What do you think?
Rate this book
Legends of Fyrsta #1
A Thread in the Tangle
In a shattered realm where gods breathe and battle, sixteen-year-old Isiilde must find her feet among people who both despise and crave her kind. She trembles on a precipice, caught between the lust of men, the greed of kings, and an eternal struggle for dominance. As three powerful kingdoms vie to own her, the fire in her blood awakens, sparking a cataclysm of events that spiral into disaster. A barbarian, a madman, and a timid nymph are all who stand between light and oblivion.
494 pages, Paperback
First published October 22, 2013
177 people are currently reading
1214 people want to read
About the author
Sabrina Flynn
22 books259 followersSabrina lives in perpetual fog and sunshine with a rock troll and two crazy imps. She spent her youth trailing after insanity, jumping off bridges, climbing towers, and riding down waterfalls in barrels. After spending fifteen years wrestling giant hounds and battling pint-sized tigers, she now travels everywhere via watery portals leading to anywhere.
She is the award-winning author of the epic fantasy series Legends of Fyrsta and the historical mystery series Ravenwood Mysteries.
She is the award-winning author of the epic fantasy series Legends of Fyrsta and the historical mystery series Ravenwood Mysteries.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews
March 1, 2015
What a marvelous first novel! I have been reading science fiction and fantasy for 50 years and I have an increasingly hard time finding something new and fresh. Well, Ms. Flynn has gifted us with a gem of a fantasy novel, introducing us to a captivating new world with characters that you can genuinely cheer or boo! Even better, she has left me wanting more, and that is a big bonus. Beyond that, I would have to start getting spoilerish so 'nuf said! Outstanding job, Sabrina, and I am looking forward to book two with great anticipation!
March 24, 2014
Reviewed by Harmony Kent
On behalf of The Review Board
A THREAD IN THE TANGLE
BY SABRINA FLYNN
Fantasy Fiction
The story begins with an infant Nymph accidentally setting fire to the palace nursery, and a warrior barbarian taking her away to a quiet isle for her own safety. The narrative then jumps ahead by about twelve years, and we meet Isilde—the Nymph grown. We follow her as she gradually matures, and comes into her ‘awakening’. As well as Isilde, there are two other prominent characters: Oenghus (the warrior guy) and Marsais, a Wise One and Archlord, who was also a one-time mentor to Oenghus. There is a rich tapestry of magic woven throughout the story, and an array of strange and magical characters.
Isilde is portrayed as an innocent young creature, who has an affinity with fire. Nevertheless, as she awakens she finds herself at the centre of a bidding war on who will own her—for nymphs are considered property, not people. ‘A Thread in the Tangle’ is the first book in the ‘Legends of Fyrsta’ series, and is also the author’s first published novel.
The book began well, and hooked my attention quickly. Unfortunately, it soon lost it again. I struggled to keep going, and only finished because I had made a commitment to read and review this work. The plot pace was a slow one, and aside from the beginning, not a lot else of note happened until roughly 75% of the way through the narrative. Except for the chronic amount of ears wilting (Isilde) and brows creasing into ‘sinister v’s’ (Marsais). Honestly, I was at the point of tears—and by half way through begged for there to be no more. Sadly, my prayers weren’t answered. The wilting and sinister brow creasing just kept on coming. I was in danger of throwing the book across the room, which—considering I read this on an e-reader—wouldn’t have ended well. The characters didn’t seem to change from the first page to the last page. Apart from the oft repeated traits there wasn’t a lot else about them that made me take note, or care what happened to them overly much. This reader felt kept at a distance much of the time.
Improvements in the prose are needed, and the use of ‘wases’, ‘were’s’ and ‘ing’ words should be severely rationed. These formulations are to be limited in their use, unless the narrative is to end up overly passive, which is what has happened here. For this reason alone, a thorough re-edit is necessary. Modern writing standards dictate that ‘ed’ ending words are better form and show more immediate and professional writing. The dialogue tags were overly descriptive, and nobody seemed to ever just ‘say’ something, but rather they opined, reminded, defended, snorted, sighed, assured, pointed out, huffed, and—one of my personal pet hates—intoned. This, together with the occasional slip into head hopping, let the book down badly. There is also an abundance of comma splicing, and strange sentence construction. There seems to be especial confusion around the use of the ‘however’ word and how to place this in the middle of a sentence. In all but one instance this was placed between two commas and it was unclear which bit of the sentence the ‘however’ actually belonged to. Time and again I had to go back and re-read the line to get the intended sense of it, and even then I wasn’t always certain I had it nailed. The action was often delayed rather than immediate by the overuse of ‘began to’ rather than simply describing the action as being performed. There were quite a lot of typos, where ‘than’ and ‘then’ were mixed up and singular and plural were confused.
The Verdict:
All in all, this is brilliant story concept, but which, sadly, is not well executed. The book is let down in critical areas, such as: plot, pacing, character development, grammar, punctuation, proofing and editing. I desperately wanted to like this book, and hate giving such a low star rating. Unfortunately, if I am to remain honest and impartial, there is little else I can do. Had I been asked to edit this work, instead of reviewing it, I’m sure my new red pen would more than likely have run out of ink by now. I give 1 out of 5 stars for ‘A Thread in the Tangle’.
On behalf of The Review Board
A THREAD IN THE TANGLE
BY SABRINA FLYNN
Fantasy Fiction
The story begins with an infant Nymph accidentally setting fire to the palace nursery, and a warrior barbarian taking her away to a quiet isle for her own safety. The narrative then jumps ahead by about twelve years, and we meet Isilde—the Nymph grown. We follow her as she gradually matures, and comes into her ‘awakening’. As well as Isilde, there are two other prominent characters: Oenghus (the warrior guy) and Marsais, a Wise One and Archlord, who was also a one-time mentor to Oenghus. There is a rich tapestry of magic woven throughout the story, and an array of strange and magical characters.
