What if the "chosen one" isn't the savior the prophecy has promised? Despite her years of rigorous training, seventeen-year-old Princess River doesn't seem to be the ruler her people were promised: one that can lead the armies to victory against the ancient magical race, the Spitarians. Instead, her anxieties cause her ability to rule to be constantly brought into question.
With the war at a tipping point, River's mother has sent her on one final mission to ensure she is ready to fulfill the prophecy that predicts the annihilation of the Spitarian race. She must kill the dethroned prince who has leaked military secrets to the Spitarians.
Ky Sparrow, the Spitarian heir, has spent his life following his father's orders while plotting a rebellion against the reign of terror on the humans. But when he is commanded to kill Princess River, Ky is determined to find a way out from under his father's dominance.
When River and Ky's paths collide River must choose: her mother's war or the enemy offering peace?
I received this book as a digital ARC copy. This is one of the best YA fantasy novels I have read.
If you loved The Red Queen and ACOTAR series you will love this! 2 races with different blood colors ✅ and hot men with wings ✅.
This book is written in a dual POV in 3rd person limited.
River is a 17 year old princess known as the chosen one who will bring peace between the humans and Spitarians. When River is given her first assignment for the prophecy, she isn’t so sure that the ex-prince she’s tasked to kill is actually the enemy. But he’s been working with Ky, the enemy… a monster… a Spitarian… but Ky is also beautiful and he has wings. Ky knows the full prophecy River was never told. What will happen when all the truths are revealed?
This is one of the most well written and addicting YA fantasy books I have read, especially as an indie authors debut novel. It exceeded my expectations. Books like this are what makes me love this genre. The book cover is absolutely gorgeous and I think the tagline on the cover is perfect.
I think the characters are beautifully written and the author does a wonderful job at keeping the characters actions believable for how they have been described so far. Szpila also does a remarkable job at describing the characters physical traits. As someone who really struggles with picturing characters when reading, this book was like a movie playing out in my head. I instantly loved River, Ky, and Iris. On the other hand I instantly hated Bass and Elora. I felt that Szpila perfectly executes making you fall in love with… or hate… her characters. I loved the dragons instantly and I really hope we get to see more of Thumper and Tang in the next book.
Personally, I really want to know the height different between River and Ky. At one point, River describes Ky as twice the height of a normal man. As a love interest, I desperately need to know their heights and how that works. Also other body proportions like his hands. It never seems uncomfortable when he grabs her hand but I imagine his hand as MUCH larger.
I have to give Szpila points for having a map of the world at the start of the book. The map is simplistic and I appreciate that it doesn’t contain a bunch of “fluff” places that are never mentioned. Szpila does a good job of describing the world through River and Ky’s eyes. Ky mentions the “luminous forest” at some point which isn’t on the map and leaves me questioning if that is the Spitarian name for the forest between Morsaw castle and Neven. This forest is not named on the map despite the forest on the other side of the map being named.
The story was so gripping. I found myself having a hard time putting the book down to do what I needed in real life. I was picking up the book every chance I could get, even if it was only 5 minutes of reading. Szpila leaves us desperate for more at the end of the book so I’m so glad book 2 is already planned. The plot was very well executed. I enjoyed finding myself actually surprised by events in the book instead of finding the plot too predictable.
I never felt like there were parts of the story that weren’t important or moving too slowly so the story did move at a good pace. The story seems to fall over a pretty short period of time but, with the super-human flying speeds of the Spitarians, I do believe it’s believable for all the events in the story to occur over this period of time. On the other hand, I feel like there just wasn’t enough in this book, which just shows how much I loved it. Honestly I think this could be another ACOSF length novel (700+ pages) and it wouldn’t feel long because it’s so interesting.
Honestly, the book left me so in love with the characters and the world, desperate to know what happens next for my favorites… and even my least favorites.
I was busy so it took me 4 days to read the book, but it was so addicting I could have sat and read the whole thing in one day if I’d had the time. I fell in love with the book so much that I have the signed hardcover on my wishlist because I want to have it on my shelf for the many rereads I can already see in the future.
