Status
Available
Call number
Genres
Collection
Publication
EgmontUSA (2010), 368 pages
Description
Fantasy. Historical Fiction. Young Adult Fiction. HTML: When Wayland North brings rain to a region that's been dry for over ten years, he's promised anything he'd like as a reward. He chooses the village elder's daughter, sixteen-year-old Sydelle Mirabel, who is a skilled weaver and has an unusual knack for repairing his magical cloaks. Though Sydelle has dreamt of escaping her home, she's hurt that her parents relinquish her so freely and finds herself awed and afraid of the slightly ragtag wizard who is unlike any of the men of magic in the tales she's heard. Still, she is drawn to this mysterious man who is fiercely protective of her and so reluctant to share his own past. The pair rushes toward the capital, intent to stop an imminent war, pursued by Reuel Dorwan (a dark wizard who has taken a keen interest in Sydelle) and plagued by unusually wild weather. But the sudden earthquakes and freak snowstorms may not be a coincidence. As Sydelle discovers North's dark secret and the reason for his interest in her and learns to master her own mysterious power, it becomes increasingly clear that the fate of the kingdom rests in her fingertips. She will either be a savior, weaving together the frayed bonds between Saldorra and Auster, or the disastrous force that destroys both kingdoms forever. From the Hardcover edition..… (more)
User reviews
LibraryThing member fionana
I had high hopes for this one--the cover blurb insists that it belongs alongside Kristin Cashore's Graceling and Tamora Pierce's Alanna books. But I found it to have more in common with Twilight than either of them.
Brightly Woven definitely reads like a first novel. Much of the action hasn't been
The biggest problem for me (which was not actually the biggest problem with the book) was the weaving. I'm a knitter, spinner, and occasional weaver, and I love when fiber arts feature in books. But you know what I love more? When authors DO THEIR RESEARCH. Sydelle carries her loom around for a good chunk of the book and makes cloaks which she just starts weaving of an evening. This is impossible. A loom of the size required to weave cloaks takes about 8 hours to warp before you can start weaving. It's also too big to sling over your back and carry all over the country. Most of Bracken's weaving terminology is inaccurate, too.
I'm not sure what you should read after Pierce, McKinley, and Cashore, but seriously, it's not this one.
Brightly Woven definitely reads like a first novel. Much of the action hasn't been
Show More
thought through--it's too convenient, poorly justified, or doesn't advance the plot. The "jinx" revelation was dropped like a 16 ton weight. I also thought it would have been, you know, cool if there was even one character in the book who wasn't white. (Bracken describes Sydelle's home as resembling the American Southwest--maaaaaybe Sydelle's village could have been Pueblo, Apache, or Navajo.) But mostly, I found North profoundly, irredeemably unpleasant. The message I really got out of his presence is that if you find an alcoholic who shouts at you, treats you like an idiot, and drags you around without you permission, you should totally stick with him! In fact, it's your responsibility to "fix" him!The biggest problem for me (which was not actually the biggest problem with the book) was the weaving. I'm a knitter, spinner, and occasional weaver, and I love when fiber arts feature in books. But you know what I love more? When authors DO THEIR RESEARCH. Sydelle carries her loom around for a good chunk of the book and makes cloaks which she just starts weaving of an evening. This is impossible. A loom of the size required to weave cloaks takes about 8 hours to warp before you can start weaving. It's also too big to sling over your back and carry all over the country. Most of Bracken's weaving terminology is inaccurate, too.
I'm not sure what you should read after Pierce, McKinley, and Cashore, but seriously, it's not this one.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Frazzletastic
This was one of the messiest fantasy novels I had read in... well, ever. The events are explained in such a confusing matter – I had to re-read a couple of them twice or three times to fully understand what transpired. I couldn’t even begin to fathom the whirlwind of jumbled words and thoughts
A lot of things in the book just didn’t make sense at all. It almost seemed like Bracken focused so much on making her major storylines flow and connect that she totally neglected the smaller, “insignificant” details. For example, North slipped out that a wizard poisoned the king. But Sydelle totally glazes over that fact. Instead, she asks about it 100 pages later. Another is when Sydelle cut her hair at the end. No one mentioned it, not even North. Her hair was a considerable length – there couldn’t have been no one to at least comment on it.
