elements organized into episodic chapters that gradually reveal Leaf’s surprising abilities, which make him a target for some of the more unsavory characters in the novel. The episodic style of Thrice generally works well, but it becomes a bit repetitive as Jovan and Leaf consistently encounter unscrupulous people along their journey. The plot has several twists, although some of the coincidences may require readers to suspend their disbelief (a common requirement when reading folktales), and the ending of the novel came too quickly for my taste. Still, Meredith’s gifted storytelling kept me glued to the pages and left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling inside.
Despite opening with a blood-splattering fight scene, Thrice is a very wholesome novel and will appeal to adult and adolescent readers alike. Grimdark readers looking for a brief respite from the dark side may appreciate this novel and its focus on small personal conflicts rather than the grand battles normally associated with epic fantasy.
Thrice is a deeply personal and touching tale and serves as a beautiful vehicle for Andrew D. Meredith’s poignant storytelling. It is a semi-finalist in Mark Lawrence’s 8th Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO8) and the first entry in Meredith’s Needle and Leaf series.
Thrice is Andrew D. Meredith’s charming adventure fantasy infused with Slavic folklore. As the novel opens, we are introduced to Jovan, a thirty-five-year-old needle maker who is bloodily pounding some unfortunate bloke in a fit of rage. Jovan has a well-known history of violence and is soon forced to flee town. Most of the novel chronicles Jovan’s journey toward the suitably named town of Rightness, or Righteousness as one of the characters erroneously calls it.
Jovan travels with his adopted son, Leaf, a four-year-old boy who exudes innocence but is also wise beyond his years. Despite his rage issues, Jovan’s relationship with Leaf is that of a loving, protective father who cares deeply about his son. Andrew D. Meredith beautifully conveys this relationship between Jovan and Leaf, which forms the heart and soul of Thrice. I especially enjoyed reading about the small details of their relationship, which helped make Jovan and Leaf come alive off the page.
Andrew D. Meredith’s prose in Thrice has the same classic feel as in Deathless Beast, capturing the great sense of humanity at the core of this novel. The vivid descriptions of the world are also beautifully conveyed by the author.
The plot comprises a delightful blend of folklore and classic fantasy elements organized into episodic chapters that gradually reveal Leaf’s surprising abilities, which make him a target for some of the more unsavory characters in the novel. The episodic style of Thrice generally works well, but it becomes a bit repetitive as Jovan and Leaf consistently encounter unscrupulous people along their journey. The plot has several twists, although some of the coincidences may require readers to suspend their disbelief (a common requirement when reading folktales), and the ending of the novel came too quickly for my taste. Still, Meredith’s gifted storytelling kept me glued to the pages and left me with a warm, fuzzy feeling inside.
Despite opening with a blood-splattering fight scene, Thrice is a very wholesome novel and will appeal to adult and adolescent readers alike. Grimdark readers looking for a brief respite from the dark side may appreciate this novel and its focus on small personal conflicts rather than the grand battles normally associated with epic fantasy.
Thrice is a deeply personal and touching tale and serves as a beautiful vehicle for Andrew D. Meredith’s poignant storytelling. It is a semi-finalist in Mark Lawrence’s 8th Self-Published Fantasy Blog-Off (SPFBO8) and the first entry in Meredith’s Needle and Leaf series.
April 10, 2023
I have now read this book twice and I can say with certainty that this story is one of a kind! When I first picked it up, I had absolutely no idea what to expect and this quiet yet adventurous story took me completely by surprise. Yet, I feel like it wasn’t until this re-read that I could truly appreciate the full beauty that is packed within these pages. It's impactful, emotional and just breathtakingly beautiful in its simplicity.
This Slavic-inspired fantasy tells the story of Jovan and his adopted son Leaf. Jovan is a bit of a lone wolf and would like nothing better than to live a quiet life as a needle maker, but Leaf’s mysterious magical powers have attracted some unwanted attention. So, off on the road they go, seeking out and trying to stop anyone who would dare to do the precious little boy harm.
The wholesome dynamic between these two protagonists was absolutely the highlight of the book for me, I immediately bought their relationship. We experience this entire story through Jovan’s eyes and it was honestly so heartwarming to see how deeply he cares about the little boy that he has taken under his wing. I really loved that there are no grand gestures needed to understand the love and deep connection between Jovan and Leaf, it’s all present in their quiet, touching and authentic interactions. I think you can really sense that the author put his own experiences as a father into this story, it’s all just so realistic, genuine and heartfelt. I rarely enjoy children characters in my fantasy stories, but Leaf has to be one of the most lovable and endearing characters ever. He deserves to be protected at all costs, what an absolute gem!! I love that the wholesome found family vibes are just off the charts here!
And then there’s the absolutely entrancing world building! I love the way that Slavic folklore and mythology was woven into this story, I think it really makes this book stand out from the crowd.
There is so much world building packed into this story, yet it never feels overwhelming. We start off rather small-scale and maintain that intimate vibe throughout the entire book, yet the world also very organically opens up as Jovan and Leaf are launched off on their escape/adventure.
The magical elements steadily increase throughout the story, yet for the most part it all remains shrouded in mystery. I personally love that and I think it really fits the folkloric nature of this story, but if you want a hard and well explained magic system then you are not in the right place here. That said, there were some very interesting twists and reveals during the tension-filled conclusion, which I was very pleasantly surprised by. This story turned out to be much more complex than I was anticipating and I am all here for it! Gods, legendary creatures, curses, inescapable fates and lots of mystical magic… this story has got it all!
Now, while I think this story is relatively quiet and character-driven, I do have to admit that it took me a bit to really feel emotionally invested at the start. I think the main thing that caused this is the fact that we are thrown right into the middle of action at the start of the book and that prevented me from attaching to the characters. So while I could see that the stakes were high, I personally didn’t feel scared for their lives yet.
All that said, these characters are just entirely too endearing so they very quickly grew on me as things started to settle a bit. And by the end, I was completely immersed and invested, which ultimately made the amazing conclusion so much more anxiety-inducing and also satisfying.
This book ties everything up quite nicely, which makes this work very well as a standalone. However, there are still some threads left open that I desperately want to explore in further instalments. And I absolutely can’t wait to spend more time with Jovan and Leaf, they are simply an iconic duo.
Also, if you have the chance to listen to the audiobook of this one, then I highly recommend you do so. The author narrates it himself and his performance is phenomenal. The way he brings these characters to life and captures the vibe of the story was pure and simple perfection. This story was already compelling on its own, but the entrancing narration made it all the more magical and spellbinding!
I think that this beautiful and heartfelt story will be a great hit for fans of The Winternight trilogy (for its atmosphere and world building), Farseer (for the spellbinding prose and excellent character work), and then any kind of classic quest/adventure fantasy story in terms of plot. And I can see how that might seem like an odd mix of influences or vibes, but trust me, the author makes it work SO well! I highly recommend this gem of a book!
This Slavic-inspired fantasy tells the story of Jovan and his adopted son Leaf. Jovan is a bit of a lone wolf and would like nothing better than to live a quiet life as a needle maker, but Leaf’s mysterious magical powers have attracted some unwanted attention. So, off on the road they go, seeking out and trying to stop anyone who would dare to do the precious little boy harm.
The wholesome dynamic between these two protagonists was absolutely the highlight of the book for me, I immediately bought their relationship. We experience this entire story through Jovan’s eyes and it was honestly so heartwarming to see how deeply he cares about the little boy that he has taken under his wing. I really loved that there are no grand gestures needed to understand the love and deep connection between Jovan and Leaf, it’s all present in their quiet, touching and authentic interactions. I think you can really sense that the author put his own experiences as a father into this story, it’s all just so realistic, genuine and heartfelt. I rarely enjoy children characters in my fantasy stories, but Leaf has to be one of the most lovable and endearing characters ever. He deserves to be protected at all costs, what an absolute gem!! I love that the wholesome found family vibes are just off the charts here!
And then there’s the absolutely entrancing world building! I love the way that Slavic folklore and mythology was woven into this story, I think it really makes this book stand out from the crowd.
There is so much world building packed into this story, yet it never feels overwhelming. We start off rather small-scale and maintain that intimate vibe throughout the entire book, yet the world also very organically opens up as Jovan and Leaf are launched off on their escape/adventure.
The magical elements steadily increase throughout the story, yet for the most part it all remains shrouded in mystery. I personally love that and I think it really fits the folkloric nature of this story, but if you want a hard and well explained magic system then you are not in the right place here. That said, there were some very interesting twists and reveals during the tension-filled conclusion, which I was very pleasantly surprised by. This story turned out to be much more complex than I was anticipating and I am all here for it! Gods, legendary creatures, curses, inescapable fates and lots of mystical magic… this story has got it all!
Now, while I think this story is relatively quiet and character-driven, I do have to admit that it took me a bit to really feel emotionally invested at the start. I think the main thing that caused this is the fact that we are thrown right into the middle of action at the start of the book and that prevented me from attaching to the characters. So while I could see that the stakes were high, I personally didn’t feel scared for their lives yet.
All that said, these characters are just entirely too endearing so they very quickly grew on me as things started to settle a bit. And by the end, I was completely immersed and invested, which ultimately made the amazing conclusion so much more anxiety-inducing and also satisfying.
This book ties everything up quite nicely, which makes this work very well as a standalone. However, there are still some threads left open that I desperately want to explore in further instalments. And I absolutely can’t wait to spend more time with Jovan and Leaf, they are simply an iconic duo.
