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Water Witch #1
The Lightness of Water
The only thing more dangerous than divining for water is falling in love with the enemy…
Solace is beautiful, strong-willed, and called the water witch by her neighbors. She divines for water in the arid hills of her home—a dangerous pastime across the border, where the king controls access to all the water.
Rhees is brooding, bitter, and hiding a deadly secret. But he’s determined to find a way to help the thirsty people of his land—even if it means kidnapping the last living water diviner.
But divining for water is against the law, punishable by death. Should Solace risk everything—including her heart—in a daring race to find water, or flee across the hills at her first chance of escape?
Beauty and the Beast meets The Hunger Games in this thrilling romantic fantasy. Pick up The Lightness of Water by award-winning author Toni Cabell, and be swept into a world of betrayal, mystery, and heart-stomping action.
Solace is beautiful, strong-willed, and called the water witch by her neighbors. She divines for water in the arid hills of her home—a dangerous pastime across the border, where the king controls access to all the water.
Rhees is brooding, bitter, and hiding a deadly secret. But he’s determined to find a way to help the thirsty people of his land—even if it means kidnapping the last living water diviner.
But divining for water is against the law, punishable by death. Should Solace risk everything—including her heart—in a daring race to find water, or flee across the hills at her first chance of escape?
Beauty and the Beast meets The Hunger Games in this thrilling romantic fantasy. Pick up The Lightness of Water by award-winning author Toni Cabell, and be swept into a world of betrayal, mystery, and heart-stomping action.
263 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 5, 2022
About the author
Toni Cabell
22 books144 followersI write Clean, Closed Door Fantasy Romance for teens, new adults, and adults.
My novels have won Silver and Bronze Medals in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards, two Gold Medals in the Global Book Awards, and multiple B.R.A.G. Medallions.
Click my website link below to join my newsletter and receive a Free Novella!
https://tonicabell.com/
My novels have won Silver and Bronze Medals in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards, two Gold Medals in the Global Book Awards, and multiple B.R.A.G. Medallions.
Click my website link below to join my newsletter and receive a Free Novella!
https://tonicabell.com/
Ratings & Reviews
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
April 6, 2024
What an unbelievably amazing book! I have been in a reading slump but this book just snapped me out of it so fast! I could not put it down and kept turning page after page!
I absolutely loved the kingdom and world that Toni Carnell created! She made it easy to understand and yet rich in detail! I loved that she made you care so much for these characters not only the main ones but each and every one that you meet.
I loved the FMC Solace for her bravery and spunk. I love that she could hold her own and that she had such a kind heart. She always knew what needed to be done even if it meant danger or heartache.
I loved the MMC Reese. He was such a complicated broody guy and you couldn't help but want to get to know him better just as Solace. I loved that he was a true protective hero not only to Solace but for everyone he loved and respected.
This book was full of adventure, danger, battles, heartache, growth and love. Just everything balanced perfectly and so well written!
This definitely won't be the last book I read from Toni and cannot wait to start book 2!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 1
Zero Swearing
Single POV (Solace)
I absolutely loved the kingdom and world that Toni Carnell created! She made it easy to understand and yet rich in detail! I loved that she made you care so much for these characters not only the main ones but each and every one that you meet.
I loved the FMC Solace for her bravery and spunk. I love that she could hold her own and that she had such a kind heart. She always knew what needed to be done even if it meant danger or heartache.
I loved the MMC Reese. He was such a complicated broody guy and you couldn't help but want to get to know him better just as Solace. I loved that he was a true protective hero not only to Solace but for everyone he loved and respected.
This book was full of adventure, danger, battles, heartache, growth and love. Just everything balanced perfectly and so well written!
This definitely won't be the last book I read from Toni and cannot wait to start book 2!
Physical Intimacy Lvl 1
Zero Swearing
Single POV (Solace)
December 20, 2022
Wonderful
I loved this one and couldn’t wait to finish it. What do you want in a book. Action, intrigue, drama, suspense and deceit throughout the story.
I loved this one and couldn’t wait to finish it. What do you want in a book. Action, intrigue, drama, suspense and deceit throughout the story.
May 20, 2026
This book is rated lower in light of my opinion of the prequel and sequel. This review will also contain my review of the sequel as there is nowhere else to put it on Goodreads.
Prequel: This book was rather poorly written and far too brief. The author had reason for the brevity and lack of details (reason explained at bottom of review), but it would have been better left unwritten rather than poorly written. Furthermore, this book has moral issues in that it indicates lies and deception are perfectly acceptable. It does provide mildly interesting insight, but if you do read it, wait until after you have read at least the first book as it provides major spoilers.
The Lightness of Water: I found the concept and plot interesting and enjoyed the read. I likely would have rated it higher, if not for my poor opinion of the sequel, which I detail in my review of the sequel. If this book were not claiming to be Christian (recipient of 2026 Christlit book award) I would not take such issue with it or its counterparts. As it stands, it advocates poor character and morals: particularly in the deception department for this one and the prequel. Also, the writing itself is just ok. The language seems to switch from awkwardly used formal to informal both in the text and dialogue. I would not recommend this book or its counterparts due to these issues.