Isilde is portrayed as an innocent young creature, who has an affinity with fire. Nevertheless, as she awakens she finds herself at the centre of a bidding war on who will own her—for nymphs are considered property, not people. ‘A Thread in the Tangle’ is the first book in the ‘Legends of Fyrsta’ series, and is also the author’s first published novel.
The book began well, and hooked my attention quickly. Unfortunately, it soon lost it again. I struggled to keep going, and only finished because I had made a commitment to read and review this work. The plot pace was a slow one, and aside from the beginning, not a lot else of note happened until roughly 75% of the way through the narrative. Except for the chronic amount of ears wilting (Isilde) and brows creasing into ‘sinister v’s’ (Marsais). Honestly, I was at the point of tears—and by half way through begged for there to be no more. Sadly, my prayers weren’t answered. The wilting and sinister brow creasing just kept on coming. I was in danger of throwing the book across the room, which—considering I read this on an e-reader—wouldn’t have ended well. The characters didn’t seem to change from the first page to the last page. Apart from the oft repeated traits there wasn’t a lot else about them that made me take note, or care what happened to them overly much. This reader felt kept at a distance much of the time.
Improvements in the prose are needed, and the use of ‘wases’, ‘were’s’ and ‘ing’ words should be severely rationed. These formulations are to be limited in their use, unless the narrative is to end up overly passive, which is what has happened here. For this reason alone, a thorough re-edit is necessary. Modern writing standards dictate that ‘ed’ ending words are better form and show more immediate and professional writing. The dialogue tags were overly descriptive, and nobody seemed to ever just ‘say’ something, but rather they opined, reminded, defended, snorted, sighed, assured, pointed out, huffed, and—one of my personal pet hates—intoned. This, together with the occasional slip into head hopping, let the book down badly. There is also an abundance of comma splicing, and strange sentence construction. There seems to be especial confusion around the use of the ‘however’ word and how to place this in the middle of a sentence. In all but one instance this was placed between two commas and it was unclear which bit of the sentence the ‘however’ actually belonged to. Time and again I had to go back and re-read the line to get the intended sense of it, and even then I wasn’t always certain I had it nailed. The action was often delayed rather than immediate by the overuse of ‘began to’ rather than simply describing the action as being performed. There were quite a lot of typos, where ‘than’ and ‘then’ were mixed up and singular and plural were confused.
The Verdict:
All in all, this is brilliant story concept, but which, sadly, is not well executed. The book is let down in critical areas, such as: plot, pacing, character development, grammar, punctuation, proofing and editing. I desperately wanted to like this book, and hate giving such a low star rating. Unfortunately, if I am to remain honest and impartial, there is little else I can do. Had I been asked to edit this work, instead of reviewing it, I’m sure my new red pen would more than likely have run out of ink by now. I give 1 out of 5 stars for ‘A Thread in the Tangle’.
February 8, 2022
I'm not sure how to put into words what I just read. It was so good!
True, it is a slow going book but it's such an enjoyable read that I didn't really start to feel it until the 50% mark and it really starts to pick up around the 65%.
I also loved Isiilde. Gosh. She was adorable and I loved the consistency in her character and yet she grew and developed. The characters in general are well flushed out and there's hints of backstories that I've just got to know!
I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. Thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Fair warning that there are trigger warnings a mile long. So go in carefully.
True, it is a slow going book but it's such an enjoyable read that I didn't really start to feel it until the 50% mark and it really starts to pick up around the 65%.
I also loved Isiilde. Gosh. She was adorable and I loved the consistency in her character and yet she grew and developed. The characters in general are well flushed out and there's hints of backstories that I've just got to know!
I will definitely be reading the rest of the series. Thoroughly enjoyed this one.
Fair warning that there are trigger warnings a mile long. So go in carefully.
November 17, 2013
I got the opportunity to read A Thread in the Tangle before its publication. I usually prefer thrillers and mysteries, but I did love this book. Flynn's characters are alive, multilayered, and deeply likeable. Her writing style is fluid, and her story had me chewing my fingernails, and feeling oddly scorched at the very end when Marsais and Isiilde... uhm... well. No spoilers for you.
So here I am, impatiently waiting to get my hands on her next book.
So here I am, impatiently waiting to get my hands on her next book.
February 18, 2018
Wow, what a lovely surprise. Unique, vivid characters and a very interesting world. Isiilde is a curiously unique sort of female lead, and Marsais is quirky, and the two of them together make for some adorable and humorous interactions.
Plot wise, don't expect too much to happen until the last 25% of the book. Much of this first book seems to be a set-up for the universe and mythology of Fyrsta, as well as the lead into the action to come in the next 2 installments. Great dialogue and character interactions kept me well-entertained in a cheerful, mild atmosphere ... and then things got super intense REAL FAST. TRIGGER WARNING is definitely in order for this book; I feel like I have a strong stomach for messed up stuff, and one scene still had me setting down my kindle and begging my husband for comfort from the trauma.
Overall, a pretty good first book that really sucked me into the world. Writing this review after I've just finished the last book, I can say that if you are even remotely interested in the characters and the setting, keep going because things just continue to get better and better!
