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Speak Easy
Victors, they say, write history.
Too bad the victors can’t write.
After her father passes away, Nanette hops on a caravan to the neighboring country of Rosada to join her sister. Yet Rosada is in the grip of a deep fog: magic is banished, storytelling is outlawed, and the Order reigns. With her sister grown complacent over the horrors of their new home, Nanette takes matters into her own hands to protect stories, no matter the cost.
With the help of a loud-mouthed cabby, Nanette forms a plan to reignite the storytellers in Rosada. But it’s not safe to tell stories, even in the shadows.
With tensions rising and storytellers vanishing, Nanette must decide: are stories worth her relationship with her sister?
Are stories worth risking her life?
Content Warnings: Rated 18+ for language, sexual situations, violence, police brutality, mentions of suicide, and trauma.
Too bad the victors can’t write.
After her father passes away, Nanette hops on a caravan to the neighboring country of Rosada to join her sister. Yet Rosada is in the grip of a deep fog: magic is banished, storytelling is outlawed, and the Order reigns. With her sister grown complacent over the horrors of their new home, Nanette takes matters into her own hands to protect stories, no matter the cost.
With the help of a loud-mouthed cabby, Nanette forms a plan to reignite the storytellers in Rosada. But it’s not safe to tell stories, even in the shadows.
With tensions rising and storytellers vanishing, Nanette must decide: are stories worth her relationship with her sister?
Are stories worth risking her life?
Content Warnings: Rated 18+ for language, sexual situations, violence, police brutality, mentions of suicide, and trauma.
- GenresFantasy
220 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 10, 2022
6 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
E.S. Barrison
21 books105 followersE.S. Barrison has been writing and creating stories for as long as she can remember. After graduating from the University of Florida, she has spent the past few years wrangling her experiences to compose unique worlds with diverse characters. Currently, E.S. lives in Orlando, Florida with her family. The Mist Keeper’s Apprentice is her first novel.
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
February 15, 2022
Thank you so much to ES Barrison for sending me a copy of this book! All opinions are my own!
Though this book started out a little slow for me, I ended up absolutely adoring it! You can definitely tell that, with every book, ES Barrison's writing gets better and better and the world she's created gets richer and richer!
I adored both Nannette and Ryon, and I loved watching their relationship develop. But I think my favorite thing was that their relationship simply enriched their lives, it wasn't the sole focus. They had so much that they were fighting for, and both of them became so inspirational. Even at their lowest, they were still full of hope and a spark to keep them fighting for what they believed in.
And don't get me started on the beautiful writing! There were so many quotes that I wanted to scribble down and put on my walls so I could read them every day. They were beautifully written and inspirational at the same time, and I smiled so much just reading the way the prose flowed!
If you're a fan of fantasy, please check this series out! It's quickly becoming one of my favorites!
Though this book started out a little slow for me, I ended up absolutely adoring it! You can definitely tell that, with every book, ES Barrison's writing gets better and better and the world she's created gets richer and richer!
I adored both Nannette and Ryon, and I loved watching their relationship develop. But I think my favorite thing was that their relationship simply enriched their lives, it wasn't the sole focus. They had so much that they were fighting for, and both of them became so inspirational. Even at their lowest, they were still full of hope and a spark to keep them fighting for what they believed in.
And don't get me started on the beautiful writing! There were so many quotes that I wanted to scribble down and put on my walls so I could read them every day. They were beautifully written and inspirational at the same time, and I smiled so much just reading the way the prose flowed!
If you're a fan of fantasy, please check this series out! It's quickly becoming one of my favorites!
July 12, 2022
Let me start by saying how stunning I think the cover is. Now let me move on to the content underneath it.
I have two primary and opposing feelings about this book. On one hand I think it's a really timely read, being primarily focused on the suppression of truth and rise and destructiveness of propaganda (or 'state-sanctioned stories.') And I acknowledge that Barrison added a lot of recognizable, real-world issues. The main character is bisexual. There's a trans character happily living their life. There's a diabetic struggling with the cost of his insulin (though they don't call it that in this magical realm). There's a government being eclipsed by religious insurgence. There's police abuse and ongoing experiences of trauma. (Plus more I'm leaving out because it would be spoilery.) So, I think this is a book of the times.
