Book: Twisted Roots and Soil by Aj Charley
Reviewed by IvI
Rating: 5/5
"The path ahead is a web of secrets and lies, buried beneath a tangle of twisted roots and soil. I won't let fear be my guide, and I won't let comfort cover my eyes."
Do you know that feeling when you start a new book and you already know you don't want it to end? And that you'll be needing the sequel IMMEDIATELY? Because you can just TELL it's going to hurt ALL the way till the end? Well... this was one of those books! I'm so happy I got to read this ARC ✨
My gods! What a story — the forbidden love, the secrets, all that tension, that craving... and THAT ending! I absolutely loved it. And honestly, I don't even know who to trust anymore.
I think the worldbuilding and magic system were amazing, and the characters were so lovable and interesting. Especially the twins!
I really enjoyed reading about Aly's secret, her complicated relationship with her parents, and her inner struggles with her own body and self-worth. The mental health representation is so important in this book, and how it shows why we can have self-doubts because of what other people think or say about us.
And I loved, truly loved the dedication...
"For anyone who has ever felt like their body was the enemy.
You are brilliant, bright and beautiful.
Whether you see it, or not."
Tropes:
Slow-burn Forbidden Love
Sassy Self-doubt FMC
Arrogant "Perfect" MMC
Unique Magic System
All the Banter
Epic Quest
Secrets & Hidden Truths
Snarky Animal Companion
One Tent / One Bed
Mental Health Rep