The Unspoken Name

Someone in one of my writing communities recommended The Unspoken Name by AK Larkwood, and I'm glad they did because it's an excellent example of rich fantasy worldbuilding and layered characters with complex inner and outer lives.Csorwe (rhymes with 'doorway' - the pronunciation guide at the front of the book was really helpful, though working out how to say all the place and character names in my head each time did get a bit wearing) is destined to be sacrificed to her god at the age of fourteen, but is offered a different type of service by the enigmatic Sethennai. So, off she goes, out into the wider world (which is traveled by what are essentially Stargates, and a life of violence and crime.The first part is perhaps a bit slow (lots of traveling and training) but it really gets going in Part 2, with an infusion of new characters, a quest for a macguffin, so excellent same-sex romance and a lot of intrigue, angst and excitement.

Started out pretty well and then just gave up on character building. She left and now she's proficient with weapons...those couple of years would have been a good story. And now let's just jump forward again...wish I hadn't bought the second book. Not even going to finish it.

What a book! Absolutely fantastic; if, like me, you've read most Science Fantasy books and so you're looking for something new, fresh and different, then this is it. A cracking story with great characters and very well written; I didn't want it to end! The best thing I've read in a long time. Martin Gallagher.

Felt a little rushed--the story gets right to the action before you really understand much about the world. A creation myth at the beginning would have helped to set the stage.Great characters, and great plot twists! The romance felt a little rushed, along with the whole book. I was looking for something a little more slow burn.

I will admit that it took me a little bit to get into this book. I am an avid fantasy reader and I found it difficult to get into the new world here. BUT I stuck it out and blew through the rest! It has everything I was looking for in a fantasy book. A unique world, action, romance, magic, mystery, character development, twists, surprises, and more! I won't give anything away but this is a must read! Already cannot wait for the next in this series.