Please forgive any and all bluntness and lack of tact as my first review was erased and thisI had to rewrite it all.
***spoilers (reason) below***
The main characters from the prequel are mostly dead in the main series, and I suspect the author didn’t want the readers to get too attached to them knowing they would die.
Prequel: This book was rather poorly written and far too brief. The author had reason for the brevity and lack of details (reason explained at bottom of review), but it would have been better left unwritten rather than poorly written. Furthermore, this book has moral issues in that it indicates lies and deception are perfectly acceptable. It does provide mildly interesting insight, but if you do read it, wait until after you have read at least the first book as it provides major spoilers.
The Lightness of Water: I found the concept and plot interesting and enjoyed the read. I likely would have rated it higher, if not for my poor opinion of the sequel, which I detail in my review of the sequel. If this book were not claiming to be Christian (recipient of 2026 Christlit book award) I would not take such issue with it or its counterparts. As it stands, it advocates poor character and morals: particularly in the deception department for this one and the prequel. Also, the writing itself is just ok. The language seems to switch from awkwardly used formal to informal both in the text and dialogue. I would not recommend this book or its counterparts due to these issues.
Please forgive any and all bluntness and lack of tact as my first review was erased and thisI had to rewrite it all.
***spoilers (reason) below***
The main characters from the prequel are mostly dead in the main series, and I suspect the author didn’t want the readers to get too attached to them knowing they would die.
April 2, 2025
I read this as an audiobook and was enthralled. Fantasy is not a typical genre for me, as I don’t like having to figure out the pronunciation of made-up words or struggle to bring the book to life. Having the narrator made all the difference! I also liked how Lisa was able to make the male voices sound authentic and not just like a woman trying to sound like a man. She is a favorite narrator because of that!
Solace’s gift as a water diviner seemed almost like a skill she had learned. Her mother did teach her to use her gift, so I suspect it was a mix of both. She is the type of person who focuses on others and ensures they feel included, needed, and loved—no matter who they are. Rhees is gruff and single-minded in his desire to help the kingdom, so much so that his plans cause harm to others, particularly Solace. The book had me on the edge of my seat with the action. While the entire book was good, once I hit Chapter 13, I couldn’t stop reading and stayed up late to finish. There was just so much going on; I was anxious for Solace and Rhees and had to keep reading, even though it meant staying up late.
If I had one complaint about this book, it’s that Solace is 17. While I appreciate that this is a young adult book, I would have preferred Solace to be in the 18–20 range, given the things she has to deal with. Not that anyone should have to go through them, but for the sake of young minds, having her be older would have felt more appropriate.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the narrator. All opinions are my own.
Solace’s gift as a water diviner seemed almost like a skill she had learned. Her mother did teach her to use her gift, so I suspect it was a mix of both. She is the type of person who focuses on others and ensures they feel included, needed, and loved—no matter who they are. Rhees is gruff and single-minded in his desire to help the kingdom, so much so that his plans cause harm to others, particularly Solace. The book had me on the edge of my seat with the action. While the entire book was good, once I hit Chapter 13, I couldn’t stop reading and stayed up late to finish. There was just so much going on; I was anxious for Solace and Rhees and had to keep reading, even though it meant staying up late.
If I had one complaint about this book, it’s that Solace is 17. While I appreciate that this is a young adult book, I would have preferred Solace to be in the 18–20 range, given the things she has to deal with. Not that anyone should have to go through them, but for the sake of young minds, having her be older would have felt more appropriate.
I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the narrator. All opinions are my own.
April 20, 2022
This was a fun, engrossing YA fantasy..
Solace is a water diviner. Rhees is brooding, and bitter. He kidnaps Solace to help the thirsty people of his land. However, divining for water is against the law, punishable by death. Should Solace risk everything to help?
Based on this description, you know there will be some kind of romance between Solace and Rhees. You also know that of course she will help find water. However, the descriptions of how that all comes about is the story.
I love that the books gives the relationship time to grow and isn't that annoying :insta-love. I love the story, and how they overcome the odds. I thought the concept was really interesting. Let's be honest - if someone today could figure out how to make drilling your own wells legal, so everyone had to pay, they would do it.
Overall, i really enjoyed this book and will give it a solid 4 stars. -this was a "keep the pages turning" book.
Thank you to the author #ToriCabell the publisher and to #netgalley for the ARC which did not impact my review.
Solace is a water diviner. Rhees is brooding, and bitter. He kidnaps Solace to help the thirsty people of his land. However, divining for water is against the law, punishable by death. Should Solace risk everything to help?
Based on this description, you know there will be some kind of romance between Solace and Rhees. You also know that of course she will help find water. However, the descriptions of how that all comes about is the story.
I love that the books gives the relationship time to grow and isn't that annoying :insta-love. I love the story, and how they overcome the odds. I thought the concept was really interesting. Let's be honest - if someone today could figure out how to make drilling your own wells legal, so everyone had to pay, they would do it.
Overall, i really enjoyed this book and will give it a solid 4 stars. -this was a "keep the pages turning" book.
Thank you to the author #ToriCabell the publisher and to #netgalley for the ARC which did not impact my review.
