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Crossroads Chronicles #1
Family Ties
Sometimes family is there to love you, and sometimes family is there to kill you...
When a man came into my shop in the Great Marketplace at the Crossroads of the Worlds and tried to kill me, it completely ruined my day. Not only did I have to clean up the blood, but disposing of his body made me late to meet my friends for drinks.
A nagging little detail kept bugging me, though. As he died, he said he was hired by my mother’s family—people I hadn’t seen for more than a decade. Then I discovered that assassins had made attempts on my brother and sister as well. As much as I didn’t want to, I decided I should find out who wanted us dead, and put a stop to it
Talk about stepping out of the pan into the fire…
When a man came into my shop in the Great Marketplace at the Crossroads of the Worlds and tried to kill me, it completely ruined my day. Not only did I have to clean up the blood, but disposing of his body made me late to meet my friends for drinks.
A nagging little detail kept bugging me, though. As he died, he said he was hired by my mother’s family—people I hadn’t seen for more than a decade. Then I discovered that assassins had made attempts on my brother and sister as well. As much as I didn’t want to, I decided I should find out who wanted us dead, and put a stop to it
Talk about stepping out of the pan into the fire…
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published February 23, 2022
883 people are currently reading
1145 people want to read
About the author
B.R. Kingsolver
42 books954 followersI made silver and turquoise jewelry for almost a decade, ended up in nursing school, then took a master’s in business. Along the way I worked in construction, as a newspaper editor, a teacher, and somehow found a career working with computers.
As to my other interests, I love the outdoors, especially the Rocky Mountains. I’ve skied since high school, with one broken leg and one torn ACL to show for it. I’ve hiked and camped all my life. I love to travel, though I haven’t done enough of it. I’ve seen a lot of Russia and Mexico, not enough of England. Amsterdam is amazing, and the Romanian Alps are breathtaking. Lake Tahoe is a favorite, and someday I’d like to see Banff.
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As to my other interests, I love the outdoors, especially the Rocky Mountains. I’ve skied since high school, with one broken leg and one torn ACL to show for it. I’ve hiked and camped all my life. I love to travel, though I haven’t done enough of it. I’ve seen a lot of Russia and Mexico, not enough of England. Amsterdam is amazing, and the Romanian Alps are breathtaking. Lake Tahoe is a favorite, and someday I’d like to see Banff.
For special deals and news about new books, sign up for my newsletter.
http://brkingsolver.us1.list-manage.c...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
March 1, 2022
I’ve read quite a few books from BR Kingsolver. They are not an author I root for, but until now I thought their books decent, if not necessarily good.
Family ties was utterly flat, boring, confusing with cardboard characters (sll of whom seemed pretty damn stupid) and a mess of a plot.
As this is the first review, I’ll avoid the one star, but heck it’s really that and not much more.
Edited to add that as this isn’t anymore its only review I rated 1 star.
Family ties was utterly flat, boring, confusing with cardboard characters (sll of whom seemed pretty damn stupid) and a mess of a plot.
As this is the first review, I’ll avoid the one star, but heck it’s really that and not much more.
Edited to add that as this isn’t anymore its only review I rated 1 star.
May 20, 2022
Enjoyable Urban Fantasy
I’d probably give this book 4.5 ⭐️ if I could.
This is the first book in a continuing series, however the book ends at a natural break in the narrative. There is no cliffhanger.
Diana is a half-elven smith, who specialises in the creation of blades and jewellery. Her shop at the market at the crossroads of the worlds provides a good living, but she chooses to live in Dublin on Earth. She manages this because one of the magical traits she inherited from her mother was the ability to Walk between worlds. When an assassin walks into her shop she finds herself having to work out why she has been targeted and by whom. This is the first step on a journey that returns her to her elven roots and on her way she begins to understand exactly why her mother wanted nothing to do with her heritage.
This is a fast paced thriller with unbeatable world-building. I have really loved most of BR Kingsolver’s books and this new series is no different in quality. Diana is an interesting character, the oldest of three siblings who have a unique upbringing. Her parents have two different types of magic and she and her siblings have inherited both types but at a weaker level. Diana is proud of her skills as a Smith and she is adept with a blade. She’s competent and self-aware, which I always find attractive in a character. She is complex with a deeply constructed history that is unveiled slowly through hints as the story progresses. Her history sounds as interesting as her present adventures.
The other characters that surround Diana are all fascinating too. Her brother and sister both have rich backgrounds that are fleshed out to give context to Diana’s personality. There is a large cast of characters and all have distinct personalities, motives and histories. Something tells me we may see more of them in future books in this series.
There are plenty of magical and sword based battles in this book, along with political intrigue and assassination plots. The plot is constantly moving forward and kept me wanting to just finish another chapter. I love the way this author weaves world-building, fast paced and intricate plots and well-rounded and intriguing characters. I can’t wait to see what the next book has in store!
I’d probably give this book 4.5 ⭐️ if I could.
This is the first book in a continuing series, however the book ends at a natural break in the narrative. There is no cliffhanger.
Diana is a half-elven smith, who specialises in the creation of blades and jewellery. Her shop at the market at the crossroads of the worlds provides a good living, but she chooses to live in Dublin on Earth. She manages this because one of the magical traits she inherited from her mother was the ability to Walk between worlds. When an assassin walks into her shop she finds herself having to work out why she has been targeted and by whom. This is the first step on a journey that returns her to her elven roots and on her way she begins to understand exactly why her mother wanted nothing to do with her heritage.
This is a fast paced thriller with unbeatable world-building. I have really loved most of BR Kingsolver’s books and this new series is no different in quality. Diana is an interesting character, the oldest of three siblings who have a unique upbringing. Her parents have two different types of magic and she and her siblings have inherited both types but at a weaker level. Diana is proud of her skills as a Smith and she is adept with a blade. She’s competent and self-aware, which I always find attractive in a character. She is complex with a deeply constructed history that is unveiled slowly through hints as the story progresses. Her history sounds as interesting as her present adventures.
The other characters that surround Diana are all fascinating too. Her brother and sister both have rich backgrounds that are fleshed out to give context to Diana’s personality. There is a large cast of characters and all have distinct personalities, motives and histories. Something tells me we may see more of them in future books in this series.
There are plenty of magical and sword based battles in this book, along with political intrigue and assassination plots. The plot is constantly moving forward and kept me wanting to just finish another chapter. I love the way this author weaves world-building, fast paced and intricate plots and well-rounded and intriguing characters. I can’t wait to see what the next book has in store!
did-not-finish
May 6, 2023DNF at 18%.
Everything comes way too easily for our heroine. She is attacked and she prevails with no issues. And she’s attacked a lot. She’s got special powers and can walk between worlds. But this isn’t a travel story so each day takes about a page. She’s whipping through worlds and using her magic left and right.
Sadly, it is boring and I’m going to mosey on.
Everything comes way too easily for our heroine. She is attacked and she prevails with no issues. And she’s attacked a lot. She’s got special powers and can walk between worlds. But this isn’t a travel story so each day takes about a page. She’s whipping through worlds and using her magic left and right.
Sadly, it is boring and I’m going to mosey on.
June 9, 2023
Not bad, this had a lot of world building and revelations about the magical abilities of the heroine. She’s pretty strong and things seem to come easy including magic and overpowering enemies.
August 16, 2022
Diana is about to close shop when she gets a last minute customer asking for a custom made sword. A minute or two later another man comes in, this time it's an assassin. The attempt fails and she gets one word out of him. Schlekek. Her mother's family in Galondril. She thought that was all left behind when her mother renounced any interest in succession. She visits her parents. Then on to her sister who also thwarted an assassination attempt. Now she has to do something, but first a stop to get some backup. Turns out her brother Bjorn was also targeted. Diana and her siblings weren't the only targets. Uncle Fedor has recently died in an accident. More attacks, some successful. Diana and Bjorn try to root out the culprit(s). Then a neighboring kingdom starts a war.
Lots of action, a mystery, nice world building. Diana is pretty badass. The opening pages aren't the only time she is attacked and comes out on top. She has a fairly rare gift of being a Walker, someone who can move between worlds, other magic that she inherited from her mother and smart. A really enjoyable protagonist. 4.7 stars.
Lots of action, a mystery, nice world building. Diana is pretty badass. The opening pages aren't the only time she is attacked and comes out on top. She has a fairly rare gift of being a Walker, someone who can move between worlds, other magic that she inherited from her mother and smart. A really enjoyable protagonist. 4.7 stars.
March 6, 2022
I really enjoyed a big chunk of this book, but I began to get a bit fed up of keeping track of all the Elf noble women and by the end I wasn’t bothered who was causing all the problems. After a good start it almost felt like the author had nearly given up towards the end.
