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Lutesong #1
The Stray Spirit
A bard and a forest spirit uncover a deadly magical threat…and the key to survival lies within their own forgotten songs.
Struggling bard Emry Karic has only one path home: impress the Auric Guild, join its ranks of elite musicians, and return to his family with his honor in hand.
Difficult to do on a good day. Impossible to do with a possessed lute.
Hours before Emry’s big break, an unnatural earthquake strikes, forcing a forest spirit named Aspen to take refuge in his lute. Aspen is loud, talkative...and not leaving anytime soon.
Panicked, Emry swears the spirit to silence on stage, in exchange for a favor: he will help investigate the mysterious quake that nearly killed them.
But Emry is a bard, not a scholar, and his research leads straight to the person who resents him the most: Cal Breslin, his studious ex-girlfriend. Despite their history, Cal can’t pass up the opportunity to study a mythical being. Yet as the trio delves into the forgotten folklore of spirits and gods, they uncover a magical threat—and lingering feelings—looming beneath the surface…
Struggling bard Emry Karic has only one path home: impress the Auric Guild, join its ranks of elite musicians, and return to his family with his honor in hand.
Difficult to do on a good day. Impossible to do with a possessed lute.
Hours before Emry’s big break, an unnatural earthquake strikes, forcing a forest spirit named Aspen to take refuge in his lute. Aspen is loud, talkative...and not leaving anytime soon.
Panicked, Emry swears the spirit to silence on stage, in exchange for a favor: he will help investigate the mysterious quake that nearly killed them.
But Emry is a bard, not a scholar, and his research leads straight to the person who resents him the most: Cal Breslin, his studious ex-girlfriend. Despite their history, Cal can’t pass up the opportunity to study a mythical being. Yet as the trio delves into the forgotten folklore of spirits and gods, they uncover a magical threat—and lingering feelings—looming beneath the surface…
376 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2022
42 people are currently reading
1142 people want to read
About the author
R.K. Ashwick
11 books203 followersBy day, R.K. Ashwick herds cats in the animation industry. By night, she writes, bakes, and herds her literal cat around her living room. She lives with her husband (and said cat) in California.
Get free stories, art, and release updates here:
rkashwick.com
Q&A
Where do you get your ideas for your books?
The idea for Stray Spirit came from an active brainstorming session- I knew I wanted to write something for Nanowrimo, but I didn't know what. So I threw together three things I was interested in- bards, caves, and spirit possession- and went from there.
A Rival Most Vial came to me when the phrase "rival potion shops" fell into my head. (And subsequently never left.)
Why did you add drawings to The Stray Spirit?
I wanted to give the book a fairy tale vibe, and because I self-published, I had the freedom to select the artist and the scenes that were drawn. Was it more expensive? Sure. Was it worth it? Yes.
For A Rival Most Vial: why potion shops?
Because my nerdy little D&D heart loves them. I'm obsessed with the hidden lives of NPCs in D&D campaigns, and A Rival Most Vial is absolutely a tribute to that.
And finally: what's next?
Keep an eye out for two more books in the Lutesong Series, three books and two novellas in the Side Quest Row series, and a stand-alone tentatively titled The Bread Witch!
Get free stories, art, and release updates here:
rkashwick.com
Q&A
Where do you get your ideas for your books?
The idea for Stray Spirit came from an active brainstorming session- I knew I wanted to write something for Nanowrimo, but I didn't know what. So I threw together three things I was interested in- bards, caves, and spirit possession- and went from there.
A Rival Most Vial came to me when the phrase "rival potion shops" fell into my head. (And subsequently never left.)
Why did you add drawings to The Stray Spirit?
I wanted to give the book a fairy tale vibe, and because I self-published, I had the freedom to select the artist and the scenes that were drawn. Was it more expensive? Sure. Was it worth it? Yes.
For A Rival Most Vial: why potion shops?
Because my nerdy little D&D heart loves them. I'm obsessed with the hidden lives of NPCs in D&D campaigns, and A Rival Most Vial is absolutely a tribute to that.
And finally: what's next?
Keep an eye out for two more books in the Lutesong Series, three books and two novellas in the Side Quest Row series, and a stand-alone tentatively titled The Bread Witch!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
September 21, 2023
Fantastic Cozy Fantasy! I loved this so much
May 3, 2023
I received a copy from the author
3.3
Emry is a bard, though he doesn't have much to show for it. In order to make anything of himself, he has to join the guild- easier said than done with so much competition and no good platform, but possibly out of the question with a possessed flute. Even Emry, from the more spiritual North, didn't really believe in the gods, but now he has one attached to his instrument, and desperate for his help. Can he, a young god, and his ex-girlfriend delve through the myths to figure out what is threatening the gods? And can he take the chance of a lifetime to prove himself along the way?
This was a fairly light and cute story. It was pitched as cozy fantasy, and I think the label does fit. Even with high-ish stakes and some danger it still errs on the side of library deep dives, affection, and serious talks about relationships. I know this book is going to have a lot of people who love that subgenre enjoying it.
I can also definitely see a lot of people enjoying the characters themselves and their antics. These are characters I particularly think cross-over readers dipping into Adult will get attached to. There is readership for this story, that's certain.
But for me, it was hard to stay invested.
The pacing in this is pretty slow, and the lack of extra subplots or depth of story made it hard for me to stay interested. The only real subplot is Emry trying to join the guild, but that often feels pushed to the side, and it was also a goal I found it hard to get invested in.
Partially because the reasoning why it mattered came too late, and partially because I really didn't care about Emry.
A big problem for me was that the characters didn't feel fully formed or consistently written. None of them had much going on under the surface, and while Emry's main personality trait seemed to be that he's "anxious" he isn't actually written that way.
I think there are readers who'll have fun with this, but it didn't resonate with me personally.
3.3
Emry is a bard, though he doesn't have much to show for it. In order to make anything of himself, he has to join the guild- easier said than done with so much competition and no good platform, but possibly out of the question with a possessed flute. Even Emry, from the more spiritual North, didn't really believe in the gods, but now he has one attached to his instrument, and desperate for his help. Can he, a young god, and his ex-girlfriend delve through the myths to figure out what is threatening the gods? And can he take the chance of a lifetime to prove himself along the way?
This was a fairly light and cute story. It was pitched as cozy fantasy, and I think the label does fit. Even with high-ish stakes and some danger it still errs on the side of library deep dives, affection, and serious talks about relationships. I know this book is going to have a lot of people who love that subgenre enjoying it.
I can also definitely see a lot of people enjoying the characters themselves and their antics. These are characters I particularly think cross-over readers dipping into Adult will get attached to. There is readership for this story, that's certain.
But for me, it was hard to stay invested.
The pacing in this is pretty slow, and the lack of extra subplots or depth of story made it hard for me to stay interested. The only real subplot is Emry trying to join the guild, but that often feels pushed to the side, and it was also a goal I found it hard to get invested in.
Partially because the reasoning why it mattered came too late, and partially because I really didn't care about Emry.
A big problem for me was that the characters didn't feel fully formed or consistently written. None of them had much going on under the surface, and while Emry's main personality trait seemed to be that he's "anxious" he isn't actually written that way.
I think there are readers who'll have fun with this, but it didn't resonate with me personally.
July 25, 2022
Ashwick tells a beautiful story, one of lyrical proportions, a twist of Emry the bard, who’s only desire is to impress the Aulric Guild and join their ranks. Emry can think of no other joy, but to be a part of these elite musicians.
One day while out in the forest, (before his big performance) Emry decides to ask the spirits to bring him luck. So, he decides to sing a song to give thanks to the spirits. When all of sudden, the earth starts to shake and Emry is tossed off his feet and thrown to the ground. The only thing Emry cares about is his lute, upon checking to make sure that it is one piece, he hears someone say he sang beautifully. Emry is scared, but he keeps looking for the voice, because he knows that he is alone in the forest. (Well, what used to be the forest) Turns out the voice is a spirit named Aspen. When the earthquake happened, Aspen had to jump into a being. However! Aspen missed the being (which was Emry) and landed in the lute instead. Now Aspen is like a child, a curious little spirit that is a chatterbox. So much so, that the only way that Emry is able to perform that night is to make a deal with Aspen. He tells Aspen that if he stays silent while he performs, then he will help him figure out what happened to his grove. Aspen agrees and the Quest for the duo begins. Along the way they run into Emry’s ex-girlfriend Cal, where things become even more interesting.
Which is where my dear readers, I shall leave you to read this lyrical joy for yourself.
Ashwick has done such such a mesmerizing job of bringing music to a book. From the time Emry first plays with Aspen in his lute, it is as if you can hear each beautiful note played. As if you are at the Guild listening to Emry’s audition piece yourself.
Ashwick’s word building is so genuine and takes the reader exactly where she intends them to go, from start to finish. She has the reader in her web!
Ashwick’s’ characters are her strongest suit by far. Emry, Aspen and Cal are the Crème de la Crème of the story, and you absolutely love each and every one of them individually.