Also, if you have the chance to listen to the audiobook of this one, then I highly recommend you do so. The author narrates it himself and his performance is phenomenal. The way he brings these characters to life and captures the vibe of the story was pure and simple perfection. This story was already compelling on its own, but the entrancing narration made it all the more magical and spellbinding!
I think that this beautiful and heartfelt story will be a great hit for fans of The Winternight trilogy (for its atmosphere and world building), Farseer (for the spellbinding prose and excellent character work), and then any kind of classic quest/adventure fantasy story in terms of plot. And I can see how that might seem like an odd mix of influences or vibes, but trust me, the author makes it work SO well! I highly recommend this gem of a book!
October 1, 2022
4.5/5
I have said it before and I’ll say it again there is something about the way Andrew D Meredith writes a story!
He can take the day to day life of a fantasy world and immerse you in it.
The relationship and dynamic of Joven and Leaf is just delightful. There is a special bluntness to Joven’s personality that I just loved and a perfect youthful innocence associated with Leaf.
One of the biggest pros of this story is it answers the question what happens when the protector becomes the parent through choice not obligation.
My biggest con with the story is the villains are a bit cheesy but it’s not a big complaint. Overall I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait for more.
I have said it before and I’ll say it again there is something about the way Andrew D Meredith writes a story!
He can take the day to day life of a fantasy world and immerse you in it.
The relationship and dynamic of Joven and Leaf is just delightful. There is a special bluntness to Joven’s personality that I just loved and a perfect youthful innocence associated with Leaf.
One of the biggest pros of this story is it answers the question what happens when the protector becomes the parent through choice not obligation.
My biggest con with the story is the villains are a bit cheesy but it’s not a big complaint. Overall I really enjoyed this book and cannot wait for more.
November 7, 2022
3.5/5
Rich in it's simplicity, this book reads like an old fairytale, full of strange creatures, heroes and villains, and a little boy with far too much magic.
Magical enough in itself is the way Meredith is able to weave a fairytale like this while giving a bit of a twist to the typical fairytale tropes. Our young protagonist, Leaf, and his protector/adopted father Jovan, have a strong mentor and Chosen One vibe, yet throughout the book I enjoyed how unique and endearing their relationship was.
The dialogue and relationship beween Jovan and little Leaf is where this book truly shines, in my opinion. It feels incredibly authentic and wholesome, and the author's own experience as a father is very apparent.
Throughout the story, we are introduced to a side cast of characters that have varying levels of hero and villain traits, another twist on the typical "good vs. evil" that we often find in fairytales.
Another thing I enjoyed about this book is that it is one I can add to the shelf as an "introduction to fantasy" read for my kids when they are older and growing up into the genre. Packed full of peril and creatures from folklore, sprinkled with action, this book remained family-friendly through every page. The writing style is accessible and straightforward.
I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere of the book, and my only subjective critiques would have been that I wanted more of the world to shine through, and some of the plot/character motives felt sudden or confusing in several places.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys strong found family themes, folklore, and a delightful dose of earthy magic.
Rich in it's simplicity, this book reads like an old fairytale, full of strange creatures, heroes and villains, and a little boy with far too much magic.
Magical enough in itself is the way Meredith is able to weave a fairytale like this while giving a bit of a twist to the typical fairytale tropes. Our young protagonist, Leaf, and his protector/adopted father Jovan, have a strong mentor and Chosen One vibe, yet throughout the book I enjoyed how unique and endearing their relationship was.
The dialogue and relationship beween Jovan and little Leaf is where this book truly shines, in my opinion. It feels incredibly authentic and wholesome, and the author's own experience as a father is very apparent.
Throughout the story, we are introduced to a side cast of characters that have varying levels of hero and villain traits, another twist on the typical "good vs. evil" that we often find in fairytales.
Another thing I enjoyed about this book is that it is one I can add to the shelf as an "introduction to fantasy" read for my kids when they are older and growing up into the genre. Packed full of peril and creatures from folklore, sprinkled with action, this book remained family-friendly through every page. The writing style is accessible and straightforward.
I thoroughly enjoyed the atmosphere of the book, and my only subjective critiques would have been that I wanted more of the world to shine through, and some of the plot/character motives felt sudden or confusing in several places.
Overall, I would highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys strong found family themes, folklore, and a delightful dose of earthy magic.
December 13, 2023
Earlier this year, I'd accepted another of Andrew D. Meredith's books for review consideration and it wasn't the right fit for me. Like Goldilocks, I decided to try another work by this author and as you can see by all those shiny gold stars above, I found the one that was juuuuust right: THRICE!
This book won me over INSTANTLY. I don't know if it was the mystery teased in the prologue, the adoptive father-son duo that are Jovan and Leaf or even if it was the author's narration, but I was immediately enamored. As I continued on, I found even more things to love, such as the different religious groups and even more, the respect showed by different characters towards those that believed differently than them. The magic system felt equal parts whimsy and dark - I enjoyed learning alongside Jovan as journeyed across Balatar with Leaf.
First things first: I did purchase the Kindle version of this book back in March, but never got around to reading it until I snatched up the audiobook in Audible's recent sale. I highly recommend the audio as it is narrated by the author himself and he does an exceptional job! (I'm so excited because I bought another audiobook he narrated that I'm listening to later this month!)
Meredith created the most extraordinary characters in the world THRICE takes place in. The relationship shared between Jovan and Leaf touched my heart so many times and brought tears on more than one occasion. I know what it feels like when someone chooses to love you and what that means. It's probably why I love the found family trope so much. Jovan chose to raise Leaf as his son and he did so completely. He was so gentle, yet also firm in his teaching of the boy. Actually, now that I think about it, Jovan lived by example and those who spent time around him usually demonstrated a changed heart.
In addition to Jovan and Leaf, the author delights readers with several other engaging characters along their journey. Slant with his smoothsaying, Zin with his pranks, Zvediz and his fists, The Bear and his....well, I'll leave that a secret for now. I appreciated the personality and depth Meredith managed to pack into this small tale for each of the characters he gave us - they all had a purpose, no one was there as a convenience.
I really got on well with the writing style. The descriptions were remarkable! Chapter 1 described Leaf playing and I could picture him so clearly in my mind, a little blonde boy hopping and running, laughing as he did so. This fictional child just reached out from the pages and stole my heart. I wanted to walk with him and find Swords of Danger. I wanted to hug him and cry and tell him he could be just a little boy for as long as he liked. (I promise I'm not sitting here about to cry. Again.)
I liked the path these two took on their journey. Without giving away the why and wherefore, there were places we visited more than once and the world building was done so well that I felt like I got a really good feel of the area of Balatar that Jovan and Leaf traveled to and through. In fact, I can't wait to go back in the next book! (Thank goodness there's another one!)
The plot seemed simple and straightforward. Someone was searching for Leaf, so Jovan packed up took to the road in order to keep the boy safe. There was so much more to it than that! Even if it had been kept simple, I wouldn't have minded one bit because it was a joy to see Leaf exploring the world and his wonderment at each new experience.
This story was so rich in folklore and magic. I loved learning about the different types of beings, magic users and how each religious group identified their god(s). I always appreciate when magic has a cost and in the world of Balatar, that cost is a piece of your soul, each time you call on it. The bigger the spell, the higher the cost. Get too big with your spell and you can snuff yourself out...completely.
Okay. I have to stop or I'll just keep prattling on. I cannot recommend this book enough. I could reread it again right now, I loved it so much. I'm not though, because there's another one in the series I can read first!!
You can find this review along with other reviews spanning multiple genres at The Nerdy Narrative or if you prefer video format, I do have a BookTube Channel
A heartfelt thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for their support towards my enthusiasm for reading and reviewing!
Special thanks to my highest level Patrons: Ev, Sharon, Andrew, Star, Amanda L., Kate, Gail, Amanda F., Lourdes, Tara, John, Sharon A-B, Ann, Chad K., Ashley E., & Jennifer M.
This book won me over INSTANTLY. I don't know if it was the mystery teased in the prologue, the adoptive father-son duo that are Jovan and Leaf or even if it was the author's narration, but I was immediately enamored. As I continued on, I found even more things to love, such as the different religious groups and even more, the respect showed by different characters towards those that believed differently than them. The magic system felt equal parts whimsy and dark - I enjoyed learning alongside Jovan as journeyed across Balatar with Leaf.
First things first: I did purchase the Kindle version of this book back in March, but never got around to reading it until I snatched up the audiobook in Audible's recent sale. I highly recommend the audio as it is narrated by the author himself and he does an exceptional job! (I'm so excited because I bought another audiobook he narrated that I'm listening to later this month!)
Meredith created the most extraordinary characters in the world THRICE takes place in. The relationship shared between Jovan and Leaf touched my heart so many times and brought tears on more than one occasion. I know what it feels like when someone chooses to love you and what that means. It's probably why I love the found family trope so much. Jovan chose to raise Leaf as his son and he did so completely. He was so gentle, yet also firm in his teaching of the boy. Actually, now that I think about it, Jovan lived by example and those who spent time around him usually demonstrated a changed heart.
In addition to Jovan and Leaf, the author delights readers with several other engaging characters along their journey. Slant with his smoothsaying, Zin with his pranks, Zvediz and his fists, The Bear and his....well, I'll leave that a secret for now. I appreciated the personality and depth Meredith managed to pack into this small tale for each of the characters he gave us - they all had a purpose, no one was there as a convenience.