March 4, 2022
Sometimes a tried and true author starts a new series that just doesn't click with you. That is the case for me with "Family Ties." I love a good family story but this read lack sufficient world building as well as good characterization to make it memorable or tolerable. It started off well enough but it quickly grew into one attack after another and not much else to recommend it. I won't spend a lot of time reviewing this book because it's taken up enough of my time reading it. It had the potential to be reallly good but failed early on (roughly 35% into the read). I am a fan of B.R. Kingsolver but this book just wasn't up to the author's usual standards. I can only speak for myself when I say that I will not be going on to other books in this series. Too many good books and not enough time for bad ones! Sorry B.R. but this is not your best!
October 20, 2022
2022 bk 323. An excellent beginning to what I hope will be a multiple book series. I enjoyed the interaction between Diana and her sibling Bjorn and add to that mix an estranged family, well you just know tensions will run high. Since the estranged family includes their grandfather who has his own kingdom, well, you've just added war, invasion, assassination attempts (my goodness this author is inventive in ways and means), and other devious plottings. 'Twas a fun read and made me thankful for my own family.
Read
February 14, 2026Rating: minus 12 on a scale of minus 15 to plus 5
I begin with a YouTube visit. This review made possible by Doctor Who/They Break My Heart, Lily Simpson, LuckyBlackCat, ScaredKetchup, Willow Talks Books, Sailing Melody, Kris Atomic, Red Glasgow, Lena Down Under, Riverboat Jack, kgb detected, aidan knight, Biz, Welcome to Ukraine, Leeja Miller, Welcome to Ukraine,
Shades of Orange, Outlaw Bookseller, Subha Reads, A Cosy Creative, Authentic Observer, Reads with Rachel, Hardy's Books, The Brothers Gwynne, Jean's Thoughts, Lily Alexandre, Owen Jones, Keffals, KernowDamo, Sakhalia Net, Time Ghost History, Kings and Generals, Anna from Ukraine, Sydney Morning Herald and the Age,
Ukraine Calling, Boat Time, Northern Narrowboaters, Narrowboat Pirate, Lily Simpson, Just in Time Worldbuilding, Kyiv Independent, Matriarchetype, Ukraine:The Latest, The Confused Adipose, Fit 2B Read,, Wednesday Addams, Tom Powell, Reese Waters, Jen the Librarian, Acollierastro, NFKRZ, Anne Applebaum, Olivia Swing,
Lena Petrova, Unlearning Economics, Silicon Curtain, Truth to Power, The Queer Kiwi, Queen Coke Francis, Skyscraper Museum, Lynn Saga, Sweet but Psycho, Kady 2.0, Scottish Independence Podcast, Dan Davis History, Dungeons and Discourse, Ministry of Miniatures, Rogue Hobbies, Erutan, Drop It Like Spock, Kyiv Independent,
Cruising Crafts, Nomadic Crobot, Turn Left, Econ Lessons, Think Ukraine, Yanis Varoufakis, Today I Found Out, Bobbing Along, Ben and Emily, Kimberly Reads, Miranda Mills, A Sunny Book Nook, AuroraTrek, Combat Veteran Reacts, Wednesday Addams -Safety Dance, JKLN & Oksana Livach, Amanda and Shaye,
A Very Casual Librarian, Mom on the Spectrum, ThePrimeChronus, Radio Retrofuture, Fantasy and World Music by the Fletchers, Verilybitchie, Eugenia from Ukraine, EssenceOfThought, Philosophy Tube, Songs Sped Up, Rick the Ukrainian, France 24, BoardGameCo, Steve Shives, Venom Geek Media, Postmodern Jukebox,
Jessica Kellgren Fozard, CBC News, The Military Show, Artur Rehi, Dr Ben Miles, Michael Lambert, Roads with Belle, Jessie Gender, Roisin's Reading, Well Deck Diaries, Cruising Alba, Girl Gone London, Geo Girl, A Clockwork Reader, Roughest Drafts, Don't Fret, Sumatha Reads, Yoyomi, Irish Myths, Gracey D, Claus Kellerman POV,
Reese Waters, Agro Squirrel Narrates, Parkrose Permaculture, I've Had It, SiegeMental, Paul Warburg, Clouds and Sky, Wes O'Donnell, Historical Africa, Nicole Chilaka-Ukpo, RevolutionarythOt. Grace McGuire, Mythic Concept, Britta Bohler, NerdForge, Mercado Media, Anka Daily News, Shannon Makes, Hat Historian, Bernadette Banner, Caolan Robertson, Debs Unfiltered, FAFO.
A disturbed fanboy, whilst attacking a trans essayist complained to her that I included trans women creators. The Snowflake (unselfaware, poorly socialised, attention seeking US tittie-baby), no longer amazes. A trigger warning then.
The channels which I mention include the primatologist, cis, Irish, lumber yard worker, military boardgamer, lesbian, communist, chemist, engineer, WOC, intersex, theoretical physicist, science communicator, married, sewist, Iranian, trans, fabric maker, book reviewer, physically challenged, bi, psychologist, Scottish, economist, older, asexual, linguist, marine biologist, redhaired, chess player, chemist, German, boater, queer, military historian, cosplayer, mechanic, soldier and other creators known as Women.
Almost as disturbing to the Snowflake (barely educated,, brutish, insecure US man-child) are the anarchist, mathematician, reenactor, Ugandan, fashion historian, other BIPOC, anarchist, ginger, communist, physicist, other LGBTQ+, mathematician, Danish, socialist, archaeologist, wood worker, military modeller, paleontologist, farmer, neurodivergent, Australian, miniatures landscape builder, ministries wargamer, boat restorer, and others known (outside the US) as Human Beings.
Should the voices persist, seek the nearest shamanic counsellor and/or develop a new skill, such as critical thinking and\or seek emergency therapy.
My feelings towards these tormented souls, are similar to that of the 13 Ukrainian marines defending Snake Island, when their surrender was demanded by the Russian navy. Their response was "Russian warship, go f@ck yourself.". Glory to Ukraine. Glory to the Heroes. Crimea is Ukraine.
The writing is uneven. Her prose is solid. Where she placed her attention, characters and description were good. Where it slipped characters, description and plot suffered.
The great weakness is the deficiency in worldbuilding. Because of the general vague background, characters were often emotionless, reactions and plot points seemed disjointed.
Women do not possess magic, therefore women who possess magic are also murdered? There is no governmental structure, so no one to maintain the roads, dispose of waste, provide emergency services, maintain sanitation, provide medical care, policing, collect taxes even. The economics and political structure
are a black box.
The class divisions are never discussed.The absence of supernatural creatures isca missed opportunity. It is mentioned in passing that the town is part of a larger polity "organised" in a similar fashion. This is a sad representation of a post feudal society.
This next possible by YouTube Doctor Who \Without Without Reward, The Ritual Kitchen with Laura May, The Norse Witch, Diary of a Ditch Witch, Narrowboat, Serena Skybourne, Hej Sokoly, Underthedesknews, The Queer Kiwi, Jack Edwards, ScaredKetchup, Supertanskiii, Lily Simpson, Shitty Book Club, CBC News, Eva Schubert,
Gutsick Gibbon, Read Rant Review, The Council of Geeks, The Life Guide, Cindy's Villa, Guard the Leaf, Mom on the Spectrum, Queen Penguin, Nikki Carreon, The New Enlightenment with Ashley, declassified UK, Aid Thompsin, AllShorts, Kyiv Post, Ukraine Matters, Horses, HBomberGuy, James Tullos, Elyse Myers, Jean's Thoughts,
Quinn's Ideas, Andrew's Wizardly Reads, Princess Weekes, Tibees, Angela Collier, Dr Fatima, Dark Brandon, Think that Through, UKRaine Today, Central Crossing, Jay Exci, Verilybitchie, Fundie Fridays, Ukraine Matters, It's Black Friday, Reads with Rachel, The Great War, Terrible Writing Advice, It ain't half hot mum,
National Centre for Military Intelligence, Veritas et Caritas, Kat Blacque, DW News, The Bands of HM Royal Marines, Processor Gerdes Explains, Friendly Atheist, Alex Fleev, Mythology and Fiction Explained, A Clockwork Reader, Shades of Orange, United 24, Xiran Jay Zhao, Raw News and Politics, Political CUSTARD, Knowing Better, Gabi Belle,
Ember Green, Prose and Petticoats, Evie Lupine, Foster on the Spectrum, Fun Size Reader, Ian Gubeli, Hoots, Books and Things, Skip Intro, Lexi aka NewlyNova, Welsh Viking, Savy Writes Books, Steve Shives, Keffals, Kathy's Flog from France, Angelisa Reads, CriminOlly, Yoyomi, D'Angelo, Brandon Fisichella, Amie's Literary Empire,
Kazachka, Atun Shei Films, Wizards and Warriors, Dungeons and Discourse, DUST, Mandy, Tale Foundry, Candlelit Tales, The Grungeon Master, Living Anachronism, Radio Retrofuture, Deerstalker Pictures, Riverboat Jack, Weirdo Book Club, 3rd Regiment SOF, Professor Tim Wilson, OrangeRiver, Jessie Gender. Nordic Veil.
I also watched Kim's Convenience, Dark Winds, Landscape with Invisible Hand, Kath and Kim.
