A River Enchanted

  Book #4 of 2023

A River Enchanted (Elements of Cadence #1)
Rebecca Ross

Fantasy/Romance (Closed Door)

Pub: Feb 15, 2022

480 pages 
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫

A River Enchanted is beautifully written fantasy novel following Jack Tamerlaine and his journey back into life on the isle of Cadence. He crosses paths with his old nemesis, Adaira, as their home becomes the target of violence and kidnapping. The spirits of the wind, earth, fire, and sea intertwine with the politics of the East and the West as secrets come to life that with alter the course of their fates.

If you’re looking for a fast paced, in your face, high fantasy plot….this is not the book to pick up. While ultimately rewarding, this novel requires patience and attention.

What I Enjoyed

The politics of the isle are at the forefront of the novel. There is a rich history surrounding the rivalry between the East and the West. This background led to a twist that will leave you gasping until the end of the novel.  It is never quite clear who to trust and Ross will keep you guessing allegiances until the very end.

The relationships in this novel are carefully curated and show monumental growth from multiple characters. There were very few flat characters. The two romantic relationships will leave you wanting more, while the familial bonds will pull at your heartstrings.

What Could Have Been Better

I will be the first to admit I am not always the target audience for lyrical prose. I sometimes found the flowery writing got in its own way. I would zone out at some points, refocus and realize I had not missed much. Sometimes I found myself asking if anything had actually happened in the last three pages.

Final Recommendation

Pick this book up if you are looking for a fantasy with lots of heart and a strong mystery at the core. Set aside some time to read in peace to really digest this novel.