Set in the same world as The Clocktaur War, "Swordheart" follows the story of Halla, a widow who unexpectedly inherits a magical sword that contains the spirit of a guardian. Forced into a predicament where she must choose between marrying her cousin or claim her inheritance, Halla embarks on a journey with Sarkis, the enchanted swordsman, leading to a series of shenanigans, banter, and unexpected romance. The book offers a blend of fantasy, romance, and humor, with quirky details and strong-willed characters navigating through a world filled with adventure and self-discovery.
The narrative unfolds as Halla and Sarkis encounter various challenges, including bandits, priests, and unexpected allies, all while trying to secure Halla's rightful inheritance and freedom. The story intricately weaves elements of magic, societal norms, and personal growth, presenting a delightful combination of fantasy and reality, where the protagonists surprise each other, support one another, and embark on a road trip filled with hope, humor, and a touch of horror.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
There are themes related to suicidal thoughts in the early parts of the story.
Has Romance?
The romance develops sweetly with slow burn elements and mutual respect.
From The Publisher:
Halla is a housekeeper who has suddenly inherited her great-uncle's estate... and, unfortunately, his relatives. Sarkis is an immortal swordsman trapped in a prison of enchanted steel. When Halla draws the sword that imprisons him, Sarkis finds himself attempting to defend his new wielder against everything from bandits and roving inquisitors to her own in-laws... and the sword itself may prove to be the greatest threat of all.
Ratings (68)
Incredible (16) | |
Loved It (20) | |
Liked It (20) | |
It Was OK (6) | |
Did Not Like (5) | |
Hated It (1) |
Reader Stats (249):
Read It (65) | |
Currently Reading (5) | |
Want To Read (138) | |
Did Not Finish (7) | |
Not Interested (34) |
5 comment(s)
Love an older heroine!
5 ⭐️ I loved this book, but could improve some things.
What kept me going was the humor and the personality of the characters, the love story had some issues for me but I liked the idea of a housewife going into an adventure. The world is also easier to get into if you are new into fantasy. In the end I gave it a 5-stars because it kept me entertained.
This was an endearing action/romance novel! Kingfisher crafted really loveable characters where they each have their own brand of humour. I like that the characters were not teenager but adults who were established in their field in the way they can be (general, housekeeper, divine lawyer, and job-gnole).
The book always keeps moving, even if that moving is always back and forth between Silas' house and Abercrome ahaha. I like the different obstacles they meet along the way like the Hills, but also the intrigue surrounding Sarkais' life as a sword spirit. I would love to read a sequel where he finds his generals.
This was a really solid hero's journey sort of plot. I liked the romance in moderation but it always felt to floosy when it's the main focus. I'm still not sure why Halla thought the inscription on the sword was such a deal breaker beyond plot device reasons. It might have been a punishment but it was already 500 years worth of punishment. Will all the catastrophizing Sarkais was doing, I thought the inscription would be a lot worse.
Swordheart was my first taste of T. Kingfisher's writing, and I couldn't be happier! I've found a new author, with multiple published works, who creates characters that I enjoy and seems to be skilled in every aspect of book writing—what more could I ask for as a bookworm?!
One thing that pleased me to no end in this book was the dual POV. It can be a blessing or a curse depending on the characters the author has created, so, luckily for me, Halla and Sarkis were both incredibly engaging and unique. Each switch in POV added to the impression I had of the characters. Through their thoughts and actions and how they view the opinions and actions of those around them, we understood the attraction and relationship between them much quicker than we might've if it had been one-sided in viewpoint.
The humor was delightful—the perfect blend of realistic and absurd—and while I didn't laugh out loud (I rarely do for books anymore), it added a levity that is absent from a majority of the books I read. Simply put, this was a fun, adventurous romp filled with intriguing characters that engaged me from start to finish.
It's a cute and simple fantasy romance
Kind of irritating how much time felt like it was being dedicated to setting up an extended universe.
What can you read after
Swordheart?
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