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The Crack at the Heart of Everything
He accidentally cursed himself...
When the consequences get him exiled to the land he helped terrorize, can this evil wizard find redemption... and love?
Orpheus can't believe it's come to this. After helping his childhood friend conquer the realm by raising an army of hell-beasts, the befuddled dark sorcerer finds himself banished when the price of his magic endangers the palace. Isolated and betrayed, the feared spellcaster isn't exactly thrilled when his irritating and handsome rival keeps stepping between him and certain doom.
Ill at ease in the barren wasteland his powers created, Orpheus slowly warms to the charismatic ex-general's relentless overtures. But as his feelings grow more intense, the former villain struggles with an inconvenient calling towards heroism.
Will dabbling in good deeds get him killed or open the doors to happily ever after?
The Crack at the Heart of Everything is the charmingly swoon-worthy first book in an epic LGBTQ+ fantasy series. If you like character-driven stories, snarky humor, and well-earned redemption arcs, then you'll adore Fiona Fenn's unexpected hero's journey.
When the consequences get him exiled to the land he helped terrorize, can this evil wizard find redemption... and love?
Orpheus can't believe it's come to this. After helping his childhood friend conquer the realm by raising an army of hell-beasts, the befuddled dark sorcerer finds himself banished when the price of his magic endangers the palace. Isolated and betrayed, the feared spellcaster isn't exactly thrilled when his irritating and handsome rival keeps stepping between him and certain doom.
Ill at ease in the barren wasteland his powers created, Orpheus slowly warms to the charismatic ex-general's relentless overtures. But as his feelings grow more intense, the former villain struggles with an inconvenient calling towards heroism.
Will dabbling in good deeds get him killed or open the doors to happily ever after?
The Crack at the Heart of Everything is the charmingly swoon-worthy first book in an epic LGBTQ+ fantasy series. If you like character-driven stories, snarky humor, and well-earned redemption arcs, then you'll adore Fiona Fenn's unexpected hero's journey.
336 pages, Paperback
Expected publication November 12, 2024
About the author
Fiona Fenn
1 book44 followersFiona Fenn is an author of fantasy novels that put complicated “heroes” front and center. A fan of villains, redemption arcs, and intense explorations of healing in all its forms, her debut novel, The Crack at the Heart of Everything, is a love letter to every villain who could have done better but never got the chance.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 58 reviews
August 17, 2024
e-ARC received in exchange for an honest review.
Additional note: This review will not contain spoilers, but may allude to plot points.
I knew I was going to be a goner for this book as soon as the nickname ‘Fifi’ was uttered.
The Crack at the Heart of Everything by Fiona Fenn
To begin, the fact that this is a debut novel is honestly shocking. To achieve a standalone fantasy which is able to provide strong world-building, history, a fully formed cast characters and a strong dash of beautiful romance on book 1?! Incredible stuff.
This book is a fantasy adventure in the truest sense of the world: magic, quests, companions, ‘damsels’, heroes and villains. But from the perspective of the [read with a questioning inflection:] villain?
With the use of ‘interludes’ providing glimpses of the past, the reader follows Orpheus, the Dark Mage whose magic helped to win an Empire. We follow his journey and possible redemption after he’s exiled from the confines of the Palace and starts to truly discover the impact he has had on a nearly-broken world, and the manipulation that had led him to this point.
With the assistance of a begrudged cheery companion, and a number of friends made along the way, watching Orpheus’ grumpy façade being slowly stripped away led to some of the most tender, intimate (and often hilarious) moments.
Consider this a fantasy adventure book with the cosy fantasy feels.
And if I haven’t sold you using the flawless fantasy elements; may I instead tempt you with the teasing, angst, pining, fighting and care that is Orpheus and Fenrir.
This quote provides more insight into their dynamic than I ever could:
“Why are you looking at me like that?”
Fenrir grinned.
This book is available on November 12th, 2024. Romantasy lovers I highly recommend!
Give it a go if you’re in the mood for:
• The grumpiest grump x the smiley-est sunshine
• Fantasy adventure with cosy vibes… and dragons
• World-building, lore (and also Lore), magical x science, a heroic quest and hellish monsters
• Traumatised dark wizards who are secretly just sweet lil babygirls
• A swordsman with a penchant for meals that expired 300 years ago
• Reluctantly appointed nicknames that definitely aren’t endearing
• Plane rides with a pilot who for sure knows how to land…
• Men that cry (and who’s vulnerability is met with nothing but love and acceptance)
• Enthusiastic consent only
• Well-crafted plots, adventurous battles, character development, redemption stories and a lot of pining to top it off
Additional note: This review will not contain spoilers, but may allude to plot points.
I knew I was going to be a goner for this book as soon as the nickname ‘Fifi’ was uttered.
The Crack at the Heart of Everything by Fiona Fenn
To begin, the fact that this is a debut novel is honestly shocking. To achieve a standalone fantasy which is able to provide strong world-building, history, a fully formed cast characters and a strong dash of beautiful romance on book 1?! Incredible stuff.
This book is a fantasy adventure in the truest sense of the world: magic, quests, companions, ‘damsels’, heroes and villains. But from the perspective of the [read with a questioning inflection:] villain?
With the use of ‘interludes’ providing glimpses of the past, the reader follows Orpheus, the Dark Mage whose magic helped to win an Empire. We follow his journey and possible redemption after he’s exiled from the confines of the Palace and starts to truly discover the impact he has had on a nearly-broken world, and the manipulation that had led him to this point.
With the assistance of a begrudged cheery companion, and a number of friends made along the way, watching Orpheus’ grumpy façade being slowly stripped away led to some of the most tender, intimate (and often hilarious) moments.
Consider this a fantasy adventure book with the cosy fantasy feels.
And if I haven’t sold you using the flawless fantasy elements; may I instead tempt you with the teasing, angst, pining, fighting and care that is Orpheus and Fenrir.
This quote provides more insight into their dynamic than I ever could:
“Why are you looking at me like that?”
Fenrir grinned.
This book is available on November 12th, 2024. Romantasy lovers I highly recommend!
Give it a go if you’re in the mood for:
• The grumpiest grump x the smiley-est sunshine
• Fantasy adventure with cosy vibes… and dragons
• World-building, lore (and also Lore), magical x science, a heroic quest and hellish monsters
• Traumatised dark wizards who are secretly just sweet lil babygirls
• A swordsman with a penchant for meals that expired 300 years ago
• Reluctantly appointed nicknames that definitely aren’t endearing
• Plane rides with a pilot who for sure knows how to land…
• Men that cry (and who’s vulnerability is met with nothing but love and acceptance)
• Enthusiastic consent only
• Well-crafted plots, adventurous battles, character development, redemption stories and a lot of pining to top it off
April 22, 2024
[I received a digital arc for an honest review]
The Crack at the Heart of Everything is the debut novel of author Fiona Fenn. A Queer Fantasy where a cursed, evil wizard finds love and redemption when he loses the only life he had ever known.
There was no bar. No dragon. No curse and no betrayal. There was only Fenrir’s breath and the beating pulse of his heart.
Overall , I quite enjoyed this one. It's single point of view, but our lead Orpheus does a decent job telluing the story. The flashbacks to how he was manipulated at such a young age hurt my heart. The baby boy just wanted someone who loved and appreciated him, all he wanted was a friend. He isn't a villain because of his nature, he's actually a big softie. I did however find that he came across as juvenile at times. Then we have Fenrir who had Labrador retriever energy and I loved the banter between him and Orpheus. I was completely invested in thier relationship, which is sweet and low steam. My heart melted the moment Orpheus realized his feelings for and that Fenrir genuinely cared for him.
“It’s okay, I have you,” Fenrir said into his ear, voice soft, claim bold. Orpheus believed him. He trusted him. And maybe that was why his knees buckled when he finally tried to shove him away.
I think the biggest thing holding me from a higher rating was the epilogue. I personally found it quite dissapointing and would have much rather been given a glimpse of the two of them in the future.
A Queer Fantasy with a slow burn, low steam, hate to love romance between a sunshine soldier and a grumpy dark wizard. Filled with a world on the brink of hell, a death curse, dragons, hell beasts, betrayal, magical battles and a worthy redemption arc.
Favorite Quotes:
The Crack at the Heart of Everything is the debut novel of author Fiona Fenn. A Queer Fantasy where a cursed, evil wizard finds love and redemption when he loses the only life he had ever known.
There was no bar. No dragon. No curse and no betrayal. There was only Fenrir’s breath and the beating pulse of his heart.
Overall , I quite enjoyed this one. It's single point of view, but our lead Orpheus does a decent job telluing the story. The flashbacks to how he was manipulated at such a young age hurt my heart. The baby boy just wanted someone who loved and appreciated him, all he wanted was a friend. He isn't a villain because of his nature, he's actually a big softie. I did however find that he came across as juvenile at times. Then we have Fenrir who had Labrador retriever energy and I loved the banter between him and Orpheus. I was completely invested in thier relationship, which is sweet and low steam. My heart melted the moment Orpheus realized his feelings for and that Fenrir genuinely cared for him.
“It’s okay, I have you,” Fenrir said into his ear, voice soft, claim bold. Orpheus believed him. He trusted him. And maybe that was why his knees buckled when he finally tried to shove him away.
I think the biggest thing holding me from a higher rating was the epilogue. I personally found it quite dissapointing and would have much rather been given a glimpse of the two of them in the future.
A Queer Fantasy with a slow burn, low steam, hate to love romance between a sunshine soldier and a grumpy dark wizard. Filled with a world on the brink of hell, a death curse, dragons, hell beasts, betrayal, magical battles and a worthy redemption arc.
Favorite Quotes:
April 20, 2024
Good thing I’m not Eurydice
Started reading this at like 11pm, stayed up until 1am, forced myself to go to sleep and than immediately finished it in the morning. I was actually a little confused at the start of this book because you're sort of thrown into this story halfway with the idea being that it's after the "villains" won and are starting to regret how they won. I very quickly fell for Orpheus and Fenrir's relationship, I'm gonna call them annoyances-to-lovers. Fenrir won't stop saving Orpheus' life because he's cursed to keep almost dying. If you like queer evil sorcerers and grumpy/sunshine trope I think you'll love this. Very angsty at times but ultimately gave me many moments of queer joy, and the ending for Lore was so fitting.