Current US speculative fiction especially ebooks, seem to have only three categories, Low Effort; Minimal Effort; No Effort. I found myself applauding books, whose main virtues were no misspellings, avoidance of word misuse, no overtly racist/sexist dialogue, no plot holes, no contrivance as plot driver or simply an attempt at worldbuilding.
Consider treating this as a hostile site. 🤔
Goodreads discourse does not exist. As example, I wrote a short negative review of Powers of the Earth by Travis Corcoran. From a glance at his other work, the quality of his bad writing is consistent.
Travis Corcoran self-described as libertarian (now anarcho capitalist without millions),
employee of an unnamed US agency, veteran,
vocal advocate for the return of chattel slavery (popular US opinion with the construction of new forced labour prisons for the newly criminalised unhoused individuals and families, permanent van and RV citizens. I see no path to freedom for them, as there criminality is tied to their very existence. Given US history and no mention of the new laws made by either Party, generational enslavement is on the cards.),
an admirer of Russia's police state (popular opinion with the present implementation of the Russian model of criminal charges for protest, for LGBTQI lifestyle, expanded and corrupt police authority and more being lauded by US patriots).
The book was originally blurbed as similar to a Heinlein classic but is instead a sorry retelling of "Atlas Shrugged" set on The moon. The book is the tale of a rich twat attempting overthrow of the US government with aid of the military in order that he not pay taxes.
I found that and the many similar books in Unlimited unhealthy, dangerous and now prophetic. Travis and six fellow patriots were outraged by my judgement.
There followed a year long demand that I respond to unhinged comments. I was gifted understanding that my refusal to engage was narcissistic, my assumed communist beliefs are evil, my intelligence was below average, slavery is a social good and similar (normal for Goodreads) comments.
The weight of irony is painful.
The final comment was delivered by Claes Rees Jr aka cgr710 now ka Clayton R Jesse Jr who no longer identifies as Nazi. After referencing the contents of my last message exchange with a Goodreads friend, he grandly proclaimed that They had "won" (?).
I discovered that They and friends had launched a year long deluge of vile sexual, racist and anti-LGBTQ I attacks against it seems, every channel which I mentioned and continues still.
They failed to impress the physicist, boater, archaeologist, historian or other female creators.
Despite that failure, They certainly increased the globe's overabundance of ugliness. In addition They also delivered a splendid self-portrait of the Snowflake (stupidly vicious, woman despising US man-child) to a multinational audience.
On balance certainly a Victory. Goodreads discourse is somewhat energetic but not what I had expected at start. If the least bit bothered by that comment stream, there are BookTubers to direct you to safer, saner, more useful reader forums.
I wandered onto YouTube for serious science fiction commentary. From there I stumbled upon the BookTube.😍 These channels host a variety of reader communities, which are curious, thoughtful and love all aspects of the the bookish experience. These are far different to the Goodreads environment, I promise.
This next made possible by YouTube Doctor Who\Never Never Cruel or Cowardly, The New Enlightenment with Ashley, Probably Off Reading, ReadWithCindy, EarleWrites, Female Warriors -Teresatessa, Nomadic Crobot, Natasha's Adventures, Red Viburnam Song, Ship Happens, Yugopnik, Honest Government Ads, Omeleto, D'Angelo,
Cossack and Caucasus Sword Dance, Rachel Oates, Voices of Avalon, Kozak Siromaha, Times Radio, Haley Pham, The Book Leo, Emma Thorne, Caspian Report, Addie LaMarr, The Researcher, Hardy's Books, Think Ukraine, DUST, Rowan is Reading, Abby Cox, Stevie Emerson, Trae Crowder, Hej Sokoly, The Juice Media, Songs Sped Up,
According to Alina, Kiko1006, The Snake Charmer, Karolina Zebrowska, Matriarchetype, Reads with Rachel, Ukraine News TV, I'm Rosa, With Olivia, Katy Montgomerie, Joe Blogs, Unlearning Economics, Verilybitchie, Bitchuation Room, Gutsick Gibbon, Planarwalker, Dr Ben Miles, MechWest Show, History with Kayleigh,
Lives and Histories, The British Museum, Bella Ciao -Kutuzov, Annamarie Forcino, Brigitte Empire, Yarmak, Amie's Literary Empire, Tibees, Munecat, RFU News,
Cambrian Chronicles, Belle of the Ranch, Fit 2B Read, Gabi Belle, Swell Entertainment, David and Romany Gilmour, Mercado Media, Some More News, Depressed Russian,
The Institute of Art and Ideas, Emilie's Literary Corner, ATP Geopolitics, Wizards and Warriors, Cindy Pinchart, Not the Andrew Marr Show, Ryan McBeth, Jake Broe, Caitlin Speaks Out, Ro Ramdin, Kirkpattiecake, Postmodern Jukebox, Lily Simpson, Elina Charatsidou, Tara Mooknee, Political X, Russian Dude, No Justice.Visual Politik En.
Ominous music begins. 😊 It is a shame that science fiction reader abuse does not receive more attention The practice of attacking fellow readers is common. Amazon/Goodreads have never acted against mental members, writers leading gangs organised nor the employees who enable them.
Gang activity includes the stalking. doxxing, threats, hacking and other against one star reviewer's friends and family.
Female readers attract comments ranging from their gender can not understand science fiction to suggestions that they should get the stick out of their butt to suggesting that their opinion must be a reaction to recent anal rape. High level literary discussion.
My limited history was given over to these madmen. They used it to generate a request of Australian security through Pine Gap Centre to interrogate for my personal history the one friend whom I messaged occasionally. How butthurt the Corcoran must be.
Recently the seventh ex-employee of EBay was sentenced as a result of harassment against a couple whose small ecommerce site was deemed unkind to EBay. They were awarded millions pounds and the ex-employee had been the EBay Chief of Security.
With the new protections afforded US data firms. These are things worth a thought.
I recommend a few precautions. Remove all personal information from profile and avoid messaging. Remove lurkers, those friends who never post. They are likely gang monitors or employee dummies.
With the Goodreads penchant for customer page Alteration, the screenshot of the odd, ugly and threatening are invaluable.
KIndle are the more serious. Do Not use Kindle Files, Email, Calendar or Contacts, Amazon employees Sign Into customer Email without permission or notice. Make of that what you will.
Do Not "purchase" Amazon ebooks, as you own only your device and if a Kindle even that is conditional. "Purchases" are leases. There are BookTubers to guide the reader to alternative ebook and device vendors or to ebook purchase altogether.
Searches on Silk should be innocuous and non-critical
To implement the above cost nothing, to not may. Consider that these unhinged employees and members alike adhere to no non-Randian morality, are often openly fascistic, despise women especially but are US patriots. Ominous music ends. 😊
Be safe. May we all find Good Reading. 🤗
Some of my favourite YouTube channels.
Ship Happens, Savy Writes Books, J Draper, RobWords, Answer in Progress, Emma Thorne, Novara Media, Tara Mooknee, Some More News, Eleanor Morton, Tulia, VerilyBitchie, SciFi Odyssey, Planet D, Karolina Zebrowska, Lady of the Library, Books and Lala, Epimetheus, Kita Rose, Sevi Deva, Bean Thinking, German Science Guy,
Amie's Literary Empire, Cruising Alba, Ben and Emily, Weir on the move, Sabine Hossenfelder, Ancient Americas, Paleo Analysis, Adult Wednesday Addams - 2 seasons, Northern Narrowboaters, Boat Time, 2Cellos, Ash L G, Engineering Knits, Bernadette Banner, Cruising Crafts, Sarah Z, EarleWrites, Yanis Varoufakis, Perimeter Institute,
History with Kayleigh, Kohto Yamamoto, Spacedock, The Piano Boat, Travelling K, No Justice, Political X, Patrick is a Navajo, Discourse Minis, Thirdworld Booknerd, The Templin Institute, Tibees, World War Two, Eckharts Ladder, The Sunny Book Nook, Books N Cats, Jess Owens, Para Bellum,
Just in Time Worldbuilding, Renegade Cut, The New Enlightenment with Ashley, Books with Emily Fox, Abbie Emmons, Perun, The Piano Guys, IzzzYzzz, Ancient Geographics, Naughty Nana DUZ, Thersites the Historian, What Vivi did next, The Historian's Craft, Philosophy Tube, The Ritual Kitchen with Laura May,
Sarah C M Paine, PolyMatter, Diane Callahan Quotidian Writer, The Indigo Life, Engineering with Rosie, Serena Skybourne, Lisa McLeod, Dr Becky, Dr Rian Ridden, FAFO, Media Death Cult, Gary's Economics, Cecilia Blomdahl, DM IT All, Tale Foundry, Captured in Words, Kings and Generals, Thought Potato, Chris Animations,
Anthropology Club, David John Wellman, Rowan J Coleman, Anastasi in Tech, Slaggy Book Club, Kathy's Flog from France, Gingers are Black, The Yankee Farm Wife, Alt Shift X, Ben G Thomas, Austin McConnell, Lindsey Stirling, Then & Now, Mythology and Fiction Explained, Brittany Page, Hello Future Me, Maggie Mae Fish.