Plot wise, don't expect too much to happen until the last 25% of the book. Much of this first book seems to be a set-up for the universe and mythology of Fyrsta, as well as the lead into the action to come in the next 2 installments. Great dialogue and character interactions kept me well-entertained in a cheerful, mild atmosphere ... and then things got super intense REAL FAST. TRIGGER WARNING is definitely in order for this book; I feel like I have a strong stomach for messed up stuff, and one scene still had me setting down my kindle and begging my husband for comfort from the trauma.
Overall, a pretty good first book that really sucked me into the world. Writing this review after I've just finished the last book, I can say that if you are even remotely interested in the characters and the setting, keep going because things just continue to get better and better!
August 20, 2020
This book was so much fun! Like a good comic book character origin story film, this book feels oddly similar in all the best ways.
I started reading this book in the strangest of ways. I was home for lunch one day and my wife was out doing something with the kiddos. I decided I was going to start a book on Kindle (it had been a while as I do lots of my "reading" through Audible now). I started flipping through my library and since I didn't really know what I wanted, I closed my eyes, started scrolling up and down until I landed on a Brandon Sanderson book I'd already read.
I started reading this book in the strangest of ways. I was home for lunch one day and my wife was out doing something with the kiddos. I decided I was going to start a book on Kindle (it had been a while as I do lots of my "reading" through Audible now). I started flipping through my library and since I didn't really know what I wanted, I closed my eyes, started scrolling up and down until I landed on a Brandon Sanderson book I'd already read.
August 18, 2016
I preface this review by noting that I have completed the Legends of Fyrsta trilogy, as well as Untold Tales, but will reserve the comments in this review to A Thread in the Tangle.
Sabrina Flynn deserves a thoughtful review, and though my impressions of this series have been percolating for well over a year, as I awaited the second and third books, I admit that this “review” is more of a gushing endorsement. Because, damn, consider me blown away.
***Minor spoilers ahead***
A Thread in the Tangle takes you to the world of Fyrsta, a realm of magic (obviously), steeped in history, politics, and an enchanting—yet grounded—cast. Flynn weaves an incredibly rich narrative, full of earthy humor and realism, at the center of which is a nymph.
Isiilde, the character referenced in the title, is like no other protagonist that I have read. She is a creature of innocence, cleverness, passion, and otherness in one little, explosive package. Her search for identity and loss of innocence is a human tale that any of us can identity with.
Among my favorites aspects of this installment are the interactions between the ancient (and mad) (and charming) Marsais, Isiilde’s teacher and friend, and Oenghus, her Nuthaanian guardian. Their camaraderie and trust, their endless wagers (where Oenghus gets the short straw, poor guy), and their unwavering love for Isiilde form the heartbeat of this tale.
So much of the tale remains unraveled at the end of A Thread in the Tangle, but events are set in motion that guarantee adventures in the following installments. As a first book, it forms a beautiful tapestry that begs multiple readings.
A normally critical reader, I should mention that there are a few minor editing errors which are attributable to independent publishing. I easily and readily forgave these for the sheer enjoyment I found in the tale. At the end of the A Thread in the Tangle, I felt as if I met some new friends and was eager to learn their story. All in all, thanks to Sabrina Flynn for creating these wonderful characters and MOAR please.
Sabrina Flynn deserves a thoughtful review, and though my impressions of this series have been percolating for well over a year, as I awaited the second and third books, I admit that this “review” is more of a gushing endorsement. Because, damn, consider me blown away.
***Minor spoilers ahead***
A Thread in the Tangle takes you to the world of Fyrsta, a realm of magic (obviously), steeped in history, politics, and an enchanting—yet grounded—cast. Flynn weaves an incredibly rich narrative, full of earthy humor and realism, at the center of which is a nymph.
Isiilde, the character referenced in the title, is like no other protagonist that I have read. She is a creature of innocence, cleverness, passion, and otherness in one little, explosive package. Her search for identity and loss of innocence is a human tale that any of us can identity with.
Among my favorites aspects of this installment are the interactions between the ancient (and mad) (and charming) Marsais, Isiilde’s teacher and friend, and Oenghus, her Nuthaanian guardian. Their camaraderie and trust, their endless wagers (where Oenghus gets the short straw, poor guy), and their unwavering love for Isiilde form the heartbeat of this tale.
So much of the tale remains unraveled at the end of A Thread in the Tangle, but events are set in motion that guarantee adventures in the following installments. As a first book, it forms a beautiful tapestry that begs multiple readings.
A normally critical reader, I should mention that there are a few minor editing errors which are attributable to independent publishing. I easily and readily forgave these for the sheer enjoyment I found in the tale. At the end of the A Thread in the Tangle, I felt as if I met some new friends and was eager to learn their story. All in all, thanks to Sabrina Flynn for creating these wonderful characters and MOAR please.
November 6, 2013
I had the pleasure of being a "beta" reader for this book. My favorite genres are historical fiction and mysteries, so I read very few fantasy novels, but I truly enjoyed this one. The author writes well, and manages to create a believable alternate universe without being laborious about it - one of my objections to the generic fantasy novel is that sometimes so much time is spent creating the World that there is little energy left for plot or character development. Not true in this story, where the central characters, especially, emerge as fully fleshed and complex individuals. Isiilde is a refreshing blend of innocence, sexuality and intelligence, and her mentor Marsais surprises, charms and engages us all the way to the last page of the book. The story unfolds logically and in a way that keeps the reader turning the page, yet never seems rushed or slipshod.
I shouldn't neglect to mention that there is also a lot of humor in the book, such as the inconveniences that arise when Isiilde mistakenly releases a rather bad-tempered imp into an otherwise peaceful scholarly environment.
When I finished "A Thread in the Tangle," I was immediately eager to move on to the second book - quite an endorsement for someone who generally doesn't read fantasy. I highly recommend the book to fantasy and non-fantasy readers alike!