Started reading this at like 11pm, stayed up until 1am, forced myself to go to sleep and than immediately finished it in the morning. I was actually a little confused at the start of this book because you're sort of thrown into this story halfway with the idea being that it's after the "villains" won and are starting to regret how they won. I very quickly fell for Orpheus and Fenrir's relationship, I'm gonna call them annoyances-to-lovers. Fenrir won't stop saving Orpheus' life because he's cursed to keep almost dying. If you like queer evil sorcerers and grumpy/sunshine trope I think you'll love this. Very angsty at times but ultimately gave me many moments of queer joy, and the ending for Lore was so fitting.
July 8, 2024
I can’t wait for all my friends to read this 🥹
𝙊𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙪𝙨, 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙚, 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨.
The complete brooding body of internal self-loathing that translates to the sarcastic, prickly exterior that is this man…I didn’t expect to be so utterly CLOCKED by him OKAY. At several stressful/emotional points, he’s doing this little maneuver: “His [Orpheus’] hand slipped into his sleeve, fingernails finding his wrist. He dug in, blunted and painful.”
I—
I used to do this lmao. A lot. In trauma-response I sometimes still do. So to have it written on paper was equal parts unfathomable and validating. I loved reading each and every one of his spirals, because the trains of thought were disgustingly relatable, and I wish I had had my own Fenrir to—with his otherworldly gentleness—pull me out of it.
𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙚 𝙞𝙩𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧.
Fenrir is the most handsome Rim-Soldier.
Fenrir is the most delightful Rim-Soldier.
Fenrir is the most cunning Rim-Soldier.
anyways... I’m not sure I’ve loved a character so entirely like this before lmao he is perfection. Secretly smart? Needs bottle-rim glasses to read? Says things like ”I was almost worried something had happened to my angry little flame thrower.”? My hell.
𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙊𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙪𝙨’ 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙨𝙪𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙩.
In summary: this book snapped my attention at the very beginning, violently called me out and thus sucked me in, ripped my heart into bleeding shards while cackling, sneakily pieced it back together with fuckin eye lash glue, cuddled me for a stunningly sappy minute, dangled my soul over a massive purple-fire-filled crack in the planet, then only allowed me to remain in tact after trading all of the tears my body could provide. I survived, but barely.
This book is absolutely legendary.
trope image here!
𝙊𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙪𝙨, 𝙖𝙨 𝙖 𝙧𝙪𝙡𝙚, 𝙙𝙞𝙙 𝙣𝙤𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨.
The complete brooding body of internal self-loathing that translates to the sarcastic, prickly exterior that is this man…I didn’t expect to be so utterly CLOCKED by him OKAY. At several stressful/emotional points, he’s doing this little maneuver: “His [Orpheus’] hand slipped into his sleeve, fingernails finding his wrist. He dug in, blunted and painful.”
I—
I used to do this lmao. A lot. In trauma-response I sometimes still do. So to have it written on paper was equal parts unfathomable and validating. I loved reading each and every one of his spirals, because the trains of thought were disgustingly relatable, and I wish I had had my own Fenrir to—with his otherworldly gentleness—pull me out of it.
𝙇𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙥𝙖𝙘𝙚 𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙖𝙞𝙢𝙚𝙙 𝙗𝙮 𝙨𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙮 𝙚𝙭𝙞𝙨𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙢𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙥𝙚 𝙞𝙩𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙖𝙧𝙤𝙪𝙣𝙙 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧 𝙞𝙣 𝙖 𝙬𝙖𝙮 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙡𝙞𝙚𝙙 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙜𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙧𝙚𝙥𝙪𝙩𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙤𝙧 𝙥𝙤𝙬𝙚𝙧.
Fenrir is the most handsome Rim-Soldier.
Fenrir is the most delightful Rim-Soldier.
Fenrir is the most cunning Rim-Soldier.
anyways... I’m not sure I’ve loved a character so entirely like this before lmao he is perfection. Secretly smart? Needs bottle-rim glasses to read? Says things like ”I was almost worried something had happened to my angry little flame thrower.”? My hell.
𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧 𝙙𝙚𝙨𝙘𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙊𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙪𝙨’ 𝙙𝙖𝙧𝙠𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙖 𝙨𝙪𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙚𝙩.
In summary: this book snapped my attention at the very beginning, violently called me out and thus sucked me in, ripped my heart into bleeding shards while cackling, sneakily pieced it back together with fuckin eye lash glue, cuddled me for a stunningly sappy minute, dangled my soul over a massive purple-fire-filled crack in the planet, then only allowed me to remain in tact after trading all of the tears my body could provide. I survived, but barely.
This book is absolutely legendary.
trope image here!
August 15, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and Tiny Fox Press for giving me the chance to read an arc of this book
Wow. This book was absolutely phenomenal! I poured through the pages and I just couldn’t get enough of these incredible characters! The plot was so unique and so was the world building. To have dragons and it also be a futuristic wasteland was such a cool idea. It was so well written. I usually take a little while to get into fantasy books as I have to learn new words and get used to the kind of setting, but Fiona Fenn’s writing captivated me from the very first page and the characters, especially Orpheus and Fenrir felt like I knew them already.
I absolutely adored those two wonderful guys, and I so enjoyed reading as their relationship developed and blossomed into such a beautiful love story.
I honestly can’t recommend this book enough. It’s definitely in my top five books of 2024
Wow. This book was absolutely phenomenal! I poured through the pages and I just couldn’t get enough of these incredible characters! The plot was so unique and so was the world building. To have dragons and it also be a futuristic wasteland was such a cool idea. It was so well written. I usually take a little while to get into fantasy books as I have to learn new words and get used to the kind of setting, but Fiona Fenn’s writing captivated me from the very first page and the characters, especially Orpheus and Fenrir felt like I knew them already.
I absolutely adored those two wonderful guys, and I so enjoyed reading as their relationship developed and blossomed into such a beautiful love story.
I honestly can’t recommend this book enough. It’s definitely in my top five books of 2024
Want to read
September 13, 2024pre-read.
I may or may not have decided to read this because of its beautiful cover. 😌
I may or may not have decided to read this because of its beautiful cover. 😌
April 11, 2024
This book was so twisty and clever; what I started the book believing had completely warped by the end of it as we learn more about the characters, especially Lore and Orpheus!
Orpheus has magic in his veins; Netherflame, a dark power that has allowed him to rip apart the earth and bring forth an army from hell for his Empress, Lore. Living in the castle on the mountain since they were children, Lore and Orpheus have been brought up by hermits, separated from the world. Lore is determined to bring peace to the warring nation outside of the palace and Orpheus is only too happy to help her, using his magic to bring about about death and destruction in her name.
But when Lore sends Orpheus out into the wasteland outside the palace, he starts to realise that everything he believed to be true may have been a lie. That Lore might not be the benevolent leader he thought, that the palace in the mountain was never a palace at all, and that the world outside of his self-crafted prison isn’t at all how he expected it to be. His only travelling companion is Fenrir, the general of Lore’s army and a pain in Orpheus’s side, but the closer he gets to the man, the more Orpheus realises that even his perception of Fenrir might not be entirely accurate…
Read The Crack At The Heart Of Everything for:
✨ Post-apocalyptic thriller that feels like high fantasy
✨ The villain of the story becoming the hero
✨ Mage x Soldier
✨ Slow burn MM romance
✨ Hurt x Comfort
✨ Massive magical battles
✨ Twists and turns; nothing is what it seems!
Thank you so much to the author for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. It isn’t out in the world until 12th November 2024, but if it sounds like something you’d enjoy, definitely pop it on your TBR! ✨
Orpheus has magic in his veins; Netherflame, a dark power that has allowed him to rip apart the earth and bring forth an army from hell for his Empress, Lore. Living in the castle on the mountain since they were children, Lore and Orpheus have been brought up by hermits, separated from the world. Lore is determined to bring peace to the warring nation outside of the palace and Orpheus is only too happy to help her, using his magic to bring about about death and destruction in her name.
But when Lore sends Orpheus out into the wasteland outside the palace, he starts to realise that everything he believed to be true may have been a lie. That Lore might not be the benevolent leader he thought, that the palace in the mountain was never a palace at all, and that the world outside of his self-crafted prison isn’t at all how he expected it to be. His only travelling companion is Fenrir, the general of Lore’s army and a pain in Orpheus’s side, but the closer he gets to the man, the more Orpheus realises that even his perception of Fenrir might not be entirely accurate…
Read The Crack At The Heart Of Everything for:
✨ Post-apocalyptic thriller that feels like high fantasy
✨ The villain of the story becoming the hero
✨ Mage x Soldier
✨ Slow burn MM romance
✨ Hurt x Comfort
✨ Massive magical battles
✨ Twists and turns; nothing is what it seems!
Thank you so much to the author for an ARC of this book. All opinions are my own. It isn’t out in the world until 12th November 2024, but if it sounds like something you’d enjoy, definitely pop it on your TBR! ✨
June 23, 2024
This book promises so many things and if you follow author Fiona Fenn on social media, you find hashtags like “evil sorcerer POV”, “Queer AF” or “Grumpy/Sunshine”.
And the book does deliver.
What happens, when the land is conquered and the wizard that helped the ruthless empress to the throne, starts to question everything he fought for? What happens if the desired outcome is finally realised to be not desirable at all? What if friends turn to enemies, but rivals turn to lovers?
Read “The Crack at the Heart of everything” and find out. Go on a ride through high emotions, self doubt and discover, how perspectives change over time.
All the while the plot is a healthy mix of character study and plot. The book has a clear goal and it explores the characters beautifully. It doesn’t take more than a few pages to fall in love with Orpheus and soon Fenrir. The development of their first friendship and then love is so pure and watching Orpheus learn more and more about himself, about the world he helped conquer, and his magic is a delight to read.
All the while you get so many emotions about every detail, and there were times I nearly threw the kindle out of the window due to emotions cooking high.
So yeah, a solid 5/5
I was blessed with an eARC by the author. This book was really a something that fits my reading trope well so I wasn’t sad to have to write a review in exchange ;)
And the book does deliver.
What happens, when the land is conquered and the wizard that helped the ruthless empress to the throne, starts to question everything he fought for? What happens if the desired outcome is finally realised to be not desirable at all? What if friends turn to enemies, but rivals turn to lovers?
Read “The Crack at the Heart of everything” and find out. Go on a ride through high emotions, self doubt and discover, how perspectives change over time.
All the while the plot is a healthy mix of character study and plot. The book has a clear goal and it explores the characters beautifully. It doesn’t take more than a few pages to fall in love with Orpheus and soon Fenrir. The development of their first friendship and then love is so pure and watching Orpheus learn more and more about himself, about the world he helped conquer, and his magic is a delight to read.
All the while you get so many emotions about every detail, and there were times I nearly threw the kindle out of the window due to emotions cooking high.