However, I also found the storytelling very straightforward and not overly engaging. There are no red-herrings, twists or turns, or unexpected events. Problems crop up and are immediately and easily mended. (I found the sister's sudden change of attitude and miraculous save toward the end especially convenient and unbelievable!) The story is very linear. This happens and then this happens and then this happens. It's simplistic in the extreme, as is the writing itself. Which is unfortunate, especially in a book about the importance of storytelling.
For this reason, despite the fade to black sex scenes, I think it would be best for the younger end of young adults—those who aren't yet looking for too much complexity in a story. I see the book labeled as intended for 18+. But I don't think that matches the reading experience.
All in all, I'm not sad to have read the book. But it wasn't a favorite either.
I have two primary and opposing feelings about this book. On one hand I think it's a really timely read, being primarily focused on the suppression of truth and rise and destructiveness of propaganda (or 'state-sanctioned stories.') And I acknowledge that Barrison added a lot of recognizable, real-world issues. The main character is bisexual. There's a trans character happily living their life. There's a diabetic struggling with the cost of his insulin (though they don't call it that in this magical realm). There's a government being eclipsed by religious insurgence. There's police abuse and ongoing experiences of trauma. (Plus more I'm leaving out because it would be spoilery.) So, I think this is a book of the times.
However, I also found the storytelling very straightforward and not overly engaging. There are no red-herrings, twists or turns, or unexpected events. Problems crop up and are immediately and easily mended. (I found the sister's sudden change of attitude and miraculous save toward the end especially convenient and unbelievable!) The story is very linear. This happens and then this happens and then this happens. It's simplistic in the extreme, as is the writing itself. Which is unfortunate, especially in a book about the importance of storytelling.
For this reason, despite the fade to black sex scenes, I think it would be best for the younger end of young adults—those who aren't yet looking for too much complexity in a story. I see the book labeled as intended for 18+. But I don't think that matches the reading experience.
All in all, I'm not sad to have read the book. But it wasn't a favorite either.
December 30, 2021
I would like to thank the author for providing me an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review.
This story was incredible and beautifully written. It was kind of weird being back in this world I know, everything was familiar, yet everything was different because it was set in a time before the events I know. Do people need to read The Life & Death Cycle series before this? No. If reading this book is your first time entering this world, you won't be lost or confused.
Nanette's journey was inspiring and emotional. Long after finishing the book my heart was racing from the fight she had to put up while in a foreign land. The risks she took made me hold my breath because I didn't want her to be caught by the ruthless guards. It was my first time reading a Fantasy with chronic illness representation, with the character Ryon who had the world's equivalent of diabetes. All the representation presented in this book was handled with the upmost respect and it was refreshing to read.
My only negative was that Nanette and Ryon's relationship moved a bit too quickly for my liking, but I could understand they were made for each other so I can't complain. I loved their relationship regardless.
I flew through this book and I highly recommend diving into Nanette's story.
This story was incredible and beautifully written. It was kind of weird being back in this world I know, everything was familiar, yet everything was different because it was set in a time before the events I know. Do people need to read The Life & Death Cycle series before this? No. If reading this book is your first time entering this world, you won't be lost or confused.
Nanette's journey was inspiring and emotional. Long after finishing the book my heart was racing from the fight she had to put up while in a foreign land. The risks she took made me hold my breath because I didn't want her to be caught by the ruthless guards. It was my first time reading a Fantasy with chronic illness representation, with the character Ryon who had the world's equivalent of diabetes. All the representation presented in this book was handled with the upmost respect and it was refreshing to read.
My only negative was that Nanette and Ryon's relationship moved a bit too quickly for my liking, but I could understand they were made for each other so I can't complain. I loved their relationship regardless.
I flew through this book and I highly recommend diving into Nanette's story.
February 11, 2022
Storytelling is illegal?! What???
This is so much more than a book about illegal tales and magic, it's a journey of self discovery and feminism woven around corrupt government and fighting against oppression.
There was so much I really enjoyed about this story:
The sweet romance and sexual awakening.
Knowing that one person doesn't need to burn the world down and overthrow the government to make an impact.
The trans rep not being centred around trauma.
The inclusion of medical illness.
Dealing with family members that cling to baseless ideals.
Choosing to start or not start a family.
There were a couple of spots that felt a little slower paced and would have loved to learn more about the magic system however the way you were drawn into the story was delightful and I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
I was provided with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is so much more than a book about illegal tales and magic, it's a journey of self discovery and feminism woven around corrupt government and fighting against oppression.