Emry and his wanting to be part of the Guild to make his family proud, his compassionate self-sacrifices. Who would not adore him?
Then Cal! Her book smarts are a true inspiration for women everywhere, a terrific power move on Ashwick’s’ part (because she could have had a male in this role instead) She and Emry were too cute together with their little bickering.
Then Aspen was the showstopper! With his chattering and childlike innocence and wonder. Whilst all along he and Emry are truly only searching for the same thing.
Ashwick has outdone herself, that is all I can say. One simply has to read this book for themselves to find out the true delight behind these pages.
Any book that can take your imagination on a fantastical, lyrical ride, deserves to be praised and
Ashwick has done just that.
Just as you would hear once the curtains closed after Emry finished performing, Encore.
So we hear the same as the curtain closes for Ashwick's book!
ENCORE! ENCORE!
Can we have Book 2 Please?
One day while out in the forest, (before his big performance) Emry decides to ask the spirits to bring him luck. So, he decides to sing a song to give thanks to the spirits. When all of sudden, the earth starts to shake and Emry is tossed off his feet and thrown to the ground. The only thing Emry cares about is his lute, upon checking to make sure that it is one piece, he hears someone say he sang beautifully. Emry is scared, but he keeps looking for the voice, because he knows that he is alone in the forest. (Well, what used to be the forest) Turns out the voice is a spirit named Aspen. When the earthquake happened, Aspen had to jump into a being. However! Aspen missed the being (which was Emry) and landed in the lute instead. Now Aspen is like a child, a curious little spirit that is a chatterbox. So much so, that the only way that Emry is able to perform that night is to make a deal with Aspen. He tells Aspen that if he stays silent while he performs, then he will help him figure out what happened to his grove. Aspen agrees and the Quest for the duo begins. Along the way they run into Emry’s ex-girlfriend Cal, where things become even more interesting.
Which is where my dear readers, I shall leave you to read this lyrical joy for yourself.
Ashwick has done such such a mesmerizing job of bringing music to a book. From the time Emry first plays with Aspen in his lute, it is as if you can hear each beautiful note played. As if you are at the Guild listening to Emry’s audition piece yourself.
Ashwick’s word building is so genuine and takes the reader exactly where she intends them to go, from start to finish. She has the reader in her web!
Ashwick’s’ characters are her strongest suit by far. Emry, Aspen and Cal are the Crème de la Crème of the story, and you absolutely love each and every one of them individually.
Emry and his wanting to be part of the Guild to make his family proud, his compassionate self-sacrifices. Who would not adore him?
Then Cal! Her book smarts are a true inspiration for women everywhere, a terrific power move on Ashwick’s’ part (because she could have had a male in this role instead) She and Emry were too cute together with their little bickering.
Then Aspen was the showstopper! With his chattering and childlike innocence and wonder. Whilst all along he and Emry are truly only searching for the same thing.
Ashwick has outdone herself, that is all I can say. One simply has to read this book for themselves to find out the true delight behind these pages.
Any book that can take your imagination on a fantastical, lyrical ride, deserves to be praised and
Ashwick has done just that.
Just as you would hear once the curtains closed after Emry finished performing, Encore.
So we hear the same as the curtain closes for Ashwick's book!
ENCORE! ENCORE!
Can we have Book 2 Please?
September 17, 2023
R.K. Ashwick has quickly made a name for herself as one of my go-to authors for cozy fantasy!
I read her books backward, starting with her newest release, A Rival Most Vial , before coming back to The Stray Spirit . I'm happy to say I really enjoyed them both!!
What Ashwick truly excels at is worldbuilding - she effortlessly introduces her readers to the complex, whole worlds that she creates.
This one, in particular, is full of trees and mossy forests; old myths about gods; flowers; earth spirits; lutes and bard-songs; stones; nefarious half-ghosts; river routes; cold, rushing rapids; glow-worms; overwhelming family; books; studying and academia; curly hair; fall leaves; doughy, warm pastries; and at times a wolf, mouse, and bird. (You'll understand that last bit later.)
You're telling me that Vidanya and forest spirits don't exist? You lie.
Beyond that, I found Aspen endearing and hilarious. Emry and Cal were fun to follow, especially watching them tiptoe around each other before maybe, finally, re-admitting their feelings for each other.
I founs the plot to be motivating and engaging! I think the intertwined strands of the surges and Emry's quest to get into the Guild was a fantastic weave of storylines - a more personal, introspective mission mixed with an external crisis.
Overall, I will happily be looking out for book 2 in the Lutesong series! (But don't worry, the ending of this book is complete and non-anxiety-inducing.)
I read her books backward, starting with her newest release, A Rival Most Vial , before coming back to The Stray Spirit . I'm happy to say I really enjoyed them both!!
What Ashwick truly excels at is worldbuilding - she effortlessly introduces her readers to the complex, whole worlds that she creates.
This one, in particular, is full of trees and mossy forests; old myths about gods; flowers; earth spirits; lutes and bard-songs; stones; nefarious half-ghosts; river routes; cold, rushing rapids; glow-worms; overwhelming family; books; studying and academia; curly hair; fall leaves; doughy, warm pastries; and at times a wolf, mouse, and bird. (You'll understand that last bit later.)
You're telling me that Vidanya and forest spirits don't exist? You lie.
Beyond that, I found Aspen endearing and hilarious. Emry and Cal were fun to follow, especially watching them tiptoe around each other before maybe, finally, re-admitting their feelings for each other.
I founs the plot to be motivating and engaging! I think the intertwined strands of the surges and Emry's quest to get into the Guild was a fantastic weave of storylines - a more personal, introspective mission mixed with an external crisis.
Overall, I will happily be looking out for book 2 in the Lutesong series! (But don't worry, the ending of this book is complete and non-anxiety-inducing.)
June 30, 2022
A clean and uplifting adventure with a touch of romance. It has a completely fresh and unique storyline with characters I was rooting for the whole way through! Beautifully stunning world-building and very entertaining! Riveting and charming from the first chapter on, highly recommended, if you like fantasy at all read this book!
Read
September 21, 2024This cozy quest through a quaint and magical world is rather enjoyable.
Go on an unlikely adventure with a struggling bard named Emry, who's lute is possessed by a forest spirit named Aspen. The duo must attempt to thwart the "surges" that plague the land.
The added dynamic of a sweet romantic tension between Emry and his ex-girlfriend Cal presents its own challenges, and plenty of humor.
Added bonus to this cozy quest is the illustrations that depict unique scenes in the book.
If you're looking for something short and sweet, you'll blaze through this one.
Go on an unlikely adventure with a struggling bard named Emry, who's lute is possessed by a forest spirit named Aspen. The duo must attempt to thwart the "surges" that plague the land.
The added dynamic of a sweet romantic tension between Emry and his ex-girlfriend Cal presents its own challenges, and plenty of humor.
Added bonus to this cozy quest is the illustrations that depict unique scenes in the book.
If you're looking for something short and sweet, you'll blaze through this one.
July 9, 2022
Struggling bard Emry Karic has only one path home: impress the Auric Guild, join the ranks of the elite musicians therein, and return to his family with his honor in hand.Just before the biggest performance of Emry’s life, a talkative forest spirit named Aspen traps themself in his lute. Emry swears the spirit to silence on stage, in exchange for a favor: he will help Aspen investigate the magical earthquake that forced them into the instrument.
I loved the cover for this one which is what drew me to it. The pacing was just right which kept me interested. The main characters were relatable and by the end of the book I wanted more. This book was just and interesting and unique read that I just can’t stop recommending.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I loved the cover for this one which is what drew me to it. The pacing was just right which kept me interested. The main characters were relatable and by the end of the book I wanted more. This book was just and interesting and unique read that I just can’t stop recommending.
I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
July 7, 2022
This cosy/low fantasy debut novel was a delight to read.
Our protagonist Bard, Emry, is on a mission to join the Guild, when his lute is possessed by wayward spirit Aspen. That becomes the least of his worries when he discovers that the event which caused it could lead to total destruction of their world from an apocalyptic-level event. When looking for information at the Academy, he bumps into his ex, Calliope, and the three of them are set out on a quest to figure out how to save lives. They also face their pasts along the way and figure out what they want for their future.
The pace is medium, and picks up in the last third of the book. I loved the lore that was woven throughout this book and the world is an easy one to settle into.
There are illustrations by Lucia Vàzquez de Prada dotted throughout which are a lovely addition - it gave a little bit of a fairytale feel for me.
I can’t wait to see what’s next for Emry, Aspen and Cal.
(I received an ARC of this book and am leaving an honest review voluntarily.)
Our protagonist Bard, Emry, is on a mission to join the Guild, when his lute is possessed by wayward spirit Aspen. That becomes the least of his worries when he discovers that the event which caused it could lead to total destruction of their world from an apocalyptic-level event. When looking for information at the Academy, he bumps into his ex, Calliope, and the three of them are set out on a quest to figure out how to save lives. They also face their pasts along the way and figure out what they want for their future.