So yeah, a solid 5/5
I was blessed with an eARC by the author. This book was really a something that fits my reading trope well so I wasn’t sad to have to write a review in exchange ;)
June 8, 2024
Un grand merci à l’auteure pour cet ARC et sa confiance.
Préparez-vous à plonger dans un curieux mélange entre fantasy et monde futuriste post-apocalyptique qui fonctionne à merveille.
Je me suis d’ailleurs découvert un nouveau trope favori : Vilain Redemption😈
Et ces petits moments de communication non-verbales entre Orphée et Fenrir sont ma chose préférée dans ce livre.
Et pardon mais on en parle de cette superbe couverture?!😳🤩💜
Au début je m’attendais à cette prestance et ce charisme qui caractérisent "LE" magicien noir de la part d’Orphée, mais il est en réalité très sensible et ignorant du monde malgré tout son savoir littéraire, car il n’a jamais JAMAIS quitté le château… jusqu’à ce qu’il en soit banni après avoir convoqué une armée de mort vivant pour aider l’effort de guerre et écopé d’une malédiction.
N’étant pas habitué à avoir des amis ou à manifester/recevoir de la gentillesse, son entrée dans le monde est compliquée et l’amène à faire face aux conséquences de ses actes et de sa bienheureuse ignorance. Non seulement du monde mais aussi des sentiments que Fenrir a pour lui et du fait qu’il lui rende en réalité son flirt à chaque pique échangée.😂👌
Fenrir, qui ne se métamorphose pas en loup (l’auteure m’a donné de faux espoirs😂), est extrêmement loyal, courageux et protecteur.
Il est excessivement sûr de lui et de ses capacités, du genre à foncer tête baissée dans un mur (ou un dragon), persuadé qu’il peut en venir à bout.😅
Au fur et à mesure qu’ils chevauchent tout en combattant les tentatives de meurtres de la malédiction, Orphée et Fenrir s’apprivoisent mutuellement. Et par là je veux dire: se faire agressivement la cour en s’invectivant et en se tirant dans les pattes. Ça m’a énormément plu!😆
Leur dynamique fonctionne avec Orpheus à la barre et Fenrir en tant qu’exécutant: (le cerveau et les muscles).
Par contre je ne sais pas trop quoi ressentir à propos de Lore. (Sorry not sorry, je suis de la team qui aime que le vrai méchant ai ce qu’iel mérite à la fin).🔪🩸😅(so much rage in me…🤣) Je suis très curieux.se de ce qui attend nos héros au prochain tome.😉😇
Préparez-vous à plonger dans un curieux mélange entre fantasy et monde futuriste post-apocalyptique qui fonctionne à merveille.
Je me suis d’ailleurs découvert un nouveau trope favori : Vilain Redemption😈
Et ces petits moments de communication non-verbales entre Orphée et Fenrir sont ma chose préférée dans ce livre.
Et pardon mais on en parle de cette superbe couverture?!😳🤩💜
Au début je m’attendais à cette prestance et ce charisme qui caractérisent "LE" magicien noir de la part d’Orphée, mais il est en réalité très sensible et ignorant du monde malgré tout son savoir littéraire, car il n’a jamais JAMAIS quitté le château… jusqu’à ce qu’il en soit banni après avoir convoqué une armée de mort vivant pour aider l’effort de guerre et écopé d’une malédiction.
N’étant pas habitué à avoir des amis ou à manifester/recevoir de la gentillesse, son entrée dans le monde est compliquée et l’amène à faire face aux conséquences de ses actes et de sa bienheureuse ignorance. Non seulement du monde mais aussi des sentiments que Fenrir a pour lui et du fait qu’il lui rende en réalité son flirt à chaque pique échangée.😂👌
Fenrir, qui ne se métamorphose pas en loup (l’auteure m’a donné de faux espoirs😂), est extrêmement loyal, courageux et protecteur.
Il est excessivement sûr de lui et de ses capacités, du genre à foncer tête baissée dans un mur (ou un dragon), persuadé qu’il peut en venir à bout.😅
Au fur et à mesure qu’ils chevauchent tout en combattant les tentatives de meurtres de la malédiction, Orphée et Fenrir s’apprivoisent mutuellement. Et par là je veux dire: se faire agressivement la cour en s’invectivant et en se tirant dans les pattes. Ça m’a énormément plu!😆
Leur dynamique fonctionne avec Orpheus à la barre et Fenrir en tant qu’exécutant: (le cerveau et les muscles).
Par contre je ne sais pas trop quoi ressentir à propos de Lore. (Sorry not sorry, je suis de la team qui aime que le vrai méchant ai ce qu’iel mérite à la fin).🔪🩸😅(so much rage in me…🤣) Je suis très curieux.se de ce qui attend nos héros au prochain tome.😉😇
August 23, 2024
A stunning debut from Fiona Fenn. I was immediately immersed in the world of The Empire and the life of our evil and cursed mage, Orpheus.
I was immediately sucked into this. Like taken from our reality and just dropped into this TCATHOE. That’s how well written this was.
Orpheus is our cursed and evil mage who has only known life behind the castle walls he currently lives in. He gets a rude awakening when his Queen (and the only friend he has ever had) banishes him because of a death curse that has attached to him. He obviously doesn’t want to be banished so he thinks the only thing for him to do is find out how to get this curse to go away.
At first you don’t really feel that bad for him because he kinda destroyed the world a little bit and brought an army of the dead that kept the destruction going BUT THEN. Fiona starts messing with your heat strings more and more as the book goes and you start learning Orpheus’ history and realize you would do ANYTHING for him. And not only you but also the hunky army general that joins him in being banished who Orpheus is NOT attracted to. No feelings whatsoever.
The Crack at the Heart of Everything is a cozy fantasy with big feelings and everyone should be on the lookout for it when it releases 11.12.24.
I was immediately sucked into this. Like taken from our reality and just dropped into this TCATHOE. That’s how well written this was.
Orpheus is our cursed and evil mage who has only known life behind the castle walls he currently lives in. He gets a rude awakening when his Queen (and the only friend he has ever had) banishes him because of a death curse that has attached to him. He obviously doesn’t want to be banished so he thinks the only thing for him to do is find out how to get this curse to go away.
At first you don’t really feel that bad for him because he kinda destroyed the world a little bit and brought an army of the dead that kept the destruction going BUT THEN. Fiona starts messing with your heat strings more and more as the book goes and you start learning Orpheus’ history and realize you would do ANYTHING for him. And not only you but also the hunky army general that joins him in being banished who Orpheus is NOT attracted to. No feelings whatsoever.
The Crack at the Heart of Everything is a cozy fantasy with big feelings and everyone should be on the lookout for it when it releases 11.12.24.
May 15, 2024
Thank you for the ARC! Slow burn queer fantasy romance with a grumpy dark wizard who curses himself and a sunshiny knight who just wants to help.
I love that this is Orpheus’ POV but I can’t help but wish it was a dual pov with Fenrir but I get that, this just isn’t that type of story which is totally cool. I absolutely love the banter between the two. I’m just sitting here screaming JUST KISS ALREADY!
I won’t lie that u had a hard time getting into the story at first but then when I realized that it was mainly character driven, I had a new respect for it. This really is Orpheus’ story/life.
The magic and tech systems were really interesting. Very different from what I normally read.
This books is cozy and quirky for a villain story. I just hope there is more
I love that this is Orpheus’ POV but I can’t help but wish it was a dual pov with Fenrir but I get that, this just isn’t that type of story which is totally cool. I absolutely love the banter between the two. I’m just sitting here screaming JUST KISS ALREADY!
I won’t lie that u had a hard time getting into the story at first but then when I realized that it was mainly character driven, I had a new respect for it. This really is Orpheus’ story/life.
The magic and tech systems were really interesting. Very different from what I normally read.
This books is cozy and quirky for a villain story. I just hope there is more
May 9, 2024
What's not to love about this inclusive villain redemption ARC romantasy.
MM romance & queer cast. Grumpy/Sunshine slow burn romance. Themes of mental health and healing from trauma.
Fionna Fenn knocks it out of the park. Well written, great plot, interesting world building. Get it now!
MM romance & queer cast. Grumpy/Sunshine slow burn romance. Themes of mental health and healing from trauma.
Fionna Fenn knocks it out of the park. Well written, great plot, interesting world building. Get it now!
Want to read
August 18, 2024Oh I'm so ready for this holy moly
June 14, 2024
The Crack at the Heart of Everything (received an eARC for an honest review)
A dark wizard cursing himself to help the only friend he’s ever had bring peace to a world he has never known. The premise alone is intriguing. The writing knocks it out of the park. Fiona Fenn manages capturing despair and longing like no other writer I know. Reading this book made me laugh and cry and it was one of the best books I’ve ever read. I was lucky enough to receive an eARC and I have fallen in love with silly little self-loathing Orpheus and it’s hard not to when he is written with so much love. Fenrir is funny and strong and the perfect swoon-worthy hero Orpheus needs. All of the characters are wonderfully morally grey, even our hero Fenrir. The villains aren’t vicious, but they are relatable in their despair and their hopes. The flashback scenes are one of the absolute highlights in this book. They provide context and at times a respite from the fast-paced and action packed main story.
The Crack at the Heart of Everything is set in a post apocalyptic world at which magic was thrown a long time ago. Can magic solve these problems? Can magic solve Orpheus’s problems, because it certainly hasn’t helped him find his place in the world. Far from it, he is an outcast in his own home, and only the unlikely companionship of rugged Fenrir Rawkner can help him find out who he really is and what matters in life.
Highly recommend this book to everyone who adores:
Character driven stories
Dystopian fantasy
Dragons
Villain POV stories
Getting wrecked by villain emotions
A dark wizard cursing himself to help the only friend he’s ever had bring peace to a world he has never known. The premise alone is intriguing. The writing knocks it out of the park. Fiona Fenn manages capturing despair and longing like no other writer I know. Reading this book made me laugh and cry and it was one of the best books I’ve ever read. I was lucky enough to receive an eARC and I have fallen in love with silly little self-loathing Orpheus and it’s hard not to when he is written with so much love. Fenrir is funny and strong and the perfect swoon-worthy hero Orpheus needs. All of the characters are wonderfully morally grey, even our hero Fenrir. The villains aren’t vicious, but they are relatable in their despair and their hopes. The flashback scenes are one of the absolute highlights in this book. They provide context and at times a respite from the fast-paced and action packed main story.
The Crack at the Heart of Everything is set in a post apocalyptic world at which magic was thrown a long time ago. Can magic solve these problems? Can magic solve Orpheus’s problems, because it certainly hasn’t helped him find his place in the world. Far from it, he is an outcast in his own home, and only the unlikely companionship of rugged Fenrir Rawkner can help him find out who he really is and what matters in life.