I wish you a glorious morning, a gorgeous afternoon, a splendid evening, a pleasant night and may we all continue learning. Elbows Up!
Humanity is measured by store of Empathy.
An observation
I begin with a YouTube visit. This review made possible by Doctor Who/They Break My Heart, Lily Simpson, LuckyBlackCat, ScaredKetchup, Willow Talks Books, Sailing Melody, Kris Atomic, Red Glasgow, Lena Down Under, Riverboat Jack, kgb detected, aidan knight, Biz, Welcome to Ukraine, Leeja Miller, Welcome to Ukraine,
Shades of Orange, Outlaw Bookseller, Subha Reads, A Cosy Creative, Authentic Observer, Reads with Rachel, Hardy's Books, The Brothers Gwynne, Jean's Thoughts, Lily Alexandre, Owen Jones, Keffals, KernowDamo, Sakhalia Net, Time Ghost History, Kings and Generals, Anna from Ukraine, Sydney Morning Herald and the Age,
Ukraine Calling, Boat Time, Northern Narrowboaters, Narrowboat Pirate, Lily Simpson, Just in Time Worldbuilding, Kyiv Independent, Matriarchetype, Ukraine:The Latest, The Confused Adipose, Fit 2B Read,, Wednesday Addams, Tom Powell, Reese Waters, Jen the Librarian, Acollierastro, NFKRZ, Anne Applebaum, Olivia Swing,
Lena Petrova, Unlearning Economics, Silicon Curtain, Truth to Power, The Queer Kiwi, Queen Coke Francis, Skyscraper Museum, Lynn Saga, Sweet but Psycho, Kady 2.0, Scottish Independence Podcast, Dan Davis History, Dungeons and Discourse, Ministry of Miniatures, Rogue Hobbies, Erutan, Drop It Like Spock, Kyiv Independent,
Cruising Crafts, Nomadic Crobot, Turn Left, Econ Lessons, Think Ukraine, Yanis Varoufakis, Today I Found Out, Bobbing Along, Ben and Emily, Kimberly Reads, Miranda Mills, A Sunny Book Nook, AuroraTrek, Combat Veteran Reacts, Wednesday Addams -Safety Dance, JKLN & Oksana Livach, Amanda and Shaye,
A Very Casual Librarian, Mom on the Spectrum, ThePrimeChronus, Radio Retrofuture, Fantasy and World Music by the Fletchers, Verilybitchie, Eugenia from Ukraine, EssenceOfThought, Philosophy Tube, Songs Sped Up, Rick the Ukrainian, France 24, BoardGameCo, Steve Shives, Venom Geek Media, Postmodern Jukebox,
Jessica Kellgren Fozard, CBC News, The Military Show, Artur Rehi, Dr Ben Miles, Michael Lambert, Roads with Belle, Jessie Gender, Roisin's Reading, Well Deck Diaries, Cruising Alba, Girl Gone London, Geo Girl, A Clockwork Reader, Roughest Drafts, Don't Fret, Sumatha Reads, Yoyomi, Irish Myths, Gracey D, Claus Kellerman POV,
Reese Waters, Agro Squirrel Narrates, Parkrose Permaculture, I've Had It, SiegeMental, Paul Warburg, Clouds and Sky, Wes O'Donnell, Historical Africa, Nicole Chilaka-Ukpo, RevolutionarythOt. Grace McGuire, Mythic Concept, Britta Bohler, NerdForge, Mercado Media, Anka Daily News, Shannon Makes, Hat Historian, Bernadette Banner, Caolan Robertson, Debs Unfiltered, FAFO.
A disturbed fanboy, whilst attacking a trans essayist complained to her that I included trans women creators. The Snowflake (unselfaware, poorly socialised, attention seeking US tittie-baby), no longer amazes. A trigger warning then.
The channels which I mention include the primatologist, cis, Irish, lumber yard worker, military boardgamer, lesbian, communist, chemist, engineer, WOC, intersex, theoretical physicist, science communicator, married, sewist, Iranian, trans, fabric maker, book reviewer, physically challenged, bi, psychologist, Scottish, economist, older, asexual, linguist, marine biologist, redhaired, chess player, chemist, German, boater, queer, military historian, cosplayer, mechanic, soldier and other creators known as Women.
Almost as disturbing to the Snowflake (barely educated,, brutish, insecure US man-child) are the anarchist, mathematician, reenactor, Ugandan, fashion historian, other BIPOC, anarchist, ginger, communist, physicist, other LGBTQ+, mathematician, Danish, socialist, archaeologist, wood worker, military modeller, paleontologist, farmer, neurodivergent, Australian, miniatures landscape builder, ministries wargamer, boat restorer, and others known (outside the US) as Human Beings.
Should the voices persist, seek the nearest shamanic counsellor and/or develop a new skill, such as critical thinking and\or seek emergency therapy.
My feelings towards these tormented souls, are similar to that of the 13 Ukrainian marines defending Snake Island, when their surrender was demanded by the Russian navy. Their response was "Russian warship, go f@ck yourself.". Glory to Ukraine. Glory to the Heroes. Crimea is Ukraine.
The writing is uneven. Her prose is solid. Where she placed her attention, characters and description were good. Where it slipped characters, description and plot suffered.
The great weakness is the deficiency in worldbuilding. Because of the general vague background, characters were often emotionless, reactions and plot points seemed disjointed.
Women do not possess magic, therefore women who possess magic are also murdered? There is no governmental structure, so no one to maintain the roads, dispose of waste, provide emergency services, maintain sanitation, provide medical care, policing, collect taxes even. The economics and political structure
are a black box.
The class divisions are never discussed.The absence of supernatural creatures isca missed opportunity. It is mentioned in passing that the town is part of a larger polity "organised" in a similar fashion. This is a sad representation of a post feudal society.
This next possible by YouTube Doctor Who \Without Without Reward, The Ritual Kitchen with Laura May, The Norse Witch, Diary of a Ditch Witch, Narrowboat, Serena Skybourne, Hej Sokoly, Underthedesknews, The Queer Kiwi, Jack Edwards, ScaredKetchup, Supertanskiii, Lily Simpson, Shitty Book Club, CBC News, Eva Schubert,
Gutsick Gibbon, Read Rant Review, The Council of Geeks, The Life Guide, Cindy's Villa, Guard the Leaf, Mom on the Spectrum, Queen Penguin, Nikki Carreon, The New Enlightenment with Ashley, declassified UK, Aid Thompsin, AllShorts, Kyiv Post, Ukraine Matters, Horses, HBomberGuy, James Tullos, Elyse Myers, Jean's Thoughts,
Quinn's Ideas, Andrew's Wizardly Reads, Princess Weekes, Tibees, Angela Collier, Dr Fatima, Dark Brandon, Think that Through, UKRaine Today, Central Crossing, Jay Exci, Verilybitchie, Fundie Fridays, Ukraine Matters, It's Black Friday, Reads with Rachel, The Great War, Terrible Writing Advice, It ain't half hot mum,
National Centre for Military Intelligence, Veritas et Caritas, Kat Blacque, DW News, The Bands of HM Royal Marines, Processor Gerdes Explains, Friendly Atheist, Alex Fleev, Mythology and Fiction Explained, A Clockwork Reader, Shades of Orange, United 24, Xiran Jay Zhao, Raw News and Politics, Political CUSTARD, Knowing Better, Gabi Belle,
Ember Green, Prose and Petticoats, Evie Lupine, Foster on the Spectrum, Fun Size Reader, Ian Gubeli, Hoots, Books and Things, Skip Intro, Lexi aka NewlyNova, Welsh Viking, Savy Writes Books, Steve Shives, Keffals, Kathy's Flog from France, Angelisa Reads, CriminOlly, Yoyomi, D'Angelo, Brandon Fisichella, Amie's Literary Empire,
Kazachka, Atun Shei Films, Wizards and Warriors, Dungeons and Discourse, DUST, Mandy, Tale Foundry, Candlelit Tales, The Grungeon Master, Living Anachronism, Radio Retrofuture, Deerstalker Pictures, Riverboat Jack, Weirdo Book Club, 3rd Regiment SOF, Professor Tim Wilson, OrangeRiver, Jessie Gender. Nordic Veil.
I also watched Kim's Convenience, Dark Winds, Landscape with Invisible Hand, Kath and Kim.
Current US speculative fiction especially ebooks, seem to have only three categories, Low Effort; Minimal Effort; No Effort. I found myself applauding books, whose main virtues were no misspellings, avoidance of word misuse, no overtly racist/sexist dialogue, no plot holes, no contrivance as plot driver or simply an attempt at worldbuilding.
Consider treating this as a hostile site. 🤔
Goodreads discourse does not exist. As example, I wrote a short negative review of Powers of the Earth by Travis Corcoran. From a glance at his other work, the quality of his bad writing is consistent.