I shouldn't neglect to mention that there is also a lot of humor in the book, such as the inconveniences that arise when Isiilde mistakenly releases a rather bad-tempered imp into an otherwise peaceful scholarly environment.
When I finished "A Thread in the Tangle," I was immediately eager to move on to the second book - quite an endorsement for someone who generally doesn't read fantasy. I highly recommend the book to fantasy and non-fantasy readers alike!
January 15, 2014
I truly enjoyed immersing myself into this world that Ms Flynn has so masterfully crafted - it inspired me to write my first book review! I love that the characters feel like living, breathing people that inhabit a real world (albeit a fantastical one), I don't know about anyone else but I'm tired of the same cardboard cutout characters that have been popping up all over the place. (another murderous anti-hero protagonist who manages to cry a lot? ...really? I digress).
I had a wonderful time reading this book - it was hard to put it down and get any work done. The only downside is that we now have to wait for the follow-up... I can't wait to see where Sabrina takes us next, I have a feeling she is just getting her stride.
I had a wonderful time reading this book - it was hard to put it down and get any work done. The only downside is that we now have to wait for the follow-up... I can't wait to see where Sabrina takes us next, I have a feeling she is just getting her stride.
November 10, 2013
I was pleasantly surprised by it. A Thread in the Tangle reminded me of books like The Sword of Shannara and Magic Kingdom for Sale.
It is elegantly written and exceptionally well edited. What do you get when you take seer, a berserker, and a nymph caught between greedy kings, traitorous wizards, and misinformed zealots? A tangle and poor isiilde is the thread everyone wants. Ms Flynn weaves a world that is complete with history and intrigue, picturesque locations and believable character that are fleshed out and complete. My favorite fantasy novel of the year. I can't wait for the next one.
It is elegantly written and exceptionally well edited. What do you get when you take seer, a berserker, and a nymph caught between greedy kings, traitorous wizards, and misinformed zealots? A tangle and poor isiilde is the thread everyone wants. Ms Flynn weaves a world that is complete with history and intrigue, picturesque locations and believable character that are fleshed out and complete. My favorite fantasy novel of the year. I can't wait for the next one.
December 17, 2013
Amazing book! Just finished it today and can't wait for the next book! I read this on my kindle but I am going to buy the actual book - its one that I am going to want to read more than just this once. Beautifully written - Sabrina has quite the talent for drawing you in to the story. I fell in love with the characters and as much as I wanted to finish the book to see how it ended I didnt want the story to actually end - if that makes sense - so with that in mind - she better have another book on the way! :) I personally am waiting with eager anticipation!
November 2, 2017
It had been an accident, how could a youngster of four be expected to control her powers? But her father had not seen it that way. In his eyes, like any parent of a nymph, she was but a product to be sold when she came of age, but this object had almost killed his heirs. He wanted her to waste away in a dungeon until such a time that bidding could begin. But Oenghus intervened, taking the child to a place where he could watch over her. But it was not the end of the matter. The Emperor wanted this money, he would reclaim her when she came of age. But he is not the only one with his eyes set on the nymph. Wars have been fought over their kind since the Shattering, when hunting parties first pursued the druids to claim their nymphs. Women had been in short supply, humanity nearly driven to extinction, and a nymph became a prize of unthinkable value, and yet those who should have protected them condemned them instead. Isiilde is worth a king's ransom for more reasons than one, in all his time the Archlord had never seen one as unique as her, then again given the hidden truth of her conception perhaps she received more from her father than he knew. Can her protectors really hope to build a life for her when the law already dictates what her life will become. Isiilde is not as submissive as the rest of her race, but can she find the courage to reveal the truth and carve out a new future for herself? Following the gripping struggle in Sabrina Flynn's A Thread in the Tangle (Legends of Fyrsta Book 1)
A Thread in the Tangle (Legends of Fyrsta Book 1) truly is like reading magic, it is rare I get so excited about a book. Sabrina Flynn truly has made this a tale where every word can be savoured. She brings to life settings, feelings, and even relationships. There is something effortless and captivating to the writing style that speaks clearly of the writer's talent. I will, without a doubt, be seeking out more work by this author. Much like the power the nymphs hold over men, her style has seduced me. I've always loved a good fantasy, and Sabrina Flynn has delivered on all her promises to a reader in this magnificent story. I adored Isiilde's character and the wonderful and unique relationships she cherishes with Marsais and Oen. I loved her quirks, her mannerism, and her, sometimes accidental, mischief. Being a nymph sees her undervalued and scorned as she tried to lead the life of a human, but she is a wonder, an amazing character who thrives and grows with each turn of the page. A must read fantasy from the realm of imagination itself.
A Thread in the Tangle (Legends of Fyrsta Book 1) truly is like reading magic, it is rare I get so excited about a book. Sabrina Flynn truly has made this a tale where every word can be savoured. She brings to life settings, feelings, and even relationships. There is something effortless and captivating to the writing style that speaks clearly of the writer's talent. I will, without a doubt, be seeking out more work by this author. Much like the power the nymphs hold over men, her style has seduced me. I've always loved a good fantasy, and Sabrina Flynn has delivered on all her promises to a reader in this magnificent story. I adored Isiilde's character and the wonderful and unique relationships she cherishes with Marsais and Oen. I loved her quirks, her mannerism, and her, sometimes accidental, mischief. Being a nymph sees her undervalued and scorned as she tried to lead the life of a human, but she is a wonder, an amazing character who thrives and grows with each turn of the page. A must read fantasy from the realm of imagination itself.