Highly recommend this book to everyone who adores:
Character driven stories
Dystopian fantasy
Dragons
Villain POV stories
Getting wrecked by villain emotions
July 13, 2024
I'll be back to write this one. My heart needs a minute.
August 19, 2024
Thank you so much to Tiny Fox Press and Netgalley for an ARC of this title. All opinions are my own.
I loved this book, oh, so much. It’s soft and self-indulgent and magic, and I’m just here for all of it.
I just want to preface with the fact that I identify with Orpheus more than I have with any other fictional character before. I, too, am told I’m nicer than I pretend to be, just want someone to pay attention to me, and cry constantly. Orpheus, you’re a mess, and so am I.
The Crack at the Heart of Everything starts right at the end of a great war. Orpheus, mage and advisor to the triumphant conqueror, Lore, finds himself afflicted by a death curse. He raised an army of the dead to help Lore win the war, and in return finds himself banished from the only home he’s ever known. To keep everyone else safe from his death curse, of course.
The novel weaves together a fantastical dystopian landscape with ideas of loss, identity, healing, and love. Fiona Fenn’s writing and the action propels the novel forward. This was a book that I had difficulty putting down once I was into it. Everything happens so quickly that I never had a moment to breathe. I would have loved to see it split into a duology, but maybe that’s just because I want more.
I loved the magic system. It felt new and inventive, intertwining fantasy and dystopian fiction. Fenn takes a fantastical approach to what our world could look like after the bombs eventually drop and leave the Earth a tragic wasteland. Brief mentions are made to New England cities, but Fenn mostly roots the setting through frequent mentions of classical literature, showing a future that could be our own but feels fantastical and foreign at the same time.
With a limited number of characters, each were distinct with their own personalities, motivations, and desires. The book focuses in on two primary characters, Orpheus and Fenrir. After being exiled, Orpheus steps outside the palace for the first time in his life and struggles to find his footing in a world he’s never been in. He becomes the reader’s guide to the world, discovering what exactly lays outside the walls of the palace. Through him, we see the damage wrought on the world because of the Incident and the war and see the people who have been impacted by Lore’s quest for power. In contrast, we have Fenrir who has already seen too much of the world. He’s soft edges and an optimistic personality against Orpheus’ pessimistic outlook. While Orpheus looks for deceptions, Fenrir shows him how to make friends.
Throughout the novel, Orpheus struggles with feelings of self-doubt and isolation. He finds an opportunity to cry in almost every chapter, and I really can’t blame him. At its heart, this novel really follows Orpheus’ journey of self-discovery, and I wish he’d been able to find more of himself outside of who he is with others. Orpheus is constantly defined by how others view him and his purpose to them, but he has little opportunity to just be. To find that he can exist without a purpose, to have desires and motivations of his own outside of fate or destiny. But I can’t blame him for wanting to find connection either.
Then, of course, there’s the romance. Despite their close-proximity, the slow-burn between Orpheus and Fenrir felt natural. Because of their disparate personalities, Orpheus and Fenrir naturally push and pull well. Fenrir is every bit the knight in shining armor who saves Orpheus at every turn, who gives him direction when he’s lost both physically and mentally. I especially love that he never makes any forward overtures with Orpheus until Orpheus starts to realize his own feelings. “I’ve just realized I love you” vs “I’ve loved you since we met” is 100% my favorite romance trope, and The Crack at the Heart of Everything delivers.
I loved this book. I always try to keep a level review, so I’m not sure it encapsulates just how much, but I really, really did. I’ll definitely be purchasing after it releases.
I loved this book, oh, so much. It’s soft and self-indulgent and magic, and I’m just here for all of it.
I just want to preface with the fact that I identify with Orpheus more than I have with any other fictional character before. I, too, am told I’m nicer than I pretend to be, just want someone to pay attention to me, and cry constantly. Orpheus, you’re a mess, and so am I.
The Crack at the Heart of Everything starts right at the end of a great war. Orpheus, mage and advisor to the triumphant conqueror, Lore, finds himself afflicted by a death curse. He raised an army of the dead to help Lore win the war, and in return finds himself banished from the only home he’s ever known. To keep everyone else safe from his death curse, of course.
The novel weaves together a fantastical dystopian landscape with ideas of loss, identity, healing, and love. Fiona Fenn’s writing and the action propels the novel forward. This was a book that I had difficulty putting down once I was into it. Everything happens so quickly that I never had a moment to breathe. I would have loved to see it split into a duology, but maybe that’s just because I want more.
I loved the magic system. It felt new and inventive, intertwining fantasy and dystopian fiction. Fenn takes a fantastical approach to what our world could look like after the bombs eventually drop and leave the Earth a tragic wasteland. Brief mentions are made to New England cities, but Fenn mostly roots the setting through frequent mentions of classical literature, showing a future that could be our own but feels fantastical and foreign at the same time.
With a limited number of characters, each were distinct with their own personalities, motivations, and desires. The book focuses in on two primary characters, Orpheus and Fenrir. After being exiled, Orpheus steps outside the palace for the first time in his life and struggles to find his footing in a world he’s never been in. He becomes the reader’s guide to the world, discovering what exactly lays outside the walls of the palace. Through him, we see the damage wrought on the world because of the Incident and the war and see the people who have been impacted by Lore’s quest for power. In contrast, we have Fenrir who has already seen too much of the world. He’s soft edges and an optimistic personality against Orpheus’ pessimistic outlook. While Orpheus looks for deceptions, Fenrir shows him how to make friends.
Throughout the novel, Orpheus struggles with feelings of self-doubt and isolation. He finds an opportunity to cry in almost every chapter, and I really can’t blame him. At its heart, this novel really follows Orpheus’ journey of self-discovery, and I wish he’d been able to find more of himself outside of who he is with others. Orpheus is constantly defined by how others view him and his purpose to them, but he has little opportunity to just be. To find that he can exist without a purpose, to have desires and motivations of his own outside of fate or destiny. But I can’t blame him for wanting to find connection either.
Then, of course, there’s the romance. Despite their close-proximity, the slow-burn between Orpheus and Fenrir felt natural. Because of their disparate personalities, Orpheus and Fenrir naturally push and pull well. Fenrir is every bit the knight in shining armor who saves Orpheus at every turn, who gives him direction when he’s lost both physically and mentally. I especially love that he never makes any forward overtures with Orpheus until Orpheus starts to realize his own feelings. “I’ve just realized I love you” vs “I’ve loved you since we met” is 100% my favorite romance trope, and The Crack at the Heart of Everything delivers.
I loved this book. I always try to keep a level review, so I’m not sure it encapsulates just how much, but I really, really did. I’ll definitely be purchasing after it releases.
August 14, 2024
What a wonderful, refreshing story in a unique world.
I grew up with my favorite protagonists fighting against the Evil Wizard character and emerging triumphant for their happily ever after. But what happens if the wizard wins and evil triumphs over good? What if he comes to regret it when he sees the consequences of his actions? How do we define "evil" and might we look at such characters in a different light if we used a childhood trauma lens?These are the questions thoughtfully explored by Fiona Fenn in The Crack at the Heart of Everything.
The protagonist is deeply flawed and delightfully sour with mile-high emotional walls. Without delving too far into the realm of spoilers, one of the most satisfying elements of the book (and what makes it such a cozy read) is the care with which the other characters, particularly his love interest, show him that others really can be emotionally safe. It is unique, and perhaps even more so in queer mlm romance.
There's a lot more to say...queer normative? Check. Unique world building? Check. Dieselpunk elements? Check! Cool magic vs technology themes? Again, check! Witty banter? Double check! MUSCLES? You will not be disappointed. Just go read it.
The only issue I have with this book was that I could not immediately pick up book 2 - I was too invested in the characters!!
Beautiful debut. Looking forward to seeing where this story goes next!
I grew up with my favorite protagonists fighting against the Evil Wizard character and emerging triumphant for their happily ever after. But what happens if the wizard wins and evil triumphs over good? What if he comes to regret it when he sees the consequences of his actions? How do we define "evil" and might we look at such characters in a different light if we used a childhood trauma lens?These are the questions thoughtfully explored by Fiona Fenn in The Crack at the Heart of Everything.
The protagonist is deeply flawed and delightfully sour with mile-high emotional walls. Without delving too far into the realm of spoilers, one of the most satisfying elements of the book (and what makes it such a cozy read) is the care with which the other characters, particularly his love interest, show him that others really can be emotionally safe. It is unique, and perhaps even more so in queer mlm romance.
There's a lot more to say...queer normative? Check. Unique world building? Check. Dieselpunk elements? Check! Cool magic vs technology themes? Again, check! Witty banter? Double check! MUSCLES? You will not be disappointed. Just go read it.
The only issue I have with this book was that I could not immediately pick up book 2 - I was too invested in the characters!!
Beautiful debut. Looking forward to seeing where this story goes next!
August 20, 2024
Read this if you like…
- Villain redemption arcs
- Characters learning that they're lovable 🥺
- Black cat/golden retriever dynamics
- Hell beasts and bad magic
This may not be for you if you don't like...
- Yearning, longing, soul-searching
- Tender, rather than steamy, love stories
Rating: 5
Rating Breakdown
Characters: ★★★★★
I loved every character in this book, the good and the bad BECAUSE they were good and bad.
Orpheus' whole story wrecked my heart and Fenrir was pure gold. The only thing I was missing here was a bit more of their story - maybe another interlude or two that showed more of their dynamic prior to the novel's beginning (to build up the tension between them).
Writing: ★★★★★
I am here reading this book because I am a fanfiction junkie and DEVOURED the author's Baldur's Gate 3 writing. I already knew I loved their writing style and I was not disappointed at all. There were so many lines that made me stop and reread them because they hit exactly on target.
One of my many favorites...
Plot: ★★★★★
YO. Color me gobsmacked because I did not see the world-building twists in this book coming. It worked SO well and each little reveal had me setting the book down and saying "excuse me???" I can't even mention exact things because it will absolutely spoil everything but I will say...
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
Ate this book up in less than 48 hours. Was riding the emotional rollercoaster along with the characters and cried about as often as Fifi. I will never forgive the author for one particular thing that happened in this book but I will read every single thing they put out from here to forever regardless. I can't wait to have a physical copy of this on my shelf to reread fifty times.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
- Villain redemption arcs
- Characters learning that they're lovable 🥺
- Black cat/golden retriever dynamics
- Hell beasts and bad magic
This may not be for you if you don't like...
