A review by kaecho
Swordcrossed by Freya Marske

adventurous emotional lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

thank god for books where the protagonists aren't smarter than me but aren't completely brainless they do so much for me.

this would be considered a historical fantasy i guess?? there are swords and trading guilds but no magic so it's like okay cool good reminder that that kind of fantasy worldbuilding exists. that said i really enjoyed this and the dynamic between matti and luca as well as what i can only describe as the textile industry insider trading drama. there's a twist that's a little predictable if you have any sort of gaydar but even if you guess what it is early on, catching the vibe doesn't ruin the reading experience at all.

genuinely so glad this is a standalone, but if freya markse decides to write another book set in this universe i'll absolutely read it. also i need a map. im begging for a map.