Travis Corcoran self-described as libertarian (now anarcho capitalist without millions),
employee of an unnamed US agency, veteran,
vocal advocate for the return of chattel slavery (popular US opinion with the construction of new forced labour prisons for the newly criminalised unhoused individuals and families, permanent van and RV citizens. I see no path to freedom for them, as there criminality is tied to their very existence. Given US history and no mention of the new laws made by either Party, generational enslavement is on the cards.),
an admirer of Russia's police state (popular opinion with the present implementation of the Russian model of criminal charges for protest, for LGBTQI lifestyle, expanded and corrupt police authority and more being lauded by US patriots).
The book was originally blurbed as similar to a Heinlein classic but is instead a sorry retelling of "Atlas Shrugged" set on The moon. The book is the tale of a rich twat attempting overthrow of the US government with aid of the military in order that he not pay taxes.
I found that and the many similar books in Unlimited unhealthy, dangerous and now prophetic. Travis and six fellow patriots were outraged by my judgement.
There followed a year long demand that I respond to unhinged comments. I was gifted understanding that my refusal to engage was narcissistic, my assumed communist beliefs are evil, my intelligence was below average, slavery is a social good and similar (normal for Goodreads) comments.
The weight of irony is painful.
The final comment was delivered by Claes Rees Jr aka cgr710 now ka Clayton R Jesse Jr who no longer identifies as Nazi. After referencing the contents of my last message exchange with a Goodreads friend, he grandly proclaimed that They had "won" (?).
I discovered that They and friends had launched a year long deluge of vile sexual, racist and anti-LGBTQ I attacks against it seems, every channel which I mentioned and continues still.
They failed to impress the physicist, boater, archaeologist, historian or other female creators.
Despite that failure, They certainly increased the globe's overabundance of ugliness. In addition They also delivered a splendid self-portrait of the Snowflake (stupidly vicious, woman despising US man-child) to a multinational audience.
On balance certainly a Victory. Goodreads discourse is somewhat energetic but not what I had expected at start. If the least bit bothered by that comment stream, there are BookTubers to direct you to safer, saner, more useful reader forums.
I wandered onto YouTube for serious science fiction commentary. From there I stumbled upon the BookTube.😍 These channels host a variety of reader communities, which are curious, thoughtful and love all aspects of the the bookish experience. These are far different to the Goodreads environment, I promise.
This next made possible by YouTube Doctor Who\Never Never Cruel or Cowardly, The New Enlightenment with Ashley, Probably Off Reading, ReadWithCindy, EarleWrites, Female Warriors -Teresatessa, Nomadic Crobot, Natasha's Adventures, Red Viburnam Song, Ship Happens, Yugopnik, Honest Government Ads, Omeleto, D'Angelo,
Cossack and Caucasus Sword Dance, Rachel Oates, Voices of Avalon, Kozak Siromaha, Times Radio, Haley Pham, The Book Leo, Emma Thorne, Caspian Report, Addie LaMarr, The Researcher, Hardy's Books, Think Ukraine, DUST, Rowan is Reading, Abby Cox, Stevie Emerson, Trae Crowder, Hej Sokoly, The Juice Media, Songs Sped Up,
According to Alina, Kiko1006, The Snake Charmer, Karolina Zebrowska, Matriarchetype, Reads with Rachel, Ukraine News TV, I'm Rosa, With Olivia, Katy Montgomerie, Joe Blogs, Unlearning Economics, Verilybitchie, Bitchuation Room, Gutsick Gibbon, Planarwalker, Dr Ben Miles, MechWest Show, History with Kayleigh,
Lives and Histories, The British Museum, Bella Ciao -Kutuzov, Annamarie Forcino, Brigitte Empire, Yarmak, Amie's Literary Empire, Tibees, Munecat, RFU News,
Cambrian Chronicles, Belle of the Ranch, Fit 2B Read, Gabi Belle, Swell Entertainment, David and Romany Gilmour, Mercado Media, Some More News, Depressed Russian,
The Institute of Art and Ideas, Emilie's Literary Corner, ATP Geopolitics, Wizards and Warriors, Cindy Pinchart, Not the Andrew Marr Show, Ryan McBeth, Jake Broe, Caitlin Speaks Out, Ro Ramdin, Kirkpattiecake, Postmodern Jukebox, Lily Simpson, Elina Charatsidou, Tara Mooknee, Political X, Russian Dude, No Justice.Visual Politik En.
Ominous music begins. 😊 It is a shame that science fiction reader abuse does not receive more attention The practice of attacking fellow readers is common. Amazon/Goodreads have never acted against mental members, writers leading gangs organised nor the employees who enable them.
Gang activity includes the stalking. doxxing, threats, hacking and other against one star reviewer's friends and family.
Female readers attract comments ranging from their gender can not understand science fiction to suggestions that they should get the stick out of their butt to suggesting that their opinion must be a reaction to recent anal rape. High level literary discussion.
My limited history was given over to these madmen. They used it to generate a request of Australian security through Pine Gap Centre to interrogate for my personal history the one friend whom I messaged occasionally. How butthurt the Corcoran must be.
Recently the seventh ex-employee of EBay was sentenced as a result of harassment against a couple whose small ecommerce site was deemed unkind to EBay. They were awarded millions pounds and the ex-employee had been the EBay Chief of Security.
With the new protections afforded US data firms. These are things worth a thought.
I recommend a few precautions. Remove all personal information from profile and avoid messaging. Remove lurkers, those friends who never post. They are likely gang monitors or employee dummies.
With the Goodreads penchant for customer page Alteration, the screenshot of the odd, ugly and threatening are invaluable.
KIndle are the more serious. Do Not use Kindle Files, Email, Calendar or Contacts, Amazon employees Sign Into customer Email without permission or notice. Make of that what you will.
Do Not "purchase" Amazon ebooks, as you own only your device and if a Kindle even that is conditional. "Purchases" are leases. There are BookTubers to guide the reader to alternative ebook and device vendors or to ebook purchase altogether.
Searches on Silk should be innocuous and non-critical
To implement the above cost nothing, to not may. Consider that these unhinged employees and members alike adhere to no non-Randian morality, are often openly fascistic, despise women especially but are US patriots. Ominous music ends. 😊
Be safe. May we all find Good Reading. 🤗
Some of my favourite YouTube channels.
Ship Happens, Savy Writes Books, J Draper, RobWords, Answer in Progress, Emma Thorne, Novara Media, Tara Mooknee, Some More News, Eleanor Morton, Tulia, VerilyBitchie, SciFi Odyssey, Planet D, Karolina Zebrowska, Lady of the Library, Books and Lala, Epimetheus, Kita Rose, Sevi Deva, Bean Thinking, German Science Guy,
Amie's Literary Empire, Cruising Alba, Ben and Emily, Weir on the move, Sabine Hossenfelder, Ancient Americas, Paleo Analysis, Adult Wednesday Addams - 2 seasons, Northern Narrowboaters, Boat Time, 2Cellos, Ash L G, Engineering Knits, Bernadette Banner, Cruising Crafts, Sarah Z, EarleWrites, Yanis Varoufakis, Perimeter Institute,
History with Kayleigh, Kohto Yamamoto, Spacedock, The Piano Boat, Travelling K, No Justice, Political X, Patrick is a Navajo, Discourse Minis, Thirdworld Booknerd, The Templin Institute, Tibees, World War Two, Eckharts Ladder, The Sunny Book Nook, Books N Cats, Jess Owens, Para Bellum,
Just in Time Worldbuilding, Renegade Cut, The New Enlightenment with Ashley, Books with Emily Fox, Abbie Emmons, Perun, The Piano Guys, IzzzYzzz, Ancient Geographics, Naughty Nana DUZ, Thersites the Historian, What Vivi did next, The Historian's Craft, Philosophy Tube, The Ritual Kitchen with Laura May,
Sarah C M Paine, PolyMatter, Diane Callahan Quotidian Writer, The Indigo Life, Engineering with Rosie, Serena Skybourne, Lisa McLeod, Dr Becky, Dr Rian Ridden, FAFO, Media Death Cult, Gary's Economics, Cecilia Blomdahl, DM IT All, Tale Foundry, Captured in Words, Kings and Generals, Thought Potato, Chris Animations,
Anthropology Club, David John Wellman, Rowan J Coleman, Anastasi in Tech, Slaggy Book Club, Kathy's Flog from France, Gingers are Black, The Yankee Farm Wife, Alt Shift X, Ben G Thomas, Austin McConnell, Lindsey Stirling, Then & Now, Mythology and Fiction Explained, Brittany Page, Hello Future Me, Maggie Mae Fish.
I wish you a glorious morning, a gorgeous afternoon, a splendid evening, a pleasant night and may we all continue learning. Elbows Up!
Humanity is measured by store of Empathy.
An observation
March 21, 2025
This book was very fine. Nothing really wrong with it but nothing really right either. For a book with lots of “action”, it was incredibly boring. Audio narration was good. I will likely skip the rest of the series though.