I really got on well with the writing style. The descriptions were remarkable! Chapter 1 described Leaf playing and I could picture him so clearly in my mind, a little blonde boy hopping and running, laughing as he did so. This fictional child just reached out from the pages and stole my heart. I wanted to walk with him and find Swords of Danger. I wanted to hug him and cry and tell him he could be just a little boy for as long as he liked. (I promise I'm not sitting here about to cry. Again.)
I liked the path these two took on their journey. Without giving away the why and wherefore, there were places we visited more than once and the world building was done so well that I felt like I got a really good feel of the area of Balatar that Jovan and Leaf traveled to and through. In fact, I can't wait to go back in the next book! (Thank goodness there's another one!)
The plot seemed simple and straightforward. Someone was searching for Leaf, so Jovan packed up took to the road in order to keep the boy safe. There was so much more to it than that! Even if it had been kept simple, I wouldn't have minded one bit because it was a joy to see Leaf exploring the world and his wonderment at each new experience.
This story was so rich in folklore and magic. I loved learning about the different types of beings, magic users and how each religious group identified their god(s). I always appreciate when magic has a cost and in the world of Balatar, that cost is a piece of your soul, each time you call on it. The bigger the spell, the higher the cost. Get too big with your spell and you can snuff yourself out...completely.
Okay. I have to stop or I'll just keep prattling on. I cannot recommend this book enough. I could reread it again right now, I loved it so much. I'm not though, because there's another one in the series I can read first!!
You can find this review along with other reviews spanning multiple genres at The Nerdy Narrative or if you prefer video format, I do have a BookTube Channel
A heartfelt thanks to my Patrons on Patreon for their support towards my enthusiasm for reading and reviewing!
Special thanks to my highest level Patrons: Ev, Sharon, Andrew, Star, Amanda L., Kate, Gail, Amanda F., Lourdes, Tara, John, Sharon A-B, Ann, Chad K., Ashley E., & Jennifer M.
March 14, 2023
Andrew D Meredith can make anything look like a comfort read. Thrice started with a bloody scene and there is violence throughout the story but it still felt like a slice of life story.
We follow Jovan, a needle maker and his son Leaf who possess powerful soul magic. Their relationship is the best part of this book for me. It started as a simple story of father and son getting pursued by some mysterious people but there are many layers to this world and magic system.
The world and magic system are very intriguing. However, I found it difficult to follow the mythology of the world and I had to re-read those parts.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and I am looking forward to see the journey of the these characters.
We follow Jovan, a needle maker and his son Leaf who possess powerful soul magic. Their relationship is the best part of this book for me. It started as a simple story of father and son getting pursued by some mysterious people but there are many layers to this world and magic system.
The world and magic system are very intriguing. However, I found it difficult to follow the mythology of the world and I had to re-read those parts.
Overall, I enjoyed the story and I am looking forward to see the journey of the these characters.
December 9, 2021
If you like vibes from the Mandalorian (father(protector)/son), the show Vikings, with a sprinkle of the graphic novel series Monstress (old gods, curses, and fate clashing in the mortal realm), this is a book for you.
I loved this book because it is a take on fantasy that is intimate with the characters. It's about a man who is entrusted with a boy and raises him. However through a turn of events, they become hunted by the different powers of the world and must escape. They will encounter traps, monsters, and must find out the true identity of the boy.
I have not often seen parent-child relationships in adult fantasy much and it was so refreshing to read a story that centered on this interaction, especially father and son. The mythos of the world is incredible (not massive and overwhelming, but palpable and revealing more about the characters themselves). Every milestone unlocked another secret of the world the author created, monsters, gods, religions, etc. Also I loved the fight scenes, gritty and inventive.
I really want the author to make a book about the lore, religions, and history of the world just so I can deep dive into the realm of Balatar.
Pair this book with mead or a port, fresh bread, with dried meats.
Thrice
https://www.amazon.com/Thrice-Needle-...
I loved this book because it is a take on fantasy that is intimate with the characters. It's about a man who is entrusted with a boy and raises him. However through a turn of events, they become hunted by the different powers of the world and must escape. They will encounter traps, monsters, and must find out the true identity of the boy.
I have not often seen parent-child relationships in adult fantasy much and it was so refreshing to read a story that centered on this interaction, especially father and son. The mythos of the world is incredible (not massive and overwhelming, but palpable and revealing more about the characters themselves). Every milestone unlocked another secret of the world the author created, monsters, gods, religions, etc. Also I loved the fight scenes, gritty and inventive.
I really want the author to make a book about the lore, religions, and history of the world just so I can deep dive into the realm of Balatar.
Pair this book with mead or a port, fresh bread, with dried meats.
Thrice
https://www.amazon.com/Thrice-Needle-...
September 1, 2022
Please read my review at the following link:
https://escapistbookcompany.com/2022/...
Thanks for taking the time to read my review! As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
https://escapistbookcompany.com/2022/...
Thanks for taking the time to read my review! As always, happy reading and Stay Great!!
April 10, 2023
Thrice is a heart-warming and wholesome story of love, loyalty, and friendship, filled with wonderful world building, characters, magic and intrigue.
It has been a few weeks since a read this book, and I still find my myself thinking about it. The subtlety of the writing is something that stood out for me. Like an onion, the story, the world and its characters have layers that are peeled away to reveal more that what a relatively short book should have any right to contain. Proof that you don't need to write a chonker to deliver a compelling story with characters you end up caring for deeply.
Jovan is an instant favourite. His outlook on the world, his devout loyalty to Leaf, and his astute observations of others is superb. He is definitely the driving force of the story and a character I would want on my side.
The world building is beautifully woven through the characters' journey. I really appreciate this type of world-building, where we learn about the world, its peoples, and history through the story and journey of the characters. Meredith accomplishes so much in this book, using each chapter to not only progress his story, but to reveal another layer to the world or a character.
Thrice is a very satisfying story of friendship and loyalty, between a father-like guardian and child. In ways it reminded me of Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, particularly in tone and the emotions it roused. The author's skill at conveying emotion through his character's words and actions is something that tells me that I will definitely want to read more from from this series and author.
It has been a few weeks since a read this book, and I still find my myself thinking about it. The subtlety of the writing is something that stood out for me. Like an onion, the story, the world and its characters have layers that are peeled away to reveal more that what a relatively short book should have any right to contain. Proof that you don't need to write a chonker to deliver a compelling story with characters you end up caring for deeply.
Jovan is an instant favourite. His outlook on the world, his devout loyalty to Leaf, and his astute observations of others is superb. He is definitely the driving force of the story and a character I would want on my side.
The world building is beautifully woven through the characters' journey. I really appreciate this type of world-building, where we learn about the world, its peoples, and history through the story and journey of the characters. Meredith accomplishes so much in this book, using each chapter to not only progress his story, but to reveal another layer to the world or a character.
Thrice is a very satisfying story of friendship and loyalty, between a father-like guardian and child. In ways it reminded me of Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, particularly in tone and the emotions it roused. The author's skill at conveying emotion through his character's words and actions is something that tells me that I will definitely want to read more from from this series and author.
August 1, 2023
“What does your Sword of Danger say now?”
Leaf looked up and smiled. “It says that nothing can hurt me if you’re here.”
Jovan gave a wan smile at the boy and tousled his hair. “I won’t let anything happen to you.”
Listen, I’m a sucker for books that have adorable parent-child relationships, but something about father and son makes me so happy. Jovan Nedeller has been taking care of his adopted son ever since he came into his care but when people keep hunting them down, Jovan hops from city to city to keep Leaf safe.
Random person: I’m going to take your son
Jovan, already transforming into the hulk: You what?
Leaf was adorable and I can’t wait to read more books featuring the two🥰
June 22, 2024
I really loved the Berserker Guy and Cute Little Adopted Son dynamic we had. But then nothing was really done with it, and it was superceded by many scenes of dialogue info dumps.
September 26, 2022
I finally got around to read this, and I can see why it's an SPFBO semi-finalist. On the surface it's a simple story but as the story of Jovan and Leaf unfurls, you see how things are not what they seem. The magic system is interesting, and this book reminded me a lot of the Road meets the Witcher. Slant and Bear turned out to be some of my favorite characters. I enjoyed the lore and the plot twists at the end. Definitely didn't see it coming. Originally I thought Leaf sounded and acted too old for his age, and not many people (if anyone) commented on it until the end; then it made more sense at the end.
What I thought was missing from the story was some more emotional reactions from Jovan. Some things toward the end happened, and there weren't a whole lot of reactions from him or anyone in the scene. The Slavic folklore and world were so interesting, but I wanted some more setting details at times to really ground me in the story. I was left wanting to know more about the Medved and the Havet. Some parts of the magic system I didn't fully understand and thought needed some more clarity on.
The book ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, leaving hope that there might a continuation of Jovan and Leaf's story.
4.5/5 stars
What I thought was missing from the story was some more emotional reactions from Jovan. Some things toward the end happened, and there weren't a whole lot of reactions from him or anyone in the scene. The Slavic folklore and world were so interesting, but I wanted some more setting details at times to really ground me in the story. I was left wanting to know more about the Medved and the Havet. Some parts of the magic system I didn't fully understand and thought needed some more clarity on.
The book ends on somewhat of a cliffhanger, leaving hope that there might a continuation of Jovan and Leaf's story.
4.5/5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 21, 2023
THRICE isn't a book that does anything earthshattering over the course of it's modest page count, but the endearing characters, fast pace, and beautiful Slavic-inspired world made this a new favorite of mine.