July 5, 2024
For those who loved the beginning of Jamie and Claire from Outlander, then this book is so for you! Solace and Rhees are the main characters; Solace the water diviner and Rhees, the man on a mission. This fantasy book has kidnapping, battles, escapes, love, rebellion, and magic all wrapped up into fantastic writing! The storyline is smooth and easy to follow. The magic system is similar to Shadow and Bone; while, the kingdom set-up is like The Hunger Games minus the games. How amazing is this? Outlander + Shadow & Bone + Hunger Games with a sprinkle of a GOT genealogy twist… AND is a clean, spice free journey. You have to read this book!
Read
October 13, 2025DNF at 10%.
I was not loving the writing style or the use of “clean romantasy”. It started on her 17th birthday as she whines that her guy best friend is in love with her and she is a special magical person who can help their lands. Just call it YA 😂
I was not loving the writing style or the use of “clean romantasy”. It started on her 17th birthday as she whines that her guy best friend is in love with her and she is a special magical person who can help their lands. Just call it YA 😂
July 5, 2024
Engaging story and captivating characyers
This story is very engaging and the characters are captivating. I found myself pulled into their world and very invested in what was happening to them. I loves how the story wrapped up. I am looking forward to more from this world. Clean read.
This story is very engaging and the characters are captivating. I found myself pulled into their world and very invested in what was happening to them. I loves how the story wrapped up. I am looking forward to more from this world. Clean read.
June 29, 2024
Great story and characters
Toni really brought these characters to life.
Great story line that kept me wondering what was going to happen next.
Toni really brought these characters to life.
Great story line that kept me wondering what was going to happen next.
June 13, 2023
THE WISHING SHELF BOOK AWARDS
28th March 2022
TITLE: The Lightness of Water: Water Witch Book 1
AUTHOR: Toni Cabell
Star Rating: 5
‘A cleverly crafted fantasy packed full of mystery, adventure, and a little romance! Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I love books, all sorts of books, and I'm always on the lookout for a new, up and coming author to enjoy. Well, I must say, I very much enjoyed this character-led drama by Toni Cabell. It´s the story of Solace, a water witch who has the gift of finding water. But such a gift can bring danger, particularly in a world withering away from thirst! When she´s kidnapped, she must find a way of trusting a man with a secret; a man she might just fall in love with. What follows is a cleverly woven story packed full of twists, turns – and plenty of suspense!
So, to the nuts and bolts. Firstly, the characters spring off the page. Although there is a plot, it is the characters in this drama who hold everything together. The author knows her characters through and through, particularly Solace and Rhees (who, incidentally, reminded me a bit of Aragon from Lord of the Rings) and this shows in the consistent and very individual way they act. I also thought the speech between the characters was very well written. In fact, the story is a perfectly balanced mix of ‘speech’ and ‘a well-paced plot’.
There is a lot of self-discovery going on in this story, particularly for Solace. I must say, it is very well-written. It can get a little drawn out here and there, slowing the pacing slightly. But, overall, it’s insightful and very much helps the reader to not only understand the character, but also start to care about what happens to her.
Well, I finished the novel three nights later and, I`m happy to report, I very much enjoyed it. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep me turning the page, and the characters (the kind, the strange, and the mysterious) were interesting - even memorable. The ending was also very good and, closing my computer, I knew I’d be happy to open another of this author’s books – which I suspect from the sub-title will be the follow-up to this.
So, can I recommend this book? Totally. Who to? Well, if you enjoy character-led novels with a strong element of suspense, The Lightness of Water is for you. This is a stimulating and well-constructed fantasy. There’s not much not to like!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: The Lightness of Water (Water Witch Book 1)
Author: Toni Cabell
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 4/5
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
13 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting the story’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“Solace is the best character as she’s strong-minded and interesting. She has a cool gift too! It’s a bit slow to get going, but I was into it by page 30. The ending is a blast!” Boy, aged 15
“I think 13 – 16 year olds who enjoy fantasy, adventure, interesting characters, and romance will like this novel.” Girl, aged 16
“I liked this story a lot. I enjoyed getting to know the two central characters, and the chemistry between them worked well. Also, I thought the title was excellent, making me want to read the book.” Boy, aged 16
“I thought this author was a good writer who keeps the story interesting with lots of dilemmas. It’s not difficult to follow, and it’s not predictable.” Boy, aged 14
To Sum It Up:
‘A gripping fantasy adventure, perfect for YA readers. A SILVER MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
28th March 2022
TITLE: The Lightness of Water: Water Witch Book 1
AUTHOR: Toni Cabell
Star Rating: 5
‘A cleverly crafted fantasy packed full of mystery, adventure, and a little romance! Highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf
REVIEW
I love books, all sorts of books, and I'm always on the lookout for a new, up and coming author to enjoy. Well, I must say, I very much enjoyed this character-led drama by Toni Cabell. It´s the story of Solace, a water witch who has the gift of finding water. But such a gift can bring danger, particularly in a world withering away from thirst! When she´s kidnapped, she must find a way of trusting a man with a secret; a man she might just fall in love with. What follows is a cleverly woven story packed full of twists, turns – and plenty of suspense!