There was so much I really enjoyed about this story:
The sweet romance and sexual awakening.
Knowing that one person doesn't need to burn the world down and overthrow the government to make an impact.
The trans rep not being centred around trauma.
The inclusion of medical illness.
Dealing with family members that cling to baseless ideals.
Choosing to start or not start a family.
There were a couple of spots that felt a little slower paced and would have loved to learn more about the magic system however the way you were drawn into the story was delightful and I thoroughly enjoyed the book.
I was provided with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
September 5, 2022
Magic might have gone into hiding, but hints remained. If you found the right words, the right stories, then even magic might flourish again.
Following the death of her father, a lover of storytelling who also taught “tap-code” (Morse code), 19-year-old Doris Nanette Ivan decides to take up her sister Elodie’s offer to move north to her house in the nation of Rosada. However, once she arrives, Nanette realizes things in Rosada are very different and soon it’s revealed that storytelling is banned. With the help of cabby Ryon Barnes (“like a barn” as he repeatedly says), Nanette discovers a Black Market where stories are still shared as well as the darker corners of the self-proclaimed utopia. They fight to keep stories alive, but find that some are just as willing to fight to keep them silent.
I liked the small LGBT aspects of this book. Nanette is introduced as open to polyamory, though it later does not seem as if that’s her preference. Her sister’s wife Marietta is a trans woman, recently transitioned. Other things I adored was the use of Morse code with the chapter numbers and the book’s fantasy-tinged world where magic has faded or been repressed.
There were some big problems with the novel. I was confused by how the characters spoke and acted. It was incredibly juvenile. I think the writing itself was unpolished and, in haste to establish certain emotion or detail, the author didn’t try to weave the story more naturally. A lot of things that should have been exciting and interesting happened, but because of the writing, it all came across as flat and lifeless. Also, the author sometimes uses a word or phrase incorrectly, such as Nanette having a “pension for stories.” If you aren't sure a word or turn of phrase you're using is correct, don't use it. In a novel that put a spotlight on storytelling, these issues were especially grievous.
The character of Elodie made no sense. I’ve noticed that many recent fantasy books tend to write the sister(s) of the main character as cold, haughty, and showcasing almost no familial love with no explanation for the animosity. Elodie falls into this blueprint. She’s lofty and sneering, and repeatedly calls Nanette by her first name despite the fact that she goes by her middle name. That Elodie, who is happily married to a trans woman, would repeatedly misname Nanette is not exactly believable.
Verdict
This was not my cup of tea. I found myself checking out while reading the last 20%.
So, who would enjoy this book?
I think this is one of those YA books that can only be enjoyed within the targeted age group. I think young preteens and teens will enjoy this fantasy novel. (Apparently this is rated 18+, but I completely disagree with that. This book does not feel "new adult" at all. As I said, everything has a juvenile feeling to it. The sex scenes are pretty clean, with most of the acts taking place "off screen," so to speak. I wouldn't regard any of the content as explicit.)
Following the death of her father, a lover of storytelling who also taught “tap-code” (Morse code), 19-year-old Doris Nanette Ivan decides to take up her sister Elodie’s offer to move north to her house in the nation of Rosada. However, once she arrives, Nanette realizes things in Rosada are very different and soon it’s revealed that storytelling is banned. With the help of cabby Ryon Barnes (“like a barn” as he repeatedly says), Nanette discovers a Black Market where stories are still shared as well as the darker corners of the self-proclaimed utopia. They fight to keep stories alive, but find that some are just as willing to fight to keep them silent.
I liked the small LGBT aspects of this book. Nanette is introduced as open to polyamory, though it later does not seem as if that’s her preference. Her sister’s wife Marietta is a trans woman, recently transitioned. Other things I adored was the use of Morse code with the chapter numbers and the book’s fantasy-tinged world where magic has faded or been repressed.
There were some big problems with the novel. I was confused by how the characters spoke and acted. It was incredibly juvenile. I think the writing itself was unpolished and, in haste to establish certain emotion or detail, the author didn’t try to weave the story more naturally. A lot of things that should have been exciting and interesting happened, but because of the writing, it all came across as flat and lifeless. Also, the author sometimes uses a word or phrase incorrectly, such as Nanette having a “pension for stories.” If you aren't sure a word or turn of phrase you're using is correct, don't use it. In a novel that put a spotlight on storytelling, these issues were especially grievous.
