Book Review: The Witch Roads by Kate Elliott
When I first stumbled upon The Witch Roads, the latest enchanting offering from Kate Elliott, I was immediately intrigued. Perhaps it was the promise of deep world-building and complex characters that drew me in, or maybe the idea of a journey that defied expectations. Whatever the case, I knew I was in for a wild ride, and I wasn’t disappointed. Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy via NetGalley—I’m excited to share my thoughts!
Let’s be real: The Witch Roads isn’t without its minor quirks. There were moments when the prose felt a tad clunky, with awkward phrasing that momentarily interrupted the flow. A few sentences were longer than they needed to be, pulling away from the rhythm of the story. But here’s the kicker—it didn’t matter one bit. This book is irresistibly readable, and I found myself completely immersed, even when life outside was anything but serene. I devoured nearly 600 pages in just three days, all while juggling a house move and managing stressed-out pets. That’s the kind of grip Elen and her adventure had on me.
Elen is no cookie-cutter fantasy heroine; she’s practical, resourceful, and approaches life with a sense of appreciation rarely seen in fiction. Her calm and competent demeanor is the sort of presence you’d want by your side in a crisis. What I found particularly refreshing was Elen’s ability to embrace the good in life without necessarily longing for more, a quality that made her incredibly relatable. It’s as if Elliott crafted her to be a reassuring balm even amidst chaos, reflecting a kind of strength that is quietly empowering.
This book also thrives on complexity. Elliott weaves interconnected plotlines with masterful precision, dropping subtle hints and twists that kept me guessing. Just when you think you have Elen’s backstory figured out, Elliott pulls the rug from under you, leading to some jaw-dropping revelations that make the journey all the more worthwhile. Mario may describe this style as “playing chess with a master,” and it truly feels that way as you navigate the richly layered narrative.
The backdrop is just as vibrant as Elen herself. With echoes of ancient China, Elliott creates a world gripped by magical spores that transform the landscape and its inhabitants. The vivid imagery of griffin-riders and bureaucratic hierarchies creates a fascinating tapestry of life that concludes with a sense of history and intrigue. That level of detail pulled me into the world effortlessly, making me forget my own surroundings—admittedly a bit of a chaotic mess at the time.
Ultimately, The Witch Roads is a delightful testament to Kate Elliott’s love for storytelling, and it shows through every page. It captivated me in a moment when I least expected it, highlighting the power of a well-told tale to transport us away from our troubles. If you’re a fan of fantasy that combines rich world-building, dynamic characters, and unexpected plots, I wholeheartedly recommend this book. It’s set to be one of my standout reads of 2025, and trust me—you won’t want to miss it!
Discover more about The Witch Roads (The Witch Roads, #1) on GoodReads >>