March 5, 2018
I have to be honest. It took me a while to read this book. The author did a fantastic job creating a unique world, but I felt that the pacing was very slow. I didn't really get into the book until about chapter 30. After chapter 30, things picked up really quickly. Some things had me gasping and picking my jaw up off the floor. All in all, it was a really good book. If you like Lord of the Rings, you may like this book. There are some triggering parts towards the end, so if you're sensitive, I would not suggest this book to you. I look forward to finding out what happens to our friends in the next book.
July 28, 2018
Awesome
Thud book had me captive from the start. The world that can't to life was so full of detail it made you lose yourself in it. I loved how the author described the world and characters so well and at the same time it feeling like a floating story. books I've read have mss the book feel like a list of things to say instead of a seamless flow. The charters are vivid and so life like. They each have the own personalities that ad to the story instead of taking from it.I highly recommend
Thud book had me captive from the start. The world that can't to life was so full of detail it made you lose yourself in it. I loved how the author described the world and characters so well and at the same time it feeling like a floating story. books I've read have mss the book feel like a list of things to say instead of a seamless flow. The charters are vivid and so life like. They each have the own personalities that ad to the story instead of taking from it.I highly recommend
August 19, 2018
Wow this book was on another world literally. This book had some many twist and turns and until the end it kept you guessing. This book was well thought out and written. I like how the author immersed the reader into another world and brought to life species and characters in a different light. I loved the main character for her fiery spirt and for the author making her into a strong character instead of a weak link. I did however find it somewhat different to follow and the different would and the main issue in the book because of a mass of characters and ideas in one book. Perhaps a sequel will explain further. Over all I enjoyed the book and definitely recommend
January 22, 2018
Oh joy!
Kindle Unlimited - Thank you!
This is one that never showed up in my Kindle Unlimited recommendations and other listings. Stumbled across this in a paranormal fantasy search while looking for something to read and the reviewers sold me on taking a chance. Totally happy I paid attention.
Incredible characters, whirlwind of exciting times, great story, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera...
Kindle Unlimited - Thank you!
This is one that never showed up in my Kindle Unlimited recommendations and other listings. Stumbled across this in a paranormal fantasy search while looking for something to read and the reviewers sold me on taking a chance. Totally happy I paid attention.
Incredible characters, whirlwind of exciting times, great story, etcetera, etcetera, etcetera...
February 20, 2018
Excellent book
Full of world building and good characters. It has been awhile since I have read an otherworld book of such fine depth and good story telling. Lysine extremely interesting to see where Isiilde's adventures will take her and her friend's. Looking forward to the next book.
Full of world building and good characters. It has been awhile since I have read an otherworld book of such fine depth and good story telling. Lysine extremely interesting to see where Isiilde's adventures will take her and her friend's. Looking forward to the next book.
January 24, 2018
I was pleasantly surprised with how much I enjoyed this book.
I would recommend to anyone that is looking to read some thing a little less ordinary.
I would recommend to anyone that is looking to read some thing a little less ordinary.
February 2, 2018
I love this book, I felt instantly connected to the main characters! Highly recommend.
October 7, 2018
A beautiful painted story/ adventure. I loved the world building and in depth characters. It was a page turner and I found myself not wanting to put it down.
April 21, 2021
A magical woven story!
I read this ages ago and remembered loving this magical, fiery nymph story. Fast forward those many years later I’ve read it again and fell in love with it all over again. The characters are deeply thought out and authentic, even the ones that turn on you in the end. I highly recommend this sprite-ful woven tale of a nymph who proves she is worth more than a life of bonded slavery!
I read this ages ago and remembered loving this magical, fiery nymph story. Fast forward those many years later I’ve read it again and fell in love with it all over again. The characters are deeply thought out and authentic, even the ones that turn on you in the end. I highly recommend this sprite-ful woven tale of a nymph who proves she is worth more than a life of bonded slavery!
July 9, 2017
Fantastic! Straight on to the next one.
July 5, 2018
Wonderful story telling
Never really much for fantasy before but after reading other books from this author I decided to give it a try. Glad I did. The story is amazing, lots of twists and turns. Other than trying to keep up with the different kingdoms & history I found this book to be very engaging. I didn't want to put it down.
Never really much for fantasy before but after reading other books from this author I decided to give it a try. Glad I did. The story is amazing, lots of twists and turns. Other than trying to keep up with the different kingdoms & history I found this book to be very engaging. I didn't want to put it down.
April 6, 2018
A Thread in the Tangle is certainly the perfect title for this book. There are so many threads weaving throughout the entire story that one never quite knows where one will end up - or the characters either, for that matter. All in all, this was a great read. Whether the plot was lazing along on an autumn afternoon or flying through stone walls, I was constantly being drawn in and absorbed with following the main characters along each of their own threads. Plenty of loose ends are left for the next books to tie off!
March 24, 2014
This is a well-written fantasy story, full of enchanting characters such as the main character Isiilde, a flame haired young sprite. Isiilde comes across as young and shallow at first, but as the tale progresses we see her grow from a silly girl who cares for sweets and strawberries, into a deeper more caring young woman, capable of feeling and bestowing love on her fellow creatures. It is a coming of age tale in a land where humans, fairies, and magic is the norm. The drama comes from the fact that as a sprite, she is sought after for her beauty and power, but she does not want to be sold to humans to be used and it is her escape for freedom that is at the core of this story.