The pace is medium, and picks up in the last third of the book. I loved the lore that was woven throughout this book and the world is an easy one to settle into.
There are illustrations by Lucia Vàzquez de Prada dotted throughout which are a lovely addition - it gave a little bit of a fairytale feel for me.
I can’t wait to see what’s next for Emry, Aspen and Cal.
(I received an ARC of this book and am leaving an honest review voluntarily.)
January 30, 2025
This was a very sweet second chance story! I liked the world building for the spirits and magic system, and Aspen's relationship with his humans.
I don't think cozy fantasy romance is always for me, but I'm glad I tried something different!
I don't think cozy fantasy romance is always for me, but I'm glad I tried something different!
October 1, 2023
A cozy fantasy!
A bard, a possessed lute, an x-gf, parents, a guild, a quest, an earthquake & danger. This is gonna be a fun series.
Emry, Cal, Aspen. Love!!
A bard, a possessed lute, an x-gf, parents, a guild, a quest, an earthquake & danger. This is gonna be a fun series.
Emry, Cal, Aspen. Love!!
April 13, 2024
A sweet and uplifting story in a believable and dynamic set of towns. Reading every pleasant interaction and experiencing every conflict from the views of the characters is fulfilling and often heartwarming in the most wholesome ways. It's an honest book with a fantastic writing style. Immediately reading the sequel and I will happily await the 3rd book in the series! Thank you for writing and succeeding in portraying this simple and fun story.
July 4, 2022
This story is the warm mug of willow-bark tea you didn’t know you needed. The Stray Spirit drops you into a quaint and vibrant natural world filled with lovable characters, humor, music, lore, and an excellent hero’s story. There’s a million little enjoyable moments throughout, I’m very excited there will be more “cozy fantasy” (as the author describes it) to follow.
November 8, 2023
I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
When I picked up the ARC for The Stray Spirit, I didn't expect to like it as much as I did. Little did I know.
Let's preface this by saying I'm a slow reader, so, if I say I kept reading multiple chapters in one sitting, it means serious business. At first, the story's quiet pacing had me fairly invested. By chapter 10, I was captured. Which is impressive, considering the start is fairly low stake.
As already mentioned, The Stray Spirit is a quiet book, not your typical epic fantasy. The author puts it in the 'cozy fantasy' category, and I agree this is the best definition for it. It doesn't mean the characters aren't in danger—they risk their lives in multiple occasions—, but there is an almost ever-present feeling of fuzziness, like a warm blanket wrapping the reader. It's a combination of the calm pacing, the simple style and the characters that makes it a perfect comfort read.
Speaking of characters. We follow them through their quest and witness them become one of the sweetest found families I've ever seen. Emry, an anxious bard struggling with guilt and self-doubt. Aspen, a bubbly spirit with a heart of gold. Cal, a devoted scholar who isn't afraid to speak her mind. All of them feel like real, complex human beings, and slowly reveal unexpected layers to their personalities.
I fell in love with their dynamics. It takes some of them more time to connect (or re-connect, in the case of Emry and Cal), but in the end you won't be indifferent toward anybody.
Now, onto the topic of the romance. Besides the fact that I think the second chance/exes to lovers trope is underrated, it is also just very well written. We get insights into how both Emry and Cal feel about their past relationship and breakup, we see them acknowledge each other's emotions in a healthy way, we see them apologize and come back stronger. Although the romance gets a relatively small page count—the book is on the shorter end and has various sideplots—, it stuck with me and I consider it one of the most notable I read this year.
There are also a number of secondary characters and, despite them not having much space in the narrative, they don't read as underdeveloped. They simply get the number of pages they need.
Finally, I'm going to talk about the style. I've already mentioned its simplicity, but I want to stress that I don't mean 'simple' as in 'poor'. Quite the opposite, actually: the descriptions paint a vivid picture of the clothing, rooms and landscape, which all have a classical, D&D-esque feel. The writing is transparent and immersive, and I think it's the perfect wrapping for the story—a more flowery style would've clogged the narrative.
I honestly have nothing bad to say about this book. Many of its features, like plot or pacing, will not work for you if that's not your literary taste or what you're looking for at the moment, but it's a matter of preference, not inherent flaws.
Personally, I loved it and recommend it wholeheartedly (and I'm a critical reader, so I don't say this lightly). I'm very excited for the second installment in the series and the author's new book, forthcoming in March 2023. ⭐⭐⭐⭐,25/5
When I picked up the ARC for The Stray Spirit, I didn't expect to like it as much as I did. Little did I know.
Let's preface this by saying I'm a slow reader, so, if I say I kept reading multiple chapters in one sitting, it means serious business. At first, the story's quiet pacing had me fairly invested. By chapter 10, I was captured. Which is impressive, considering the start is fairly low stake.
As already mentioned, The Stray Spirit is a quiet book, not your typical epic fantasy. The author puts it in the 'cozy fantasy' category, and I agree this is the best definition for it. It doesn't mean the characters aren't in danger—they risk their lives in multiple occasions—, but there is an almost ever-present feeling of fuzziness, like a warm blanket wrapping the reader. It's a combination of the calm pacing, the simple style and the characters that makes it a perfect comfort read.
Speaking of characters. We follow them through their quest and witness them become one of the sweetest found families I've ever seen. Emry, an anxious bard struggling with guilt and self-doubt. Aspen, a bubbly spirit with a heart of gold. Cal, a devoted scholar who isn't afraid to speak her mind. All of them feel like real, complex human beings, and slowly reveal unexpected layers to their personalities.
I fell in love with their dynamics. It takes some of them more time to connect (or re-connect, in the case of Emry and Cal), but in the end you won't be indifferent toward anybody.
Now, onto the topic of the romance. Besides the fact that I think the second chance/exes to lovers trope is underrated, it is also just very well written. We get insights into how both Emry and Cal feel about their past relationship and breakup, we see them acknowledge each other's emotions in a healthy way, we see them apologize and come back stronger. Although the romance gets a relatively small page count—the book is on the shorter end and has various sideplots—, it stuck with me and I consider it one of the most notable I read this year.
There are also a number of secondary characters and, despite them not having much space in the narrative, they don't read as underdeveloped. They simply get the number of pages they need.
Finally, I'm going to talk about the style. I've already mentioned its simplicity, but I want to stress that I don't mean 'simple' as in 'poor'. Quite the opposite, actually: the descriptions paint a vivid picture of the clothing, rooms and landscape, which all have a classical, D&D-esque feel. The writing is transparent and immersive, and I think it's the perfect wrapping for the story—a more flowery style would've clogged the narrative.
I honestly have nothing bad to say about this book. Many of its features, like plot or pacing, will not work for you if that's not your literary taste or what you're looking for at the moment, but it's a matter of preference, not inherent flaws.
Personally, I loved it and recommend it wholeheartedly (and I'm a critical reader, so I don't say this lightly). I'm very excited for the second installment in the series and the author's new book, forthcoming in March 2023. ⭐⭐⭐⭐,25/5
September 24, 2022
Stray Spirit ARC voluntary review
Ashwick’s first publishing establishes her brand of cozy low fantasy, an enjoyable cast of characters, and her skill at executing a well thought out vision with care.
What I liked: Ashwick excels at developing the readers relationship with the core protagonists. The world she builds for them is novel and interesting to explore, without being overwhelming of new places, mechanics, and lore that the reader must understand to be able to follow the plot. The stakes crescendo smoothly and are made to feel real on multiple occasions, while still remaining appropriate for any age audience. Ashwicks take on a young forest spirit’s personality is particularly engaging, yet leaves room for readers to build their own interpretation — pronouns are never given, yet some reviewers clearly (myself included) are able to associate one if they do choose.
Where I hope Ashwick’s series will continue to grow: the protagonists are young, and as such they are juvenile in some of their world views—I’m excited to see how the author can explore more advanced themes while still maintaining her appeal to a broad audience, and also adding depth to the core cast. As well as the central elements are executed, supporting characters and side plots are limited, and might have helped maintain engagement in the middle acts. Finally, I would be interested to see future books lean more into the exploration of their fantasy elements as the world readers are exposed to expands.
Ashwick’s first publishing establishes her brand of cozy low fantasy, an enjoyable cast of characters, and her skill at executing a well thought out vision with care.
What I liked: Ashwick excels at developing the readers relationship with the core protagonists. The world she builds for them is novel and interesting to explore, without being overwhelming of new places, mechanics, and lore that the reader must understand to be able to follow the plot. The stakes crescendo smoothly and are made to feel real on multiple occasions, while still remaining appropriate for any age audience. Ashwicks take on a young forest spirit’s personality is particularly engaging, yet leaves room for readers to build their own interpretation — pronouns are never given, yet some reviewers clearly (myself included) are able to associate one if they do choose.