This book was so good. I enjoyed the characters so much I felt for them. Such a good fantasy story that I finished in a day because I could not put it down at all. I can not wait to see how it ends. Like any good story there are characters I loath so much I wish they were real so I could hit them. 😂 absolutely a great story! Thank you J.R. Szpila for such a great story.
Thank you to JR Szpila for sending me an ARC to read and review.
Two young people whose destinies intertwine because of a prophecy and now they need to convince the world that peace can be achieved. I love the concept of this book! I love how there are traditional humans and a very unique species. I enjoyed the plot of the book a lot, but I also wanted more to happen. I just wish it was a little longer and had a few more interesting plot points before the first book ended.
I liked the character of River, the female MC. I thought this character was very well thought out and I could understand her need to please her mother and fulfill the prophecy that she was destined for her entire life. She goes on a journey through the story and develops from a naive young girl and through some discoveries learns so much about herself and has a lot more growing to do through the rest of the series.
I enjoyed the character of Kylane, the main MC, but by the end I wanted to scream at him out of frustration. He has the worst father and sister, and yet he makes some very questionable decisions concerning them that I didn't understand. I would have liked him to stand up for himself and I hope that by the next book he does.
Ky and River are destined to be together. Being the romance reader that I am, I could not wait to see their relationship blossom! Unfortunately, it did not develop to the degree that I was hoping for in this first book, which is totally fine, but if you are anticipating spice or romance, then wait until book 2 is released!
Overall, I enjoyed the book. It was not my favorite YA fantasy, but it was also not the worst book I've read, far from it. Some of the writing was rough and could have used some more development in the relationships and characters, but it was good for being a debut novel. I am happy to read the next one and see what happens.
Thanks to the author for an E-arc, this is my honest review.
The Sparrows who Dream is a fantasy, where two species are at war and have been since coming to the world. It is told from the views of two characters, River and Ky. River is the heir to the human lands, however has a strained relationship with her mother, the Queen. Ky is the heir to the Spitarians, the other creatures that live in the same world. River has been tasked to kill a man believed to be working against the humans. Ky has been trying to work at getting peace between the races, but he has been tasked to kill her.
I thought the story idea for this book was good, with many elements that I love to read about. I struggled to get into this book however, although it did pick up and I found myself more engaged and interested during the middle. I felt that although there was stuff happening, it didn't feel like there was much happening if that makes sense, and that the pacing could have been better. There was some dramatic reveal scenes, but I didn't feel surprised or shocked. The storyline was a bit all over the place at times, and confused me as to what the objective currently was.
I also felt the characters, although they all had different personalities, felt a bit flat at times, and I didn't find myself connecting and rooting for them. Although their overall objectives were clear, there was times when I found it wasn't clear what they were aiming for through their actions. I did like however that the characters did have struggles, especially River with her anxiety.
There was definitely some scenes I liked, and overall the vibes were cool. I liked the characters, and how they interacted with each other. I think the idea behind the story was neat, however the execution fell a little flat for me, which was a shame.
Overall, it wasn't a bad read, just wasn't quite what I expected and wanted. I would still suggest it for people to read, however it is far from top tier for me.
River has been molded and conformed into a warrior princess. She has been prepared to fulfill the prophecy that has become a hope for humans. In this prophecy it is River who carries the burden of ending the war with the Spitarians. Ky Sparrow is the heir to the Spitarian throne and does not share the same sentiments of his brutal king father. If it was up to the king he would murder all the humans. When River is sent out on her first mission to murder a traitor to the humans, she soon discovers an alluring Spitarian, Ky. As Ky and River form a deeper bond than either one of them are prepared for, they determine that fighting together is more powerful than fighting against one another. River is determined to find herself and whether or not she is truly the one who will stop this war. Will she be able to do what is necessary in order to save the ones she loves? Or will she succumb to the lies and depotchary from those closest to her? Overall rating 4/5 I love a book composed of friends to enemies, found family, overcoming betrayals, and a slow burn romance. If you like clean no spice romantasy this book is right up your alley. I do wish River realized her worth sooner in the book but understanding the way that she was raised made it harder for her to face her inner doubts. I can’t wait to see what happens to River, Ky and the rest of the characters in the second book.
