Engaging Review of Roots & Rubble by Kalleigh Royn
There’s something magical about a story that can pull you in and keep you glued to the pages from start to finish. That’s exactly what happened to me when I dove into Roots & Rubble by Kalleigh Royn. From the very first chapter, I felt an irresistible pull to Nova’s world—a place where every life path is predetermined and rebellion is frowned upon. The premise itself was intriguing enough to catch my attention, but it was Nova’s adventures that truly captivated my heart.
At its core, Roots & Rubble is a story about breaking free from societal constraints and discovering one’s true self. Nova, a spirited young girl, decides enough is enough; she’s not going to let her future be dictated by any external force. Her journey is filled with twists and turns, and it’s not just a physical adventure—it’s a deeply emotional exploration of identity and freedom.
Let’s talk characters! I fell head over heels for Nova’s connection with Leon, the male main character. His affectionate nickname for her, "lamb," melted my heart, and the layers of their relationship were crafted with such finesse that I couldn’t help but root for them. The growth and depth between them felt organic and representative of real relationships—filled with ups and downs but anchored in understanding and care.
Then there’s Oron. Oh dear, where do I begin? Oron’s gentle demeanor and thoughtful disposition made him my second favorite character; he’s that quiet strength you didn’t know you needed. I love characters that possess this kind of calmness—it adds a layer of relatability and depth. As for Bradger, he’s warmly welcoming, embodying a kindness that makes it easy for both Nova and us as readers to feel at home in this new world. And Crux? Initially prickly, he surprised me with hidden depths that made him all the more intriguing.
Royn’s writing style was fluid and engaging, making it easy to fly through the pages. I found myself barely pausing to eat, which says a lot considering my usual snack breaks! Each chapter left me wanting more. The worldbuilding was nothing short of phenomenal, with a rich tapestry that kept evolving alongside Nova. I felt every twist and turn of the plot intensify, building up to a thrilling climax that challenged my emotional investment.
Now, let’s chat about that ending. It left me in a contemplative state, a little lost yet desperate for more. It’s an open ending that made me yearn for another installment, which speaks volumes about how invested I became in Nova and Leon’s world. I can’t help but hope the author plans a sequel—there are so many threads to unravel, particularly about Leon’s brother and even the quirky, lovable Humphrey!
In conclusion, I wholeheartedly believe that Roots & Rubble is a five-star read for anyone who enjoys thought-provoking fantasy with rich character development and smart worldbuilding. It’s perfect for those who love a little romance mixed into their adventures and appreciate characters who grow as deeply as the plot unfolds. Kalleigh Royn has gifted us a remarkable debut that I, for one, cannot get enough of. If you’re like me and you revel in stories that linger in your mind long after you close the book, be sure to grab this one. You won’t regret it!