The narrative style is engaging and has lots of vivid descriptions that really take the reader into this exciting world. I liked the names Sabrina Flynn used, it reminded me a bit of Charles Dickens, in that he used names to indicate a character's personality, or to describe the atmosphere of a place. Sabrina does this too, and a particular favourite of mine was - "THE TOWN OF Drivel was poorly named by a man who was unburdened both by foresight and a merchant’s enterprising spirit." I though this was a wonderful description, very evocative and the stamp of good writing in my book. There are a lot of different characters and I had to concentrate to remember who they were in relationship to one another. This isn't a bad thing, it just means that the reader becomes more involved in the story, another plus!
At times I thought the author tried too hard to get in all the information the reader needed to know in order to understand the history and magic of the world she has created. This led to long passages in which the characters explained the backstory in great detail. Which often halted the flow of the narrative at the expense of getting the story told. However, I thought it had an easy style with elements of humour, which helped me to identify with the characters. I really liked Oenghus, he is strong and charming and kind hearted and takes care of Isiilde, despite her naughtiness and trouble making. He was a well-conceived character
There is a lot of backstory, which is okay because on the whole it is interesting and important to the plotline. But there is so much to remember that I had to keep going back to make sure that I understood the hierarchy and history of the world in which the narration takes place.
“Faerie are disliked for various reasons that began long before the Shattering. During a time when faerie dominated most of the realm, a particular race stood above the rest, the Lindale. These were tall, lithe folk who were more numerous than humans. Imagine someone my height, but as beautiful as you with pointed ears, like the Kamberians.” Isiilde blushed at his compliment.
“For the most part, the Lindale lived side by side with man, tending to the Sylph’s beloved realm. It was not uncommon for men and faerie to take Oaths together, which is where the Kamberians stem from, but the bloodlines are very diluted these days. Some believed, long before the Shattering, that the Lindale were shaped with Fyrsta. That they were the oldest of the races. Whether that is true or not, I do not know, but they were the first to watch over the nymphs—the original Druids.
I did think that the story was a bit slow to get started. Although I enjoyed the lovely visual descriptions of the world Sabrina has created, I felt as though I was watching from a distance. I wasn't instantly drawn in by the characterization, due to the fact that the author spent quite some time getting the backstory out in favour of character advancement. Having said that I did enjoy reading this book. It does not disappoint from the beginning to the end. There is so much to get into when the plot kicks in. Everything a fantasy reader wants is in this well written novel: Magic, gods, nymphlings and a host of other truly interesting creatures.
I thought the ending was abrupt. It seemed to stop in mid sentence, although it didn't, but the narrative just ended in the middle of a bit of action. It jarred a little in relation to the previous slower, more detailed storytelling and left me feeling somewhat cheated. That said, I would look forward to reading the next book in the series.
The narrative style is engaging and has lots of vivid descriptions that really take the reader into this exciting world. I liked the names Sabrina Flynn used, it reminded me a bit of Charles Dickens, in that he used names to indicate a character's personality, or to describe the atmosphere of a place. Sabrina does this too, and a particular favourite of mine was - "THE TOWN OF Drivel was poorly named by a man who was unburdened both by foresight and a merchant’s enterprising spirit." I though this was a wonderful description, very evocative and the stamp of good writing in my book. There are a lot of different characters and I had to concentrate to remember who they were in relationship to one another. This isn't a bad thing, it just means that the reader becomes more involved in the story, another plus!
At times I thought the author tried too hard to get in all the information the reader needed to know in order to understand the history and magic of the world she has created. This led to long passages in which the characters explained the backstory in great detail. Which often halted the flow of the narrative at the expense of getting the story told. However, I thought it had an easy style with elements of humour, which helped me to identify with the characters. I really liked Oenghus, he is strong and charming and kind hearted and takes care of Isiilde, despite her naughtiness and trouble making. He was a well-conceived character
There is a lot of backstory, which is okay because on the whole it is interesting and important to the plotline. But there is so much to remember that I had to keep going back to make sure that I understood the hierarchy and history of the world in which the narration takes place.
“Faerie are disliked for various reasons that began long before the Shattering. During a time when faerie dominated most of the realm, a particular race stood above the rest, the Lindale. These were tall, lithe folk who were more numerous than humans. Imagine someone my height, but as beautiful as you with pointed ears, like the Kamberians.” Isiilde blushed at his compliment.
“For the most part, the Lindale lived side by side with man, tending to the Sylph’s beloved realm. It was not uncommon for men and faerie to take Oaths together, which is where the Kamberians stem from, but the bloodlines are very diluted these days. Some believed, long before the Shattering, that the Lindale were shaped with Fyrsta. That they were the oldest of the races. Whether that is true or not, I do not know, but they were the first to watch over the nymphs—the original Druids.
I did think that the story was a bit slow to get started. Although I enjoyed the lovely visual descriptions of the world Sabrina has created, I felt as though I was watching from a distance. I wasn't instantly drawn in by the characterization, due to the fact that the author spent quite some time getting the backstory out in favour of character advancement. Having said that I did enjoy reading this book. It does not disappoint from the beginning to the end. There is so much to get into when the plot kicks in. Everything a fantasy reader wants is in this well written novel: Magic, gods, nymphlings and a host of other truly interesting creatures.
I thought the ending was abrupt. It seemed to stop in mid sentence, although it didn't, but the narrative just ended in the middle of a bit of action. It jarred a little in relation to the previous slower, more detailed storytelling and left me feeling somewhat cheated. That said, I would look forward to reading the next book in the series.
June 22, 2018
Surprisingly good! The main character is supposed to be a brainless nymph... and she kind of is. The character was masterfully managed- she felt truly flighty, not just “oh, everyone thinks I’m stupid but I’m super smart” and yet is emotionally intelligent in a lot of ways. Her arguments for equality are sophisticated, yet simple enough to be believed. The story is truly heart-wrenching in parts, hard to predict, and outright surprising. That combo wins it a 5/5 score any day. The creatures and world described are a fascinating spin on traditional creatures like nymphs, wizards, and orcs. Love it and loved how the series played out.