Where I hope Ashwick’s series will continue to grow: the protagonists are young, and as such they are juvenile in some of their world views—I’m excited to see how the author can explore more advanced themes while still maintaining her appeal to a broad audience, and also adding depth to the core cast. As well as the central elements are executed, supporting characters and side plots are limited, and might have helped maintain engagement in the middle acts. Finally, I would be interested to see future books lean more into the exploration of their fantasy elements as the world readers are exposed to expands.
July 7, 2022
I volunteered to write this review after receiving an advanced reader copy. The following review is my honest, initial, and unbiased opinion.
Overall Impression:
This fantasy novel about family, lutes, spirits, cave boats, academia politics, flowers, worms, breakfast pastry, the apocalypse, and flowers is a charming balance of whimsy, humor, heartbreak, and horror that I finished in one day. At work. While running lab tests. In ebook format. I don’t know what a higher recommendation you could want. My only complaint is that I can’t buy the sequel immediately because I have so many unanswered questions (in a good, set up for the next book, not an actively confusing kind of way)
Characters:
Emry is deeply relatable and I want to give him a hug and a cup of soup and tell him it’s all gonna be ok so badly. His relationships with his family, peers, and authorities, his anxiety, the hopeful determination he brings to every challenge – RK creates such sympathetic, well-meaning, walking disaster that you can’t help but root for throughout the story. He’s trying his best to live up to so many expectations (some self-inflicted), and his sacrifices make your heart ache. As a protagonist, he does a fantastic job of carrying the POV of the series, and I can’t wait to hear about his adventures in the next book.
Cal, my genius queen, is an inspiration to exhausted uni students everywhere. I think rereading this book will keep me going next semester. If Calliope Breslin can accomplish such brilliant studies during a world-shaking cataclysm, then so can I. Her relationship with Emry is nuanced, deep, and extremely sweet. Their spats come from a place where both are wrong and both are right, and watching them come to an understanding of each other was incredibly satisfying. She serves as an expositor of information while keeping the delivery interesting, and I loved going along on the journey of discovery alongside her.
Perhaps my only complaint is that she’s SO clever, she beat me to the conclusion at the end of the spider-web of clues, which lessened the impact of the mystery slightly. She’s privy to in-world information we don’t have as readers, but to be fair, neither does Emry. RK delivers the impact through drama, countdowns, and other external factors, which means the mystery does not need to carry the tension in the book, and it still works really well.
Aspen is a delight and joy and too good and pure for this sinful world, my light, my life, my darling. They can have all the best offerings from my garden if they want. As an outsider to the human world of the story, they serve as a helpful audience surrogate to ask questions and get answers, as a native to the spirit world, he serves as a natural fountain of exposition, and as the driving force of the plot, they’re a simple, yet compelling character. They’re protective, curious, and want a home, just like Emry. They’re fascinating as foils to each other and the climax shows the culmination of their respective arcs in such a satisfying way.
The side characters are also delightful and well-rounded in their own respects. I’d love to have tea with the Alta in her grove, and reading the interactions between Emry and his family were both hilarious and heartwarming. I want a solo novella chronicling how they dealt with his absence for three years, and how their dynamics changed in response, if only for Georgie’s snark.
The Worldbuilding:
This world feels so authentic, and lived-in, that despite the life-threatening events of the plot, I would move there in a heartbeat. The development of our understanding through the plot feels organic as the characters learn more about the spirits and almost-forgotten religion of their regions. The nature (which features heavily thanks to Aspen’s role as a forest spirit), is a charming blend of homey, with familiar trees and comfortable descriptions of meals, buildings, and clothing, and otherworldly, with the river routes through the caves, glow worms, rhythm blooms, and fanes.
I wish we could see more of the mythology. As a religion nerd, I want to know whether or not there are people that worship the other gods, instead of Hara and the Sada festival, or even entirely different faiths. How did the southern people become agnostic/atheistic? How do the Altas recruit and preserve the myths when there aren’t many to listen? When did the Academy and Council come to be? The book gives us just enough to facilitate the story, without being confused, but it also feels like there’s so much more to explore. Good thing this is a series!
Besides that, all the other plot-relevant foreshadowing paid off spectacularly in the end. Unfortunately, I can’t talk about all the epic parallel moments because of spoilers, but RK pulls them off with a deft mastery of storytelling craft that I envy. In conclusion, I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes wholesome, platonic, and romantic character dynamics, rich lived-in worlds, fictional religions, and plants. You really can't go wrong with the plants.
Overall Impression:
This fantasy novel about family, lutes, spirits, cave boats, academia politics, flowers, worms, breakfast pastry, the apocalypse, and flowers is a charming balance of whimsy, humor, heartbreak, and horror that I finished in one day. At work. While running lab tests. In ebook format. I don’t know what a higher recommendation you could want. My only complaint is that I can’t buy the sequel immediately because I have so many unanswered questions (in a good, set up for the next book, not an actively confusing kind of way)
Characters:
Emry is deeply relatable and I want to give him a hug and a cup of soup and tell him it’s all gonna be ok so badly. His relationships with his family, peers, and authorities, his anxiety, the hopeful determination he brings to every challenge – RK creates such sympathetic, well-meaning, walking disaster that you can’t help but root for throughout the story. He’s trying his best to live up to so many expectations (some self-inflicted), and his sacrifices make your heart ache. As a protagonist, he does a fantastic job of carrying the POV of the series, and I can’t wait to hear about his adventures in the next book.
Cal, my genius queen, is an inspiration to exhausted uni students everywhere. I think rereading this book will keep me going next semester. If Calliope Breslin can accomplish such brilliant studies during a world-shaking cataclysm, then so can I. Her relationship with Emry is nuanced, deep, and extremely sweet. Their spats come from a place where both are wrong and both are right, and watching them come to an understanding of each other was incredibly satisfying. She serves as an expositor of information while keeping the delivery interesting, and I loved going along on the journey of discovery alongside her.
Perhaps my only complaint is that she’s SO clever, she beat me to the conclusion at the end of the spider-web of clues, which lessened the impact of the mystery slightly. She’s privy to in-world information we don’t have as readers, but to be fair, neither does Emry. RK delivers the impact through drama, countdowns, and other external factors, which means the mystery does not need to carry the tension in the book, and it still works really well.
Aspen is a delight and joy and too good and pure for this sinful world, my light, my life, my darling. They can have all the best offerings from my garden if they want. As an outsider to the human world of the story, they serve as a helpful audience surrogate to ask questions and get answers, as a native to the spirit world, he serves as a natural fountain of exposition, and as the driving force of the plot, they’re a simple, yet compelling character. They’re protective, curious, and want a home, just like Emry. They’re fascinating as foils to each other and the climax shows the culmination of their respective arcs in such a satisfying way.
The side characters are also delightful and well-rounded in their own respects. I’d love to have tea with the Alta in her grove, and reading the interactions between Emry and his family were both hilarious and heartwarming. I want a solo novella chronicling how they dealt with his absence for three years, and how their dynamics changed in response, if only for Georgie’s snark.
The Worldbuilding:
This world feels so authentic, and lived-in, that despite the life-threatening events of the plot, I would move there in a heartbeat. The development of our understanding through the plot feels organic as the characters learn more about the spirits and almost-forgotten religion of their regions. The nature (which features heavily thanks to Aspen’s role as a forest spirit), is a charming blend of homey, with familiar trees and comfortable descriptions of meals, buildings, and clothing, and otherworldly, with the river routes through the caves, glow worms, rhythm blooms, and fanes.
I wish we could see more of the mythology. As a religion nerd, I want to know whether or not there are people that worship the other gods, instead of Hara and the Sada festival, or even entirely different faiths. How did the southern people become agnostic/atheistic? How do the Altas recruit and preserve the myths when there aren’t many to listen? When did the Academy and Council come to be? The book gives us just enough to facilitate the story, without being confused, but it also feels like there’s so much more to explore. Good thing this is a series!
Besides that, all the other plot-relevant foreshadowing paid off spectacularly in the end. Unfortunately, I can’t talk about all the epic parallel moments because of spoilers, but RK pulls them off with a deft mastery of storytelling craft that I envy. In conclusion, I highly recommend this book to anyone who likes wholesome, platonic, and romantic character dynamics, rich lived-in worlds, fictional religions, and plants. You really can't go wrong with the plants.
August 9, 2022
3.8 out of 5 stars!
"Just a man, standing in a forest, playing for a tree." - Emry
Emry Karic's been struggling for a while with the bard career. Or not really one at all since he isn't a part of a guild yet. But his luck may just change! Only the gods have other plans for poor Emry. His only shot of impressing a certain guild may just go up in flames when his lute becomes possessed!
Still aiming for his shot, Emry makes a deal with the spirit within his lute. Only little did Emry know this agreement would have him trekking across the land. Not to mention encountering things that should only exist in stories! Did I mention his ex girlfriend will be accompanying him as well?
This is a fun adventure with a touch of romance. I enjoyed watching Emry's plans for his life change in the course of a night! How reuniting with his ex for this journey was difficult but the banter between the two was wonderful. I loved the author's interpretation on things and their imagination for this story.