January 6, 2026
Well done
A good read and full of adventure. I have read other series by this same author and was entertained by them as well. Well are well written and entertaining.
A good read and full of adventure. I have read other series by this same author and was entertained by them as well. Well are well written and entertaining.
February 28, 2022
Good
Diana Smith is half elf, a world-walker, and a gifted metalsmith. Happy with her life, she is surprised when an assassin tries to kill her, forcing her to go to the elven realm for answers. There, she and her brother discover life threatening plots aimed at their family, while a war brews on the doorstep…
This is a traditional fantasy story, and the riveting first book in a new series. Diana is a force to be reckoned with, a powerful mage (though not nearly as powerful as a full blooded elf), and the eldest of triplets- with a twin sister and brother.
Her elven family is as ruthless as the old stories here make them out to be, their plots and actions complex and a little confusing (even for Diana).
The world building is elaborate, the people populating the book intriguing, and although there is no romance, the fact that it’s an action packed story with a convoluted plot will keep the reader entertained.
A thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining fantasy for fans of the genre.
Diana Smith is half elf, a world-walker, and a gifted metalsmith. Happy with her life, she is surprised when an assassin tries to kill her, forcing her to go to the elven realm for answers. There, she and her brother discover life threatening plots aimed at their family, while a war brews on the doorstep…
This is a traditional fantasy story, and the riveting first book in a new series. Diana is a force to be reckoned with, a powerful mage (though not nearly as powerful as a full blooded elf), and the eldest of triplets- with a twin sister and brother.
Her elven family is as ruthless as the old stories here make them out to be, their plots and actions complex and a little confusing (even for Diana).
The world building is elaborate, the people populating the book intriguing, and although there is no romance, the fact that it’s an action packed story with a convoluted plot will keep the reader entertained.
A thoroughly enjoyable and entertaining fantasy for fans of the genre.
February 28, 2022
Diane is a half-Elf who works out of the Crossroads - an enormous market at the center of the local multiverse. Like her father, she is a Smith. (She claims to be the best sword smith in the Crossroads, and we have no reason to doubt her.) Like her mother, she doesn't start trouble - but she does tend to finish it. She is an engaging protagonist - competent, fun, occasionally funny.
In this case, trouble comes visiting in the form of a would-be assassin. In fact, it comes visiting a number of her relatives, and she travels to her mother's homeland to find out who has been reaching out. (Turns out her mother renounced a throne, but at least some of her Elven relatives would like the line of succession to be uncluttered.)
"Family Ties" is what you hope for in a good series starter. It tells a mostly-self-contained story that introduces the series without being blatant about it.
In this case, trouble comes visiting in the form of a would-be assassin. In fact, it comes visiting a number of her relatives, and she travels to her mother's homeland to find out who has been reaching out. (Turns out her mother renounced a throne, but at least some of her Elven relatives would like the line of succession to be uncluttered.)
"Family Ties" is what you hope for in a good series starter. It tells a mostly-self-contained story that introduces the series without being blatant about it.
March 2, 2022
Unusual
Although I love most of her books this one wasn't for me. It's too convoluted and I didn't care for the MC much.
Although I love most of her books this one wasn't for me. It's too convoluted and I didn't care for the MC much.
August 27, 2022
Good concept but not sure why the reader should care about what’s going on when the main characters didn’t care about what was going on
December 10, 2022
3.5 rounded up. A fun, action-packed adventure with a kickass heroine. No romance or love interest at all though ☹
January 26, 2026
enjoyable but I liked some of her other books more
Rating: 4⭐️
I enjoyed this book, picking it up first because of its author and then reading the description of an urban fantasy trio of magical grownups siblings caught up in their adventures.
It has imaginative world building, multiple worlds and intriguing characters that meet the main characters who, as adults, have built and life enormously successful and varied lives from each other. And from their beloved parents too. This isn’t a dysfunctional family, an element I enjoyed.
The main characters, Diana Smith is a half-fae elf and sword smith who has a shop in the stalls in the Marketplace in the World of Irilor. She’s a Walker, one who can walk the roads between worlds and the Marketplace is at the center of the hub where the intergalactic roads lead to.
Diana is the oldest of triplets, born to a father with a Smith’s magic and a mother of fae royalty. Once Diana saw the Great Marketplace at the Crossroads of the Worlds that’s where she decided she wanted to be. Her siblings had other plans. Her mirror image sister, Karina, became a scholar in an isolated place devoted to knowledge, while her brother, Bjorn, married a Queen.
When all three are attacked by assassins, Diana and Bjorn set off to their mother’s Fae realm for answers and a visit to the “family “.
This is entertaining but a little too lacking in any emotional connection. Either between the characters or within the storyline. It’s packed with fae intrigue and political treachery within the fae itself court. Plenty of murders, mystery, and bloodshed to go around. But any feeling of actual caring is lost or not looked for. Indeed, some very disturbing types of inter family relationships are noted here as examples of common practice or consenting behavior within the Fae community and culture.
It’s briefly mentioned and then onto other topics. I think that this is an issue here where there’s so much overlap of important information and too little exploration of the history behind all the regions and politics that the reader really has nothing to connect with.
We get briefly acquainted with Bjorn’s family and wife, the Queen. But again, no background on him other than one mention by Diana that he’s the most dangerous person she knows. But she says that at the beginning of their journey and we actually never see this side of him. He’s extraordinarily handsome and the fae women at court are all enamored with him, but the most dangerous man? Where’s he?
It’s too much “as told to”. And the actual action is fast paced but without any narrative context. Their journey and this entire aspect of the story is wrapped up way too quickly and the resolution happens “off page”.
The ending of the book returns to an entirely different aspect of Diana’s life. And it doesn’t really ring true.
I feel this was a fun read but I have found others that she has written more enjoyable. I may return to this series later on.
Cover art by Lou Harper
Crossroads Chronicles
Family Ties
Night Market
Ruby Road
Rating: 4⭐️
I enjoyed this book, picking it up first because of its author and then reading the description of an urban fantasy trio of magical grownups siblings caught up in their adventures.
It has imaginative world building, multiple worlds and intriguing characters that meet the main characters who, as adults, have built and life enormously successful and varied lives from each other. And from their beloved parents too. This isn’t a dysfunctional family, an element I enjoyed.
The main characters, Diana Smith is a half-fae elf and sword smith who has a shop in the stalls in the Marketplace in the World of Irilor. She’s a Walker, one who can walk the roads between worlds and the Marketplace is at the center of the hub where the intergalactic roads lead to.
Diana is the oldest of triplets, born to a father with a Smith’s magic and a mother of fae royalty. Once Diana saw the Great Marketplace at the Crossroads of the Worlds that’s where she decided she wanted to be. Her siblings had other plans. Her mirror image sister, Karina, became a scholar in an isolated place devoted to knowledge, while her brother, Bjorn, married a Queen.
When all three are attacked by assassins, Diana and Bjorn set off to their mother’s Fae realm for answers and a visit to the “family “.
This is entertaining but a little too lacking in any emotional connection. Either between the characters or within the storyline. It’s packed with fae intrigue and political treachery within the fae itself court. Plenty of murders, mystery, and bloodshed to go around. But any feeling of actual caring is lost or not looked for. Indeed, some very disturbing types of inter family relationships are noted here as examples of common practice or consenting behavior within the Fae community and culture.
It’s briefly mentioned and then onto other topics. I think that this is an issue here where there’s so much overlap of important information and too little exploration of the history behind all the regions and politics that the reader really has nothing to connect with.
We get briefly acquainted with Bjorn’s family and wife, the Queen. But again, no background on him other than one mention by Diana that he’s the most dangerous person she knows. But she says that at the beginning of their journey and we actually never see this side of him. He’s extraordinarily handsome and the fae women at court are all enamored with him, but the most dangerous man? Where’s he?
It’s too much “as told to”. And the actual action is fast paced but without any narrative context. Their journey and this entire aspect of the story is wrapped up way too quickly and the resolution happens “off page”.
The ending of the book returns to an entirely different aspect of Diana’s life. And it doesn’t really ring true.
I feel this was a fun read but I have found others that she has written more enjoyable. I may return to this series later on.
Cover art by Lou Harper
Crossroads Chronicles
Family Ties
Night Market
Ruby Road
March 3, 2022
RATING:
4 STARS
Family Ties, the first book in the Crossroad Chronicles series by BR Kingsolver, is a new entertaining and engaging urban fantasy release. If you like the author’s other series The Rift Chronicles or Rosie O’Grady’s Paranormal Bar and Grill, then I think you’ll enjoy this book.
The main characters in this book are all very headstrong; I love how BR Kingsolver’s books feature badass fierce heroines. Diana reminded me a lot of the main characters from other series, like Danica James (The Rift Chronicles) and Libby Nelson (Chameleon Assassin). I was quite amused by the dynamic between Diana and her siblings in this book. I would love to see more of a spotlight on Karina (Diana’s sister) in future installments of the series; I would also love to see some action scenes featuring the triplets' mom (from all accounts in the book, it seems like she’s a superpowered badass elf).