*Thank you to J.R. Szpila for the ARC copy. I am freely leaving my honest review.
Takes a deep breath so I can scream I NEEEEED A MOVIEEEEE!!!!! How is this perfection of a book not on my screen yet? My heart is aching just to see this beautiful characters and world building come to life. Is there character art I can feed on? I loveeee this world! Beautiful book.
I should have read this book earlier but had a few issues, so I couldn't read. But immediately I sat my butt and dived in,bi couldn't go back out.
It was confusing a tiny bit at first, just because of the Spitarian words and ways. But I soon got the hang of it.
This storyline is unique and beautiful. So interesting, suspenseful and thrilling. I loved the journey River had to go on in her life. No, I don't mean the journey her mother sent her on. River definitely went through heartbreaks but I'm glad she will only get stronger because of them.
Love Ky...a lot. Perfect little (okay, maybe not little) guy. All the characters are very interesting. Including the villains. Lilith, we got introduced to her at the end but I know she's a nasty one.
The dragons, I love them. 😭 Great they got included. Made this book more alluring.
This Epic fantasy series completely disrupted my life because I NEEDED to know what happened around every turn and I could not put it down until I finished. The author was able to capture heart wrenching emotion from me before I even made it 10% into the book which speaks volumes to how well she writes the characters and their dynamics. I found a new book boyfriend and he comes with wings and dragons. The author so far has managed to pull all my heart strings for love, loss, betrayal, trauma rep with this EPIC fantasy. The world is beautiful, brutal, and unique with characters I am so attached to.
❤️🔥 Prophesies ❤️🔥 Found Family ❤️🔥 Magic and Dragons ❤️🔥 Forced Proximity ❤️🔥 Slow Burn ❤️🔥 Political Intrigue ❤️🔥 Touch them and ☠️ ❤️🔥 Determined FMC ❤️🔥 Betrayal ❤️🔥 Winged MMC
So I actually read an ARC copy of this last year, but I don't think it was up on Goodreads yet so we're just going to count it toward the 2023 goal, oops.
This was so great, with a creative world, a fun adventure, and a sweet romance. Ky and River are dynamic and interesting, and I think their perspectives show different aspects of the fantasy world really well. I was so blessed to beta read several iterations of this for JR and I can just see how far it has come. I love all of these characters and I know this world has so much more room to grow. I'm so excited to read the sequels!
If you love classic adventure YA, this is perfect for you, especially because it has a lot of unique spins on the genre. Loved it!! It comes out in May, so be sure to preorder it!
I couldn’t put this book down. I was hooked from the very beginning by JR’s writing style and captivating characters. The imagery lends so much to the story, being beautiful and full without being too flowery or dragging along. I especially loved the changing perspectives in the book as it kept me on my toes, wanting for more the whole way through. There was so much action and surprise twists behind every bend, I hungrily ate up every word. I wanted to dove into the story and hug River, the protagonist forging ahead alone for much of the book, and I wanted to champion Ky, her counterpart, and fight alongside him. I fell in love with unexpected characters and cannot wait for a sequel. I loved it. Highly recommend!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
The Sparrows Who Dream is the first in a series about 2 races who have warred for years and those who seek peace. This is an awesome fantast that flows wonderfully for a fast-moving tale that ends two soon! The MMS & MFC are both incredible likeable. The Plot moves fast, and you don't realize the length until your done and look at the final page. The "villains" are grey in way that while we can understand their motives but can't forget or forgive what they've done. I would recommend this to all readers who enjoy fantasy. It's also a good starter fantasy for those looking to get into fantasy as the world building relies on what we know of our existing planets with the addition of a winged race and magic. I Can't wait to see what happens in book two!
I certainly wasn't expecting to be sucked into another world and identifying with it's occupants so quickly as I was upon starting this book. The unexpected twists began nearly right off the bat, and didn't stop! As someone who has an incessant need to predict things before they happen, or finish the puzzle quicker than the pieces are given to me if you will, I have to say I was both frustrated and enthralled at the challenge laid before me. I was definitely left in suspense! The world building was solid and I connected with the characters quickly in the fast-paced tale of book one, and cannot wait to continue the story with book two!