- Yearning, longing, soul-searching
- Tender, rather than steamy, love stories
Rating: 5
Rating Breakdown
Characters: ★★★★★
I loved every character in this book, the good and the bad BECAUSE they were good and bad.
Orpheus' whole story wrecked my heart and Fenrir was pure gold. The only thing I was missing here was a bit more of their story - maybe another interlude or two that showed more of their dynamic prior to the novel's beginning (to build up the tension between them).
Writing: ★★★★★
I am here reading this book because I am a fanfiction junkie and DEVOURED the author's Baldur's Gate 3 writing. I already knew I loved their writing style and I was not disappointed at all. There were so many lines that made me stop and reread them because they hit exactly on target.
One of my many favorites...
The torch tumbled to the snow, Fenrir descending into Orpheus' darkness like a sun come to set.
Plot: ★★★★★
YO. Color me gobsmacked because I did not see the world-building twists in this book coming. It worked SO well and each little reveal had me setting the book down and saying "excuse me???" I can't even mention exact things because it will absolutely spoil everything but I will say...
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
Ate this book up in less than 48 hours. Was riding the emotional rollercoaster along with the characters and cried about as often as Fifi. I will never forgive the author for one particular thing that happened in this book but I will read every single thing they put out from here to forever regardless. I can't wait to have a physical copy of this on my shelf to reread fifty times.
ARC provided by the publisher via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
August 17, 2024
It's hard to encapsulate the way this book made me feel in a tiny text box that only a few people are going to take the time to read. I first heard about TCATHOE through the author's twitter; I was in the process of reading a story she'd written online, and I was so enamored with her prose and world building that I knew I had to read more of her stuff. I was DELIGHTED to find she had a trad published book coming out in November, and I absolutely ran to join her street team. Once I had the arc on my phone I devoured it, staying up until three AM to finish it despite knowing my toddler would wake me up only a few hours later.
I regret nothing.
Orpheus is one of the loveliest protagonists I've ever had the pleasure of going on a journey with. When you meat him he's about a foot away from rock bottom, and despite having just helped his best friend Lore conquer the country, he doesn't seem to fit into the space he's helped her carve out. What follows is one of the most satisfying redemption arcs you'll ever read. The book is very character driven; you spend much of your time in Orpheus' head, considering the effects his actions have had on the people around him and watching as he comes to startling realizations. The beauty of that is you get a front row seat to every moment he decides to grow, makes a conscious decision to be better. And his budding love with General Labrador Retriever himself, Fenrir Rawkner, is just icing on the cake.
This is going to be the perfect book for anyone who wants to love cozy romance, but finds they often don't have enough plot to hold their interest. It's like...Cozy+. Cozy plus journey, cozy plus action, cozy plus redemption.
Do yourself a favour and preorder now, you'll be glad to have a copy in your hands on release day.
I regret nothing.
Orpheus is one of the loveliest protagonists I've ever had the pleasure of going on a journey with. When you meat him he's about a foot away from rock bottom, and despite having just helped his best friend Lore conquer the country, he doesn't seem to fit into the space he's helped her carve out. What follows is one of the most satisfying redemption arcs you'll ever read. The book is very character driven; you spend much of your time in Orpheus' head, considering the effects his actions have had on the people around him and watching as he comes to startling realizations. The beauty of that is you get a front row seat to every moment he decides to grow, makes a conscious decision to be better. And his budding love with General Labrador Retriever himself, Fenrir Rawkner, is just icing on the cake.
This is going to be the perfect book for anyone who wants to love cozy romance, but finds they often don't have enough plot to hold their interest. It's like...Cozy+. Cozy plus journey, cozy plus action, cozy plus redemption.
Do yourself a favour and preorder now, you'll be glad to have a copy in your hands on release day.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 7, 2024
I am finding myself so taken by this story that I’m going to have to read it again, and again and again.
Orpheus, the evil mage at the hand of Empress Lore suddenly finds himself banished as the curse he bares becomes a burden in Lore’s new peaceful court, a curse he bares as a side effect of helping his best friend come to power.
But when Lore’s General Fenrir escorts him into banishment he finds himself on a journey of enlightenment, redemption and love as he untangles the truth behind the Crack at the Heart of Everything.
This book is set 300 years after a massive incident has caused devastation right across the planet, and seamlessly brings together elements of sci-fi and fantasy.
Im not to sure if the world building was minimal, or if I was so wrapped up in the love story and the internal monologue of the mmc that I missed it, but I would have liked to see a bit more world building.
4.5 stars (rounded up for GR)
Thank you to NetGalley, Author Fiona Fenn and publisher Tiny Fox Press for access to this ARC
Orpheus, the evil mage at the hand of Empress Lore suddenly finds himself banished as the curse he bares becomes a burden in Lore’s new peaceful court, a curse he bares as a side effect of helping his best friend come to power.
But when Lore’s General Fenrir escorts him into banishment he finds himself on a journey of enlightenment, redemption and love as he untangles the truth behind the Crack at the Heart of Everything.
This book is set 300 years after a massive incident has caused devastation right across the planet, and seamlessly brings together elements of sci-fi and fantasy.
Im not to sure if the world building was minimal, or if I was so wrapped up in the love story and the internal monologue of the mmc that I missed it, but I would have liked to see a bit more world building.
4.5 stars (rounded up for GR)
Thank you to NetGalley, Author Fiona Fenn and publisher Tiny Fox Press for access to this ARC
September 22, 2024
this book landed somewhere around the 3 star mark for me.
this just wasn't the book i thought i was going to be reading based on the premise that was sold. orpheus, for as much as he was marketed as a villain, was never really that much of one. yes, he had done some things that were bad, but they were done with an odd sense of naivety wherein he just wasn't aware of the true effects of his actions. orpheus was marketed as a evil sorcerer in need of redemption, but was never really actively villainous in any way and as such the redemption arc never really felt like much of one as we sympathise with orpheus very early on.
much of this book was also orpheus being emotional and weepy over the same issues over and over again. like ok, i love to see men in fantasy be emotionally vulnerable but seeing orpheus angst over the same things we had just seen him spiral over got very repetitive, very fast. fenrir was also just a little too ,,, for lack of a better word, good. we don't really get to see much of why he ticks, and why he has such an unerringly strong belief in orpheus being a good person. he just lacked a bit of nuance for me. their romance was sweet, but we miss a lot of its development. why did fenrir like orpheus in the first place? why was orpheus convinced fenrir hated him?
i also had a bone to pick with the setting of this world— once i realised it was set in a post-apocalyptic version of our own, a lot of questions were raised. where did the knowledge of industry and technology go? why use swords if guns were still an option? where did orpheus learn his magic and sigils from? why was ohm even summoned in the first place? what war was fought, and against what? as readers we are just dropped in the middle of the action, which isn't an inherently bad thing, but it made character's references to past events and the motivations and reasonings for certain actions difficult to understand.
a couple more little things that i'll admit are nit-picky— some turns of phrase were used excessively in this. in the first 20% of the book orpheus sneered in what seemed like every sentence. rim-pale was another descriptor that was used too much, as i honestly don't think fenrir's eyes were described as being anything else. i also picked up the comparison of fire being anathema to ice being used a little heavy-handedly throughout the book. and my last little thing— the epilogue was not an epilogue!
in short, a lot of aspects in this book from the characters to the setting to the events of the war, felt like they needed a little more context and a little more background to really build a sense of immersion and investment in the story. in saying all this though, this book did have some moments of amazing prose and character moments that really stood out. fenrir and orpheus' romance was really sweet, and i loved red as a side character as well. the pacing of the last half of the novel was also really well done, and had me turning the pages to see where the story would take me.ultimately this is a cosy, fantasy read and a pretty solid debut novel!
thank you to NetGalley and Tiny Fox Press for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
this just wasn't the book i thought i was going to be reading based on the premise that was sold. orpheus, for as much as he was marketed as a villain, was never really that much of one. yes, he had done some things that were bad, but they were done with an odd sense of naivety wherein he just wasn't aware of the true effects of his actions. orpheus was marketed as a evil sorcerer in need of redemption, but was never really actively villainous in any way and as such the redemption arc never really felt like much of one as we sympathise with orpheus very early on.
much of this book was also orpheus being emotional and weepy over the same issues over and over again. like ok, i love to see men in fantasy be emotionally vulnerable but seeing orpheus angst over the same things we had just seen him spiral over got very repetitive, very fast. fenrir was also just a little too ,,, for lack of a better word, good. we don't really get to see much of why he ticks, and why he has such an unerringly strong belief in orpheus being a good person. he just lacked a bit of nuance for me. their romance was sweet, but we miss a lot of its development. why did fenrir like orpheus in the first place? why was orpheus convinced fenrir hated him?
i also had a bone to pick with the setting of this world— once i realised it was set in a post-apocalyptic version of our own, a lot of questions were raised. where did the knowledge of industry and technology go? why use swords if guns were still an option? where did orpheus learn his magic and sigils from? why was ohm even summoned in the first place? what war was fought, and against what? as readers we are just dropped in the middle of the action, which isn't an inherently bad thing, but it made character's references to past events and the motivations and reasonings for certain actions difficult to understand.
a couple more little things that i'll admit are nit-picky— some turns of phrase were used excessively in this. in the first 20% of the book orpheus sneered in what seemed like every sentence. rim-pale was another descriptor that was used too much, as i honestly don't think fenrir's eyes were described as being anything else. i also picked up the comparison of fire being anathema to ice being used a little heavy-handedly throughout the book. and my last little thing— the epilogue was not an epilogue!
in short, a lot of aspects in this book from the characters to the setting to the events of the war, felt like they needed a little more context and a little more background to really build a sense of immersion and investment in the story. in saying all this though, this book did have some moments of amazing prose and character moments that really stood out. fenrir and orpheus' romance was really sweet, and i loved red as a side character as well. the pacing of the last half of the novel was also really well done, and had me turning the pages to see where the story would take me.ultimately this is a cosy, fantasy read and a pretty solid debut novel!
thank you to NetGalley and Tiny Fox Press for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
September 5, 2024
2ish Stars.
This one just did not click with me, and I found it incredibly hard to get through, I mostly finished it because this was an eARC and I wanted to make sure I was able to speak to the whole story before giving it a review.
I found this title very hard to get into, and I think a big part of it for me was the world/world building or lack thereof in some instances. Our protagonist, Orpheus, continuously refers to past events that make little sense to the reader. We're thrown in, which inherently isn't a bad thing, but when it leaves me confused for most of the story, it just doesn't read well. The world is unfortunately difficult to grasp - at first you think you're in a more "medieval" setting, then there's cars/guns etc. but people also use swords and wear plate armor? I just wish we'd had more of an explanation on why things were the way they were. We never truly find out what happened (An apocalyptic event that brings Hell to Earth, but it's magic, or magic adjacent, but it also sounds like there was true magic in the world before this event? How did we discover magic? So it just feels muddled to me).