It was hard getting absorbed into Brightly Woven’s world. With fantasy, you have to have a knack with easing the reader into the world – I never got that with this novel. There was a lot of “transporting” – one moment they’re talking in the main room, the next they’re in Sydelle’s room, alone. Not enough was explained to us, and descriptions were almost non-existent.
The plot and pacing were okay, but I had figured out many of the plot twists before they were really revealed.
Sydelle, the main character, downright annoyed the living daylights out of me in the beginning. She was so obnoxious and whiny the entire first half of the book. I mean, come ON. She willingly went with North. She had the choice to go back. Actually, no I take back my first statement. She annoyed me all through the novel. She was just so dang stupid. She kept giving North attitude about him, when it was really her that was the problem. Half of the time, she’d get herself into situations where she refuses North’s help, but ends up needing it anyway because she fails. I despised her when she felt “betrayed” by North towards the end.
I really enjoyed North, though, although his character seemed off at times. He had no set personality until the end, really. I also loved Owain (and his ridiculous love for his horse, Vesta, haha). He made suffering through Sydelle’s whining bearable. The Queens character didn’t seem set, either. There was one moment when I was reading something the queen was saying and was like... “That so does not sound like the queen we met a chapter or two back...”
The romance was okay. I loved how it progressed, and there were a couple of times I found myself giggling. But it wasn’t something praise-worthy, though. Just so-so (I blame Sydelle).
I had really high hopes for this novel, being a fantasy lover through and through. It was just too jumbled and disjointed for me to really, truly love it. If it hadn’t been so messy, I might have liked it more. Overall, it was a good read, but definitely not stunning.
Show More
at the beginning of the novel, but if you can get past the disjointed writing at the beginning, there is promise at the end. But even at the end I had a lot of clueless moments, so that isn’t saying much.A lot of things in the book just didn’t make sense at all. It almost seemed like Bracken focused so much on making her major storylines flow and connect that she totally neglected the smaller, “insignificant” details. For example, North slipped out that a wizard poisoned the king. But Sydelle totally glazes over that fact. Instead, she asks about it 100 pages later. Another is when Sydelle cut her hair at the end. No one mentioned it, not even North. Her hair was a considerable length – there couldn’t have been no one to at least comment on it.
It was hard getting absorbed into Brightly Woven’s world. With fantasy, you have to have a knack with easing the reader into the world – I never got that with this novel. There was a lot of “transporting” – one moment they’re talking in the main room, the next they’re in Sydelle’s room, alone. Not enough was explained to us, and descriptions were almost non-existent.
The plot and pacing were okay, but I had figured out many of the plot twists before they were really revealed.
Sydelle, the main character, downright annoyed the living daylights out of me in the beginning. She was so obnoxious and whiny the entire first half of the book. I mean, come ON. She willingly went with North. She had the choice to go back. Actually, no I take back my first statement. She annoyed me all through the novel. She was just so dang stupid. She kept giving North attitude about him, when it was really her that was the problem. Half of the time, she’d get herself into situations where she refuses North’s help, but ends up needing it anyway because she fails. I despised her when she felt “betrayed” by North towards the end.
I really enjoyed North, though, although his character seemed off at times. He had no set personality until the end, really. I also loved Owain (and his ridiculous love for his horse, Vesta, haha). He made suffering through Sydelle’s whining bearable. The Queens character didn’t seem set, either. There was one moment when I was reading something the queen was saying and was like... “That so does not sound like the queen we met a chapter or two back...”
The romance was okay. I loved how it progressed, and there were a couple of times I found myself giggling. But it wasn’t something praise-worthy, though. Just so-so (I blame Sydelle).
I had really high hopes for this novel, being a fantasy lover through and through. It was just too jumbled and disjointed for me to really, truly love it. If it hadn’t been so messy, I might have liked it more. Overall, it was a good read, but definitely not stunning.
