The Story Peddler by Lindsay A. Franklin
YA Fantasy. 332 Pages. 5 Stars
Synopsis:
Selling stories is a deadly business
Tanwen doesn’t just tell stories—she weaves them into crystallized sculptures that sell for more than a few bits. But the only way to escape the control of her cruel mentor and claw her way from poverty is to set her sights on something grander: becoming Royal Storyteller to the king.
During her final story peddling tour, a tale of treason spills from her hands, threatening the king himself. Tanwen goes from peddler to prey as the king’s guard hunts her down . . . and they’re not known for their mercy. As Tanwen flees for her life, she unearths long-buried secrets and discovers she’s not the only outlaw in the empire. There’s a rebel group of weavers . . . and they’re after her too.
My Review:
This one’s been on the TBR for a while it feels like, but thanks to my bestie, I finally got to it! We buddy read it recently and I’m so glad we decided to prioritize it this year. I definitely want to read the next two books in the trilogy, especially after that ending!
I love the idea of oral storytelling that crystalizes from colored ribbons. It’s such a creative, unique idea–course, as a storyteller, I am mildly biased. This story had the classic fantasy adventure vibes to it. It’s just right if you’re in the mood for a kingdom adventure with the oppressive king, misfit rebels, and apprentice MC with something special in her that grows over the course of the story.
Tanwen dreamed of something beyond her small village, but her mysterious past and rather unusual education hint at something more. I loved the mystery of trying to learn more about where she came from and who she really was. I also appreciated that even though we got some answers (and a sweet surprise too!), there’s still some unanswered questions at the end of the story, promising development for the sequels.
Honestly, the whole cast of characters were a delightful band. The rebels felt like a crazy, colorful family and I adored the dynamics all through their parts. But we also got to peek into the court intrigue Tanwen so desperately wanted to be a part of, as well as a few things lurking in the dark corners of the castle and the kingdom. And of course, the charming boyhood friend who creates…complications, but whom we can’t help but love.
As if the variety of people and places wasn’t enough, that ending promises to adventure even further away. And with such cool worldbuilding in this first one, I can’t wait to see what more magical corners of this world we come to. In addition to the worldbuilding, the mystery and intrigue kept me turning pages in this one. I just know there’s so much more adventure in the next!
Content: no foul language, some light fantasy violence, and clean romance (Guys, I have my ship and I’m SOOO afraid it will sink!). Perfectly suitable for preteens.
More
Book 1 of the Weaver Trilogy is The Story Peddler (5 Stars)
Book 2 is The Story Raider
Book 3 is The Story Hunter
Check out details for the rest of the series on GR and stay tuned! Once I finish the trilogy, I’ll let you know my thoughts!