Worldbuilding has always been one of my favorite parts of any of BR Kingsolver’s books. The author took that to another level with Family Ties, given that the main character and her family are Walkers (magical beings who can literally walk between worlds). It was fun to get to explore different worlds on Diana’s travels - I hope future books explore even more worlds. I was also very intrigued by the magic system and how the inheritance of power works (especially for half breeds). This book is all about political intrigue, and as the name suggests it's even more complicated with the family aspect.
Overall, another amazing urban fantasy read from BR Kingsolver (though I don’t think there’s been a book she’s written that I haven't enjoyed). I would recommend this book to fans of Patricia Briggs or Lisa Shearin. I look forward to reading future installments in the Crossroad Chronicles series (though it was unclear in the book as to when they may be coming out, given that the author is also working on the Wicklow College of Arcane Arts series).
Family Ties, the first book in the Crossroad Chronicles series by BR Kingsolver, is a new entertaining and engaging urban fantasy release. If you like the author’s other series The Rift Chronicles or Rosie O’Grady’s Paranormal Bar and Grill, then I think you’ll enjoy this book.
The main characters in this book are all very headstrong; I love how BR Kingsolver’s books feature badass fierce heroines. Diana reminded me a lot of the main characters from other series, like Danica James (The Rift Chronicles) and Libby Nelson (Chameleon Assassin). I was quite amused by the dynamic between Diana and her siblings in this book. I would love to see more of a spotlight on Karina (Diana’s sister) in future installments of the series; I would also love to see some action scenes featuring the triplets' mom (from all accounts in the book, it seems like she’s a superpowered badass elf).
Worldbuilding has always been one of my favorite parts of any of BR Kingsolver’s books. The author took that to another level with Family Ties, given that the main character and her family are Walkers (magical beings who can literally walk between worlds). It was fun to get to explore different worlds on Diana’s travels - I hope future books explore even more worlds. I was also very intrigued by the magic system and how the inheritance of power works (especially for half breeds). This book is all about political intrigue, and as the name suggests it's even more complicated with the family aspect.
Overall, another amazing urban fantasy read from BR Kingsolver (though I don’t think there’s been a book she’s written that I haven't enjoyed). I would recommend this book to fans of Patricia Briggs or Lisa Shearin. I look forward to reading future installments in the Crossroad Chronicles series (though it was unclear in the book as to when they may be coming out, given that the author is also working on the Wicklow College of Arcane Arts series).
March 31, 2023
"Family Ties", first in the 'Crossroads Chronicles' series is all about intrigue.
Siblings Bjorn, Karina and Diana are Walkers - i.e. they can walk between different worlds.
Their mother, an Elven mage, bucked tradition and married an outsider.
But, marital mistakes aside, that doesn't disbar the siblings from inheriting the Elven throne.
None are particularly interested - Bjorn is happily married, Karina is a scholar, and Diana takes after her father and is a skilled metalworker.
Diana is based in Dublin, Ireland, but to be perfectly honest it could be anywhere. There nothing that really suggests a connection to the city or the country. Well, except for the very last paragraph in the book - I've done that many times in the past.
When all three are attacked ... well, it makes you wonder if the relatives back in Galondril might be reducing the numbers when it comes to the selection of a new ruler.
Diana is as ruthless as she needs to be and is positive that the best way to maintain her health is to find the plotters:- "I’m happy as a clam. I get to take my frustrations and aggressions out on inanimate objects, screw whomever I please, and take long, relaxing vacations in exotic places anytime a few coins start to burn a hole in my pocket. Or, that was my life before someone here decided I was a threat to them."
Galondril has a minor civil war and a greater problem with an invasion by a neighbouring state. And the attacks on the line of succession continue, some with more success than others.
For a long time I thought "Families Ties" concentrated too much on the plotting, and not enough on the characters, but it builds quite nicely to a satisfying ending.
3.5 Stars, raised to 4 Stars.
Siblings Bjorn, Karina and Diana are Walkers - i.e. they can walk between different worlds.
Their mother, an Elven mage, bucked tradition and married an outsider.
But, marital mistakes aside, that doesn't disbar the siblings from inheriting the Elven throne.
None are particularly interested - Bjorn is happily married, Karina is a scholar, and Diana takes after her father and is a skilled metalworker.
Diana is based in Dublin, Ireland, but to be perfectly honest it could be anywhere. There nothing that really suggests a connection to the city or the country. Well, except for the very last paragraph in the book - I've done that many times in the past.
When all three are attacked ... well, it makes you wonder if the relatives back in Galondril might be reducing the numbers when it comes to the selection of a new ruler.
Diana is as ruthless as she needs to be and is positive that the best way to maintain her health is to find the plotters:- "I’m happy as a clam. I get to take my frustrations and aggressions out on inanimate objects, screw whomever I please, and take long, relaxing vacations in exotic places anytime a few coins start to burn a hole in my pocket. Or, that was my life before someone here decided I was a threat to them."
Galondril has a minor civil war and a greater problem with an invasion by a neighbouring state. And the attacks on the line of succession continue, some with more success than others.
For a long time I thought "Families Ties" concentrated too much on the plotting, and not enough on the characters, but it builds quite nicely to a satisfying ending.
3.5 Stars, raised to 4 Stars.
March 12, 2022
(FYI I tend to only review one book per series, unless I completely change my mind on a series, so want to change my scoring.)
First time read the author's work?: No -- I really enjoy most of her books.
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
------------
How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
First time read the author's work?: No -- I really enjoy most of her books.
Will you be reading more?: Yes
Would you recommend?: Yes
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How I rate Stars: 5* = I loved (must read all I can find by the author)
4* = I really enjoyed (got to read all the series and try other books by the author).
3* = I enjoyed (I will continue to read the series)
or
3* = Good book just not my thing (I realised I don't like the genre or picked up a kids book to review in error.)
All of the above scores means I would recommend them!
-
2* = it was okay (I might give the next book in the series a try, to see if that was better IMHO.)
1* = Disliked
Note: adding these basic 'reviews' after finding out that some people see the stars differently than I do - hoping this clarifies how I feel about the book. :-)
April 1, 2022
Enjoyable world walking, intrigue, magic, warfare
Liked the family ties of the title. Especially because both parents and two siblings are all alive, healthy and affectionate. No deep dark " they killed my family my sensei and my little dog too" so it is now OK if the lead character kills many many people. I like that the main character is tough, but not invulnerable, smart but not a foul mouthed smartass which some authors seem to equate with toughness. I also like those times when fantasy world characters have problems just like ours, such as picking age appropriate gifts for other peoples kids or encountering dishonest taxi drivers. I want more of this series. The plot in this one is also driven by family ties of a more remote sort - a dynastic fight on her maternal grandfather's world. I do almost feel I should roll some D & D dice and declare Chaotic Neutral. If you like Tanith Lee or the Silverglass series you will like this. Five silver stars.
Liked the family ties of the title. Especially because both parents and two siblings are all alive, healthy and affectionate. No deep dark " they killed my family my sensei and my little dog too" so it is now OK if the lead character kills many many people. I like that the main character is tough, but not invulnerable, smart but not a foul mouthed smartass which some authors seem to equate with toughness. I also like those times when fantasy world characters have problems just like ours, such as picking age appropriate gifts for other peoples kids or encountering dishonest taxi drivers. I want more of this series. The plot in this one is also driven by family ties of a more remote sort - a dynastic fight on her maternal grandfather's world. I do almost feel I should roll some D & D dice and declare Chaotic Neutral. If you like Tanith Lee or the Silverglass series you will like this. Five silver stars.
May 1, 2022
Semi-irritated the day’s last customer caused a change of plans, elven/mage triplet Diana Smith’s next intrusion to her Great Marketplace shop wasn’t as interested in her wares as he was in killing her! Unfortunately for him Diana was better at saving her life than he was at taking it but she did gain a clue before witnessing his dying breath.
The attempt and clue are worrisome enough to set Diana off to visiting her siblings and parents. Conversation with them all confirm attempts on the sibling lives and they share the impression the botched murder attempts are related to their lineage and ascension to the royal throne. Traveling to the grandfather doesn’t uncover as many answers as it does more murders!
Unfortunately, the characters, story and tone of this outing weren’t to my taste, much to bland overall to hold my interest. While I can’t say I hated the read, I can certainly say I didn’t care for it and won’t continue even if the series does.
Rating: 2.75stars
The attempt and clue are worrisome enough to set Diana off to visiting her siblings and parents. Conversation with them all confirm attempts on the sibling lives and they share the impression the botched murder attempts are related to their lineage and ascension to the royal throne. Traveling to the grandfather doesn’t uncover as many answers as it does more murders!
Unfortunately, the characters, story and tone of this outing weren’t to my taste, much to bland overall to hold my interest. While I can’t say I hated the read, I can certainly say I didn’t care for it and won’t continue even if the series does.
Rating: 2.75stars
September 1, 2022
Diana is a smith, a master at making both perfect weapons, and beautiful jewelry. She’s also the daughter of an elvish princess who gave up her claims to the throne.
