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Title: Swordheart
Author: T. Kingfisher
Source: DRC via NetGalley (Tor Publishing Group | Bramble) in exchange for an honest review
Publication Date: February 25, 2025
Synopsis: Goodreads
Purchase Link: Amazon

Other books by this author:
The Hollow Places
A House With Good Bones

Why did I choose to read this book?

The more stories by Kingfisher that I read, the more I am convinced that she is one of my favorite authors. Whether it’s horror or fantasy, it’s all gold. Anytime I see her name pop on NetGalley I’m gonna request it, and I need to put the books I haven’t read yet on my library holds list. Every single book grabs me by my eyes and heart and doesn’t let go until the last page has been turned. I love that.

What is this book about?

This book is about misfits and how, when they come together, they can move mountains as long as they stay true to themselves. A magical sword/man, an overly intelligent and well-endowed woman who has learned to act stupid to survive, a gnole, and a priest of the White Rat are gonna take you on a wild ride and you’re gonna like it!

What is notable about this story?

I have never, ever wanted two characters to touch each other romantically more than I wanted it in this book. Sarkis’ appreciation of Halla’s breasts alone was enough for me to be like GIRL HE’S READY TO APPRECIATE YOU LIKE YOU DESERVE PLEASE!!!! The yearning almost killed me. How is Kingfisher so good at anticipation? Like, don’t worry reader, if you just read a little further I promise you’ll get to see them…accidentally brush arms? But I’m gonna make you want it REALLY BADLY. And honestly? She’s right.

Consent is important! BOTH Sarkis and Halla hold their desires back because of a perceived obligation to the other: Sarkis believes that Halla might only be with him because she needs her inheritance back, Halla believe that Sarkis might only be with her because of his magical obligation to the sword’s wielder and not his actual feelings. This is the main reason they do not get together sooner, but it’s a pleasant and not-forced plot device. Their consideration for each other only deepens their feelings for the other.

This ending was very, VERY satisfying in every way it could be AND it left me wondering what was coming next at the same time. I love an ending that is both an ending and a beginning. Where is the next book please?

Was anything not so great?

This is not a critique of the author’s writing but more my own personal gripe – I feel like I had to wait too long to see Sarkis and Halla together. I don’t feel like I had long enough to bask in the glow and sunshine of their affection for each other. I wish that pivot had happened earlier in the book so I could have enjoyed it for longer.

What’s the verdict?

5 stars on Goodreads. This story is 100% pure gold and I will throw it at anyone who feels like they need something new to read. You like fantasy? BOOM read this. You like romance? BOOM read this. You like modern concepts of consent and obligation? BOOM read this. You like weird ladies who don’t meet conventional standards of the time but thrive anyway? BOOM read this.

Preorder this one. You can be sure that your money is well spent. If it’s after publication, buy it immediately, what are you waiting for?