This book was so good!! There are times when you need a long, winding, and detailed journey. The Witch Roads is a book that you have to take your time reading. It was such a journey, and I adored my time with it. 

The Witch Roads is the type of fantasy that you have to take your time with. There is a lot of world-building. I never felt like I got "info-dumps," but everything flowed so nicely. Elliott has created this massive world with many beliefs. Yet, I still wanted more! I am dying to know more about the haunt! The pacing is slower but in a good way. This book is much more character-driven than plot-driven. Elen has been running her whole life. She's finally content with the life she has made, and a prince ruins it. She enters a new journey, and we learn so much about her along the way. I loved that our MC has lived a life, and her wisdom makes sense. She's not a teenager figuring things out, but we do have several younger ones as supporting characters! 

The characters in this book are so good. We have several relationships that form throughout that I adored. The relationship-building is what had me turning pages. I'm not the biggest fan of a journey spanning a whole book. The slow pace helped a lot. We get to see El grow and build relationships with those around her. She's more of a lone-wolf type and protects her nephew at all costs. Now, she's making friends and learning about the world. The relationship between her nephew is not great when they start on this journey. It took much longer for the resolution than I would have liked. In the end, it allows her to build deeper connections elsewhere rather than just sticking with Kem the whole time. 

The haunt was very fascinating! I need to know so much more about him and what happened before. We get little glimpses, but there are so many questions. The power and magic do need more explanation. I am hoping that happens in book two, which I am excited about! The haunt's relationship with El was so good. It's the slowest burn but also a deeper relationship. They understand each other, and I love how they spend the whole book learning from one another. It wasn't anything close to instant love, and I appreciated that! 

The Witch Roads is my first exposure to Kate Elliott, but it will not be the last. I've already mentioned that I can't wait for the second book! She has created such a unique, fascinating, and expansive world. The characters are fantastic, and so are the relationships she built in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed my time with this book. 

Thank you, Tor, for the ARC and finished copy!! All thoughts and opinions are my own!