There are mysterious "surges" occurring in the land and everyone's writing them off as "normal". Yet something is off about them and the trio are trying to get to the bottom of things. I loved the mystery and how random, little things helped to connect the dots.
I enjoyed Aspen, and their new soul aspect. Being inquisitive about everything that we take for granted. Sticking up for their friends when someone is being rude, even if a main character's brushing it off. We also get to see more insight into spirits! There was a scene with another spirit and a woman that had me cracking up.
For me, I felt like a few scenes lingered a little bit. I did enjoy some of the long descriptions of things to really help set the stage and scenery. The author included illustrations in this book! We also get a map at the beginning of the book. Loved both of these features. I always get excited when I am reading a book and find there are random illustrations within!
Overall, a very clean read. There's romance but nothing over the line of passionate kisses. Hardly any violence or real detailed out violence. There were a couple of minor curse words in the book. Again, ultimately a clean read. This is book one so there's a cliffhanger but it is a gentle one. I am interested in continuing the journey with the cast. Seeing where everyone ends up!
Enjoy the fun, lighthearted adventure with a dash of romance and give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.blogspot.com
I received a copy of this book from the author and I'm leaving an unpaid, honest review.
"Just a man, standing in a forest, playing for a tree." - Emry
Emry Karic's been struggling for a while with the bard career. Or not really one at all since he isn't a part of a guild yet. But his luck may just change! Only the gods have other plans for poor Emry. His only shot of impressing a certain guild may just go up in flames when his lute becomes possessed!
Still aiming for his shot, Emry makes a deal with the spirit within his lute. Only little did Emry know this agreement would have him trekking across the land. Not to mention encountering things that should only exist in stories! Did I mention his ex girlfriend will be accompanying him as well?
This is a fun adventure with a touch of romance. I enjoyed watching Emry's plans for his life change in the course of a night! How reuniting with his ex for this journey was difficult but the banter between the two was wonderful. I loved the author's interpretation on things and their imagination for this story.
There are mysterious "surges" occurring in the land and everyone's writing them off as "normal". Yet something is off about them and the trio are trying to get to the bottom of things. I loved the mystery and how random, little things helped to connect the dots.
I enjoyed Aspen, and their new soul aspect. Being inquisitive about everything that we take for granted. Sticking up for their friends when someone is being rude, even if a main character's brushing it off. We also get to see more insight into spirits! There was a scene with another spirit and a woman that had me cracking up.
For me, I felt like a few scenes lingered a little bit. I did enjoy some of the long descriptions of things to really help set the stage and scenery. The author included illustrations in this book! We also get a map at the beginning of the book. Loved both of these features. I always get excited when I am reading a book and find there are random illustrations within!
Overall, a very clean read. There's romance but nothing over the line of passionate kisses. Hardly any violence or real detailed out violence. There were a couple of minor curse words in the book. Again, ultimately a clean read. This is book one so there's a cliffhanger but it is a gentle one. I am interested in continuing the journey with the cast. Seeing where everyone ends up!
Enjoy the fun, lighthearted adventure with a dash of romance and give the author some stars!
shutupandbookup.blogspot.com
I received a copy of this book from the author and I'm leaving an unpaid, honest review.
August 9, 2022
“No, it’s not fine!” the voice shouted in a panic. “I’m not going to be able to hold on much longer. Can I borrow you?”
When a spirit asks if they can “borrow’ you, the answer is always no, right? Lucky for Emry, the spirit went into his lute instead (just because he held it up in front of him, but that counts…). The spirit is out to save his grove; the surges are killing his trees, and Aspen has to do what a spirit can. Emry, who left his home to prove himself, feels obligated to help the spirit, and along with his ex-girlfriend, a student in everything, they need to figure out what is going on before the next surge kills everyone…
His hand settled on his own chest, taut with the aftershock of fear. “I’m sorry, did you just try to possess me?” “I didn’t have a choice!” the spirit argued… I needed to attach to something new, or else – or else I’d die!”
I enjoyed reading this story, and I loved Aspen, the spirit! He was written with so much optimism, learning about the world around him, always up for new things. And what is Emry supposed to do with a spirit is his lute… He is trying to prove himself to his family by joining the Auric Guild for music. But as another surge hits the town and people are killed, he finds his quest to help Aspen a little more urgent. It is really just his good luck that the person best suited to help him is his ex-girlfriend Cal…
The story felt a little bit slow towards the middle of it, and the spirit is referred to as “they”, although I thought it was a single person/spirit (there is probably a specific reason for this, but I have a writer friend that sounds just like that, so the spirit voice became his…)
I did like the world; I loved Aspen (who could turn into any form, including my favourite, a wolf!), it has a light romance, and the magic comes from the spirits. Aspen’s humour lightens the whole story (although he also gets sad), but overall it was a good, entertaining read.
I received an advance reader copy of this book from the author (thank you!) for an honest review.
March 25, 2023
The Stray Spirit
R.K. Ashwick
CAWPILE SCORE
C-8
A-6
W-6
P-8
I-8
L-9
E-9
TOTAL-7.71/10
I will be talking about it on Libromancy https://libromancy.podbean.com/ on 03/26/2023
R.K. Ashwick
CAWPILE SCORE
C-8
A-6
W-6
P-8
I-8
L-9
E-9
TOTAL-7.71/10
I will be talking about it on Libromancy https://libromancy.podbean.com/ on 03/26/2023
August 7, 2022
I was sent a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review, and let me say, R.K. Ashwick did not disappoint! Highly recommend if you need a light hearted but still deep fantasy with a struggling bard, a pure hearted spirit, and a perfectly woven fantasy world that feels both cozy and vast in the best ways!
This was my first foray into the cozy fantasy genre, and I will definitely be picking up more books, including any others by Ashwick! First, the prose was great-pretty, well structured, and with just the right mix of emotion and atmosphere. The plot was well done, with enough stakes to keep the tension and keep me reading, but without being overwhelming or world changing (at least in the beginning!). It did get more intense as the book went on, but as I am used to very high stakes fantasy, this was a great build up to the ending. A wonderful balance for a more personal cozy fantasy. Initially I did not care so much for the LI as she came off a bit mean, but the author did an AMAZING job of turning that around and making me absolutely LOVE her by the end! And the MC Emry was just great the whole time-funny, emotionally deep, and just so easily lovable. I enjoyed the pacing of the reveals about backstory and just how everything came together.
This book also has wonderful non-binary rep in the form of the spirits. Aspen made me fall in love with them on every page-they were adorably innocent. Their interactions with Emry, Cal, and the world at large were so pure, and any scene with them usually ended in me laughing or aw-ing out loud. Their actions and the hope they brought really made this book so light and happy even when things were going wrong.
There were also some gorgeous illustrations in the book, at the most perfect scenes. I loved being able to see these important and beautiful moments as I was reading (especially the glow worm cave scene!!).
Overall I was floored with how much I loved this book. I can't wait to buy a physical copy (outside of the merits of the book itself, the cover is stunning!). Great debut from Ashwick, and I can't wait to see what other stories they have to tell.
This was my first foray into the cozy fantasy genre, and I will definitely be picking up more books, including any others by Ashwick! First, the prose was great-pretty, well structured, and with just the right mix of emotion and atmosphere. The plot was well done, with enough stakes to keep the tension and keep me reading, but without being overwhelming or world changing (at least in the beginning!). It did get more intense as the book went on, but as I am used to very high stakes fantasy, this was a great build up to the ending. A wonderful balance for a more personal cozy fantasy. Initially I did not care so much for the LI as she came off a bit mean, but the author did an AMAZING job of turning that around and making me absolutely LOVE her by the end! And the MC Emry was just great the whole time-funny, emotionally deep, and just so easily lovable. I enjoyed the pacing of the reveals about backstory and just how everything came together.
This book also has wonderful non-binary rep in the form of the spirits. Aspen made me fall in love with them on every page-they were adorably innocent. Their interactions with Emry, Cal, and the world at large were so pure, and any scene with them usually ended in me laughing or aw-ing out loud. Their actions and the hope they brought really made this book so light and happy even when things were going wrong.
There were also some gorgeous illustrations in the book, at the most perfect scenes. I loved being able to see these important and beautiful moments as I was reading (especially the glow worm cave scene!!).
Overall I was floored with how much I loved this book. I can't wait to buy a physical copy (outside of the merits of the book itself, the cover is stunning!). Great debut from Ashwick, and I can't wait to see what other stories they have to tell.
November 22, 2022
This book hooked me so strongly that while staying up to read it my wife kind of pointedly mentioned it was late and that I had been reading for about five hours straight and could I be done now.
Pretty much once the character of Aspen was introduced, I was hooked. And what started as a very light, breezy read carried seamlessly into a tense, save the world adventure that kept me hooked until the end.
This is a very nice comfortable read, the sort of thing you could comfortably consume in a bubble bath while keeping the mood if you're willing to risk books in such an activity. Though you would probably have to refresh the heat.