The character of Elodie made no sense. I’ve noticed that many recent fantasy books tend to write the sister(s) of the main character as cold, haughty, and showcasing almost no familial love with no explanation for the animosity. Elodie falls into this blueprint. She’s lofty and sneering, and repeatedly calls Nanette by her first name despite the fact that she goes by her middle name. That Elodie, who is happily married to a trans woman, would repeatedly misname Nanette is not exactly believable.
Verdict
This was not my cup of tea. I found myself checking out while reading the last 20%.
So, who would enjoy this book?
I think this is one of those YA books that can only be enjoyed within the targeted age group. I think young preteens and teens will enjoy this fantasy novel. (Apparently this is rated 18+, but I completely disagree with that. This book does not feel "new adult" at all. As I said, everything has a juvenile feeling to it. The sex scenes are pretty clean, with most of the acts taking place "off screen," so to speak. I wouldn't regard any of the content as explicit.)
September 25, 2022
This was one of my favorite reads of the year last year, as I was fortunate enough to beta and ARC read it. The characters are amazing and I spent most of my day curled up reading it, saying that I would stop at the end of the chapter, but needing to find out what happened in the next one. If you’re looking for a page-turner and something that will make you think about the importance of story telling, this book is for you. I can’t wait to buy this one as gifts for my friends and family.
June 6, 2022
What if stories were banned?
That is the case in the city of Rosada where Nanette decides to live with her sister Elodie after her father passes away. Her father always told stories and she had no idea that they were banned in Rosada until she came to live there.
This book combines romance with dystopian themes and fantasy/medieval setting but there's also science present in the form of medicinal remedies beyond regular medieval options. There is magic but that is also suppressed by the government alongside any non-sanctioned stories. Nannette must not only navigate her own decisions in whether or not to rebel against these sanctions, but also her relationship with her sister who agrees with the government.
The pacing in the book sometimes threw me off. There are a lot of time jumps with fill-in paragraphs of what had been going on. Sometimes it seems to move the story along a little too quickly. I think that this story could have been stretched a little further and been a fantastic read.
I really loved the transgender representation in this book. Elodie's spouse is in the process of transitioning when Nannette arrives and it is handled with respect, love, and support.
I also appreciate that this was not a "one person takes down the government and saves the world" type of book. It really focused in on the realism of what one person can do but also how one person can have an amazing impact in their lifetime.
There is spice in this book but it's closer to closed-door/low spice. You know that they're banging a lot but its not heavily described. There is also the main characters exploration of her sexuality and I appreciated how that was handled and how it contributed to her character development.
I felt like I had a great idea of the world without descriptions dragging on. I was more curious about the magic system. It seemed like it was dying out and there wasn't big magic anymore. But overall the worldbuilding was great in the short span the author had. I loved that it also included an updated medicinal system that was even able to treat one characters diabetes.
Overall, this book was fantastic in it's examination of how one person can create change and how even small impacts can make a difference. But within that, the inner turmoil between doing what you think is right and staying connected to your family. Most dystopian novels leave me feeling like I could never be that person who changes the world but this one made me think about all the people in history who have rebelled against injustices in small ways, and the impact they had on the world.
That is the case in the city of Rosada where Nanette decides to live with her sister Elodie after her father passes away. Her father always told stories and she had no idea that they were banned in Rosada until she came to live there.
This book combines romance with dystopian themes and fantasy/medieval setting but there's also science present in the form of medicinal remedies beyond regular medieval options. There is magic but that is also suppressed by the government alongside any non-sanctioned stories. Nannette must not only navigate her own decisions in whether or not to rebel against these sanctions, but also her relationship with her sister who agrees with the government.
The pacing in the book sometimes threw me off. There are a lot of time jumps with fill-in paragraphs of what had been going on. Sometimes it seems to move the story along a little too quickly. I think that this story could have been stretched a little further and been a fantastic read.
I really loved the transgender representation in this book. Elodie's spouse is in the process of transitioning when Nannette arrives and it is handled with respect, love, and support.
I also appreciate that this was not a "one person takes down the government and saves the world" type of book. It really focused in on the realism of what one person can do but also how one person can have an amazing impact in their lifetime.