Working at night, Diana is attacked by an assassin, and finds proof that he may have come from her mother’s home world, where her clan controls a powerful kingdom. Walking between worlds, she finds that her brother and sister have also been attacked. This leads her and her brother to go and visit the elf kingdom.
I was looking for some sword and sorcery, less epic fantasy, and I found it in this book. I enjoyed it quite a bit, the world, the main character, the political machinations. These did get a bit confusing at the end, and I felt there could have been more tension, but this was essentially a quick, fun read, with a kickass main character. The universe has enormous potential, as it’s possible to travel to multiple worlds, and they’re all different.
Working at night, Diana is attacked by an assassin, and finds proof that he may have come from her mother’s home world, where her clan controls a powerful kingdom. Walking between worlds, she finds that her brother and sister have also been attacked. This leads her and her brother to go and visit the elf kingdom.
I was looking for some sword and sorcery, less epic fantasy, and I found it in this book. I enjoyed it quite a bit, the world, the main character, the political machinations. These did get a bit confusing at the end, and I felt there could have been more tension, but this was essentially a quick, fun read, with a kickass main character. The universe has enormous potential, as it’s possible to travel to multiple worlds, and they’re all different.
September 1, 2024
Somehow I didn't connect with this story too well, and gave up about halfway through. It has all the elements I like in a fantasy: strong heroine, complex world, dramatic action, etc. But the narration felt dull and wooden, it never got me engaged with any of the characters.
Also, this is a pet peeve of mine in many stories: many decisions and non-decisions by various players, including our heroine, just didn't make a lot of sense. The attitude that pervaded seemed to be: "Hey, bad guys are planning/doing bad things, but let's just be passive and wring our hands, surely that will work out well." Even simple decisions sometimes made no sense: the heroine chooses a very risky path to her family's world, because it'll save time, but the risk is very high, and she's just depending on dumb luck, she doesn't have defenses strong enough to protect herself if certain bad actors show up. She gets lucky and scrapes by. Good plan, let's do that again. Why was it so urgent? That's not all that clear, especially since her presense doesn't seem to make a huge difference in what follows anyway.
Also, this is a pet peeve of mine in many stories: many decisions and non-decisions by various players, including our heroine, just didn't make a lot of sense. The attitude that pervaded seemed to be: "Hey, bad guys are planning/doing bad things, but let's just be passive and wring our hands, surely that will work out well." Even simple decisions sometimes made no sense: the heroine chooses a very risky path to her family's world, because it'll save time, but the risk is very high, and she's just depending on dumb luck, she doesn't have defenses strong enough to protect herself if certain bad actors show up. She gets lucky and scrapes by. Good plan, let's do that again. Why was it so urgent? That's not all that clear, especially since her presense doesn't seem to make a huge difference in what follows anyway.
May 11, 2022
Another M/C with practical ethics
I notice that many of BR Kingsolver's main characters are women with what I would call practical ethics. For the most part, when she kills someone, she doesn't get upset; she's more concerned with how to dispose of the body.
Diana (the M/C) lives in a large marketplace, but very little of this story takes place there. The early part of the book introduces her skill, her ability to Walk to other worlds, her parents and siblings, and finally to her mother's family. Most of this book is here. Very bloody. Amusingly, when she reads some romance novels, she finds that they are all very bloody.
I expect that with this setup, future books will take place in a variety of places. The possibilities are endless. I shall look forward to reading them.
I notice that many of BR Kingsolver's main characters are women with what I would call practical ethics. For the most part, when she kills someone, she doesn't get upset; she's more concerned with how to dispose of the body.
Diana (the M/C) lives in a large marketplace, but very little of this story takes place there. The early part of the book introduces her skill, her ability to Walk to other worlds, her parents and siblings, and finally to her mother's family. Most of this book is here. Very bloody. Amusingly, when she reads some romance novels, she finds that they are all very bloody.
I expect that with this setup, future books will take place in a variety of places. The possibilities are endless. I shall look forward to reading them.
March 27, 2022
Family Ties - a rollicking read
BR Kingsolver has added another series to her list of books to read.
Family Ties has another great cast, but Diana and Bjorn are the stars of this one. A dynamic brother and sister duo who end up going back to their mother’s World after assassins unsuccessfully try to kill them and Diana’s twin, Karina.
Once they reach their grandfather’s eleven World the magic and mayhem really gets going. Plot within plot within plot and Bjorn and Diana hardly know who to trust.
Friendships are made, murderous alliances are uncovered and new friends lost but the ending of the first book is satisfying and you know you have a second in the series to look forward to.
BR Kingsolver has added another series to her list of books to read.
Family Ties has another great cast, but Diana and Bjorn are the stars of this one. A dynamic brother and sister duo who end up going back to their mother’s World after assassins unsuccessfully try to kill them and Diana’s twin, Karina.
Once they reach their grandfather’s eleven World the magic and mayhem really gets going. Plot within plot within plot and Bjorn and Diana hardly know who to trust.
Friendships are made, murderous alliances are uncovered and new friends lost but the ending of the first book is satisfying and you know you have a second in the series to look forward to.
April 5, 2022
21/2 stars really
This author does have books I like. This one, while well written, wasn’t my preference. It starts out with a lot of traveling I found boring with unfulfilled potential. I liked the main character and her immediate family, overall there was to many characters. It reads like a period royalty drama (a flat one) set in a stronghold, surrounding town, and elves. A bit of a who done it. The why isn’t really satisfying and who isn’t shocking. The only sensory output the book gets right is making you hungry. It is short so there was plenty of space and material to write more engrossing richer world. A talented writer being lazy? I might read the next if it’s available with my kindle subscription and between better releases.
This author does have books I like. This one, while well written, wasn’t my preference. It starts out with a lot of traveling I found boring with unfulfilled potential. I liked the main character and her immediate family, overall there was to many characters. It reads like a period royalty drama (a flat one) set in a stronghold, surrounding town, and elves. A bit of a who done it. The why isn’t really satisfying and who isn’t shocking. The only sensory output the book gets right is making you hungry. It is short so there was plenty of space and material to write more engrossing richer world. A talented writer being lazy? I might read the next if it’s available with my kindle subscription and between better releases.
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May 3, 2022What a weird book. Are elves naturally high on the sociopath scale in this world? Until the end of the book - almost no one reacts with any emotion to all the deaths. That includes the main character. There are two, maybe 3 times, that you get a hint she is not ok with so much death (specifically the battle scenes when she says she doesn’t want to do this kind of thing anymore or how being a mercenary back in the day still gives her nightmares). BUT there is also a guy she likes and goes on a date with and he ends up dead. She thinks about him a few times later in the book but only to reflect on how hot he was with zero thought to his death or anything else.
I agree with others that there were too many characters and keeping track of who was who’s child/cousin/whatever was a challenge.
I agree with others that there were too many characters and keeping track of who was who’s child/cousin/whatever was a challenge.
December 9, 2022
Sooo, not quite sure what to make of it much less how to rate it...
I liked Diana, competent, practical, doesn't take herself too seriously with brains and skills she knows how to use.
It was also a welcome change that she wasn't yet another 20-something with mystery parent and newly discovered powers.
I also liked the concept of the Crossroads, the different Worlds, Roads and the Walking
It was more the particular plot in this book that I never really connected to/ got invested in.
All that political intrigue and in-house scheming, mongering etc was rather convoluted and impersonal since most of victims remained abstract figures we barely knew or never even met in the first place
Might give the 2nd one a go to see how it continues...
I liked Diana, competent, practical, doesn't take herself too seriously with brains and skills she knows how to use.
It was also a welcome change that she wasn't yet another 20-something with mystery parent and newly discovered powers.
I also liked the concept of the Crossroads, the different Worlds, Roads and the Walking
It was more the particular plot in this book that I never really connected to/ got invested in.
All that political intrigue and in-house scheming, mongering etc was rather convoluted and impersonal since most of victims remained abstract figures we barely knew or never even met in the first place
Might give the 2nd one a go to see how it continues...
April 18, 2022
a good start
I like the worlds being built and the concept of the story. At times a bit to fast paced where I felt it was skipping ahead or not giving a lot of insight into characters. On one hand a few were out of the picture quick enough but at times there were a lot of people introduced and part of scenes that I was given a brief introduction to (very brief) which at times made there place in the family lines or in the worlds confusing. However, any parts that seemed under done in this first book were not game changing enough to stop me from finishing the book. I look forward to seeing what book 2 might serve up for the characters.
I like the worlds being built and the concept of the story. At times a bit to fast paced where I felt it was skipping ahead or not giving a lot of insight into characters. On one hand a few were out of the picture quick enough but at times there were a lot of people introduced and part of scenes that I was given a brief introduction to (very brief) which at times made there place in the family lines or in the worlds confusing. However, any parts that seemed under done in this first book were not game changing enough to stop me from finishing the book. I look forward to seeing what book 2 might serve up for the characters.
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