On the downside, I don't feel that I ever particularly connected with the original supporting characters of Marko and Stef. But once the story got going, the major characters and the situation kept my interest well enough that I didn't particularly mind. It ended up seeming a natural consequence of the deft lightness of touch that made the book such a joy to read.
On the matter of how the fantasy works, this is a soft magic book. The magic feels like magic, not pseudoscience. But the precedent of each magical effect makes it easy to conclude what magic is possible.
On the plus side Emry, Cal, and Aspen make a lovely triad, their dialogue and interaction sing, and they're a joy to follow along. The writing carried me along beautifully without ever getting in the way. I both enjoyed the plot and found the character motivations entirely plausible. I think Emry was painted beautifully as someone with some self esteem issues without ever being too blunt about it. Cal was very believable as hurt and still believable when she relented on being hurt. And Aspen's childish wonder made the world a joy to explore.
It feels like this book has barely teased the surface of this world and there is a lot more worth uncovering. So, I'm looking forward to following along with more of Emry, Cal, and Aspen's adventures whenever Lutesong 2 comes out.
Pretty much once the character of Aspen was introduced, I was hooked. And what started as a very light, breezy read carried seamlessly into a tense, save the world adventure that kept me hooked until the end.
This is a very nice comfortable read, the sort of thing you could comfortably consume in a bubble bath while keeping the mood if you're willing to risk books in such an activity. Though you would probably have to refresh the heat.
On the downside, I don't feel that I ever particularly connected with the original supporting characters of Marko and Stef. But once the story got going, the major characters and the situation kept my interest well enough that I didn't particularly mind. It ended up seeming a natural consequence of the deft lightness of touch that made the book such a joy to read.
On the matter of how the fantasy works, this is a soft magic book. The magic feels like magic, not pseudoscience. But the precedent of each magical effect makes it easy to conclude what magic is possible.
On the plus side Emry, Cal, and Aspen make a lovely triad, their dialogue and interaction sing, and they're a joy to follow along. The writing carried me along beautifully without ever getting in the way. I both enjoyed the plot and found the character motivations entirely plausible. I think Emry was painted beautifully as someone with some self esteem issues without ever being too blunt about it. Cal was very believable as hurt and still believable when she relented on being hurt. And Aspen's childish wonder made the world a joy to explore.
It feels like this book has barely teased the surface of this world and there is a lot more worth uncovering. So, I'm looking forward to following along with more of Emry, Cal, and Aspen's adventures whenever Lutesong 2 comes out.
August 4, 2022
I, admittedly, went into A Stray Spirit with some hesitance because it's not my usual brand of fantasy. The magic in the world of Thalis is softer, and quieter, than I've grown to expect from my fantasy favourites, and yet...
It works.
It works beautifully. So much so that by the time I'd realised I'd fallen in love with the characters, I was already seven chapters into this masterfully woven adventure. R.K Ashwick weaves the story through your head much like the lutesong that our protagonist, Emry Karic, plays at the Red Rat inn.
Emry is kind, and relatable. He has goals that anyone can empathise with and understand, and a backstory I was eagerly waiting to discover as the tale progressed.
Cal is headstrong, stubborn, intelligent, and a perfect companion to work alongside Emry, balancing out his character. I can see their character developing even more beautifully as the series progresses and I can't wait to see where she goes next.
Aspen is an absolute sweetheart. They stole my entire soul the moment they caused trouble with Stef in a fabric store. If you've read the book, you know exactly the scene I'm talking about. It painted such a vivid picture of innocent mischievousness, I laughed aloud, and if you don't know the scene I'm talking about, then you should absolutely pick up this book and find out!
This is an entirely enchanting tale, with enough adventure and tension to keep you engaged, while weaving affection for the characters through every line you read. A truly beautiful piece of writing. I wasn't intending to purchase a copy in paperback, but now I've finished it I think I'm going to have to. It would be a crying shame not to add this book to my shelves, and I'm eagerly awaiting more stories of Emry, Cal and Aspen in the future.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily choosing to leave an honest review.
It works.
It works beautifully. So much so that by the time I'd realised I'd fallen in love with the characters, I was already seven chapters into this masterfully woven adventure. R.K Ashwick weaves the story through your head much like the lutesong that our protagonist, Emry Karic, plays at the Red Rat inn.
Emry is kind, and relatable. He has goals that anyone can empathise with and understand, and a backstory I was eagerly waiting to discover as the tale progressed.
Cal is headstrong, stubborn, intelligent, and a perfect companion to work alongside Emry, balancing out his character. I can see their character developing even more beautifully as the series progresses and I can't wait to see where she goes next.
Aspen is an absolute sweetheart. They stole my entire soul the moment they caused trouble with Stef in a fabric store. If you've read the book, you know exactly the scene I'm talking about. It painted such a vivid picture of innocent mischievousness, I laughed aloud, and if you don't know the scene I'm talking about, then you should absolutely pick up this book and find out!
This is an entirely enchanting tale, with enough adventure and tension to keep you engaged, while weaving affection for the characters through every line you read. A truly beautiful piece of writing. I wasn't intending to purchase a copy in paperback, but now I've finished it I think I'm going to have to. It would be a crying shame not to add this book to my shelves, and I'm eagerly awaiting more stories of Emry, Cal and Aspen in the future.
I received a free copy of this book from the author, and am voluntarily choosing to leave an honest review.
May 26, 2025
The Stray Spirit is like getting emotionally wrecked by a ghost while sipping tea in a foggy forest—and honestly? I loved it.
Let’s start with Emry. Sweet, emotionally constipated Emry. This boy is out here having a full-blown existential crisis with a haunted expression and a soft cardigan energy, and I was so here for it. He feels things very deeply but mostly in silence, probably while staring out a window.
Cal, our quiet badass queen, is grounded, calm, and would absolutely be the one driving the getaway car while Emry’s in the backseat having a philosophical meltdown. Cal is the emotional rock of the story but with zero drama about it. She’s the kind of girl who could drag you out of a haunted forest and then say, “Don’t mention it,” like she didn’t just save your life and your soul.
And Aspen. Oh, Aspen. Aspen is what happens when you give a cryptid the ability to feel heartbreak and a flair for the dramatic. They’re ethereal, chaotic, possibly feral, and deeply in need of a hug and a good therapist. I loved them instantly. They have big “I might possess you but make it tender” energy. The loud lute of the bard hahaha
The vibes? Immaculate. Think: fog, sadness, yearning, and just a touch of spooky forest magic. The prose is gorgeously written—poetic but not pretentious, like someone who studied literature but still makes memes.
Now, if I had to nitpick: the emotional moments could’ve hit harder. Like yes, I felt things—but I wanted to be wrecked. I wanted to lie face-down on the floor and make weird emotional whale noises. Still, the book was genuinely wonderful, and I devoured it like a ghost-starved reader looking for soul snacks.
The Stray Spirit is perfect for anyone who loves soft boys, capable girls, nonbinary forest spirits, emotional repression, and prose that could make a rock cry. Would I live in this book? Yes. Would it emotionally destabilize me? Also yes. 9/10 would get haunted again.
Let’s start with Emry. Sweet, emotionally constipated Emry. This boy is out here having a full-blown existential crisis with a haunted expression and a soft cardigan energy, and I was so here for it. He feels things very deeply but mostly in silence, probably while staring out a window.
Cal, our quiet badass queen, is grounded, calm, and would absolutely be the one driving the getaway car while Emry’s in the backseat having a philosophical meltdown. Cal is the emotional rock of the story but with zero drama about it. She’s the kind of girl who could drag you out of a haunted forest and then say, “Don’t mention it,” like she didn’t just save your life and your soul.
And Aspen. Oh, Aspen. Aspen is what happens when you give a cryptid the ability to feel heartbreak and a flair for the dramatic. They’re ethereal, chaotic, possibly feral, and deeply in need of a hug and a good therapist. I loved them instantly. They have big “I might possess you but make it tender” energy. The loud lute of the bard hahaha
The vibes? Immaculate. Think: fog, sadness, yearning, and just a touch of spooky forest magic. The prose is gorgeously written—poetic but not pretentious, like someone who studied literature but still makes memes.
Now, if I had to nitpick: the emotional moments could’ve hit harder. Like yes, I felt things—but I wanted to be wrecked. I wanted to lie face-down on the floor and make weird emotional whale noises. Still, the book was genuinely wonderful, and I devoured it like a ghost-starved reader looking for soul snacks.
The Stray Spirit is perfect for anyone who loves soft boys, capable girls, nonbinary forest spirits, emotional repression, and prose that could make a rock cry. Would I live in this book? Yes. Would it emotionally destabilize me? Also yes. 9/10 would get haunted again.
September 11, 2022
This book had a bit of trouble roping me in at first, but I'm glad I continued on, as you can see by my rating. I loved the world-building and the cozy but never boring vibes of the piece in its entirety. The lore, in the beginning, was a bit shoved out to facilitate what needed to be known to begin the story, but it comes to a better place soon enough.