CHARACTERS
This story follows Jovan, a hot-tempered needle maker, and his adopted son, Leaf, who might be the most precious character I have ever had the pleasure of getting to know in a fantasy book. The father-son relationship between these two characters is immediately heartwarming. I loved how Leaf brings out the softer and more optimistic side of Jovan while Jovan goes to great lengths to keep the boy safe from those who seek him out. There's a fair bit of mystery surrounding Leaf's birth and why he his magical powers are so different from those of other magic-users in the world which served as a nice narrative hook and brought some fun intrigue to his character. As the pair adventure across the lands, they meet lots of fascinating side characters. At first, a lot of these seemed like they would be throwaway figures that would offer interesting interactions only to then disappear forever after Jovan and Leaf parted ways with them. I was thrilled to find out that this was actually not the case for really anyone that was introduced and loved how so many of the characters, no matter how seemingly unimportant they were at first, ended up factoring into the plot shomehow. Mamm Kallidova. The Bear, and Slant were particular standouts for me, but realistically, there weren't any characters that I didn't enjoy (even if they were nasty little buggers).
PLOT/TONE
Things begin rather rapidly with a hectic prologue followed by an opening chapter that wastes no time in introducing our main characters and beginning their journey. As someone who favors shorter books with faster pacing, I really appreciated how things played out here. I also enjoyed how the story kind of alternates between journeying through the wilderness and spending time in the different towns/cities within this corner of the world. I also loved the sense of mystery and wonder that came with gaining bits of information about the characters, the religions/mythology, the settlements, and the secrets of Leaf's origins. It's all kept relatively simple and clean, but there were definitely some fun surprises along the way. Even twists that I saw coming ended up playing out in some interesting ways. The last fifty or so pages absolutely kicked things into overdrive with tons of drama, big reveals, and magic-infused action that was even more intense than I was expecting. Some readers may be a little bothered that things wrap up as quickly as they started, but I actually loved the ending in that I found it satisfying, but it also left me wondering what will come next.
One thing I've heard said about this book that I have to agree with is that there is a sort of "coziness/comfiness" to this story even though it is far to violent to be considered part of the "cozy fantasy subgenre." I think a lot of this might come from the endearing bond that Jovan an Leaf share, some of it might be the small-scale setting (the whole story takes place within one corner of this world), and I feel like another big part of it is how there is an overarching sense of optimism in this story in terms of how the characters are represented. Plenty of the side characters are shady, shifty, and self-centered, but they're usually decent people at their core. I really appreciated that no one (aside from maybe a couple of the key antagonists) are deliberately evil or go out of their way to inflict harm upon someone else. These are characters that don't always do the right thing, but they generally want to live a good life and have meaningful connections with others. This flawed sincerity made these characters feel so distinctly human, even though their character development is handled quickly and often in short bursts over the course of the story.
SETTING/WORLD
There isn't anything too crazy going on in this world when it comes to geography, politics, or magical creatures. At it's core, this is a world inspired by Slavic folklore and I definitely felt like that muse came through strongly. The terrain is varied and the weather plays a big role in the journey which gave the story a rather grounded feel. In contrast to the realism of having to walk long distances in a temperamental climate, there are some delightful flourishes of mythology. At one point, Jovan and another character have to fight a truly horrifying creature from folklore and there are lots of references to six gods that form the core of different religions that people follow. The way that religion plays a part in the story and world is something I greatly enjoyed. I feel like it's all too often that a fantasy religion is essentially just a caricature of Christianity with many/all of it's followers being psychotic zealots. In the world of THRICE, the religions not only feel fresh and original, but also serve as an interesting layer to the different cultures that the characters come across. Jovan himself is revealed to be a member of one of the faiths and a lot of the side characters also belong to one religion or another. It was such a neat idea to make each one revolve around the same set of gods even though the belief systems were distinctly different. Magic is another element that I found rather delightful. The systems themselves felt like they were on the "softer" side of things, but it's possible that they will become "harder" in future books. In spite of the softness of the rules that govern things, I found it fascinating that the magic still managed to have rather clear limits. The way it is explained and the ways in which Leaf's abilities fly in the face of those mechanics were so much fun to read about.
The landscape itself is also a treat to explore. I loved the wooded areas that Leaf and Jovan travel through and the interesting spots that they found to rest just as much as the bustling cobblestone cities or smaller settlements that the pair take up temporary residence in. This isn't the most exotic fantasy setting I've ever seen, but it just nails all the basics of what makes for a compelling setting and I found myself constantly referencing the map to follow along with where we were at any given moment even though I normally don't care much for fantasy maps at all.
THE PAPERBACK
The new cover for this book is really lovely and I am a big fan of its vibrant color scheme. The fonts and iconography are also great. I've already mentioned that the map grabbed me a lot more than maps usually do even though I don't think there's anything super fancy going on with this one. One petty complaint I have is that I thought the interior margins were a little stingy. I've definitely seen much worse and the text is fully readable, I just had to pull the book apart slightly wider than I normally like to (I did not have to break the spine or anything, just to be clear). Other than that, this was very nicely formatted and I greatly enjoyed flipping through these pages.
CONCLUSION
If you like quick fantasy reads that have lots of fun narrative turns, then THRICE is an absolute must read. Even those that generally enjoy grander, chunkier fantasy novels will likely enjoy this as a pallet cleanser between bigger books. I would even go so far as to say that this might make for a nice entry point for those who don't normally read fantasy at all.
(+) The story does not waste any time getting going or meaner at all along the way
(+) Leaf is absolutely precious
(+) Fantastic and sometimes heartwarming character interactions
(+) Fun action scenes with a interesting magic
(+) Fantastic use of interesting side characters
(+) A heart-pounding conclusion that left me wondering what would come next
(-) Interior margins could have been a little wider
CHARACTERS
This story follows Jovan, a hot-tempered needle maker, and his adopted son, Leaf, who might be the most precious character I have ever had the pleasure of getting to know in a fantasy book. The father-son relationship between these two characters is immediately heartwarming. I loved how Leaf brings out the softer and more optimistic side of Jovan while Jovan goes to great lengths to keep the boy safe from those who seek him out. There's a fair bit of mystery surrounding Leaf's birth and why he his magical powers are so different from those of other magic-users in the world which served as a nice narrative hook and brought some fun intrigue to his character. As the pair adventure across the lands, they meet lots of fascinating side characters. At first, a lot of these seemed like they would be throwaway figures that would offer interesting interactions only to then disappear forever after Jovan and Leaf parted ways with them. I was thrilled to find out that this was actually not the case for really anyone that was introduced and loved how so many of the characters, no matter how seemingly unimportant they were at first, ended up factoring into the plot shomehow. Mamm Kallidova. The Bear, and Slant were particular standouts for me, but realistically, there weren't any characters that I didn't enjoy (even if they were nasty little buggers).
PLOT/TONE
Things begin rather rapidly with a hectic prologue followed by an opening chapter that wastes no time in introducing our main characters and beginning their journey. As someone who favors shorter books with faster pacing, I really appreciated how things played out here. I also enjoyed how the story kind of alternates between journeying through the wilderness and spending time in the different towns/cities within this corner of the world. I also loved the sense of mystery and wonder that came with gaining bits of information about the characters, the religions/mythology, the settlements, and the secrets of Leaf's origins. It's all kept relatively simple and clean, but there were definitely some fun surprises along the way. Even twists that I saw coming ended up playing out in some interesting ways. The last fifty or so pages absolutely kicked things into overdrive with tons of drama, big reveals, and magic-infused action that was even more intense than I was expecting. Some readers may be a little bothered that things wrap up as quickly as they started, but I actually loved the ending in that I found it satisfying, but it also left me wondering what will come next.
One thing I've heard said about this book that I have to agree with is that there is a sort of "coziness/comfiness" to this story even though it is far to violent to be considered part of the "cozy fantasy subgenre." I think a lot of this might come from the endearing bond that Jovan an Leaf share, some of it might be the small-scale setting (the whole story takes place within one corner of this world), and I feel like another big part of it is how there is an overarching sense of optimism in this story in terms of how the characters are represented. Plenty of the side characters are shady, shifty, and self-centered, but they're usually decent people at their core. I really appreciated that no one (aside from maybe a couple of the key antagonists) are deliberately evil or go out of their way to inflict harm upon someone else. These are characters that don't always do the right thing, but they generally want to live a good life and have meaningful connections with others. This flawed sincerity made these characters feel so distinctly human, even though their character development is handled quickly and often in short bursts over the course of the story.
SETTING/WORLD
There isn't anything too crazy going on in this world when it comes to geography, politics, or magical creatures. At it's core, this is a world inspired by Slavic folklore and I definitely felt like that muse came through strongly. The terrain is varied and the weather plays a big role in the journey which gave the story a rather grounded feel. In contrast to the realism of having to walk long distances in a temperamental climate, there are some delightful flourishes of mythology. At one point, Jovan and another character have to fight a truly horrifying creature from folklore and there are lots of references to six gods that form the core of different religions that people follow. The way that religion plays a part in the story and world is something I greatly enjoyed. I feel like it's all too often that a fantasy religion is essentially just a caricature of Christianity with many/all of it's followers being psychotic zealots. In the world of THRICE, the religions not only feel fresh and original, but also serve as an interesting layer to the different cultures that the characters come across. Jovan himself is revealed to be a member of one of the faiths and a lot of the side characters also belong to one religion or another. It was such a neat idea to make each one revolve around the same set of gods even though the belief systems were distinctly different. Magic is another element that I found rather delightful. The systems themselves felt like they were on the "softer" side of things, but it's possible that they will become "harder" in future books. In spite of the softness of the rules that govern things, I found it fascinating that the magic still managed to have rather clear limits. The way it is explained and the ways in which Leaf's abilities fly in the face of those mechanics were so much fun to read about.