So, to the nuts and bolts. Firstly, the characters spring off the page. Although there is a plot, it is the characters in this drama who hold everything together. The author knows her characters through and through, particularly Solace and Rhees (who, incidentally, reminded me a bit of Aragon from Lord of the Rings) and this shows in the consistent and very individual way they act. I also thought the speech between the characters was very well written. In fact, the story is a perfectly balanced mix of ‘speech’ and ‘a well-paced plot’.
There is a lot of self-discovery going on in this story, particularly for Solace. I must say, it is very well-written. It can get a little drawn out here and there, slowing the pacing slightly. But, overall, it’s insightful and very much helps the reader to not only understand the character, but also start to care about what happens to her.
Well, I finished the novel three nights later and, I`m happy to report, I very much enjoyed it. There were plenty of twists and turns to keep me turning the page, and the characters (the kind, the strange, and the mysterious) were interesting - even memorable. The ending was also very good and, closing my computer, I knew I’d be happy to open another of this author’s books – which I suspect from the sub-title will be the follow-up to this.
So, can I recommend this book? Totally. Who to? Well, if you enjoy character-led novels with a strong element of suspense, The Lightness of Water is for you. This is a stimulating and well-constructed fantasy. There’s not much not to like!
A ‘Wishing Shelf’ Book Review
www.thewsa.co.uk
This book was entered in The Wishing Shelf Book Awards. This is what our readers thought:
Title: The Lightness of Water (Water Witch Book 1)
Author: Toni Cabell
Star Rating: 5 Stars
Number of Readers: 15
Stats
Editing: 10/10
Writing Style: 10/10
Content: 9/10
Cover: 4/5
Of the 15 readers:
15 would read another book by this author.
13 thought the cover was good or excellent.
15 felt it was easy to follow.
15 would recommend this book to another reader to try.
Of all the readers, 5 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘developing the characters’.
Of all the readers, 4 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘plotting the story’.
Of all the readers, 6 felt the author’s strongest skill was ‘writing style’.
15 felt the pacing was good or excellent.
15 thought the author understood the readership and what they wanted.
Readers’ Comments
“Solace is the best character as she’s strong-minded and interesting. She has a cool gift too! It’s a bit slow to get going, but I was into it by page 30. The ending is a blast!” Boy, aged 15
“I think 13 – 16 year olds who enjoy fantasy, adventure, interesting characters, and romance will like this novel.” Girl, aged 16
“I liked this story a lot. I enjoyed getting to know the two central characters, and the chemistry between them worked well. Also, I thought the title was excellent, making me want to read the book.” Boy, aged 16
“I thought this author was a good writer who keeps the story interesting with lots of dilemmas. It’s not difficult to follow, and it’s not predictable.” Boy, aged 14
To Sum It Up:
‘A gripping fantasy adventure, perfect for YA readers. A SILVER MEDAL WINNER and highly recommended!’ The Wishing Shelf Book Awards
May 24, 2022
I knew from the description that I would enjoy this, but I really got drawn into the story. Not a difficult read, lovable characters, standalone book. Highly recommend for anyone that enjoys YA fantasy.
May 3, 2022
The Lightness of Water is a decent entry into the very crowded YA Fantasy genre. While the plot has plenty of intrigue and schemes going on behind the scenes, our protagonist, Solace, has her story laid out for her from the beginning.
Solace is kidnapped by a man from another country, Rhees, because she is one of a fairly rare group of "water witches"--women who can walk the land and determine where water flows underground. Rhees' country is desperate for water, as all natural forms of fresh water are owned and selfishly guarded by the greedy king, and although Solace loudly, and quite rightfully, protests her kidnapping, it's clear from the beginning that her inner moral compass of justice will send her down the path the reader expects her to travel.
Toni Cabell builds a fantastic world for the reader, letting us feel the hot, gritty sand under our hands and smell the crisp fresh rain falling from the skies above. While I admire other YA authors building a very specific, very detailed fantasy world in their novels, sometimes the complex thousand-year history of their world and the otherworldly names of factions, countries, and people are so complicated that those details get in the way of the plot itself. Cabell builds a world similar to our own in that the main conflict in the book is debating the right of people to have fresh water--something I think any reader on Earth can identify with. This made it easier to enjoy the character journies of Solace and Rhees, without having to stop every page and try to remember which royal faction hated which guild or so on.
The Lightness of Water is a good, streamlined, straightforward read. If you're into YA Fantasy and are tired of the boarding school setting or fighting ultimate fantastic beasts plot, you may find The Lightness of Water is a satisfying cool, refreshing break.
Want to read more from Marie? Check out my book review blog at HTTP://www.2ambookreads.wordpress.com !
Solace is kidnapped by a man from another country, Rhees, because she is one of a fairly rare group of "water witches"--women who can walk the land and determine where water flows underground. Rhees' country is desperate for water, as all natural forms of fresh water are owned and selfishly guarded by the greedy king, and although Solace loudly, and quite rightfully, protests her kidnapping, it's clear from the beginning that her inner moral compass of justice will send her down the path the reader expects her to travel.