A few characters I liked fell to the wayside while I struggled with one main being a bit childishly annoying for most of the book, but the characters of Emry and Cal really hooked me. Emry's struggle between wanting to be true to his desires and himself and yet missing his family, who gave him an ultimatum that has left him estranged, was enough to pull on my heartstrings. Emry has some terrible luck that I can really relate to, as well as his artistic sense and how he strives to reach his goals. Personally, I feel the family could have been a bit more called out on how they responded to him leaving to make his dream come true.
Cal is my favorite character. I'm excited to see more of her in the rest of the series. Though her ending in this one did shock me a bit, it does well for the plot overall. She is witty and cute, and I just adore some of the later interactions with her and Emry. I will admit I was a bit annoyed at first with how she treated him, but her apology really helped me see her differently.
The descriptions, settings, and just overall tone were very cohesive and painted a wonderful picture, not to mention the few actual illustrations at some of the book's key moments. Characters were well described and always acted to their interests while never falling out of character. All in all, I plan on buying a paperback copy when I have the money around the holidays and adding the rest of this series to my shelf as it comes out! Excited to read more by this budding author.
A few characters I liked fell to the wayside while I struggled with one main being a bit childishly annoying for most of the book, but the characters of Emry and Cal really hooked me. Emry's struggle between wanting to be true to his desires and himself and yet missing his family, who gave him an ultimatum that has left him estranged, was enough to pull on my heartstrings. Emry has some terrible luck that I can really relate to, as well as his artistic sense and how he strives to reach his goals. Personally, I feel the family could have been a bit more called out on how they responded to him leaving to make his dream come true.
Cal is my favorite character. I'm excited to see more of her in the rest of the series. Though her ending in this one did shock me a bit, it does well for the plot overall. She is witty and cute, and I just adore some of the later interactions with her and Emry. I will admit I was a bit annoyed at first with how she treated him, but her apology really helped me see her differently.
The descriptions, settings, and just overall tone were very cohesive and painted a wonderful picture, not to mention the few actual illustrations at some of the book's key moments. Characters were well described and always acted to their interests while never falling out of character. All in all, I plan on buying a paperback copy when I have the money around the holidays and adding the rest of this series to my shelf as it comes out! Excited to read more by this budding author.
November 5, 2023
Review originally posted on A Keyboard and an Open Mind 06 November 2023:
After reading this author’s other novel, A Rival Most Vial, earlier in October, I knew I had to pick up her second book right away. I can definitively say I’ve found a new favourite author! I loved Emry, Cal, and Aspen – they were such an adorable accidental family.
Aspen, the titular spirit who accidentally ends up possessing Emry’s lute, is somewhere between a talkative three-year-old and a puppy (description helped by the fact that they do take on a terrier form a lot of the time!). They’re everywhere at once, fascinated by everything, and full of big feelings.
I’m not usually into second-chance romance but here it absolutely worked. Emry, the down-on-his-luck bard and Cal, his studious ex-girlfriend, have never really stopped loving each other in the year they’ve been apart, and I adored watching them work up to admitting that. They were so cute. The author really knows how to write the sweet little moments between two people.
I could totally be happy living in the world of Vidanya! I LOVED the idea of an underground river system as a primary means of travel. Because it’s a cosy fantasy, there was enough world-building in terms of geography, history and politics to keep the story afloat, but it never felt dense. Everything was relevant to the story at hand. Emry’s desire to become a member of the Auric Guild ties in well with the wider story and all the story threads converge for an impressive finale.
I was left a bit confused about where the White Wave, the magical energy causing Vidanya’s issues, was coming from. I’m not sure if that was explained, and I missed it (been known to happen), or if there’s more explanation to come in book two. Sometimes the pacing felt a little bit slow and things started to lag, but this was never a huge issue. These were my only qualms with the book, and I think it’s a worthy addition to any cozy fantasy fan’s library!
After reading this author’s other novel, A Rival Most Vial, earlier in October, I knew I had to pick up her second book right away. I can definitively say I’ve found a new favourite author! I loved Emry, Cal, and Aspen – they were such an adorable accidental family.
Aspen, the titular spirit who accidentally ends up possessing Emry’s lute, is somewhere between a talkative three-year-old and a puppy (description helped by the fact that they do take on a terrier form a lot of the time!). They’re everywhere at once, fascinated by everything, and full of big feelings.
I’m not usually into second-chance romance but here it absolutely worked. Emry, the down-on-his-luck bard and Cal, his studious ex-girlfriend, have never really stopped loving each other in the year they’ve been apart, and I adored watching them work up to admitting that. They were so cute. The author really knows how to write the sweet little moments between two people.
I could totally be happy living in the world of Vidanya! I LOVED the idea of an underground river system as a primary means of travel. Because it’s a cosy fantasy, there was enough world-building in terms of geography, history and politics to keep the story afloat, but it never felt dense. Everything was relevant to the story at hand. Emry’s desire to become a member of the Auric Guild ties in well with the wider story and all the story threads converge for an impressive finale.
I was left a bit confused about where the White Wave, the magical energy causing Vidanya’s issues, was coming from. I’m not sure if that was explained, and I missed it (been known to happen), or if there’s more explanation to come in book two. Sometimes the pacing felt a little bit slow and things started to lag, but this was never a huge issue. These were my only qualms with the book, and I think it’s a worthy addition to any cozy fantasy fan’s library!
October 4, 2024
Oh this was an absolute delight! This cozy fantasy was a perfect debut novel for Ashwick. I found myself desperately flipping pages, completely engrossed with the story and characters. Oh, and can I please gush about the illustrations? Because they were gorgeous and such a wonderful surprise to see and I've decided all novels need illustrations.
“One kiss before we go in? You’re so overwhelmingly pretty when you’re helping me avoid faking my own death.”
This story came alive. Ashwick’s writing is absolutely beautiful, and her characters are the icing on the cake. Emry was such a fun mc - you truly feel for him across the ups and downs of this story. He’s a stunning character and the perfect lead to root for. Cal was a delight as well - her intelligence and desire to help / make a difference stand out on the page. And of course, Aspen was a perfect wrap to the delight of this book. Their excitement and innocence was truly magical.
As for the story, it was a light read but dense with beauty. I wish there were more scenes with Emry playing the lute because they were written so eloquently. How is it possible for music to be written so beautifully in a novel? I’ve never seen it done well, until now. Encore, please and thank you.
I bought this book but couldn’t wait for the Zon to deliver it (I’m impatient and prime two day shipping is a lie) so I downloaded the ARC and now I can’t wait for my shiny paperback to arrive!!!
“One kiss before we go in? You’re so overwhelmingly pretty when you’re helping me avoid faking my own death.”
This story came alive. Ashwick’s writing is absolutely beautiful, and her characters are the icing on the cake. Emry was such a fun mc - you truly feel for him across the ups and downs of this story. He’s a stunning character and the perfect lead to root for. Cal was a delight as well - her intelligence and desire to help / make a difference stand out on the page. And of course, Aspen was a perfect wrap to the delight of this book. Their excitement and innocence was truly magical.
As for the story, it was a light read but dense with beauty. I wish there were more scenes with Emry playing the lute because they were written so eloquently. How is it possible for music to be written so beautifully in a novel? I’ve never seen it done well, until now. Encore, please and thank you.
I bought this book but couldn’t wait for the Zon to deliver it (I’m impatient and prime two day shipping is a lie) so I downloaded the ARC and now I can’t wait for my shiny paperback to arrive!!!
November 6, 2024
It reads like I'm starting halfway through a story. There are all sorts of events that are not explained, and so I wonder if there was an earlier story preceding them.
The MMC turns out to be a son of the river transport owner. This is not explicitly told anywhere, but I assume it is. The role of the famous singer is still unclear to me. She is not guild, not council but because she is famous she has more to say than either??
The ‘surges’ cost the lives of thousands of people but no real fuss is made about it. Outside the cave where the MMC rescues many people, hundreds are killed, but the next day we just go back to drinking chocolate at the bakery. That's so weird.
And what the surges actually are, where they come from, why people die from them, what the reason for them is, why they are becoming so severe, is not mentioned at all.
I was hoping that a sequel would expand on this, but reading the blurb of volume 2, there is no such thing.
What I also find irritating is that Aspen doesn't care at all about the huge number of trees dying. They only care about protecting people. Kind of weird, being a tree spirit. Aspen is nice, but also very unfinished. At times rather worldly - based on stories told to him long ago, other times like a small child.
All in all, a very unfinished, unedited story which, in theory, could become a good book if a lot more work was done on it.
I won't try the sequel.
The MMC turns out to be a son of the river transport owner. This is not explicitly told anywhere, but I assume it is. The role of the famous singer is still unclear to me. She is not guild, not council but because she is famous she has more to say than either??
The ‘surges’ cost the lives of thousands of people but no real fuss is made about it. Outside the cave where the MMC rescues many people, hundreds are killed, but the next day we just go back to drinking chocolate at the bakery. That's so weird.