There is spice in this book but it's closer to closed-door/low spice. You know that they're banging a lot but its not heavily described. There is also the main characters exploration of her sexuality and I appreciated how that was handled and how it contributed to her character development.
I felt like I had a great idea of the world without descriptions dragging on. I was more curious about the magic system. It seemed like it was dying out and there wasn't big magic anymore. But overall the worldbuilding was great in the short span the author had. I loved that it also included an updated medicinal system that was even able to treat one characters diabetes.
Overall, this book was fantastic in it's examination of how one person can create change and how even small impacts can make a difference. But within that, the inner turmoil between doing what you think is right and staying connected to your family. Most dystopian novels leave me feeling like I could never be that person who changes the world but this one made me think about all the people in history who have rebelled against injustices in small ways, and the impact they had on the world.
July 20, 2024
The premise sounds really interesting, the telling of stories is illegal. It turns out it's more like a poor man's 1984 where only official "histories", which are lies, are allowed and the authoritarian/religious government goes on raids and throws "storytellers" in a secret prison, that is just sitting next to a village not hidden, without any sort of due process. It all sounded like something I would love, but it fell really flat for me. I can't even really put my finger on why. I was just so bored by everything that happened. There was plot and things happened, but it was painfully predictable and not a twist or turn in sight. I also disliked most of the characters when you are supposed to like them. The ending where the insufferable sister suddenly has a change of heart and everything is forgiven because...family. Gag.
Oddly, I kept having to reinterpret the time period this is supposed to represent. I get that this is a fantasy world, but it's usually grounded in a real time period so you know what kind of technology and customs to expect. At first, I thought it was classic medieval fantasy, lots of foot travel and horses. Then there were references to trains and needle injections, and I reinterpreted to a 19th century-ish time. But then the police have guns and slicked back hair and it seems very 1984 after all, and I'm wondering if it was supposed to be modern this whole time, but without cars for some reason. It has a modern feel the whole time with one of the characters having diabetes and he uses disposable needles, but he gets the medicine and disposable needles from the apothecary, so it
is confusing.
Not particularly important, but it was often enough to disrupt my reading experience, this needs a copy editor. There were several typos, like a sentence that is cut off and never finishes, misspellings, and misused words. We all make typos and even more so when editing, but before publishing, it needs a couple careful reads to catch all those.
By the end, I was just reading it to get it finished. It was too simplistic for me in both style and themes.
Oddly, I kept having to reinterpret the time period this is supposed to represent. I get that this is a fantasy world, but it's usually grounded in a real time period so you know what kind of technology and customs to expect. At first, I thought it was classic medieval fantasy, lots of foot travel and horses. Then there were references to trains and needle injections, and I reinterpreted to a 19th century-ish time. But then the police have guns and slicked back hair and it seems very 1984 after all, and I'm wondering if it was supposed to be modern this whole time, but without cars for some reason. It has a modern feel the whole time with one of the characters having diabetes and he uses disposable needles, but he gets the medicine and disposable needles from the apothecary, so it
is confusing.
Not particularly important, but it was often enough to disrupt my reading experience, this needs a copy editor. There were several typos, like a sentence that is cut off and never finishes, misspellings, and misused words. We all make typos and even more so when editing, but before publishing, it needs a couple careful reads to catch all those.
By the end, I was just reading it to get it finished. It was too simplistic for me in both style and themes.
June 22, 2022
A thrilling book filled with stories and romance
-Indie TBR takeover review-
After her father's death, Nanette decides to join her sister in Rosada. But she didn't know that in that country, magic and storytelling are banned. The Order reigns like a despot and her sister is oblivious to it. With the help of a cabby, Nanette tries to reignite storytelling in Rosada, a dangerous but important mission. Are stories worth risking her life for?
I was completely drawn by that gorgeous cover and the book was amazing as well! I really liked the concept of stories being banned in a country - it's unique and fresh, something I've never come across before. Although the beginning of the book was a bit slow and confusing with the writing, the second part really kicked in. The plot became more intense and thrilling and I was really hooked. The romance was sweet and made absolute sense and I liked the somewhat "forbidden love" trope. Nanette is strong, brave and really badass in her own way and I loved that she was prepared to do anything to fight for what she believes in, no matter the consequences. Her relationship with her sister was quite interesting as well, although I admit she got on my nerves quite a lot. I also loved the representation (lgbtqia+) that was really smooth and casual, absolutely perfectly written in my opinion. The setting was also really cool and I had a great time reading.