Toni Cabell builds a fantastic world for the reader, letting us feel the hot, gritty sand under our hands and smell the crisp fresh rain falling from the skies above. While I admire other YA authors building a very specific, very detailed fantasy world in their novels, sometimes the complex thousand-year history of their world and the otherworldly names of factions, countries, and people are so complicated that those details get in the way of the plot itself. Cabell builds a world similar to our own in that the main conflict in the book is debating the right of people to have fresh water--something I think any reader on Earth can identify with. This made it easier to enjoy the character journies of Solace and Rhees, without having to stop every page and try to remember which royal faction hated which guild or so on.
The Lightness of Water is a good, streamlined, straightforward read. If you're into YA Fantasy and are tired of the boarding school setting or fighting ultimate fantastic beasts plot, you may find The Lightness of Water is a satisfying cool, refreshing break.
Want to read more from Marie? Check out my book review blog at HTTP://www.2ambookreads.wordpress.com !
July 12, 2022
Rating: 4.5/5
The only thing more dangerous than divining for water is falling in love with the enemy…
Solace is beautiful, strong-willed, and called the water witch by her neighbors. She divines for water in the arid hills of her home—a dangerous pastime across the border, where the king controls access to all the water.
Rhees is brooding, bitter, and hiding a deadly secret. But he’s determined to find a way to help the thirsty people of his land—even if it means kidnapping the last living water diviner.
But divining for water is against the law, punishable by death. Should Solace risk everything—including her heart—in a daring race to find water or flee across the hills at her first chance of escape?
This book was not what I was thinking it was and that was a very pleasant surprise. I loved the enemies to lovers, the action scenes, and the overall character development. There really wasn’t a point in the story that I didn’t like. The Characters developed throughout the book were very consistent and so was the plot, with the little twists that we would get here and there.
Solace is amazing in my book, to have everything that has happened to her and to still have her coming out on top and to still be an amazing strong female lead was great. I loved her special abilities other than the water divining, her ability to use a sling and to be so accurate with it, and I love how she would have to mount her horse.
Rhees is a strong male character, he is a main character but definitely Solace took the role in this book more for me. I really wanted to hate Rhees for the first part of the book but he grew on me, and I ended up loving that guy.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes enemies to lovers, YA books, magic, Character driven plots, then this book is for you.
I received this book from Netgalley and BooksGoSocial to review for my honest opinion.
The only thing more dangerous than divining for water is falling in love with the enemy…
Solace is beautiful, strong-willed, and called the water witch by her neighbors. She divines for water in the arid hills of her home—a dangerous pastime across the border, where the king controls access to all the water.
Rhees is brooding, bitter, and hiding a deadly secret. But he’s determined to find a way to help the thirsty people of his land—even if it means kidnapping the last living water diviner.
But divining for water is against the law, punishable by death. Should Solace risk everything—including her heart—in a daring race to find water or flee across the hills at her first chance of escape?
This book was not what I was thinking it was and that was a very pleasant surprise. I loved the enemies to lovers, the action scenes, and the overall character development. There really wasn’t a point in the story that I didn’t like. The Characters developed throughout the book were very consistent and so was the plot, with the little twists that we would get here and there.
Solace is amazing in my book, to have everything that has happened to her and to still have her coming out on top and to still be an amazing strong female lead was great. I loved her special abilities other than the water divining, her ability to use a sling and to be so accurate with it, and I love how she would have to mount her horse.
Rhees is a strong male character, he is a main character but definitely Solace took the role in this book more for me. I really wanted to hate Rhees for the first part of the book but he grew on me, and I ended up loving that guy.
I would recommend this book to anyone who likes enemies to lovers, YA books, magic, Character driven plots, then this book is for you.
I received this book from Netgalley and BooksGoSocial to review for my honest opinion.
April 9, 2024
I am not a fast reader whatsoever. But I finished this book in 24 hours, which is a huge deal for me. I was sucked in with in the first few pages and didn't stop until I finished reading it this afternoon. I quickly downloaded the next book!
I enjoyed the smoothness of the story and how it was easy to read, and how I can imagine all the characters. I am looking forward to reading more from the author!!
I enjoyed the smoothness of the story and how it was easy to read, and how I can imagine all the characters. I am looking forward to reading more from the author!!
February 21, 2024
I read the The Lightness of Water as a preparation for book two of that series that I received as an ARC.
In this series, we follow Solace, a young woman living her life in the hills with her father, her sheeps and her dog. She is is also a water diviner, commonly called water witch. That power allows her to feel the water source in the ground and help people figure out the best place to dig for the well.
Her life suddenly changes when she is kidnapped by a man called Rhees. He desperately needs her power to save the people, since their king took control of every water source. Using her power is punishable by death. But if she doesn't do it, innocent families will die.
It is ennemies to lover, forced proximity, moody mmc, found family sweet romance. And a who did this to you ♥️♥️♥️😍
I really enjoyed the book. I love how Solace is strong minded yet still innocent of the harsh reality of life do others. She can take care of herself and proves it many times. She is not a damsel in distress but she also doesn't become the strongest badass person in a couple weeks. I enjoyed the romance and the light yet still present court politics.
It is a very light fantasy that has me ready for the sequel.
In this series, we follow Solace, a young woman living her life in the hills with her father, her sheeps and her dog. She is is also a water diviner, commonly called water witch. That power allows her to feel the water source in the ground and help people figure out the best place to dig for the well.