The landscape itself is also a treat to explore. I loved the wooded areas that Leaf and Jovan travel through and the interesting spots that they found to rest just as much as the bustling cobblestone cities or smaller settlements that the pair take up temporary residence in. This isn't the most exotic fantasy setting I've ever seen, but it just nails all the basics of what makes for a compelling setting and I found myself constantly referencing the map to follow along with where we were at any given moment even though I normally don't care much for fantasy maps at all.
THE PAPERBACK
The new cover for this book is really lovely and I am a big fan of its vibrant color scheme. The fonts and iconography are also great. I've already mentioned that the map grabbed me a lot more than maps usually do even though I don't think there's anything super fancy going on with this one. One petty complaint I have is that I thought the interior margins were a little stingy. I've definitely seen much worse and the text is fully readable, I just had to pull the book apart slightly wider than I normally like to (I did not have to break the spine or anything, just to be clear). Other than that, this was very nicely formatted and I greatly enjoyed flipping through these pages.
CONCLUSION
If you like quick fantasy reads that have lots of fun narrative turns, then THRICE is an absolute must read. Even those that generally enjoy grander, chunkier fantasy novels will likely enjoy this as a pallet cleanser between bigger books. I would even go so far as to say that this might make for a nice entry point for those who don't normally read fantasy at all.
(+) The story does not waste any time getting going or meaner at all along the way
(+) Leaf is absolutely precious
(+) Fantastic and sometimes heartwarming character interactions
(+) Fun action scenes with a interesting magic
(+) Fantastic use of interesting side characters
(+) A heart-pounding conclusion that left me wondering what would come next
(-) Interior margins could have been a little wider
January 8, 2023
*Updating to 5 stars because of the time it has lived rent free in my head for the last few months. I love this book the more I think about it. Will be rereading this year (2023) for sure.
I went into this book mostly blind and I'm so glad I did.
We follow Jovan and his charge Leaf, a young boy he loves like his own as they leave their home after Jovan is sent away after from their home and threats surround them on all sides.
The thing I loved most about this book was the atmosphere Meredith created. The Slavic folklore gave me Winternight Trilogy vibes with a bit of Vikings danger. There are plenty of twists and turns, some I saw coming, some I didn't.
My close second favourite thing was Jovan. He is not at all a man you would think someone would entrust a child to, but he is through and through a good man and the relationship between him and the wise-beyond-his-years sweet Leaf.
It is an extremely quick read. I read along with the audiobook which the author does a fantastic job of narrating. The voices are clear to distinguish between characters and it enhanced the experience.
This reads as a complete story/standalone but I really hope there is more of this series coming soon. I can't wait to read more and see what is instore for Leaf as he grows and find out more about the magic of this world
I went into this book mostly blind and I'm so glad I did.
We follow Jovan and his charge Leaf, a young boy he loves like his own as they leave their home after Jovan is sent away after from their home and threats surround them on all sides.
The thing I loved most about this book was the atmosphere Meredith created. The Slavic folklore gave me Winternight Trilogy vibes with a bit of Vikings danger. There are plenty of twists and turns, some I saw coming, some I didn't.
My close second favourite thing was Jovan. He is not at all a man you would think someone would entrust a child to, but he is through and through a good man and the relationship between him and the wise-beyond-his-years sweet Leaf.
It is an extremely quick read. I read along with the audiobook which the author does a fantastic job of narrating. The voices are clear to distinguish between characters and it enhanced the experience.
This reads as a complete story/standalone but I really hope there is more of this series coming soon. I can't wait to read more and see what is instore for Leaf as he grows and find out more about the magic of this world
November 30, 2022
4/5 Stars
A captivating story of family, and survival. Thrice is book one in the Needle and Leaf series by Andrew D. Meredith. A self-published fantasy, filled with Slavic folklore, and quickly pulls you into the story.
Jovan is a 35-year-old Needler, a man who makes needles for a living. He lives with his 4-year-old son who seems older than his years but has such an innocence to him. When Jovan and Leaf are forced to leave their home and start a new life elsewhere, they quickly learn of the dangers that come for them. While Leaf is young, he possesses great power in his soul-searing magic and there are those who would use him for it. Jovan must keep his son safe and seek out those that would do him and his son harm.
This doesn’t waste time throwing readers into the world, characters, and circumstances of Thrice. Though the introduction is quick, I found it easy to settle into the characters and their circumstances. This is largely due to Andrew D. Meredith’s ability in creating an immersive read. Overall this made the introduction feel comfortable, while still giving readers a feeling of familiarity with the characters and their personalities.
While Leaf has an innocent and happy nature about him, Jovan is rough around the edges, stern, though kind in many ways. The dynamic between these two and the bond of their relationship was endearing to read. Not only that, but I found their relationship is built in a way that invests you in their story. We’re also introduced to some great side characters, some of which quickly became a favourite for me.
The worldbuilding and folklores were reminiscent of The Winternight Trilogy and Spinning Silver, however, featured more action. There were also changes within the atmosphere throughout the book but overall leaves you with scenes that are eerie, heartwarming, or suspenseful. We also see a variety of different religions set within this world and the characters we meet.
Meanwhile, the magic system was easy to grasp and calls on the user’s own soul or spirit. Leaving consequences to the magic wielder and a limitation to the magic they can cast. This created some interesting scenes and high stakes.
I read the physical book while listening to the audiobook. Narrated by the author himself in fact and he did a great job at bringing the different characters to life.
From one adventure to the next, Thrice felt episodic but keeps the focus of the plot in sight. With mystery, action, magic, high stakes, a complex plot, lore, and found family, there was lots to enjoy in this.
This is a great accessible fantasy read and I look forward to continuing with the series.
A captivating story of family, and survival. Thrice is book one in the Needle and Leaf series by Andrew D. Meredith. A self-published fantasy, filled with Slavic folklore, and quickly pulls you into the story.
Jovan is a 35-year-old Needler, a man who makes needles for a living. He lives with his 4-year-old son who seems older than his years but has such an innocence to him. When Jovan and Leaf are forced to leave their home and start a new life elsewhere, they quickly learn of the dangers that come for them. While Leaf is young, he possesses great power in his soul-searing magic and there are those who would use him for it. Jovan must keep his son safe and seek out those that would do him and his son harm.
This doesn’t waste time throwing readers into the world, characters, and circumstances of Thrice. Though the introduction is quick, I found it easy to settle into the characters and their circumstances. This is largely due to Andrew D. Meredith’s ability in creating an immersive read. Overall this made the introduction feel comfortable, while still giving readers a feeling of familiarity with the characters and their personalities.
While Leaf has an innocent and happy nature about him, Jovan is rough around the edges, stern, though kind in many ways. The dynamic between these two and the bond of their relationship was endearing to read. Not only that, but I found their relationship is built in a way that invests you in their story. We’re also introduced to some great side characters, some of which quickly became a favourite for me.
The worldbuilding and folklores were reminiscent of The Winternight Trilogy and Spinning Silver, however, featured more action. There were also changes within the atmosphere throughout the book but overall leaves you with scenes that are eerie, heartwarming, or suspenseful. We also see a variety of different religions set within this world and the characters we meet.
Meanwhile, the magic system was easy to grasp and calls on the user’s own soul or spirit. Leaving consequences to the magic wielder and a limitation to the magic they can cast. This created some interesting scenes and high stakes.
I read the physical book while listening to the audiobook. Narrated by the author himself in fact and he did a great job at bringing the different characters to life.
From one adventure to the next, Thrice felt episodic but keeps the focus of the plot in sight. With mystery, action, magic, high stakes, a complex plot, lore, and found family, there was lots to enjoy in this.
This is a great accessible fantasy read and I look forward to continuing with the series.
February 25, 2023
AH! See! I nearly forgot to write my review. Well, it was spectacular! I loved Andrew D. Meredith's storytelling. A unique type of story I've never seen before. But then, I understand that this is a retelling of a folklore?
At any rate, fantastic story with wonderful characters and a needle maker! You never hear about needle makers. Always hearing about ladies doing needlepoint but never the guy who makes them. And his relationship with the child, Leaf, set this up high on the moral grounds. I would love to see what happens with these two. Fingers crossed for book 2 to come out shortly!
In the meantime, I do have another Andrew D. Meredith book to read! HOORAH!
At any rate, fantastic story with wonderful characters and a needle maker! You never hear about needle makers. Always hearing about ladies doing needlepoint but never the guy who makes them. And his relationship with the child, Leaf, set this up high on the moral grounds. I would love to see what happens with these two. Fingers crossed for book 2 to come out shortly!
In the meantime, I do have another Andrew D. Meredith book to read! HOORAH!
January 22, 2023
A man (Jovan) and a magic wielding boy (Leaf) go on a journey to keep the boy safe and out of the hands of those who would exploit his power for their own gain. While on the surface it may seem fairly straight forward, Thrice is a complex book with many, many layers. There is a lot happening, and much of the fun was the trying to piece together what it was that was happening between the lines as I went along.