Show Less
LibraryThing member BookRatMisty
Brightly Woven was one of those books I found myself inexplicably excited about (there's a wizard named North?!), and as is the case with most books I get randomly excited about, it didn't quite stand up to the pressure. This isn't to say I didn't like it, because I did. Just that it suffered a
Things sometimes felt incomplete: too easy, too fast, in need of more defined transitions, etc. It needed a better sense of time, of the length of time, and the struggle and travel. It would have made everything seem more real and important. The romance, too, could have been more rounded, with more clearly defined transitions, rather than 'one day we're enemies (or pretending to be) and one day we're soulmates, no discussion needed'. [At the very least, without getting into spoiler territory, the idea of what Sydelle could do for North should have been addressed more, because that would raise some SERIOUS trust issues.]
And Sydelle, the main character, was a little petulant and youngish for my tastes. I sometimes wanted to smack her and say "There are more important things!" This wasn't helped by the fact that throughout the story there was this "Everybody Loves Sydelle" thing going on that had me like NOES. It's one of my absolute biggest pet peeves to take a girl who's always been "nobody" and then one day have EVERYONE IN THE WORLD seeming to be obsessed with her. So imagine my surprise when it actually ended up working for the story. There was actually a purpose and a basis for it, and I ended up giving in and saying, 'Well, okay. Yeah." (Because I'm eloquent and shit.)
But the fact is that I did like Sydelle, and I think she does grow throughout their adventure. And I did like the story, and felt that anything it was lacking in the way of development didn't really hurt it too much.
And, well...I liked North. Don't know that I should have, but I did.
It was really enjoyable for the most part, quick and engaging, and I enjoyed the world building quite a bit, despite any flaws. It had the added (unexpected) bonus of actually surprising me a few times. There were some revelations that I either wasn't expecting, or were more than I was expecting, which always makes me happy. I would love to dig in a bit more and explore Sydelle's reaction to one revelation in particular, and though I'm pretty sure this is a stand-alone, I can see room to build it into a series. And I'm sure with time and experience, any deficiencies (that I forever feel the need to mercilessly pick apart) in the writing will be smoothed over as the very young Alexandra Bracken grows into her story telling scope.
Show More
bit from build-up, which left me a little wanting. But I think most people, especially the younger crowd, would enjoy this, and probably wouldn't be bothered all that much by the little things I just can't let go in life.Things sometimes felt incomplete: too easy, too fast, in need of more defined transitions, etc. It needed a better sense of time, of the length of time, and the struggle and travel. It would have made everything seem more real and important. The romance, too, could have been more rounded, with more clearly defined transitions, rather than 'one day we're enemies (or pretending to be) and one day we're soulmates, no discussion needed'. [At the very least, without getting into spoiler territory, the idea of what Sydelle could do for North should have been addressed more, because that would raise some SERIOUS trust issues.]
And Sydelle, the main character, was a little petulant and youngish for my tastes. I sometimes wanted to smack her and say "There are more important things!" This wasn't helped by the fact that throughout the story there was this "Everybody Loves Sydelle" thing going on that had me like NOES. It's one of my absolute biggest pet peeves to take a girl who's always been "nobody" and then one day have EVERYONE IN THE WORLD seeming to be obsessed with her. So imagine my surprise when it actually ended up working for the story. There was actually a purpose and a basis for it, and I ended up giving in and saying, 'Well, okay. Yeah." (Because I'm eloquent and shit.)
But the fact is that I did like Sydelle, and I think she does grow throughout their adventure. And I did like the story, and felt that anything it was lacking in the way of development didn't really hurt it too much.
And, well...I liked North. Don't know that I should have, but I did.
It was really enjoyable for the most part, quick and engaging, and I enjoyed the world building quite a bit, despite any flaws. It had the added (unexpected) bonus of actually surprising me a few times. There were some revelations that I either wasn't expecting, or were more than I was expecting, which always makes me happy. I would love to dig in a bit more and explore Sydelle's reaction to one revelation in particular, and though I'm pretty sure this is a stand-alone, I can see room to build it into a series. And I'm sure with time and experience, any deficiencies (that I forever feel the need to mercilessly pick apart) in the writing will be smoothed over as the very young Alexandra Bracken grows into her story telling scope.