Her life suddenly changes when she is kidnapped by a man called Rhees. He desperately needs her power to save the people, since their king took control of every water source. Using her power is punishable by death. But if she doesn't do it, innocent families will die.
It is ennemies to lover, forced proximity, moody mmc, found family sweet romance. And a who did this to you ♥️♥️♥️😍
I really enjoyed the book. I love how Solace is strong minded yet still innocent of the harsh reality of life do others. She can take care of herself and proves it many times. She is not a damsel in distress but she also doesn't become the strongest badass person in a couple weeks. I enjoyed the romance and the light yet still present court politics.
It is a very light fantasy that has me ready for the sequel.
May 26, 2024
Adventure
Don't usually do reviews. But when a book makes you cry. Then tellhis. them its good. Thank you. Loved t
Don't usually do reviews. But when a book makes you cry. Then tellhis. them its good. Thank you. Loved t
March 16, 2025
This book has amazing worldbuilding and characters that are very well written. I easily felt like I was a part of this book. I fell in love with these characters and was rooting for them the whole time. There are so many challenges and obstacles that Solace and Rhees face, but each one made them stronger. The growth of Solace is my favorite thing about this book. Rhees' determination to save the people makes his character so lovable. The side characters are even written with so my detail. I feel like Toni truly knows her characters inside and out, and it really shows in her books. I really enjoy this world that she has created, and I'm looking forward to reading book 2!
As always, Lisa Lynn did an amazing job bringing this story to life. ♥️
💧Enemies to lovers
💧Rare gifts
💧No Spice
💧grumpy/sunshine
💧Character growth
💧Amazing world building
As always, Lisa Lynn did an amazing job bringing this story to life. ♥️
💧Enemies to lovers
💧Rare gifts
💧No Spice
💧grumpy/sunshine
💧Character growth
💧Amazing world building
July 24, 2022
Water witch
Solace is the only living water witch alive and gladly uses her powers to help her neighbors. But when she is kidnapped by Rhees a man from a neighboring kingdom where water is tightly controlled by the king, her life takes a dangerous turn and she will have to use what little cunning she has to survive. While there are some beauty and the beast themes here, I still enjoyed the story greatly and loved Solace as a character. Rhees was redeemable and the king was a good villian even though he was a bit cliche.
Solace is the only living water witch alive and gladly uses her powers to help her neighbors. But when she is kidnapped by Rhees a man from a neighboring kingdom where water is tightly controlled by the king, her life takes a dangerous turn and she will have to use what little cunning she has to survive. While there are some beauty and the beast themes here, I still enjoyed the story greatly and loved Solace as a character. Rhees was redeemable and the king was a good villian even though he was a bit cliche.
July 24, 2022
With some books you know from page one if you will like them or not. others they grow on you as the book pans out. This was one of those books.... that i knew from page one i would like. well written and i loved every moment of it. side note when i read from female authors i try read books that have the right amount of romance. not to heavy but just the right amount combined with action. both sexes can read this. I highly recommend it when it comes out on its due date. I will be looking for more works from this author. 5 stars being exceptional. and my overal rating.
March 22, 2024
Great story with a lot of heart
I absolutely love this book. A real page turner. I’m a sucker for a good story and this definitely kept me gripped. Would highly recommend for anybody into fantasy/dystopian/wizards witches :-) can’t wait for the next one.
I absolutely love this book. A real page turner. I’m a sucker for a good story and this definitely kept me gripped. Would highly recommend for anybody into fantasy/dystopian/wizards witches :-) can’t wait for the next one.
November 10, 2022
The war, love and life creates a well balanced fantasy adventure that caputred my attention the entire time plus there is water in it. I can recommend this book for those who are looking for a good fantasy adventure.
June 20, 2023
Love this book!
I am so happy to read a book with a happy ending! I don't have to wait for the next one, or the one after that. I know there's more, but I really love the way this book ended! Highly recommend!
I am so happy to read a book with a happy ending! I don't have to wait for the next one, or the one after that. I know there's more, but I really love the way this book ended! Highly recommend!
June 24, 2023
I loved everything about this book
The people, the divining,the situation, the slinging, the battle strategy - all were beautifully original and skillfully presented. I am so happy to have found Toni Cabell.
The people, the divining,the situation, the slinging, the battle strategy - all were beautifully original and skillfully presented. I am so happy to have found Toni Cabell.
July 17, 2022
Lovely
Really enjoyed the whole premise of the story and the characters within. A really comfortable read. Could have been a smidgen longer.
Really enjoyed the whole premise of the story and the characters within. A really comfortable read. Could have been a smidgen longer.
August 22, 2022
This is what I call a real good fantasy. Wonderful story and likeable characters. Looking forward to the next in the series and hope it still follows the same characters.
June 18, 2023
Lightness of water
I found this book riveting , well rounded great plot and brilliant world building a pleasure to read a well deserved 5stars
I found this book riveting , well rounded great plot and brilliant world building a pleasure to read a well deserved 5stars
April 20, 2022
*I received a free copy of this ebook from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.*
Although the premise of this book sounded interesting, I was not a fan of the writing, and that quickly drove the rating down for me. I don't know how to explain it other than to say that it tried too hard to be epic and didn't succeed, in my opinion. Dialogue felt awkward and unnatural. Normally some predictability doesn't bother me, but every twist can been seen coming far in advance.
