Author: Amal El-Mohtar
Publisher: Tor.com
Released: March 4, 2025
Received: Review Copy
Find it on Storygraph | More Fantasy
Book Summary:
The worlds become more nebulous when two realms touch. Right by the borders of the faerie realm is a small town, one that has found a unique way to thrive thanks to its proximity to this magical realm of grammar.
The Hawthorn family has meticulously taken care of the enchanted willows for generations, including the two youngest daughters, Esther and Ysabel. They love to sing to their trees, but they love each other so much more. Their love is enough to bend the forces of nature and magic.
My Review:
I knew that Amal El-Mohtar was going to deliver a beautiful fantasy tale here, but The River Has Roots far exceeded my expectations. This was a magical tale, and I’m not talking about the faerie magic.
To start with, any tale set near the borders of different realms automatically has my attention. That this one included magical trees (that need to be sung to!) and grammar-fueled worlds of magic just made it all the more compelling.
At the center of this story are two sisters, Esther and Ysabel. They couldn’t be more different, except for their shared passion: music. Split into two perspectives, the story explores how differently two sisters can feel about the land they cherish.
I’m not going to lie, I saw the horrible twist coming what felt like years before it happened. I don’t think Amal El-Mohtar was trying to hide it. However, everything that followed was a surprise, and I loved every minute of it.
I didn’t know this before I dove into The River Has Roots, but apparently, it’s based on a Scottish ballad, “The Two Sisters.” (The Gothic Librarian kindly pointed this out, so I can’t take credit for noticing it!). It would have been interesting to have some of this playing in the background while reading, which is why I wanted to include this detail.
Highlights:
- Faerie worlds
- Songs & Grammar
- Sisterly Loyalty
- F/F Romance
Trigger Warnings:
- Assault
- Drowning
Thanks to Tor.com and #NetGalley for making this book available for review. All opinions expressed are my own.
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