I recommend if you like rebellious protagonists and unique concepts.
"Now everything was dead.
Empty.
But at least it belonged to us."
TW: death, suicide, violence, police brutality, trauma, assault
-Indie TBR takeover review-
After her father's death, Nanette decides to join her sister in Rosada. But she didn't know that in that country, magic and storytelling are banned. The Order reigns like a despot and her sister is oblivious to it. With the help of a cabby, Nanette tries to reignite storytelling in Rosada, a dangerous but important mission. Are stories worth risking her life for?
I was completely drawn by that gorgeous cover and the book was amazing as well! I really liked the concept of stories being banned in a country - it's unique and fresh, something I've never come across before. Although the beginning of the book was a bit slow and confusing with the writing, the second part really kicked in. The plot became more intense and thrilling and I was really hooked. The romance was sweet and made absolute sense and I liked the somewhat "forbidden love" trope. Nanette is strong, brave and really badass in her own way and I loved that she was prepared to do anything to fight for what she believes in, no matter the consequences. Her relationship with her sister was quite interesting as well, although I admit she got on my nerves quite a lot. I also loved the representation (lgbtqia+) that was really smooth and casual, absolutely perfectly written in my opinion. The setting was also really cool and I had a great time reading.
I recommend if you like rebellious protagonists and unique concepts.
"Now everything was dead.
Empty.
But at least it belonged to us."
TW: death, suicide, violence, police brutality, trauma, assault
January 25, 2022
If you are reading this review, I only have one thing to say. Buy. The. Book. (Or pre-order if you are seeing this before it’s released). Great characters- check. Unique interesting plot- check. Representation- check. Heartwarming romance- check. Great writing? CHECK! I was lucky enough to be an arc reader but I that does not mean I feel the need to make it sound better than it was, I genuinely enjoyed this book and this review is 100% honest. It is a beautiful story about the importance of storytelling on society and to people. Definitely makes me appreciate the stories I’ve personally been told a lot more. Being honest, I would’ve liked a little more from the ending but I am definitely a go big or go home person and everyone likes different things from books they read- not saying it was a bad ending, it was great for the book and it’s main characters and so well written, I just personally wanted a tad bit more. Overall- amazing book.
March 8, 2022
E.S. Barrison continues to grow as a writer while providing her fans with a deeper understanding of the Effluvium in this standalone prequel to "The Life and Death Cycle."
It is 60 years before Brent makes his chaotic appearance in "The Mistkeeper's Apprentice". Storytelling has already been outlawed in Rosada and efforts to expand the edict throughout the land is quickly ramping up. Enter Nanette, a young woman who moves to Rosada to be with her sister after her father's death. Little did she know that her chance encounter with a handsome and quirky cabbie would open her eyes to the injustice of a world without stories, and that this would lead her on an heroic path that would influence events to come. Great read that makes me look forward to the 3rd book in " The Life and Death Cycle."
It is 60 years before Brent makes his chaotic appearance in "The Mistkeeper's Apprentice". Storytelling has already been outlawed in Rosada and efforts to expand the edict throughout the land is quickly ramping up. Enter Nanette, a young woman who moves to Rosada to be with her sister after her father's death. Little did she know that her chance encounter with a handsome and quirky cabbie would open her eyes to the injustice of a world without stories, and that this would lead her on an heroic path that would influence events to come. Great read that makes me look forward to the 3rd book in " The Life and Death Cycle."
February 10, 2022
The author was kind enough to provide me a beautiful, free copy as an advanced reader.
While there are some interesting pacing choices, the overall story is a delightful tale walking the line between magical realism, other-world fantasy, and socio-political commentary, all within a diverse and interesting setting. What I think I like most about it in terms of an "overthrow the government" sort of story is the smallness of it. Our main character is just one person, doing their best. And I think that's a much more compelling story of not burning everything down single-handedly, but the little things that every one can do to create resistance.
While there are some interesting pacing choices, the overall story is a delightful tale walking the line between magical realism, other-world fantasy, and socio-political commentary, all within a diverse and interesting setting. What I think I like most about it in terms of an "overthrow the government" sort of story is the smallness of it. Our main character is just one person, doing their best. And I think that's a much more compelling story of not burning everything down single-handedly, but the little things that every one can do to create resistance.