I honestly didn't vibe with the relationship between Orpheus and Fenrir either, I think also because of where we started in the story. We get none, or very little, of their history, and not having any of that made it hard for me to feel invested in them/their relationship. There was very little chemistry, to me, which was unfortunate because the draw of their relationship was a big part of the reason I picked this book up.
Both characters separately, too, were not my favorite, mostly because of the questions I felt weren't getting answered. Fenrir- how does he continuously survive impossible situations? I thought we would eventually learn he's blessed or magic touched in some way or something like that, but nothing really came of it. Why does he know how to fly a plane? Why does he fight with a sword all the time if there's guns he could be using? Is it because guns work on humans but not Nether beasts? I feel like I was missing so many answers in here. How does Orpheus' magic truly work - there's sigils, but you can cast without it? What is Netherflame? How did he learn how to cast - is it because the world has had magic before? How did he learn sigils? and then there's the fact that he's a powerful mage, but doesn't seem to actually lean into his power at all until the end/only leaned into it to summon Ohm.
Speaking of Ohm- why did Orpheus need to summon him for Lore? What were they fighting that was bad enough the Orpheus literally raised a Hell Army for Lore? I wish we understood more of the war, as I feel it would have helped with both worldbuilding and character development (like why everyone, aside from her courtiers, dislikes Lore)
Lore was also, unfortunately, not a compelling character to me - and the way her story ends felt very odd.
The prose itself was beautiful in some places, but also left me annoyed in others, as it was very drawn out. A big part of this story was Orpheus lamenting and going through self discovery, which again, isn't inherently bad, I just think it was drawn out too much and repetitive in some areas, and was not supported well through the setting/world/rest of the plot, since I found most of that lacking.
Overall, an unfortunate miss for me.
This one just did not click with me, and I found it incredibly hard to get through, I mostly finished it because this was an eARC and I wanted to make sure I was able to speak to the whole story before giving it a review.
I found this title very hard to get into, and I think a big part of it for me was the world/world building or lack thereof in some instances. Our protagonist, Orpheus, continuously refers to past events that make little sense to the reader. We're thrown in, which inherently isn't a bad thing, but when it leaves me confused for most of the story, it just doesn't read well. The world is unfortunately difficult to grasp - at first you think you're in a more "medieval" setting, then there's cars/guns etc. but people also use swords and wear plate armor? I just wish we'd had more of an explanation on why things were the way they were. We never truly find out what happened (An apocalyptic event that brings Hell to Earth, but it's magic, or magic adjacent, but it also sounds like there was true magic in the world before this event? How did we discover magic? So it just feels muddled to me).
I honestly didn't vibe with the relationship between Orpheus and Fenrir either, I think also because of where we started in the story. We get none, or very little, of their history, and not having any of that made it hard for me to feel invested in them/their relationship. There was very little chemistry, to me, which was unfortunate because the draw of their relationship was a big part of the reason I picked this book up.
Both characters separately, too, were not my favorite, mostly because of the questions I felt weren't getting answered. Fenrir- how does he continuously survive impossible situations? I thought we would eventually learn he's blessed or magic touched in some way or something like that, but nothing really came of it. Why does he know how to fly a plane? Why does he fight with a sword all the time if there's guns he could be using? Is it because guns work on humans but not Nether beasts? I feel like I was missing so many answers in here. How does Orpheus' magic truly work - there's sigils, but you can cast without it? What is Netherflame? How did he learn how to cast - is it because the world has had magic before? How did he learn sigils? and then there's the fact that he's a powerful mage, but doesn't seem to actually lean into his power at all until the end/only leaned into it to summon Ohm.
Speaking of Ohm- why did Orpheus need to summon him for Lore? What were they fighting that was bad enough the Orpheus literally raised a Hell Army for Lore? I wish we understood more of the war, as I feel it would have helped with both worldbuilding and character development (like why everyone, aside from her courtiers, dislikes Lore)
Lore was also, unfortunately, not a compelling character to me - and the way her story ends felt very odd.
The prose itself was beautiful in some places, but also left me annoyed in others, as it was very drawn out. A big part of this story was Orpheus lamenting and going through self discovery, which again, isn't inherently bad, I just think it was drawn out too much and repetitive in some areas, and was not supported well through the setting/world/rest of the plot, since I found most of that lacking.
Overall, an unfortunate miss for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 28, 2024
Some books land on your desk, but you let go, knowing you can't do justice to it, yet still fervently hope it finds a home and one day you'll see it published...
I cannot express my joy at seeing The Crack at the Heart of Everything being out here with a cover and a pub date! Just pre-ordered the ebook and a physical copy. Hoping to see some special editions crop up, because I'm sure as fuck getting those as well <3
I cannot express my joy at seeing The Crack at the Heart of Everything being out here with a cover and a pub date! Just pre-ordered the ebook and a physical copy. Hoping to see some special editions crop up, because I'm sure as fuck getting those as well <3
September 11, 2024
* this review is spoiler free, though i have added highlights at the end that may be potential spoilers.
if you want a queer mm fantasy set from the villain’s pov with a grumpy/sunshine, more so adversaries than enemies to lovers, dark wizard x golden retriever warrior romance, magic battles and quests, a dragon, and one hell of a villain redemption arc then look no further!!!!
𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙊𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙪𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙖𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙧��𝙤𝙧—𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙯𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙞𝙢, 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙙𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙪𝙣𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩.
this debut standalone fantasy has strong world building and a unique magic system. in the sole pov of the ‘villain’, we’re given interludes throughout with flashbacks that help further the main storyline. whilst it took me a little to get into it at the start—this was definitely a me thing and not due to the book—as i got further into the book i couldn’t put it down.
𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙙��𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 ����𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙙.
we have a strong cast of characters throughout that i LOVED. but of course orpheus and fenrir have my entire heart. though i loved the epilogue, i would’ve loved to see a snippet of the couple in the months or years succeeding the conclusion of the story.
again, this is a DEBUT fantasy standalone!!! it was so well built and well written; i’m definitely looking forward to what comes next from the author.
thank you to netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this. this rating and review are voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
further highlights:
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙚?” 𝙃𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙚𝙙. “𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚? 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙩, 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙪𝙥 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚—“ 𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙥, 𝙢𝙚𝙩 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧’𝙨 𝙚𝙮𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙚, 𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙛𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚. “—𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝��� ��𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜?”
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄’𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪,” 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙, 𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙚𝙩, 𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙢𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙨. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜, 𝙝𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙞𝙩? 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩—𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨 𝙨𝙤 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝. 𝙄𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙖 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠, 𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙙𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨.
“𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠,” 𝙊𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙪𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, “𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙙, 𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚…”
if you want a queer mm fantasy set from the villain’s pov with a grumpy/sunshine, more so adversaries than enemies to lovers, dark wizard x golden retriever warrior romance, magic battles and quests, a dragon, and one hell of a villain redemption arc then look no further!!!!
𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙊𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙪𝙨 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙖𝙧𝙗𝙤𝙪𝙧𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙪𝙣𝙠𝙣𝙤𝙬𝙣 𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙚𝙙 𝙞𝙣 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙖𝙢𝙞𝙡𝙞𝙖𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙧��𝙤𝙧—𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙯𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙤𝙧𝙧𝙞𝙗𝙡𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜𝙨 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙠𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙝𝙞𝙢, 𝙞𝙩 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙤𝙛 𝙙𝙮𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙪𝙣𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙘𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙨𝙩.
this debut standalone fantasy has strong world building and a unique magic system. in the sole pov of the ‘villain’, we’re given interludes throughout with flashbacks that help further the main storyline. whilst it took me a little to get into it at the start—this was definitely a me thing and not due to the book—as i got further into the book i couldn’t put it down.
𝙄 𝙬𝙤𝙪𝙡𝙙 𝙝𝙖𝙫𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙞𝙩𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙡𝙙 𝙚𝙣𝙙��𝙙 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙧 ����𝙜𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩’𝙨 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙞𝙢𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙙.
we have a strong cast of characters throughout that i LOVED. but of course orpheus and fenrir have my entire heart. though i loved the epilogue, i would’ve loved to see a snippet of the couple in the months or years succeeding the conclusion of the story.
again, this is a DEBUT fantasy standalone!!! it was so well built and well written; i’m definitely looking forward to what comes next from the author.
thank you to netgalley, the author and the publisher for the opportunity to read this. this rating and review are voluntary, and all opinions are my own.
further highlights:
“𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙚?” 𝙃𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙖𝙨𝙠𝙚𝙙. “𝙒𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙞𝙨 𝙣𝙤 𝙨𝙩𝙤𝙥𝙥𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙪𝙧𝙨𝙚? 𝙃𝙤𝙬 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜 𝙬𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙞𝙩 𝙩𝙖𝙠𝙚 𝙢𝙚 𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙘𝙝 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙥𝙤𝙞𝙣𝙩, 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙝𝙤𝙥𝙚𝙡𝙚𝙨𝙨𝙣𝙚𝙨𝙨 𝙘𝙖𝙩𝙘𝙝𝙚𝙨 𝙪𝙥 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙚—“ 𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙚𝙙 𝙪𝙥, 𝙢𝙚𝙩 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧’𝙨 𝙚𝙮𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙬𝙞𝙨𝙝𝙚𝙙 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙥𝙖𝙡𝙚, 𝙨𝙩𝙚𝙖𝙙𝙛𝙖𝙨𝙩 𝙢𝙤𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚. “—𝙄 𝙡𝙤𝙨𝙚 𝙩𝙝��� ��𝙞𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙤 𝙠𝙚𝙚𝙥 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩𝙞𝙣𝙜?”
“𝙏𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙄’𝙡𝙡 𝙛𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙮𝙤𝙪,” 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙧𝙚𝙙, 𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙡𝙮 𝙬𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙨𝙞𝙢𝙥𝙡𝙚.
“𝙔𝙤𝙪’𝙧𝙚 𝙛𝙞𝙣𝙚,” 𝙝𝙚 𝙨𝙖𝙮𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙦𝙪𝙞𝙚𝙩, 𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙩𝙤 𝙝𝙞𝙢𝙨𝙚𝙡𝙛 𝙡𝙞𝙠𝙚 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙗𝙧𝙖𝙞𝙣 𝙞𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙡 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙥𝙖𝙣𝙮 𝙝𝙚 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙨. 𝙄𝙩’𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙧𝙫𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜, 𝙝𝙖𝙨𝙣’𝙩 𝙞𝙩? 𝙇𝙤𝙧𝙚’𝙨 𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙 𝙗𝙪𝙩 𝙨𝙝𝙚’𝙨 𝙣𝙚𝙫𝙚𝙧 𝙗𝙚𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙗𝙚𝙨𝙩 𝙘𝙤𝙣𝙫𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙨𝙩—𝙞𝙩’𝙨 𝙥𝙖𝙧𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙨𝙤𝙣 𝙝𝙚 𝙡𝙤𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠𝙨 𝙨𝙤 𝙢𝙪𝙘𝙝. 𝙄𝙣𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙖 𝙗𝙤𝙤𝙠, 𝙝𝙚 𝙝𝙖𝙨 𝙝𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙧𝙚𝙙𝙨 𝙤𝙛 𝙛𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙣𝙙𝙨.
