I didn't realize I'd never reviewed these books! Huh. Well, now's as good a time as any, I suppose. But where to begin? The Books of Bayern is a much beloved series to me. This first book, though a bit slow moving at times, is powerful and gripping and meaningful. It takes a while to get going, but when it does, the tension is agonizing. Ani is such a relatable character, and her struggle is so understandable, and really makes me root for her. She allows her hardships to shape her, and form her into being a better version of the queen she is destined to become.

I also love her development of wind magic. It's fascinating how she connects to the wind, how she seeks it out and listens for its voice until at last, it comes to her. The magic feels so /real/, like I could go outside and try speaking to the wind--or geese--myself.

I'd give it five stars, but for the slowness of the plot. But again, the tension was tangible, and I really enjoyed the read, especially in context of the others in the series (rereading it after reading the other books was so delightful).