A review by leandrathetbrzero
The Severed Thread by Leslie Vedder

adventurous funny mysterious tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

 I am OBSESSED with this YA Fantasy series!

Publication Date: February 7, 2023

↓ Read this if you liked these! ↓

  1. Leslie Vedder’s The Bone Spindle (book #1)
  2. Reclaim the Stars edited by Zoraida Córdova
  3. Erin A. Craig’s Small Favors

Treasure-hunting duo Fi and Shane continue their mission of defeating the Spindle Witch and awakening the sleeping kingdom of Andar. In this gender-flipped Sleeping Beauty retelling, alliances are tested, buried secrets rise to the surface, and some nightmares threaten to become a reality. Be sure to DEVOUR book 1, The Bone Spindle, before diving into this brilliant second installment!

As a reader who tends to treat most firsts in a series as standalones, let’s appreciate the fact that I have been (im)patiently waiting for this sequel since last February! It was so satisfying to sink back into this magical kingdom of curses and guarded treasures. The storyline immediately picks up where The Bone Spindle left off, and dangerous foes are lurking around every corner. This series is perfect for those who love epic adventures, Fairytale retellings, and themes of found friendship and family. 

Beyond the gripping storyline and numerous intricately-woven fairytale elements, my favorite features within this book (and the series, in general) includes the LGBT+ representation–particularly the enemies-to-lovers romance plot between Shane and Red– and the great group dynamic among the growing cast of main characters. It is filled with sharp dialogue exchanges and an impressive variety of personalities. 

My favorite character in the series has not changed, and no other character can compete in my opinion. I adore the axe-wielding huntsman Shane with all of my heart. She has such a pure heart and an unyielding determination to do what is right. More so, she is ridiculously loyal to those she cares about. If I were ever in trouble or need of a friend, I would be looking for the Shane in my life. There is one scene in particular between her and her partner, Fi, that I wouldn’t have wanted written in any other way. Not only is she a bad ass, but she is a great friend to boot.

Hey, Leslie Vedder, when can we be expecting the next installment??