“𝙄 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙠,” 𝙊𝙧𝙥𝙝𝙚𝙪𝙨 𝙗𝙚𝙜𝙖𝙣 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙞𝙩 𝙗𝙚𝙘𝙖𝙢𝙚 𝙘𝙡𝙚𝙖𝙧 𝙁𝙚𝙣𝙧𝙞𝙧 𝙣𝙚𝙚𝙙𝙚𝙙 𝙝𝙞𝙢 𝙩𝙤 𝙨𝙖𝙮 𝙨𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, 𝙖𝙣𝙮𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙣𝙜, “𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙢𝙤𝙧𝙚 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙣 𝙥𝙚𝙧𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙘𝙩𝙞𝙫𝙚𝙨 𝙬𝙚 𝙝𝙚𝙡𝙙, 𝙞𝙨 𝙬𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙬𝙚 𝙙𝙤 𝙬𝙝𝙚𝙣 𝙩𝙝𝙚𝙮 𝙘𝙝𝙖𝙣𝙜𝙚…”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
August 21, 2024 Thank you to NetGalley and Tiny Fox Press for the eARC
Given the beautiful cover and exciting blurb, I couldn't wait to dig into this story, to be swept into a redemption arc set within a fantasy world. I am sad to say that I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected. Partly because I wasn't aware that the story is taking place in our world, set in post apocalyptic future. There is nothing wrong with, we still get some sort of magic and a land working with classical fantasy organisations. But I must admit it is not my cup of tea, such settings tend to break my immersion and my sense of discovery and wonder.
Regardless of my own taste, the worldbuilding is great, rather thorough and well thought! It manages to balance classic fantasy structure and feel, while also having that post apocalyptic side, set in our world but with magic and... well, destruction.
I also have to say I didn't really love Orpheus. Don't get me wrong, he is a great character, very lonely, following the person he thinks as his friend and working toward her goal, helping her. He is a bit naive and lost, which, again, isn't a problem but I wasn't expecting such a lost character, not that active in his "villainy", let's say. Since Orpheus didn't actively did wrong, unaware of his impact since he is sheltered, the redemption arc felt a bit lacking in stakes. Sure, Orpheus has to learn about the impact of his actions and his magic, needs to make some sort of peace with himself and to integrate that he has a value and worthy of love and care. But I don't know, I couldn't manage to get that involved in his journey. He is not a badly written character, simply not what I was expecting.
As for Fenrir, he is a little to good for me too. Once again, it's not that he didn't do anything wrong in his life, or that he doesn't struggle. But he such a nice guy, believes in Orpheus despite the constant rejections, works for his own idea of the greater good... I don't, it felt easy, in a way, lacking a bit of nuance and grit. That being said, he is a great partner for Orpheus, to guide and love him through this new era of his life, and their romance is cute, slowly building, with some challenges but quite smooth going.
This review might sound a bit negative, despite my effort to make it so. "The crack at the heart of everything" isn't a dull or bad story at all, it is, in fact, quite a good story, well written and well thought, and I am sure a lot of people will enjoy it! It was simply not to my taste.
Given the beautiful cover and exciting blurb, I couldn't wait to dig into this story, to be swept into a redemption arc set within a fantasy world. I am sad to say that I didn't enjoy it as much as I expected. Partly because I wasn't aware that the story is taking place in our world, set in post apocalyptic future. There is nothing wrong with, we still get some sort of magic and a land working with classical fantasy organisations. But I must admit it is not my cup of tea, such settings tend to break my immersion and my sense of discovery and wonder.
Regardless of my own taste, the worldbuilding is great, rather thorough and well thought! It manages to balance classic fantasy structure and feel, while also having that post apocalyptic side, set in our world but with magic and... well, destruction.
I also have to say I didn't really love Orpheus. Don't get me wrong, he is a great character, very lonely, following the person he thinks as his friend and working toward her goal, helping her. He is a bit naive and lost, which, again, isn't a problem but I wasn't expecting such a lost character, not that active in his "villainy", let's say. Since Orpheus didn't actively did wrong, unaware of his impact since he is sheltered, the redemption arc felt a bit lacking in stakes. Sure, Orpheus has to learn about the impact of his actions and his magic, needs to make some sort of peace with himself and to integrate that he has a value and worthy of love and care. But I don't know, I couldn't manage to get that involved in his journey. He is not a badly written character, simply not what I was expecting.
As for Fenrir, he is a little to good for me too. Once again, it's not that he didn't do anything wrong in his life, or that he doesn't struggle. But he such a nice guy, believes in Orpheus despite the constant rejections, works for his own idea of the greater good... I don't, it felt easy, in a way, lacking a bit of nuance and grit. That being said, he is a great partner for Orpheus, to guide and love him through this new era of his life, and their romance is cute, slowly building, with some challenges but quite smooth going.
This review might sound a bit negative, despite my effort to make it so. "The crack at the heart of everything" isn't a dull or bad story at all, it is, in fact, quite a good story, well written and well thought, and I am sure a lot of people will enjoy it! It was simply not to my taste.
September 13, 2024
4.5!
Thank you, Netgalley and Fiona Fenn for the copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review!
You can read my full review with more in-depth thoughts and mild spoilers on my blog! https://briannawritesthings.wordpress...
Initial thoughts:
I wasn’t quite sure what to think of this novel when I first began reading, but I have to say from the first line, I was intrigued by where this story was going. I did feel the start was a bit slow. Granted, there is a reason for this, but I remembered that this is primarily advertised as a character-driven story, thus removing all expectations for an out-of-this-world plot (although I was quite invested in what ended up being the plot of the story) I focused on the characters and truly enjoyed the journey.
Final thoughts:
I enjoyed this book. I found it fun to read and I was excited to keep reading it when I put it down. It’s not perfect by any means, but I do not regret my time at all. I thought the romance was nicely handled. For the non-spice readers, there is a sex scene that is written with a lot of grace and focuses more on feelings than explicit details. I thought that decision worked for the type of story this was. If you want a story that is focused solely on a character's journey, then this book is for you! I 100% recommend giving it a try!
Thank you again Netgalley and Fiona Fenn for this advanced copy!
Thank you, Netgalley and Fiona Fenn for the copy of this arc in exchange for my honest review!
You can read my full review with more in-depth thoughts and mild spoilers on my blog! https://briannawritesthings.wordpress...
Initial thoughts:
I wasn’t quite sure what to think of this novel when I first began reading, but I have to say from the first line, I was intrigued by where this story was going. I did feel the start was a bit slow. Granted, there is a reason for this, but I remembered that this is primarily advertised as a character-driven story, thus removing all expectations for an out-of-this-world plot (although I was quite invested in what ended up being the plot of the story) I focused on the characters and truly enjoyed the journey.
Final thoughts:
I enjoyed this book. I found it fun to read and I was excited to keep reading it when I put it down. It’s not perfect by any means, but I do not regret my time at all. I thought the romance was nicely handled. For the non-spice readers, there is a sex scene that is written with a lot of grace and focuses more on feelings than explicit details. I thought that decision worked for the type of story this was. If you want a story that is focused solely on a character's journey, then this book is for you! I 100% recommend giving it a try!
Thank you again Netgalley and Fiona Fenn for this advanced copy!
September 17, 2024
Provided by netgalley for a free and honest review.
I'm so sad about this but this didn't work for me. I requested this as soon as I saw it because the blurb sounded amazing. And it seems I'm in the minority, but I feel like this book didn't know what it wanted to be.
I think there were a lot of moments that felt very contrived. First of all, there didn't feel like there was a lot of depth. You have no real time to connect to the characters or their emotions before the initial catalyst of Orpheus being exiled from the palace. You're just dropped into it all with no explanation for anything. There's an attempt to make us understand the relationship between Lore and Orpheus through very boring flashbacks, but frankly, it didn't work. It just really pressed home the point of Lore bad! Without really adding anything to the story.
I actually liked the romance dynamic but again it just felt as if we'd missed a lot of development. We don't get to see these people interact before the plot. Orpheus believes they dislike each other but we don't get to see it! We don't get to see the banter! We just get to see Fenrir saving Orpheus in the same way over and over again.
Also I feel like this would have worked better if it had been just a straight up fantasy. The constant mention of 'the incident' which, honestly, just reminded me of the show LOST, with literally no explanation whatsoever...this is what I mean when I say it felt contrived. It was like trying to find a reason for the plot to exist.
I'm so sad about this but this didn't work for me. I requested this as soon as I saw it because the blurb sounded amazing. And it seems I'm in the minority, but I feel like this book didn't know what it wanted to be.
I think there were a lot of moments that felt very contrived. First of all, there didn't feel like there was a lot of depth. You have no real time to connect to the characters or their emotions before the initial catalyst of Orpheus being exiled from the palace. You're just dropped into it all with no explanation for anything. There's an attempt to make us understand the relationship between Lore and Orpheus through very boring flashbacks, but frankly, it didn't work. It just really pressed home the point of Lore bad! Without really adding anything to the story.
I actually liked the romance dynamic but again it just felt as if we'd missed a lot of development. We don't get to see these people interact before the plot. Orpheus believes they dislike each other but we don't get to see it! We don't get to see the banter! We just get to see Fenrir saving Orpheus in the same way over and over again.
Also I feel like this would have worked better if it had been just a straight up fantasy. The constant mention of 'the incident' which, honestly, just reminded me of the show LOST, with literally no explanation whatsoever...this is what I mean when I say it felt contrived. It was like trying to find a reason for the plot to exist.