February 14, 2022
Once again, it's a knock out tale from E.S. Barrison! Yet again we return to the world of The Mist Keepers Apprentice, this time from a different perspective. The world is familiar, yet alien, and the characters you've grown to love are no where to be found. In their place we find a new cast of unique faces, each with their own quirks, traumas, and ambitions. Story telling may be illegal in this book, but thankfully it's not in real life. Which means you have no excuse not to check out this awesome book! I'm truly excited to see what's next from Miss Barrison!
This is an ARC Review, all opinions are solely my own.
This is an ARC Review, all opinions are solely my own.
July 1, 2022
The story follows in the Nanette. Well she follows her sister to the city. After her father passes away. She finds out that magic is banished and storytelling is outlawed. Nanette finds out that there is an unused speakeasy underneath her house that she lives with her sister as well as secret tunnels. I really enjoy the story and it had me sucked in trying to follow what was happening with the storytelling. ES barrison throw a story full of secrets, conspiracy, romance and revelation. I am excited to read more from this author. She wrote the characters to be likable and the church to be the same tyrant we face in our daily life.
June 10, 2022
This is not the first book from this author that I have read and been intreagued by. E.S Barrison has a unique way of laying out her stories that I can't quite describe properly. I feel like with her books I'm never quite sure what I'm going to get or whats coming next.
Speak Easy takes you into a world where stories and magic are outlawed, following the character Nanette as she battles between what she believes, and what the law wants her to do.
This was a very interesting and inclusive book that I think most readers like myself that love tales about stories and magic will appreciate.
Speak Easy takes you into a world where stories and magic are outlawed, following the character Nanette as she battles between what she believes, and what the law wants her to do.
This was a very interesting and inclusive book that I think most readers like myself that love tales about stories and magic will appreciate.
March 9, 2022
This story transports the reader to a different time and place. So, it comes with a map at the beginning of the book to track where the events unfold. Barrison wrote a masterpiece. I was unable to put this book down once I started it. It’s a beautiful story riddled with an array of themes and emotion. The characters are relatable, the imagery is vivid, the feelings are palpable. I cannot wait for the books that are to follow this one. A wonderfully entertaining read.
February 21, 2022
Speakeasy was sent to me as an Arc copy which was really nice of the author. I do like most fantasy fiction and this was a nicely written tale with a good ending. As an author I can relate to the main character and would hope that I would have the courage to rebel against any government that outlawed out right to tell stories.
January 31, 2022
This book was such an easy and pleasant read. Perfect short chapters, you'll easily fall in love with the characters (Ryon is SUCH a sweetheart) and obviously hate some. I really enjoyed myself while reading and can't thank enough the Author for letting me get my hands on an ARC.
May 31, 2022
This was a lovely, lyrical short novel with a lot of interesting things to say about the power of storytelling in dangerous times. There was a dream-like quality to the book, and the epilogue had me in tears (the good kind). If you want a quick gas lamp fantasy to read, pick this book up.
December 23, 2022
Such a light-hearted read. Nanette and Ryon are such a cute couple. Stories and magic are forbidden and a rebellion trying to happen. Fast paced and a little rushed in places but other times medium paced. Would of loved more from it but found such a cute read.
July 2, 2022
Great story! It's a page Turner. Very intriguing
July 14, 2022
.5 brilliant read nothing like what I expected from the title of the book.
January 16, 2024
This is such a great addition to the world of the effluvium. I loved it from start to finish struggled to put it down definitely worth a read 😊😊
March 24, 2022
[ Book 10/100 for 2022 ]
4/5 ☆
This book was given to me as an arc by the author, I'd like to say thank you even though this is super super late. Life just kind of got in the way and I'm only now catching up on writing the reviews.
This book was my first one by E.S Barrison and to say I was impressed was an understatement.
The book is set in Rosada after Nanette's father dies and she travels to live with her sister in the city. In Rosada, storytelling is outlawed and the country is plagued under the force of The Order. The world building is what initially drew me in as it feels dystopian (one of my all time favourite genres 🥰).
The representation in this book is diverse, it includes disabilities (Ryon having diabetes), LGBTQ+ content with Nanette's sister and her wife. There is also representation of police brutality and the totalitarian(ish) form of government, which is one something that is prevalent today and something which I find isn't discussed enough today.
