This whole year has been tough reading-wise as I've only had a few books that I really LOVED.

Its nice to have another book to add to that list with Sundered by Linda Ling. Five stars!!!

There's a good amount of worldbuilding upfront that took a bit to get into and internalize. But once I met Princess Faelyn and Khare, I was hooked.

I loved Faelyn's strength, impulsivity, and passionate personality - as I am writing a similar FMC for my second book, I found myself feeling inspired by how well Linda brought her character to life!

I think one reason fantasy can be hit-or-miss for me is because I always want my fantasy to be grounded in real problems that I can relate to. Even though there are kingdoms and magic and cool creatures (I loved the Sarpentii), there also are struggles of finding your identity, unpacking family trauma, and fighting for your voice as a female in a world of male leaders.

There were several POV changes and while sometimes I struggle with keeping up, the shifts were seamless. Each new voice brought a new perspective to the story within this vast world.

I loved the resourcefulness yet imperfections of the characters, the careful reveal of mysteries, and the beautifully engrained magic and worldbuilding

Well done Linda and I can't wait to read Forged!!!