And what the surges actually are, where they come from, why people die from them, what the reason for them is, why they are becoming so severe, is not mentioned at all.
I was hoping that a sequel would expand on this, but reading the blurb of volume 2, there is no such thing.
What I also find irritating is that Aspen doesn't care at all about the huge number of trees dying. They only care about protecting people. Kind of weird, being a tree spirit. Aspen is nice, but also very unfinished. At times rather worldly - based on stories told to him long ago, other times like a small child.
All in all, a very unfinished, unedited story which, in theory, could become a good book if a lot more work was done on it.
I won't try the sequel.
July 11, 2022
I recieved an ARC copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. These are all my own opinions.
Wow, I've been waiting a long time to finally read this book, and it was well worth the wait! For starters, if you're looking for a fun and lighthearted fantasy novel that has all the awesome magical elements but with characters who aren't sword fighters (or any kind of fighters), you're in luck! However, don't think the lack of combat means a lack of excitement—the story lures you in with curiosity and a main character who you immediately want to cheer for, and from there the stakes steadily grow, on both a personal level as well as on a larger scale.
The characters themselves are fantastic and well developed, especially the main trio. Emry in particular makes a great narrator to follow, a struggling bard who's too hard on himself but tries his best all the same. Cal, the scholar of the group, has equal amounts of awesomeness and determination and plays off of Emry in a lot of entertaining ways, and Aspen steals the show with their nature magic and level 100 loveability.
Everything is held together by the excellently fleshed out worldbuilding, which brings the setting to life beautifully, and not a single detail feels extraneous. Lastly, the use of language is fun and charming, and the descriptions are gorgeous.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly recommend!
Wow, I've been waiting a long time to finally read this book, and it was well worth the wait! For starters, if you're looking for a fun and lighthearted fantasy novel that has all the awesome magical elements but with characters who aren't sword fighters (or any kind of fighters), you're in luck! However, don't think the lack of combat means a lack of excitement—the story lures you in with curiosity and a main character who you immediately want to cheer for, and from there the stakes steadily grow, on both a personal level as well as on a larger scale.
The characters themselves are fantastic and well developed, especially the main trio. Emry in particular makes a great narrator to follow, a struggling bard who's too hard on himself but tries his best all the same. Cal, the scholar of the group, has equal amounts of awesomeness and determination and plays off of Emry in a lot of entertaining ways, and Aspen steals the show with their nature magic and level 100 loveability.
Everything is held together by the excellently fleshed out worldbuilding, which brings the setting to life beautifully, and not a single detail feels extraneous. Lastly, the use of language is fun and charming, and the descriptions are gorgeous.
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Highly recommend!
August 9, 2022
I received this as an ARC book, and as soon as I was done I went and purchased the physical copy because I loved it so much.
I really have found the lottery when it comes to characters lately. These characters are so lovely and well-rounded, and I just want to scoop them all up and carry them around in my pocket. The stray spirit of this book is particularly adorable, and I just want to take them to every library, amusement park, and concert I possibly can.
The world is gorgeous. Ashwick puts so many touches and flourishes to every place her characters touch, and it is magical. As a music person myself, I especially love how the world interacts with music, and all the beautiful details that come alive whenever music is involved.
The romance is perfectly frustrating and endearing and is so true to how healthy relationships work and come about. Also, every romantic gesture was really, truly romantic without ulterior motives, and gave me all the warm fuzzies.
The plot kept me guessing throughout, and I loved unlocking each new piece of it as it unfolded. Beautifully done, and I can't wait for the rest of the series to come out!! This does end in such a way, though, that it could easily be read as a standalone, too. Just with a few questions left unanswered.
All-in-all, a beautiful, happy, wholesome book, and I am so excited to see more from this author!
I really have found the lottery when it comes to characters lately. These characters are so lovely and well-rounded, and I just want to scoop them all up and carry them around in my pocket. The stray spirit of this book is particularly adorable, and I just want to take them to every library, amusement park, and concert I possibly can.
The world is gorgeous. Ashwick puts so many touches and flourishes to every place her characters touch, and it is magical. As a music person myself, I especially love how the world interacts with music, and all the beautiful details that come alive whenever music is involved.
The romance is perfectly frustrating and endearing and is so true to how healthy relationships work and come about. Also, every romantic gesture was really, truly romantic without ulterior motives, and gave me all the warm fuzzies.
The plot kept me guessing throughout, and I loved unlocking each new piece of it as it unfolded. Beautifully done, and I can't wait for the rest of the series to come out!! This does end in such a way, though, that it could easily be read as a standalone, too. Just with a few questions left unanswered.
All-in-all, a beautiful, happy, wholesome book, and I am so excited to see more from this author!
July 25, 2023
Another wonderful book by Ashwick!
I started this one thinking it was another cozy fantasy, and omg, I was wrong! The stakes are high and the adventure is heart-pounding --- wonderful!
Crushing hard on Emry now, our resident lutist (I love musicians in stories!). He's desperate to prove himself to his family and enter the elusive guild --- but how can he do that if his lute is haunted by a stray spirit?? A non-binary spirit who is the cutest character I have ever read! Aspen is wonderful and I was moved by them in several parts of the book --- I LOVE THEM!
The second chance romance was sweet and beautifully done, though I did struggle to connect with Cal at first (she was too mean to Emry, lol). But slowly, I understood her, and she made her way into my heart too. She is a wonderful love interest and I connected with her on many different levels.
And the climax! I won´t spoil it but, omg, I LOVE the climax! I devoured the last 20% of the book like my life depended on it.
Ashwick has a talent for crafting wonderful characters and immersive settings, and her prose is just... beautiful.
A quick and heart-warming read, I read the whole thing in five days because I just couldn't stop.
I'll be definitely reading the sequel --- I just can't get enough of her characters.
Five stars 'cause I can't give more.
I started this one thinking it was another cozy fantasy, and omg, I was wrong! The stakes are high and the adventure is heart-pounding --- wonderful!
Crushing hard on Emry now, our resident lutist (I love musicians in stories!). He's desperate to prove himself to his family and enter the elusive guild --- but how can he do that if his lute is haunted by a stray spirit?? A non-binary spirit who is the cutest character I have ever read! Aspen is wonderful and I was moved by them in several parts of the book --- I LOVE THEM!
The second chance romance was sweet and beautifully done, though I did struggle to connect with Cal at first (she was too mean to Emry, lol). But slowly, I understood her, and she made her way into my heart too. She is a wonderful love interest and I connected with her on many different levels.
And the climax! I won´t spoil it but, omg, I LOVE the climax! I devoured the last 20% of the book like my life depended on it.
Ashwick has a talent for crafting wonderful characters and immersive settings, and her prose is just... beautiful.
A quick and heart-warming read, I read the whole thing in five days because I just couldn't stop.
I'll be definitely reading the sequel --- I just can't get enough of her characters.
Five stars 'cause I can't give more.
March 31, 2024
⭐⭐⭐
Overall fine. You can tell by the writing it's a debut, mostly dialogue that is honestly quite bland.
The world was interesting, I like the idea of the underground river roads and the illustrations are lovely. Aspen is a very cute character.
Other than that I didn't care for anything that was happening, I didn't feel the weight or implications of most of the plot points because it felt very 'tell' and not 'show'...very surface level, most likely because there is more dialogue than text. Also the romance was a no for me, I don't like second chance romances for one, and although this one was alright it felt very childish.
I just did not understand how Emry could go to his ex rather than his friends with his problem when he was supposedly traumatised by her? And the way he kinda just ditched his friends at the beginning and they did not even push for an explanation? What kind of friendship is that ?
'Oh I'm leaving with my ex'
'Why?'
'Oh, just because'
'Ok'
Sooo weird (I'm exaggerating but that's basically how the convo went)
Overall every character felt very juvenile, like they were all 15 or something. They also did not have any distinct or consistent personality whatsoever.
So yeah, I had to force myself to keep reading because I just ...did not care.
Overall fine. You can tell by the writing it's a debut, mostly dialogue that is honestly quite bland.
The world was interesting, I like the idea of the underground river roads and the illustrations are lovely. Aspen is a very cute character.
Other than that I didn't care for anything that was happening, I didn't feel the weight or implications of most of the plot points because it felt very 'tell' and not 'show'...very surface level, most likely because there is more dialogue than text. Also the romance was a no for me, I don't like second chance romances for one, and although this one was alright it felt very childish.
I just did not understand how Emry could go to his ex rather than his friends with his problem when he was supposedly traumatised by her? And the way he kinda just ditched his friends at the beginning and they did not even push for an explanation? What kind of friendship is that ?
'Oh I'm leaving with my ex'
'Why?'
'Oh, just because'
'Ok'
Sooo weird (I'm exaggerating but that's basically how the convo went)
Overall every character felt very juvenile, like they were all 15 or something. They also did not have any distinct or consistent personality whatsoever.
So yeah, I had to force myself to keep reading because I just ...did not care.
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