First I want to pay compliments to the magical elements of the world. Anytime we are given folklore or mythological tales to explain why things are the way they are, the text really shines. The magic system itself is interwoven into the mythology of Mind, Body, Soul, Spirit, and Luck and Death (originally Fate), with animal figures to represent them. Each time a tale was told, I was left wondering how much of the mythology within the context of the world was just a story, and how much was real. Is there really a Bee goddess of the mind or a Wolf god of the soul physically existing in this world? Probably not, I would initially think – but then, if Vodyanov is real…
(and I love stuff like that)
The world is very complex. This may be off putting to some, but I enjoyed the complexity. It gave me the impression we are living with the characters in a real world (a real world would be a complex world, after all).
That being said, I read it twice, and will say I found the book benefits from a second read and wee bit of note taking to make sure you know who is who and how they’re related and who they were in love with, etc.
A good example of this is when Jovan and Leaf first meet Kallidova, speaking of Leaf…
“I don’t think he’s ever done a thing to warrant my getting angry,” Jovan said.
“Never?”
“Oh sure, he does things that scare me, like walking to the edge of a cliff over water. But he’s never done a bad thing.”
“Hrm. Interesting,” she said.
“You’d prefer I not tell you where I go,” Jovan said. It wasn’t a question.
Kallidova nodded, but continued to stare at the boy, as though recognizing something in him. Then she shook herself clear.
It’s clear to see Kallidova knows more and is thinking more than she is letting on. Now you might have the Ah-ah! moment for this later on if you’ve got a good memory or if you’re reading large portions of the book at once, but for me I was reading a chapter or a couple of pages a night (and the memory is par at best) and I had forgotten it. A second reading and understanding the stakes and contexts that naturally comes with a second reading definitely made moments like these and others more enjoyable. (Like, for example, meeting Zin for the first time – and then on the second read, meeting Zin for the first time but knowing who Zin is in relation to everyone else).
The other idea/theme that stuck with me at the end was the theme of goodness for goodness sake. Leaf literally has unbridled power, the use of which seemingly has no negative consequences. How does he manage not to misuse this? He’s just that good.
Jovan is technically not his father. There are many reasons why he might try to use Leaf to cut corners. But he just honestly cares about the boy. He would care even if Leaf had no magical ability at all.
It’s peppered throughout the text, but there was one moment that jumped out towards the end, when Jovan and Zin are in pursuit of a kidnapped Leaf:
The small forest Zin had pointed out at Allyun cradled a small lumber mill town. The drinking hall in the center stood beside a taller Havat temple built around a massive tree growing several hundred feet into the sky.
Zin moved ahead of Jovan as he paused to look up the long trunk.
“I hope Leaf got to see this when they passed through.”
It’s short and simple, and loaded with layers. He’s in terrible danger – but even under the stress of it all Joven knows that Leaf would enjoy seeing it – and thinking of it, he hopes that Leaf is still able to experience the wonder of the world he naturally possesses. Only someone who is 100% invested in his role as a parent would even have this thought – and Jovan is one of the only persons in the entire story who is looking about for Leaf’s wellbeing, for no other reason than that he just honestly cares – a theme remarkable in its simplicity.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 4, 2024
Short and provoking a sense of curiosity, the title “Thrice” by Andrew D. Meredith makes me wonder what three people, events, or places the story might be referring to. So, I dove in, wondering what fantastic tale I would uncover.
The story follows Jovan, the surrogate father for an exceptional and wise-beyond-his-years boy, Leaf. But when a mysterious figure that goes by the title of the Bear threatens to take the boy and exploit him for his special talents, Jovan is willing to move heaven and earth to stop him.
Jovan is stoic with a huge temper. While that might seem like an oxymoron, his approach to conflict feels completely natural. He’s cool and level-headed until relentless cool no longer does the trick. He doesn’t fear taking action (or almost anything, it seems), and he funnels his temper into the protection of the innocent child in his care. Leaf is mysterious in his talent. Discovering his origins and the reasons behind why so many people seem to want to take him away from Jovan drove my interest in the story.
Thrice is one of those novels that might make for a perfect introduction to an author’s catalog. The adventure is self-contained and refuses to overstay its welcome. But despite its brevity, it doesn’t suffer for lack of lure. During their travels, Jovan and Leaf interact with several characters, many of which share worldbuilding details in a compelling way—stories within stories.
The novel leans briskly episodic in the first half of the story. Because of this, you might struggle to find the core of the plot at first, but sometime around the midpoint of the story, everything begins to click into place as betrayals and twists lead to a ride that culminates in an exciting conclusion.
If you’re looking for a high fantasy novel with a moderate length and quick pacing, themes of intellect vs. wisdom, and the “children in jeopardy” trope, this story should be on your radar.
The story follows Jovan, the surrogate father for an exceptional and wise-beyond-his-years boy, Leaf. But when a mysterious figure that goes by the title of the Bear threatens to take the boy and exploit him for his special talents, Jovan is willing to move heaven and earth to stop him.
Jovan is stoic with a huge temper. While that might seem like an oxymoron, his approach to conflict feels completely natural. He’s cool and level-headed until relentless cool no longer does the trick. He doesn’t fear taking action (or almost anything, it seems), and he funnels his temper into the protection of the innocent child in his care. Leaf is mysterious in his talent. Discovering his origins and the reasons behind why so many people seem to want to take him away from Jovan drove my interest in the story.
Thrice is one of those novels that might make for a perfect introduction to an author’s catalog. The adventure is self-contained and refuses to overstay its welcome. But despite its brevity, it doesn’t suffer for lack of lure. During their travels, Jovan and Leaf interact with several characters, many of which share worldbuilding details in a compelling way—stories within stories.
The novel leans briskly episodic in the first half of the story. Because of this, you might struggle to find the core of the plot at first, but sometime around the midpoint of the story, everything begins to click into place as betrayals and twists lead to a ride that culminates in an exciting conclusion.
If you’re looking for a high fantasy novel with a moderate length and quick pacing, themes of intellect vs. wisdom, and the “children in jeopardy” trope, this story should be on your radar.
October 6, 2022
quaint folklore fantasy
Basically this is story about a father and a son. Leaf is not Jovan’s biological son, but he is his family 100%. We find out that Leaf has some magical power, which is why so many people are trying to find him. But the reason for people finding him is not what you think.
The first half of the book I found most interesting, and it read very quickly. Then the second half wasn’t as smooth. There were a few abrupt events like when characters get to Jet, but nothing happens there. All of a sudden they are somewhere else. I anticipated something to happen there. Also when the girl, Periphina, cries and beats on Jovan to get what she wants, and then suddenly she calms down and gives in. Then the girl does something that doesn’t seem possible for a four-year-old. A lot goes on in the last half before Jovan and Leaf are reunited, and it just felt a little bit drawn out.
There’s little teasing of magic sprinkled throughout the book. I hope there will be more in forthcoming novels.
But overall, the relationship between Jovan and Leaf is the heart of the story and it certainly wins on that score.
Basically this is story about a father and a son. Leaf is not Jovan’s biological son, but he is his family 100%. We find out that Leaf has some magical power, which is why so many people are trying to find him. But the reason for people finding him is not what you think.
The first half of the book I found most interesting, and it read very quickly. Then the second half wasn’t as smooth. There were a few abrupt events like when characters get to Jet, but nothing happens there. All of a sudden they are somewhere else. I anticipated something to happen there. Also when the girl, Periphina, cries and beats on Jovan to get what she wants, and then suddenly she calms down and gives in. Then the girl does something that doesn’t seem possible for a four-year-old. A lot goes on in the last half before Jovan and Leaf are reunited, and it just felt a little bit drawn out.
There’s little teasing of magic sprinkled throughout the book. I hope there will be more in forthcoming novels.
But overall, the relationship between Jovan and Leaf is the heart of the story and it certainly wins on that score.
April 30, 2023
I enjoyed this story while never feeling completely immersed, though with the revelations toward the end of the book, I think further entries will be easier. There's a wonderful thread of Slavic folklore that runs through the story giving the world a rich feel, as fireside stories, encounters with strange creatures, and daily superstitions, combine into a world that feels lived in.
There are a lot of things that were introduced in Thrice that would be considered 'world-building' that I look forward to reading about in more detail later in the series.
There are a lot of things that were introduced in Thrice that would be considered 'world-building' that I look forward to reading about in more detail later in the series.
April 19, 2023
Cozy, gently paced story with some very interesting characters and myths. I look forward to hanging out with these characters again in the next book of the series :)
November 27, 2021
This story grabbed me immediately — very exciting opening! I was listening to the audio version, which is read with so many great voices by the author himself. I plan to get the actual book too and read it again. I think having the map of the world in hand, and seeing the names written out will help with a tiny bit of confusion I had. I was impressed with how very quickly the author revealed a complete world with unique cultures, creatures and religions. I was drawn to the little boy Leaf so much — he is very tenderly written. I suspect the author must have a 4-year old boy himself! I highly recommend this book and look forward to anything else released by Andrew Meredith.
October 1, 2022
TLDR: Thrice is a small-scale adventure fantasy with an astronomically large-scale amount of character development and heart, complete with interwoven plot threads that coalesce into a satisfying conclusion.
First, let's talk about the central characters: Jovan and Leaf. Jovan is a grounded sort of everyman whose sense of honor and honesty are quite endearing, as is his profession as a needle maker, a refreshing choice to add to his character (you don't seem to see many needle makers in fantasy stories). Then there's Leaf, a mysterious boy whose innocence, politeness, and wholesome attitude are more warming than a hot cup of cocoa on a chilly day. This dynamic of a journeying father and son made me think of a less gritty, slightly less testosterone-induced version of the recent God of War tale. The relative regional parallels between the Slavic-inspired culture of Thrice and the Nordic-inspired God of War also kept the comparison in my head while reading. Let me be clear, though Jovan is bald with a beard and Leaf is a small boy with mysterious powers, the way the tales unfold couldn't be more different.