I disliked the easy way that the enmity between Solace (17) and Rhees (24) transformed into love. Honestly, he yelled at her far too much, and then they suddenly can't live without each other. I'm all for a good enemies-to-lovers story, but the change has to be believable. I know it's supposed to have a Beauty & the Beast vibe, but I think it made Rhees's character a little too beastly and then just kind of skimmed over any redemption process. And I confess that I would have preferred Solace to be older--19 or 20 even--not only because of the love story but also because of the role she takes on in battle later in the book. It's hard to imagine a girl who barely turned 17 and has spent her life tending sheep suddenly becoming such a great war strategist and lead people on the battlefield simply because she listened to her father's war stories and can sling rocks.
So this was not my favorite book. I've read worse, but I've also read much better. Even though I know this is the first in a series, this book wrapped up quite nicely, and I am grateful for that.
How it ends:
Note: Nothing bad that I can recall.
Although the premise of this book sounded interesting, I was not a fan of the writing, and that quickly drove the rating down for me. I don't know how to explain it other than to say that it tried too hard to be epic and didn't succeed, in my opinion. Dialogue felt awkward and unnatural. Normally some predictability doesn't bother me, but every twist can been seen coming far in advance.
I disliked the easy way that the enmity between Solace (17) and Rhees (24) transformed into love. Honestly, he yelled at her far too much, and then they suddenly can't live without each other. I'm all for a good enemies-to-lovers story, but the change has to be believable. I know it's supposed to have a Beauty & the Beast vibe, but I think it made Rhees's character a little too beastly and then just kind of skimmed over any redemption process. And I confess that I would have preferred Solace to be older--19 or 20 even--not only because of the love story but also because of the role she takes on in battle later in the book. It's hard to imagine a girl who barely turned 17 and has spent her life tending sheep suddenly becoming such a great war strategist and lead people on the battlefield simply because she listened to her father's war stories and can sling rocks.
So this was not my favorite book. I've read worse, but I've also read much better. Even though I know this is the first in a series, this book wrapped up quite nicely, and I am grateful for that.
How it ends:
Note: Nothing bad that I can recall.
April 21, 2026
Toni Cabell has established herself as one of the most brilliant authors I have ever encountered, and The Lightness of Water is a true work of art. If you start reading it, don't plan on sleeping until you're finished!
Cabell has a special talent for crafting a story that’s both a thrilling adventure and a deeply moving emotional journey. The high-stakes action is perfectly balanced by an unexpected romance that feels both earned and authentic. It is a genuine joy to watch this relationship grow from a place of hate into a strong, convincing love that somehow seems entirely natural amidst the chaos.
What distinguishes this work is the remarkable depth of its characterisation, making it impossible for the reader not to form a lasting emotional investment. Through masterfully crafted moments, both big and small, you come to know them so intimately that you feel as though you are living their story. The protagonist is a truly inspiring figure who possesses an innate, unwavering sense of purpose from the very beginning. Deep down, she always knew she was destined for something greater, and she has fearlessly embraced that calling with undeniable conviction. While her journey is defined by remarkable courage and fierce determination, she never loses her benevolent heart. Instead, she remains beautifully thoughtful and caring, balancing her unstoppable warrior spirit with a soulful grace that touches everyone she encounters.
Moreover, I greatly appreciated the subtle echoes of the Davidic narrative woven throughout, using his archetype in such a refreshing and unconventional way. Rather than a literal retelling, the scriptural parallels felt like nuanced nods to his spirit and trials that added a unique brilliance to the plot.
Overall, being so completely swept away into another world is the hallmark of great literature, and Cabell achieves it effortlessly. Perfect for young adults and beyond, this is a story that demands to be felt as much as read. And, I am absolutely thrilled that this journey carries on in a sequel, as I simply wasn't ready to leave these characters behind!
Cabell has a special talent for crafting a story that’s both a thrilling adventure and a deeply moving emotional journey. The high-stakes action is perfectly balanced by an unexpected romance that feels both earned and authentic. It is a genuine joy to watch this relationship grow from a place of hate into a strong, convincing love that somehow seems entirely natural amidst the chaos.
What distinguishes this work is the remarkable depth of its characterisation, making it impossible for the reader not to form a lasting emotional investment. Through masterfully crafted moments, both big and small, you come to know them so intimately that you feel as though you are living their story. The protagonist is a truly inspiring figure who possesses an innate, unwavering sense of purpose from the very beginning. Deep down, she always knew she was destined for something greater, and she has fearlessly embraced that calling with undeniable conviction. While her journey is defined by remarkable courage and fierce determination, she never loses her benevolent heart. Instead, she remains beautifully thoughtful and caring, balancing her unstoppable warrior spirit with a soulful grace that touches everyone she encounters.
Moreover, I greatly appreciated the subtle echoes of the Davidic narrative woven throughout, using his archetype in such a refreshing and unconventional way. Rather than a literal retelling, the scriptural parallels felt like nuanced nods to his spirit and trials that added a unique brilliance to the plot.