February 5, 2017
I don't think I can properly review this book by itself given that it's not really written to stand alone. Like trying to judge just The Fellowship of the Ring as an independent story without having read the rest of The Lord of the Rings. The story doesn't really feel complete, because it clearly isn't.
In all honesty, I don't know that I would have finished this book if I wasn't already familiar with the author. There were some very clear weak points in the writing that I would not have been as forgiving of, for sure. Having continue to read on to the second and third books, however, any weakness that I found in this first book are smoothed out, so this first book just has the usual first book syndrome. I would almost recommend skipping this one and going straight to the stronger second book (King's Folly), except that without the character introduction in this book, the growth in the second would not be as apparent, which might detract from the strength of the continuing story. Keep reading, it's worth it! (ETA: Trigger Warning )
Anyway, the main issue I had with this first book was the pacing. The story was slow-going and disjointed through the first 75% of the book (just like Fellowship, actually, now that I think on it), mostly because there isn't a clear conflict that anyone has any intention of acting upon, which left me wondering what exactly this story was supposed to be about for much longer than I prefer. And also because Isiilde has the emotional maturity and attention span of a six-year-old, which gave the book this YA montage feel (skipping around between lessons and mischief and scoldings and pats on the head) ...right up until that last 100 pages, when all hell breaks loose and action abounds.
What I did like was how well-drawn the characters are; complex and real. Oenghus is probably my favorite; boisterous and compassionate and clearly having the best of time when he gets to bash some heads. Marsais kind of reminded me of Dumbledore at the (although that image got a little awkward at the end). Isiilde is this sheltered, innocent kid (she's totally a kid, even though she's 16) who just can't comprehend the darker aspects of the world. The uncharitable part of me wants to say that she is unwilling to see the dangers in front of her, but, as we're reminded, she is a nymph with limited scope. She actually kind of reminds me a bit of my sister in her youth, in her inability to learn from other's experiences and warnings, which invariably causes more drama for everyone. Her character, by far, was the hardest to come to grips with in this book; and also the character who will clearly grow the most through the extended story (and from the hardest of lessons).
Lucky for me I have the second book queued up because the ending of this first novel would have been absolutely aggravating without the next book in my hands, LOL. Definitely give it a read, but keep in mind that it's a first novel in multiple ways.
In all honesty, I don't know that I would have finished this book if I wasn't already familiar with the author. There were some very clear weak points in the writing that I would not have been as forgiving of, for sure. Having continue to read on to the second and third books, however, any weakness that I found in this first book are smoothed out, so this first book just has the usual first book syndrome. I would almost recommend skipping this one and going straight to the stronger second book (King's Folly), except that without the character introduction in this book, the growth in the second would not be as apparent, which might detract from the strength of the continuing story. Keep reading, it's worth it! (ETA: Trigger Warning )
Anyway, the main issue I had with this first book was the pacing. The story was slow-going and disjointed through the first 75% of the book (just like Fellowship, actually, now that I think on it), mostly because there isn't a clear conflict that anyone has any intention of acting upon, which left me wondering what exactly this story was supposed to be about for much longer than I prefer. And also because Isiilde has the emotional maturity and attention span of a six-year-old, which gave the book this YA montage feel (skipping around between lessons and mischief and scoldings and pats on the head) ...right up until that last 100 pages, when all hell breaks loose and action abounds.
What I did like was how well-drawn the characters are; complex and real. Oenghus is probably my favorite; boisterous and compassionate and clearly having the best of time when he gets to bash some heads. Marsais kind of reminded me of Dumbledore at the (although that image got a little awkward at the end). Isiilde is this sheltered, innocent kid (she's totally a kid, even though she's 16) who just can't comprehend the darker aspects of the world. The uncharitable part of me wants to say that she is unwilling to see the dangers in front of her, but, as we're reminded, she is a nymph with limited scope. She actually kind of reminds me a bit of my sister in her youth, in her inability to learn from other's experiences and warnings, which invariably causes more drama for everyone. Her character, by far, was the hardest to come to grips with in this book; and also the character who will clearly grow the most through the extended story (and from the hardest of lessons).
Lucky for me I have the second book queued up because the ending of this first novel would have been absolutely aggravating without the next book in my hands, LOL. Definitely give it a read, but keep in mind that it's a first novel in multiple ways.
November 1, 2017
Amazing story! On to the next...
February 5, 2014
*I received this book free from the author in exchange for an honest review*
I have to say that this is a wonderful story and the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is because parts of it were quite tedious. I understand why they are there, but that didn’t help me muddle through those parts any faster.
Isiilde isn’t like other nymphs. Unlike them, she has a desire inside her. A fiery fight that won’t let her do something quietly against her will. Since she was four, she was raised by her guardian Oenghus. To her, he’s her guardian, but to him, she’s his daughter. That’s a web I look forward to reading about. I’m curious what will happen when it unravels and she learns the truth.
Oenghus is a Berserker, a barbarian. He lives a life of healing, booze, and woman. And yet when it comes to Isiilde, his sprite, he is the gentle caring man she’s grown up with.
Marsias is the Archlord, and when Isiilde is fourteen he takes her on as his apprentice, just as he once had Oenghus. He likes the light she brings into his life, he enjoys having her around despite all the trouble that follows her, but what – even with his seer abilities – he did not see was how much he loved her and her him.