As far as the plot goes, I enjoyed the relatively swift pace of the plot, which moves us through Meredith's world in a timely fashion, while also devoting time to small, "slice of life" moments that sweeten the narrative with tantalizing amounts of "cozy." The regions encountered throughout seem, paradoxically, both far away and in close proximity to one another, which is another interesting touch, in my opinion. I enjoyed the colorful cast of side characters we meet along the way, (with one that's met in the latter half of the novel being my favorite of the story, as his backstory is compelling enough to warrant its own novel/novella.)
In summation, I'm a sucker for small-scale fantasy done right, and Thrice undoubtedly fits that description. Meredith's tale of family, love, and magic doesn't need large-scale battles or world-ending quests to burn itself into my brain, its wonderful characters, vibrant world, and intoxicating charm will stay with me long after I post this review. I wholeheartedly recommend this one!
First, let's talk about the central characters: Jovan and Leaf. Jovan is a grounded sort of everyman whose sense of honor and honesty are quite endearing, as is his profession as a needle maker, a refreshing choice to add to his character (you don't seem to see many needle makers in fantasy stories). Then there's Leaf, a mysterious boy whose innocence, politeness, and wholesome attitude are more warming than a hot cup of cocoa on a chilly day. This dynamic of a journeying father and son made me think of a less gritty, slightly less testosterone-induced version of the recent God of War tale. The relative regional parallels between the Slavic-inspired culture of Thrice and the Nordic-inspired God of War also kept the comparison in my head while reading. Let me be clear, though Jovan is bald with a beard and Leaf is a small boy with mysterious powers, the way the tales unfold couldn't be more different.
As far as the plot goes, I enjoyed the relatively swift pace of the plot, which moves us through Meredith's world in a timely fashion, while also devoting time to small, "slice of life" moments that sweeten the narrative with tantalizing amounts of "cozy." The regions encountered throughout seem, paradoxically, both far away and in close proximity to one another, which is another interesting touch, in my opinion. I enjoyed the colorful cast of side characters we meet along the way, (with one that's met in the latter half of the novel being my favorite of the story, as his backstory is compelling enough to warrant its own novel/novella.)
In summation, I'm a sucker for small-scale fantasy done right, and Thrice undoubtedly fits that description. Meredith's tale of family, love, and magic doesn't need large-scale battles or world-ending quests to burn itself into my brain, its wonderful characters, vibrant world, and intoxicating charm will stay with me long after I post this review. I wholeheartedly recommend this one!
December 23, 2022
A collaborative #SPFBO8 semifinalist review with Whitney Reinhart, originally posted on Before We Go Blog.
THIS SMALL-SCALE ADVENTURE FEATURING A NEEDLEMAKER AND HIS FOUR-YEAR-OLD CHARGE CHARMED ME FROM THE FIRST PAGES AND NEVER LET ME GO.
Dan: Honestly, I didn’t really know what I was getting into with Thrice, but I started reading and just never stopped. This small-scale adventure featuring a needlemaker and his four-year-old charge charmed me from the first pages and never let me go. I think fantasy needs more books with personal rather than world-level conflicts, and this book absolutely delivered on that front.
Whitney: I completely agree with your last statement. Small, personal conflicts are underrepresented in fantasy which is a shame because that’s where true humanity resides in even the grandest of epic adventures.
Dan: The story begins with the main character, Jovan, beating the tar out of someone and being shackled and taken away for judgment. Jovan has been in trouble before, we soon learn, and people are already looking for him. He makes his escape with a boy named Leaf, who is like a son to him, though Jovan is not his biological father. They spend the rest of the book fleeing from one trouble or another while Leaf’s innate magical ability is revealed one encounter at a time.
Whitney: Yes! The joys of found family love and Meredith’s subtle, organic way of introducing Leaf’s magic were beautifully wrought. I appreciate not being clobbered over the head with vast and unwieldy talents. Leaf’s magic is as pure and innocent as you’d expect a four-year-old to be.
Dan: The plot itself is rather unremarkable, even repetitive at times, as they encounter one shady character after another, always second-guessing each one’s intentions, for good reason. No one is quite what they seem to be, and many have checkered pasts, but with Jovan’s grit and Leaf’s magic, as well as the help of not a few mysterious and morally gray characters, they muddle their way through from one place to another, always fleeing, always on the verge of being caught. And when they were caught, they managed to escape, again with the help of mysterious strangers.
But even as I found myself wishing for more from the plot, I couldn’t help being invested in the characters. I am a sucker for a gritty fighter who knows how to use his environment as a weapon, and Jovan’s creative, gutsy fighting style was a joy to read. He’s no saint, as the flashes we see of his past show, but whenever he errs, it’s through trying to do good, defending the innocent and the downtrodden and such. And he’s not a proper fighter, trained with swords and what-not. He’s a needlemaker, and a good one at that. And he has so much heart and so little fear. Even as he flees his pursuers, he heads straight toward the Big Bad, and his plan is—get this—to talk to him and convince him not to kill him and take the boy. This is the hero we need in our fantasy books.
Whitney: Ahh…if only more people would opt to discuss differences instead of attacking…but I digress. Jovan’s decision to confront Big Bad head on instead of counterattacking was a brilliant move and allowed for an interesting look at what makes bad guys bad.
Dan: Leaf is a charming kid, and I don’t say this lightly, as I often hate the portrayals of children in media. They too often serve a saccharin role, doling out cuteness and innocence in sickening doses. Leaf is a smart, thoughtful kid, doing his best, but he’s just a kid, and he screws up sometimes. He spends pages playing with sticks as if they’re swords, he makes little jokes, and he clings to—and protects—Jovan like a father. He’s described as wise beyond his years, and there may be spoilery reasons for that, but the author never lets us lose sight of him as a real, living, breathing child in difficult circumstances. Kudos to the author for making me like a child character, which is no easy feat. Everyone in the book is after Leaf, and the reveal as to why is a satisfying one.
Whitney: Oof. Yesss…without being spoilery, the REAL Big Bad reveal is immensely satisfying and to be honest, quite sad. You’re absolutely right in your assessment of children in fiction. Too often they are simple shells of wasted potential. Leaf is different. As the parent of a one-upon-a-time little boy, the pages of stick swords and imagined heroism rang true to childhood fantasy, and I appreciate Meredith for that.
Dan: Though I loved the characters, it’s the writing that sealed the deal for me and made this book stand out from the crowd. The descriptions are vivid and creative without being overly florid. It helped turn this otherwise typical medievalesque fantasy world into a place I could believe in. Some of my favorite moments were the descriptions of these little towns and fortresses they traveled through, like this one:
“The motte rose and the road to the main gate with it, circling to the right, though they turned in the opposite direction, following the outer wall around to where the stone bailey sat sagging on the hill like a large man stuck in his chair.”
Or this one:
“The small village of Stoneweks huddled against the quarry. The main street straddled the slag stream that none dared gather water from. Where the quarry had been bitten back becoming flat ground, new buildings had been started.”
Whitney: It was the small interactions which got me. Like this:
“Leaf yawned as he pulled on his small boots. Jovan had to correct him to put them on the right feet, and then turned the shirt Leaf had pulled on backward.”
And this one…
“Just as he closed his eyes, Leaf leapt out into the water with a splash that drenched Jovan’s head. Jovan spluttered, and then laughed as Leaf looked up, standing chest deep in the pool.”
The genuineness is just spot on.
Dan: The writing is strong and beguiling without drawing unnecessary attention to itself, which is a rare feat. If this had been an epic fantasy story, we might have become lost in endless descriptions, but Meredith gives us just enough, which is a refreshing change in a genre that sometimes gives us way too much.
My main takeaway is that I loved the characters and the writing, even when the plot felt a bit thin or repetitive at times. There’s something magical about the relationship between Jovan and Leaf, the way they are described, the way they come to life on the page, that makes Thrice an #SPFBO8 semifinalist, and the author one to watch.
Whitney: I happily second this nomination. Or should I say I “THRICE” it?
THIS SMALL-SCALE ADVENTURE FEATURING A NEEDLEMAKER AND HIS FOUR-YEAR-OLD CHARGE CHARMED ME FROM THE FIRST PAGES AND NEVER LET ME GO.
Dan: Honestly, I didn’t really know what I was getting into with Thrice, but I started reading and just never stopped. This small-scale adventure featuring a needlemaker and his four-year-old charge charmed me from the first pages and never let me go. I think fantasy needs more books with personal rather than world-level conflicts, and this book absolutely delivered on that front.
Whitney: I completely agree with your last statement. Small, personal conflicts are underrepresented in fantasy which is a shame because that’s where true humanity resides in even the grandest of epic adventures.
Dan: The story begins with the main character, Jovan, beating the tar out of someone and being shackled and taken away for judgment. Jovan has been in trouble before, we soon learn, and people are already looking for him. He makes his escape with a boy named Leaf, who is like a son to him, though Jovan is not his biological father. They spend the rest of the book fleeing from one trouble or another while Leaf’s innate magical ability is revealed one encounter at a time.