This is a YA fantasy book that becomes an easy must-read that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The characters are well developed, and how it is written does not seem like fantasy. As you read, the book starts to take a life of its own. One of my favorite dragons was thumper. I enjoyed that it brought to life the mix of fantasy creatures with real-life problems that one can relate to. The only con to this was that some of Rivers' inner monologue did not flow with the rest of the book
I received this as an ARC. After reading it, I have provided my honest opinion.
This book was such a good read. The emotions of the characters feel like a real thing and you quickly feel them yourself. The Princess has lived her whole life thinking she only had one way to go and as she is on this path, she finds she has choice when she never thought she would. The story is written so beautifully and Ky is such an amazing character and I quickly fell in love with him. I seriously can not wait to find out what happens next.
Once I started this book I couldn't put it down. It has a very engaging plot line with many twists and turns. It was a refreshing change from today's typical fantasy storylines. However, its pacing could be improved with some more action and events. It did drag at parts I didn't think were necessary, and then I felt like important scenes were rushed through. I was definitely interested enough to immediately start book 2! I can't wait to see where this journey goes.
Once I started reading this amazing story, I could not put it down. The writer brought the story to life with amazing characters. Pacing was perfection and keeps you wanting more. Follow along with River and KY. Will they ever be able to bring peace between their worlds? Will they be able to find true love? I highly recommend this book from teen to adult.
I really love the storyline of this book. Princess turned monster but not. The story has stress, love, hate, excitement and danger. I love how River's character becomes more confident as the story progresses. Really looking forward to reading the next book.
This book has everything you could want: magic, dragons, slow burn romance, and real character development. You fall in love with the characters and the world JR has made. It’s a real journey of discovery and the plot twists are definitely in supply. So excited for the next book to come out.
Engaging fantasy at its finest!! This was a great read! Once I started, I had a hard time putting it down. The characters were great and the world building was intriguing and unique. Looking forward to book 2!
I love the whole false chosen one trope here and the complicated relationship River has with her mother. I love the MMC Ky and his sweet disposition and need for peace. The story and the world building was very intriguing and I am excited to read the next book in the series.
River has been raised to be “the chosen one” to end the war between her people and the Spitarians. She is kept in seclusion, and her mother, the queen, doesn’t like her. She is sent in a mission to start her fate.
Ky is the heir princes of the Spitarians, who is done fighting a war. He wants to seek peace, but there is too much hate between both sides.
A fantasy romance Chosen one Prophecy Fated Mates He falls first Fast moving plot 1/10 spice Recommend 4/5
I LOVED this book. So addicting, finished it in a day!
If you’re a reader/fan of young adult fantasy this really is the book for you. It has a little bit of everything. Magic, action, love story, strong characters. River, the FMC, really develops throughout the plot, overcoming her anxieties, and becomes a role model for her readers. Ky, the MMC (and the other POV the story is told through), goes against all that is expected of him for what is right and you will absolutely fall in love with him.
I read a lot of YA and this is easily in my top 5. Highly recommend!!!
Absolutely loved this new cast of characters! River, our new heroine had all of the qualities of previous loved heroines with a few added twists. This whole group of new characters were colorful and rich. I am not a very imaginative person, but I could envision every scene that this new talented author depicted. I was even a bit scared during some of Ky's interactions with his father, Axel.I can't wait to see where this adventure takes us next!
I defintely enjoyed this book, the world and characters are interesting and kept me reading till the end. It left me wishing to know more and more of the intricacies of this books world.
I do think this book struggled with pacing, and a few times I found a little bogged down by the internal monologue, but I defintely think it is a promising start, and am looking forward to seeing how the author's style matures in book 2.
I received this book as an ARC read from the author in exchange for my honest review.
The basis of this book I found to be immediately intriguing. A YA with Magic and human fae war, dramatic reveals and being told through multiple POV's. I think this author has a lot of potential with this but felt that some of River's inner monologue was a little forced and didn't help with her overall growth. The pacing was also very slow to start but the intrigue kept me going and I officially hate Bass.
I look forward to seeing where the rest of this story goes and to see the author's growth.