Overall, being so completely swept away into another world is the hallmark of great literature, and Cabell achieves it effortlessly. Perfect for young adults and beyond, this is a story that demands to be felt as much as read. And, I am absolutely thrilled that this journey carries on in a sequel, as I simply wasn't ready to leave these characters behind!
March 13, 2024
First of all thank you NetGalley for providing me with this book.
This book in theory had everything to make me love it but in reality it was a bitter disappointment.
Let’s start with the positives, I actually genuinely like the idea of the world there was so much potential and personally I actually thought it was relatively well executed. The whole aspect of water divinity was quite fun while it stillmfelt poorly executed I can see the potential in future books. Also despite being supposedly the first in a series it ended very nicely and basically works as a stand-alone which I quite appreciated.
Unfortunately for me that’s already where it stopped being good.
I couldn’t connect to any of the characters and actively disliked the main romance in this story. For me the age difference (17 & 24) just made me a little uncomfortable but I can overlook it given that this is a medieval type fantasy setting, still I’d rather our female protagonist were a few years older. Second the fact that they kidnapped her and she somehow very quickly in my opinion forgave them and decided to aide them AND fall in love with her kidnapper did not sit right with me. On top of that the dialogue often felt juvenile and poorly written.
Furthermore the female protagonist, who until she gets kidnapped has only ever herded sheep is somehow a Great War strategist and fighter (with her sling) only from listening to her fathers war stories? That seems a tad unbelievable.
Lastly the book was entirely too predicatable, I don’t mind some predictability actually I find it rather fun but this was just too much and then the way somehow everything just worked itself out so neatly without any real issues just took all the fun out for me.
Overall this was genuinely not my kind of book and it took me way too long to make it through.
This book in theory had everything to make me love it but in reality it was a bitter disappointment.
Let’s start with the positives, I actually genuinely like the idea of the world there was so much potential and personally I actually thought it was relatively well executed. The whole aspect of water divinity was quite fun while it stillmfelt poorly executed I can see the potential in future books. Also despite being supposedly the first in a series it ended very nicely and basically works as a stand-alone which I quite appreciated.
Unfortunately for me that’s already where it stopped being good.
I couldn’t connect to any of the characters and actively disliked the main romance in this story. For me the age difference (17 & 24) just made me a little uncomfortable but I can overlook it given that this is a medieval type fantasy setting, still I’d rather our female protagonist were a few years older. Second the fact that they kidnapped her and she somehow very quickly in my opinion forgave them and decided to aide them AND fall in love with her kidnapper did not sit right with me. On top of that the dialogue often felt juvenile and poorly written.
Furthermore the female protagonist, who until she gets kidnapped has only ever herded sheep is somehow a Great War strategist and fighter (with her sling) only from listening to her fathers war stories? That seems a tad unbelievable.
Lastly the book was entirely too predicatable, I don’t mind some predictability actually I find it rather fun but this was just too much and then the way somehow everything just worked itself out so neatly without any real issues just took all the fun out for me.
Overall this was genuinely not my kind of book and it took me way too long to make it through.
June 20, 2024
Probably 2.5 stars. I didn’t especially care for this story, mainly because the hero kidnaps the heroine at the beginning, and it’s quickly clear that the kidnapper is going to be the love interest, and everything in 2024-me just went “bleach” over that. It’s not like I haven’t read that trope before. I’ve even really gotten into it. Either because it was actually 1992 or because there was some explanation for the kidnapping that made sense. There is not sense to what happens in this book. There was no reason the hero couldn’t have spoken directly to the heroine and her family about what he’s looking for, why he thinks the heroine can help him, what the stakes are, how he’ll work to keep her safe if she comes with him. Perhaps, if she’d been approached that way and had refused to help, and then he’d kidnapped her, I would have done better with this. As it was, he aggravated me and at around 40%-ish she makes a decision and I thought, “here’s where she becomes complicit in her own kidnapping.”
So, I skimmed a lot. Also, while I haven’t read the sequel, I did read the blurb for it, and having read the end of this book, I can see why one of the other reviewers (who really loved this book) said they didn’t have any desire to read the next one. Actually, it’s speculation. I’m not entirely sure why that reviewer didn’t want to read the next book. For me it was because the premise seems to undo some major elements of this book and the blurb’s report of Solace’s reaction indicates that her character undergoes something of a change. Anyway, I had enough difficulty with the main plot premise of this book to sign on for another one.
That said, the story flowed and was easy to read. I didn’t love the hero, but others definitely seem to.
So, I skimmed a lot. Also, while I haven’t read the sequel, I did read the blurb for it, and having read the end of this book, I can see why one of the other reviewers (who really loved this book) said they didn’t have any desire to read the next one. Actually, it’s speculation. I’m not entirely sure why that reviewer didn’t want to read the next book. For me it was because the premise seems to undo some major elements of this book and the blurb’s report of Solace’s reaction indicates that her character undergoes something of a change. Anyway, I had enough difficulty with the main plot premise of this book to sign on for another one.
That said, the story flowed and was easy to read. I didn’t love the hero, but others definitely seem to.
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