The relationships between characters and their development was really well executed. Nanette and Ryon's relationship was beautiful (even if I felt it moved rather quickly) they were happy for one another and their determination for what they believed in sparking their rebellion and constant companionship and supportiveness for one another is something I adored. Nanette's development and growth as a character was prevalent as she thought for herself and fought for what she believed in, being the appreciation and importance of stories through the speakeasy that was opened and run for many years.
I could honestly go on for ages about the positive things about this book. But overall it was fantastic and I will be reading the other books by this author and recommending them to people who like these sorts of genres. The only pitfall I had was it slowed down in the middle of the book and I got bored and left it for a few weeks but trudged through the slow parts and finished the book.
4/5 ☆
This book was given to me as an arc by the author, I'd like to say thank you even though this is super super late. Life just kind of got in the way and I'm only now catching up on writing the reviews.
This book was my first one by E.S Barrison and to say I was impressed was an understatement.
The book is set in Rosada after Nanette's father dies and she travels to live with her sister in the city. In Rosada, storytelling is outlawed and the country is plagued under the force of The Order. The world building is what initially drew me in as it feels dystopian (one of my all time favourite genres 🥰).
The representation in this book is diverse, it includes disabilities (Ryon having diabetes), LGBTQ+ content with Nanette's sister and her wife. There is also representation of police brutality and the totalitarian(ish) form of government, which is one something that is prevalent today and something which I find isn't discussed enough today.
The relationships between characters and their development was really well executed. Nanette and Ryon's relationship was beautiful (even if I felt it moved rather quickly) they were happy for one another and their determination for what they believed in sparking their rebellion and constant companionship and supportiveness for one another is something I adored. Nanette's development and growth as a character was prevalent as she thought for herself and fought for what she believed in, being the appreciation and importance of stories through the speakeasy that was opened and run for many years.
I could honestly go on for ages about the positive things about this book. But overall it was fantastic and I will be reading the other books by this author and recommending them to people who like these sorts of genres. The only pitfall I had was it slowed down in the middle of the book and I got bored and left it for a few weeks but trudged through the slow parts and finished the book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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December 11, 2022
I was granted an ARC of this book by the author. Leaving a review was highly encouraged but not required.
Nanette puts the “speak” in “speakeasy.”
Taking place in the universe of The Mist Keeper’s Apprentice, Speak Easy is the tale of how an immigrant woman, in spite of the Rosadian government’s ban on storytelling, opens a secret tavern where people are free to share stories. It is the origin story of the tavern that Brent and Rho visited in MKA, though it is not necessary to have read the first installment in order to understand and enjoy this side story.
As stated on the author’s website, this book contains adult language, sexual situations, violence, police brutality, mentions of suicide, and trauma.
The linear plot flows well, twists and turns included, and the tension from wondering “Will she get caught?” kept my heart pounding throughout. The only elements that yanked me out of the story were the occasional odd wordings and some worldbuilding decisions that bothered me, but for the most part, the writing is lovely and immersive. The characters are also unique and lovable (I want my own Ryon Barnes).
Overall, Speak Easy was a fun read. If you’re interested in diving into an immersive fantasy setting and a tale of rebellion through the power of words, I would recommend adding this to your TBR.
Nanette puts the “speak” in “speakeasy.”
Taking place in the universe of The Mist Keeper’s Apprentice, Speak Easy is the tale of how an immigrant woman, in spite of the Rosadian government’s ban on storytelling, opens a secret tavern where people are free to share stories. It is the origin story of the tavern that Brent and Rho visited in MKA, though it is not necessary to have read the first installment in order to understand and enjoy this side story.
As stated on the author’s website, this book contains adult language, sexual situations, violence, police brutality, mentions of suicide, and trauma.
The linear plot flows well, twists and turns included, and the tension from wondering “Will she get caught?” kept my heart pounding throughout. The only elements that yanked me out of the story were the occasional odd wordings and some worldbuilding decisions that bothered me, but for the most part, the writing is lovely and immersive. The characters are also unique and lovable (I want my own Ryon Barnes).
Overall, Speak Easy was a fun read. If you’re interested in diving into an immersive fantasy setting and a tale of rebellion through the power of words, I would recommend adding this to your TBR.
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