After she’s comes of age she is to be sold by her supposed father, the Emperor of Kambe, but her father and master cannot see letting it happen. However, they are at a loss for knowing exactly how to prevent it. But her pending sale is not what leads her life on a completely different path; it’s the man who takes advantage of her…without consent. Between him and a coup to overthrown the Archlord, their lives will never be the same.
I didn’t get engrossed in this book until a little over halfway through, but once there I couldn’t put it down. I’m looking forward to King’s Folly.
My Favorite Awkward Moment: A discussion between Marsias and Oenghus about fire. Even between two longtime friends this conversation could not have been more awkward, but it was definitely funny.
“Hmm, well the rest of your little sprite is just as flammable.”
My Favorite Moments: A slight confession by Marsias and a moment of merging spirits.
“Stay with your daughter and count yourself lucky that you can give her comfort. I know what it’s like to be denied that, Oenghus. I would have given anything to have that chance.”
“Through the blur of ecstasy he watched as the serpent of fire unfurled its long body from around her neck, slithering over her shoulder, winding itself up his arm, merging two spirits into one.”
I have to say that this is a wonderful story and the only reason I didn’t give it 5 stars is because parts of it were quite tedious. I understand why they are there, but that didn’t help me muddle through those parts any faster.
Isiilde isn’t like other nymphs. Unlike them, she has a desire inside her. A fiery fight that won’t let her do something quietly against her will. Since she was four, she was raised by her guardian Oenghus. To her, he’s her guardian, but to him, she’s his daughter. That’s a web I look forward to reading about. I’m curious what will happen when it unravels and she learns the truth.
Oenghus is a Berserker, a barbarian. He lives a life of healing, booze, and woman. And yet when it comes to Isiilde, his sprite, he is the gentle caring man she’s grown up with.
Marsias is the Archlord, and when Isiilde is fourteen he takes her on as his apprentice, just as he once had Oenghus. He likes the light she brings into his life, he enjoys having her around despite all the trouble that follows her, but what – even with his seer abilities – he did not see was how much he loved her and her him.
After she’s comes of age she is to be sold by her supposed father, the Emperor of Kambe, but her father and master cannot see letting it happen. However, they are at a loss for knowing exactly how to prevent it. But her pending sale is not what leads her life on a completely different path; it’s the man who takes advantage of her…without consent. Between him and a coup to overthrown the Archlord, their lives will never be the same.
I didn’t get engrossed in this book until a little over halfway through, but once there I couldn’t put it down. I’m looking forward to King’s Folly.
My Favorite Awkward Moment: A discussion between Marsias and Oenghus about fire. Even between two longtime friends this conversation could not have been more awkward, but it was definitely funny.
“Hmm, well the rest of your little sprite is just as flammable.”
My Favorite Moments: A slight confession by Marsias and a moment of merging spirits.
“Stay with your daughter and count yourself lucky that you can give her comfort. I know what it’s like to be denied that, Oenghus. I would have given anything to have that chance.”
“Through the blur of ecstasy he watched as the serpent of fire unfurled its long body from around her neck, slithering over her shoulder, winding itself up his arm, merging two spirits into one.”
January 30, 2014
Flynn’s attention to the world of Fyrsta was phenomenal. I loved the map at the beginning. Very detailed and easy to understand. I referenced it often and enjoyed reading about the different locations and realms.
I did struggle to get my bearings for about the first quarter of the novel. I thought there was a little too much going on linguistically. I loved the prose, it was romantic and complex which either within the novel nicely but I was a little bogged down by the different names not only for the characters but their cultures and regions as well.
It’s hard for me to engage with the characters when I don’t know how to pronounce their names. It would be one thing if one or two characters had names that I didn’t know how to say but almost every character, region, and culture had names that I couldn’t pronounce which weighted me down while reading.
With a lot of high fantasy novels, there is a lot of time spent building the world, lore, culture, and creatures etc and often not a lot goes into the story or if it does then it happens late in the novel. This is often why high fantasy novels are so lengthy.
I loved that she didn’t spend too much time creating the world. Some times I felt like it needed a little more time to create the world for example, there was a lot of lore at the beginning that was referenced but not explained right away which was a distraction because I couldn’t find a context for the lore right away.
If you are thinking a bout reading fantasy, particularly high fantasy, for the first time then this is a nice place to start. As a female fantasy reader, I liked that this was written by a woman and it wasn’t overly bogged down with the world which left more time to focus on the characters which for me, made this a wonderful read!
See my full review here
I did struggle to get my bearings for about the first quarter of the novel. I thought there was a little too much going on linguistically. I loved the prose, it was romantic and complex which either within the novel nicely but I was a little bogged down by the different names not only for the characters but their cultures and regions as well.
It’s hard for me to engage with the characters when I don’t know how to pronounce their names. It would be one thing if one or two characters had names that I didn’t know how to say but almost every character, region, and culture had names that I couldn’t pronounce which weighted me down while reading.
With a lot of high fantasy novels, there is a lot of time spent building the world, lore, culture, and creatures etc and often not a lot goes into the story or if it does then it happens late in the novel. This is often why high fantasy novels are so lengthy.
I loved that she didn’t spend too much time creating the world. Some times I felt like it needed a little more time to create the world for example, there was a lot of lore at the beginning that was referenced but not explained right away which was a distraction because I couldn’t find a context for the lore right away.
If you are thinking a bout reading fantasy, particularly high fantasy, for the first time then this is a nice place to start. As a female fantasy reader, I liked that this was written by a woman and it wasn’t overly bogged down with the world which left more time to focus on the characters which for me, made this a wonderful read!
See my full review here
Displaying 1 - 30 of 76 reviews