August 23, 2024
recieved an eARC for an honest review
the way this book was written is such a breath of fresh air for fantasy books, the writing is funny and serious at the same time. the jokes are at the right moments and orpheus has insanely funny inner dialoge
the story follows orpheus who we quickly learn has a death curse but we dont really know why or how. we follow him on his journey to understand and reverse this curse all while trying to figure out his feelings
overall i would say this books audience is definitely ya and/or beginning fantasy readers. it reads easily without too complicated or long worldbuilding. its only 300ish pages which is perfect if you dont want to commit to a series of 5 books each with 600 pages. if this sounds like something for you i would definitely pick this up when it comes out on november 12th
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
the way this book was written is such a breath of fresh air for fantasy books, the writing is funny and serious at the same time. the jokes are at the right moments and orpheus has insanely funny inner dialoge
the story follows orpheus who we quickly learn has a death curse but we dont really know why or how. we follow him on his journey to understand and reverse this curse all while trying to figure out his feelings
overall i would say this books audience is definitely ya and/or beginning fantasy readers. it reads easily without too complicated or long worldbuilding. its only 300ish pages which is perfect if you dont want to commit to a series of 5 books each with 600 pages. if this sounds like something for you i would definitely pick this up when it comes out on november 12th
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
September 6, 2024
3.5 ☆
i was able to read the e-arc for this book in exchange for an honest review so here it is.
ngl, at first i was drawn into the book because of the amazing cover work, and after reading the blurb i was sold.
for the first half of the story, i just found it pleasant. not memorable in any way, but definitely enjoyable if a little slow.
the 75% mark was a turning point for me: the sudden added tension definitely made it intriguing and the cozy atmosphere suddenly got darker, solving most of the issues i had had with the book previously.
particularly:
1. TIMING: this has been by far the biggest issue for me. though starting in medias res is a narrative technique as old as time, you have to make sure that the reader does not feel like they have been randomly thrown in the middle of the action. i don’t think that was entirely successful here. the characters keep referring to past events and consolidated relationships as if you are supposed to already care about them and know what’s at stake without giving you a reason to care and be concerned until much later. this also kind of influenced how i perceived the relationship between orpheus and fenrir, because they clearly have history of sorts but you just were not there for it, thus making it hard to be invested from the get-go. you still don’t know them as characters and you definitely don’t know their bond. it felt like it was supposed to be an enemies-to-lovers kind of thing but the enemies part had been left out?
2. LORE: she was just not a compelling character? not even as a villain? not only is she unlikeable (which, by itself, would not be an issue at all), but she is also kinda rude to orpheus from the jump and he does not notice? and ofc i don’t mean the start of the book, i mean the chronological start of the story narrated in the interludes, which are supposed to give you some background and make you understand why he saw her as his best friend? and even when you get the whole context, you understand where everyone’s stance on her comes from EXCEPT for orpheus’ cause she was insufferable towards him as well ???? also, before the ending she only appears in the first handful of chapters (where i’m not even sure she speaks) and in the sporadic interludes so not often enough to make her threatening nor intriguing.
3. CONFUSING WORLDBUILDING: they have seatbelts, airplanes, and guns but fight armored, are unsure whether houses have hot water, and travel long distances by horse? and they use fahrenheit, which places the story distinctly in the US and, to be fair, massachusetts is specifically mentioned: that’s even more confusing given that any other location (apart from japan for some reason) has made-up fantastical-sounding names (like specific us states are a thing but other places are just called “the rim” yada yada, i feel like you should have one or the other). The magic system is also not clearly explained? Even more so considering the timing issues and the fact that everybody knows how everything works so there is no in-story reason for exposition. Usually it would be explained in some other way, but in this case it was just foregone completely, making it really confusing for the reader.
4. PROSE: this was only an issue at first tbh, i think the writing style improved as the book went on. some sentences were a little clunky and awkward but it did not hinder the reading experience much in the end. i think that it was a moderately successful attempt at creating an epic fantasy atmosphere, which possibly clashed with the worldbuling at times.
ofc having to go three quarters of the book ignoring structural issues is a bit of a gamble, but i think it paid off in the end. i really liked fenrir’s character, and orpheus was fine as well. not my favorite but i was still able to empathize with him most of the time. their dynamic was also pretty nice and cozy, though i must say even major events caused me very little emotional turmoil.
overall i think this book is worth reading, possibly as a palate cleanser? for a debut novel, it is definitely nice and leaves room for improvement.
i was able to read the e-arc for this book in exchange for an honest review so here it is.
ngl, at first i was drawn into the book because of the amazing cover work, and after reading the blurb i was sold.
for the first half of the story, i just found it pleasant. not memorable in any way, but definitely enjoyable if a little slow.
the 75% mark was a turning point for me: the sudden added tension definitely made it intriguing and the cozy atmosphere suddenly got darker, solving most of the issues i had had with the book previously.
particularly:
1. TIMING: this has been by far the biggest issue for me. though starting in medias res is a narrative technique as old as time, you have to make sure that the reader does not feel like they have been randomly thrown in the middle of the action. i don’t think that was entirely successful here. the characters keep referring to past events and consolidated relationships as if you are supposed to already care about them and know what’s at stake without giving you a reason to care and be concerned until much later. this also kind of influenced how i perceived the relationship between orpheus and fenrir, because they clearly have history of sorts but you just were not there for it, thus making it hard to be invested from the get-go. you still don’t know them as characters and you definitely don’t know their bond. it felt like it was supposed to be an enemies-to-lovers kind of thing but the enemies part had been left out?
2. LORE: she was just not a compelling character? not even as a villain? not only is she unlikeable (which, by itself, would not be an issue at all), but she is also kinda rude to orpheus from the jump and he does not notice? and ofc i don’t mean the start of the book, i mean the chronological start of the story narrated in the interludes, which are supposed to give you some background and make you understand why he saw her as his best friend? and even when you get the whole context, you understand where everyone’s stance on her comes from EXCEPT for orpheus’ cause she was insufferable towards him as well ???? also, before the ending she only appears in the first handful of chapters (where i’m not even sure she speaks) and in the sporadic interludes so not often enough to make her threatening nor intriguing.
3. CONFUSING WORLDBUILDING: they have seatbelts, airplanes, and guns but fight armored, are unsure whether houses have hot water, and travel long distances by horse? and they use fahrenheit, which places the story distinctly in the US and, to be fair, massachusetts is specifically mentioned: that’s even more confusing given that any other location (apart from japan for some reason) has made-up fantastical-sounding names (like specific us states are a thing but other places are just called “the rim” yada yada, i feel like you should have one or the other). The magic system is also not clearly explained? Even more so considering the timing issues and the fact that everybody knows how everything works so there is no in-story reason for exposition. Usually it would be explained in some other way, but in this case it was just foregone completely, making it really confusing for the reader.
4. PROSE: this was only an issue at first tbh, i think the writing style improved as the book went on. some sentences were a little clunky and awkward but it did not hinder the reading experience much in the end. i think that it was a moderately successful attempt at creating an epic fantasy atmosphere, which possibly clashed with the worldbuling at times.
ofc having to go three quarters of the book ignoring structural issues is a bit of a gamble, but i think it paid off in the end. i really liked fenrir’s character, and orpheus was fine as well. not my favorite but i was still able to empathize with him most of the time. their dynamic was also pretty nice and cozy, though i must say even major events caused me very little emotional turmoil.
overall i think this book is worth reading, possibly as a palate cleanser? for a debut novel, it is definitely nice and leaves room for improvement.
September 7, 2024
I picked up a digital ARC of this book based on the cover design, the title—and yes, the synopsis. Thank you to NetGalley and Tiny Fox Press for giving me the opportunity to check this out early. I truly enjoyed my time with The Crack at the Heart of Everything!
The publisher's blurb describes the book as "charmingly swoon-worthy" and perfect for fans of "character-driven stories, snarky humor, and well-earned redemption arcs." I wholeheartedly agree with every single point and thought that author Fiona Fenn managed a perfect balance between plot and character development. The plot, the stakes, and the ending are so satisfying (for all characters!!). Once it gets going (chapter V), the plot moves at a steady medium pace that allows for plenty of sweet character moments but never loses its sense of urgency. The ending is snappy, impactful, and wraps up multiple story threads very nicely.
While The Crack at the Heart of Everything is not billed as a "cozy" fantasy, I would argue that the road trip, animal companion, research, and community elements in the book certainly evoked that sense in me as a reader (if you are comfortable juggling some heavier emotional themes). Also: reading glasses! For reference: I have read Legends & Lattes and Bookshops & Bonedust (higher stakes than L&L, but I still never felt any true urgency) by Travis Baldree and recently also read The Honey Witch by Sydney J. Shields. I enjoyed all of these titles but wanted more from them. The Crack at the Heart of Everything delivers on everything I was missing in these other books—now, that might just mean that "cozy" isn't quite the right fit for me. Cozy or not, this book gets a very enthusiastic recommendation for me, and I will make it a priority to seek out any future works by Fiona Fenn!
I'm only deducting 1 star because I felt a little bit lost in the beginning in terms of the court, the course, and the world at large. I also struggled with the interludes initially (they are very brief!). That said, the worldbuilding actually became one of the most intriguing aspects of the book for me later on, and I'd love to find out more about the Incident, the people of the Rim, the rebuilding of the Stacks, and any other settlements that might still be spread across the map somewhere in the distance!
***
Bonus quotes:
The publisher's blurb describes the book as "charmingly swoon-worthy" and perfect for fans of "character-driven stories, snarky humor, and well-earned redemption arcs." I wholeheartedly agree with every single point and thought that author Fiona Fenn managed a perfect balance between plot and character development. The plot, the stakes, and the ending are so satisfying (for all characters!!). Once it gets going (chapter V), the plot moves at a steady medium pace that allows for plenty of sweet character moments but never loses its sense of urgency. The ending is snappy, impactful, and wraps up multiple story threads very nicely.
While The Crack at the Heart of Everything is not billed as a "cozy" fantasy, I would argue that the road trip, animal companion, research, and community elements in the book certainly evoked that sense in me as a reader (if you are comfortable juggling some heavier emotional themes). Also: reading glasses! For reference: I have read Legends & Lattes and Bookshops & Bonedust (higher stakes than L&L, but I still never felt any true urgency) by Travis Baldree and recently also read The Honey Witch by Sydney J. Shields. I enjoyed all of these titles but wanted more from them. The Crack at the Heart of Everything delivers on everything I was missing in these other books—now, that might just mean that "cozy" isn't quite the right fit for me. Cozy or not, this book gets a very enthusiastic recommendation for me, and I will make it a priority to seek out any future works by Fiona Fenn!
I'm only deducting 1 star because I felt a little bit lost in the beginning in terms of the court, the course, and the world at large. I also struggled with the interludes initially (they are very brief!). That said, the worldbuilding actually became one of the most intriguing aspects of the book for me later on, and I'd love to find out more about the Incident, the people of the Rim, the rebuilding of the Stacks, and any other settlements that might still be spread across the map somewhere in the distance!
***
Bonus quotes:
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