Whitney: Yes! The joys of found family love and Meredith’s subtle, organic way of introducing Leaf’s magic were beautifully wrought. I appreciate not being clobbered over the head with vast and unwieldy talents. Leaf’s magic is as pure and innocent as you’d expect a four-year-old to be.
Dan: The plot itself is rather unremarkable, even repetitive at times, as they encounter one shady character after another, always second-guessing each one’s intentions, for good reason. No one is quite what they seem to be, and many have checkered pasts, but with Jovan’s grit and Leaf’s magic, as well as the help of not a few mysterious and morally gray characters, they muddle their way through from one place to another, always fleeing, always on the verge of being caught. And when they were caught, they managed to escape, again with the help of mysterious strangers.
But even as I found myself wishing for more from the plot, I couldn’t help being invested in the characters. I am a sucker for a gritty fighter who knows how to use his environment as a weapon, and Jovan’s creative, gutsy fighting style was a joy to read. He’s no saint, as the flashes we see of his past show, but whenever he errs, it’s through trying to do good, defending the innocent and the downtrodden and such. And he’s not a proper fighter, trained with swords and what-not. He’s a needlemaker, and a good one at that. And he has so much heart and so little fear. Even as he flees his pursuers, he heads straight toward the Big Bad, and his plan is—get this—to talk to him and convince him not to kill him and take the boy. This is the hero we need in our fantasy books.
Whitney: Ahh…if only more people would opt to discuss differences instead of attacking…but I digress. Jovan’s decision to confront Big Bad head on instead of counterattacking was a brilliant move and allowed for an interesting look at what makes bad guys bad.
Dan: Leaf is a charming kid, and I don’t say this lightly, as I often hate the portrayals of children in media. They too often serve a saccharin role, doling out cuteness and innocence in sickening doses. Leaf is a smart, thoughtful kid, doing his best, but he’s just a kid, and he screws up sometimes. He spends pages playing with sticks as if they’re swords, he makes little jokes, and he clings to—and protects—Jovan like a father. He’s described as wise beyond his years, and there may be spoilery reasons for that, but the author never lets us lose sight of him as a real, living, breathing child in difficult circumstances. Kudos to the author for making me like a child character, which is no easy feat. Everyone in the book is after Leaf, and the reveal as to why is a satisfying one.
Whitney: Oof. Yesss…without being spoilery, the REAL Big Bad reveal is immensely satisfying and to be honest, quite sad. You’re absolutely right in your assessment of children in fiction. Too often they are simple shells of wasted potential. Leaf is different. As the parent of a one-upon-a-time little boy, the pages of stick swords and imagined heroism rang true to childhood fantasy, and I appreciate Meredith for that.
Dan: Though I loved the characters, it’s the writing that sealed the deal for me and made this book stand out from the crowd. The descriptions are vivid and creative without being overly florid. It helped turn this otherwise typical medievalesque fantasy world into a place I could believe in. Some of my favorite moments were the descriptions of these little towns and fortresses they traveled through, like this one:
“The motte rose and the road to the main gate with it, circling to the right, though they turned in the opposite direction, following the outer wall around to where the stone bailey sat sagging on the hill like a large man stuck in his chair.”
Or this one:
“The small village of Stoneweks huddled against the quarry. The main street straddled the slag stream that none dared gather water from. Where the quarry had been bitten back becoming flat ground, new buildings had been started.”
Whitney: It was the small interactions which got me. Like this:
“Leaf yawned as he pulled on his small boots. Jovan had to correct him to put them on the right feet, and then turned the shirt Leaf had pulled on backward.”
And this one…
“Just as he closed his eyes, Leaf leapt out into the water with a splash that drenched Jovan’s head. Jovan spluttered, and then laughed as Leaf looked up, standing chest deep in the pool.”
The genuineness is just spot on.
Dan: The writing is strong and beguiling without drawing unnecessary attention to itself, which is a rare feat. If this had been an epic fantasy story, we might have become lost in endless descriptions, but Meredith gives us just enough, which is a refreshing change in a genre that sometimes gives us way too much.
My main takeaway is that I loved the characters and the writing, even when the plot felt a bit thin or repetitive at times. There’s something magical about the relationship between Jovan and Leaf, the way they are described, the way they come to life on the page, that makes Thrice an #SPFBO8 semifinalist, and the author one to watch.
Whitney: I happily second this nomination. Or should I say I “THRICE” it?
November 13, 2022
I was immediately drawn to Thrice when I saw a write-up for it that a friend did during SPFBO. The idea that the main characters could be a needlesmith and his adopted son seemed like a breath of fresh air. That coupled with the amalgamation of Slavic and original folklore really produced a book that kept on giving.
Let me start by really saying even though this is a short book, it feels dense. At the beginning it took a little bit for me to get my bearings, but I was glad I did. So much of this book feels longer than it is and only in the best ways.
To me, this is an ambitious book. It takes a lot of the things I love about fantasy and literature and really commits to them: juxtapositions, internal logic, moral and societal messages, and heart.
I found myself questioning a lot of different elements of the book and always enjoying the life it had in my head. The characters both fit and subvert tropes as well as live their own lives where there is always a little bit more you don’t know.
I found myself most often comparing it to books like Stardust or The Buried Giant. Even though those books didn’t work for me very well, Thrice takes that magical dream-like narrative and runs with it.
And I found myself running alongside it.
***my full review will be up later this week on my website along with a Q+A with the author!
Let me start by really saying even though this is a short book, it feels dense. At the beginning it took a little bit for me to get my bearings, but I was glad I did. So much of this book feels longer than it is and only in the best ways.
To me, this is an ambitious book. It takes a lot of the things I love about fantasy and literature and really commits to them: juxtapositions, internal logic, moral and societal messages, and heart.
I found myself questioning a lot of different elements of the book and always enjoying the life it had in my head. The characters both fit and subvert tropes as well as live their own lives where there is always a little bit more you don’t know.
I found myself most often comparing it to books like Stardust or The Buried Giant. Even though those books didn’t work for me very well, Thrice takes that magical dream-like narrative and runs with it.
And I found myself running alongside it.
***my full review will be up later this week on my website along with a Q+A with the author!
April 4, 2023
My favorite books are ones that get me so emotionally involved that I sometimes forget I’m actually reading a story. That happened to me while reading this…a lot.
The father/son dynamic that this story is largely built around is simply the best example of this I’ve ever read. I noticed very early on that I was beginning to develop an emotional interest in both of them, and that only grew as I followed them on their journey.
The wholesomeness of the book was a very welcome surprise, and on multiple occasions I found myself smiling while I read. If that’s the sort of vibe you are searching for in a book, I can’t recommend this enough. If you are a parent, there will be many events that occur throughout that you’ll be able to relate to emotionally.
Luckily the follow up novel, “Four-Scored”, released today. It jumped the line of my TBR all the way to the very front, so I can’t wait to jump right back in to this world.
Thanks Andrew! This was pleasure to read.
The father/son dynamic that this story is largely built around is simply the best example of this I’ve ever read. I noticed very early on that I was beginning to develop an emotional interest in both of them, and that only grew as I followed them on their journey.
The wholesomeness of the book was a very welcome surprise, and on multiple occasions I found myself smiling while I read. If that’s the sort of vibe you are searching for in a book, I can’t recommend this enough. If you are a parent, there will be many events that occur throughout that you’ll be able to relate to emotionally.
Luckily the follow up novel, “Four-Scored”, released today. It jumped the line of my TBR all the way to the very front, so I can’t wait to jump right back in to this world.
Thanks Andrew! This was pleasure to read.
May 15, 2022
This was an amazing book! A breath of fresh air in the high fantasy genre. The world building and character development were done perfectly! I’ve done very little reading in the Slavic folklore but this book has enticed me and I look forward to more books by this author!
Jovan is forced on the run with his son, leaf. Jovan is being hunted by multiple enemies and he only knows the reasoning behind one of them. He decides to walk strait into the dens of his enemies to find out what they want and why they want his son.
Leaf is full of magic but hides it well for a 4 year old. He knows he’s not the son of Jovan, but who is he the son of? Why are people hunting Papa Jov? Why is his magic so special? Will he and papa Jov ever stop running?
Magic, lore, survival, dangers at any turn and all round epic tale!
Jovan is forced on the run with his son, leaf. Jovan is being hunted by multiple enemies and he only knows the reasoning behind one of them. He decides to walk strait into the dens of his enemies to find out what they want and why they want his son.
Leaf is full of magic but hides it well for a 4 year old. He knows he’s not the son of Jovan, but who is he the son of? Why are people hunting Papa Jov? Why is his magic so special? Will he and papa Jov ever stop running?
Magic, lore, survival, dangers at any turn and all round epic tale!
January 14, 2023
I heard about this book in a writing group I am in. The author was in it at one point, and he shared his book. I decided to read one indie book a month this year as I myself am an indie writer. I did not expect much from this book, but it was amazing. The way the other describes things and how the story captivated me, were intriguing. It kept me wanting to figure out who Leaf was and how and why he waws in Jovan's care.
I highly recommend this book. I listened to it on audible and I was impressed. The author read the book and at first when I saw that I did not expect much, but the book sounded like it was done at a professional studio. I need to figure out how to do that.
I highly recommend this book. I listened to it on audible and I was impressed. The author read the book and at first when I saw that I did not expect much, but the book sounded like it was done at a professional studio. I need to figure out how to do that.
Want to read
April 2, 2023Slavic folklore AND a main character called Jovan (my grandpa on my father's side was called Jovan)??? Guess I gotta read it.
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