The River Has Roots

The River Has Roots
By Amal El-Mohtar
Tor, 2025. 133 pages. Fantasy.

In the small town of Thistleford, on the edge of Faerie, the mysterious Hawthorn family tends the willow trees there. For as long as anyone can remember, the Hawthorns have paid tribute to the willow trees, honouring an ancient compact to sing to them in thanks for their magic. None, though, have taken up this calling more devotedly than the family's latest daughters, Esther and Ysabel, who cherish each other as much as they cherish the trees. But when Esther rejects a forceful suitor in favour of a lover from the land of Faerie, not only the sisters' bond but also their lives will be at risk.

A short novel with all strengths of an epic fantasy, this book reflected parts of my soul that I had forgotten about.  If you are a literature nerd or just a fan of words and books in general, you will be enchanted by the magic system. The writing is beautifully lyrical and it's almost as if the story becomes one of the things it tells you about. . .which makes little sense but is the best way I can describe it without spoilers.  If you enjoy fairytale retellings, riddles, or word magic, then I think you will find this book delightful. 

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KJ