Show Less
LibraryThing member ericajsc
sually it takes me quite some time to really become involved in fantasy books. I’m always trying to figure out the lay of the land, literally and figuratively, which makes it difficult for me to become invested in the characters enough to get really drawn in to their story. However, it only took
Sydelle’s journey with Wayland North is relatively simple in its purpose, but of course there are difficulties along the way. Even though she’s dreamed about leaving home and finding her own way, Sydelle isn’t happy to be with North because leaving wasn’t on her own terms. Because of this she is a hostile attendant, fighting him at almost every turn. Not surprisingly, North’s secrets affect Sydelle, but she doesn’t quite see the full picture of how closely tied his fate is to her, which only causes more conflict between them, until they have to work through their differences in order to fight together toward a common goal.
It may be easy to read that and think that this is just another story where a girl falls in love with the dark and mysterious guy and her life is made complete because she’s finally found meaning in her life, i.e., loving said hot guy. But Sydelle isn’t a weak-willed, doe-eyed girl. She’s not afraid to tell North that he’s wrong or to challenge his views. I’ll admit that I would have liked to see her fight a little bit more, to show him up when he treats her like she’s a child because she believes the stories passed down about the origin of her land, but I’m glad that she doesn’t sit idly by and let him make all the decisions for her.
I think this works well as a standalone book, as I’m okay with where the story ends in this book. And I’m not someone who automatically wants a sequel if I like a book, so my next words are a little bit of a surprise for me: I think I want a sequel to this. I could be wrong, but it seemed like there was a lot that Bracken kept just beneath the surface in this book, deep questions about gender roles and faith that were bubbling up and occasionally broke through, only to dissipate before anything of significance developed. A few things were mentioned, views were questioned, but I wanted it to go deeper and really dig into those issues. I think a second book could do that, and I’d like to see where that could lead.
Show More
a few pages for me to feel comfortable in Sydelle’s world.Sydelle’s journey with Wayland North is relatively simple in its purpose, but of course there are difficulties along the way. Even though she’s dreamed about leaving home and finding her own way, Sydelle isn’t happy to be with North because leaving wasn’t on her own terms. Because of this she is a hostile attendant, fighting him at almost every turn. Not surprisingly, North’s secrets affect Sydelle, but she doesn’t quite see the full picture of how closely tied his fate is to her, which only causes more conflict between them, until they have to work through their differences in order to fight together toward a common goal.
It may be easy to read that and think that this is just another story where a girl falls in love with the dark and mysterious guy and her life is made complete because she’s finally found meaning in her life, i.e., loving said hot guy. But Sydelle isn’t a weak-willed, doe-eyed girl. She’s not afraid to tell North that he’s wrong or to challenge his views. I’ll admit that I would have liked to see her fight a little bit more, to show him up when he treats her like she’s a child because she believes the stories passed down about the origin of her land, but I’m glad that she doesn’t sit idly by and let him make all the decisions for her.
I think this works well as a standalone book, as I’m okay with where the story ends in this book. And I’m not someone who automatically wants a sequel if I like a book, so my next words are a little bit of a surprise for me: I think I want a sequel to this. I could be wrong, but it seemed like there was a lot that Bracken kept just beneath the surface in this book, deep questions about gender roles and faith that were bubbling up and occasionally broke through, only to dissipate before anything of significance developed. A few things were mentioned, views were questioned, but I wanted it to go deeper and really dig into those issues. I think a second book could do that, and I’d like to see where that could lead.
Show Less
LibraryThing member abackwardsstory
Fellow Bookworms, I'm pleased to inform you that I've found another book so amazing, you're going to have trouble putting it down. Brightly Woven is so lush and rich that it's almost surprising this is Alexandra Bracken's debut novel. Fans of Tamora Pierce and Kristin Cashore will soak this story
The novel grips you almost immediately. After being introduced to our main character, a girl named Sydelle who lives in the desert, the novel soon introduces North, a secretive wizard who takes Sydelle away from the only home she's ever known. At first, Sydelle feels nothing but anger toward North and wants to return to her disaster-ridden home. The two bicker throughout much of the story, ignoring the romantic tension steadily building between them.
We find out that there's something special about Sydelle. There's a reason that North chose her to accompany him on his journey to prevent a war in the kingdom. There's also something going on behind the scenes with North himself... The way Bracken layers the mystery is fresh and invigorating. It's fun to think about what may be going on and the answer fits perfectly within the novel.
My only real gripe with the novel is the fact that certain parts could have been fleshed out more. For example, Bracken has the same problem as Cashore when it comes to building romantic tension only to hover on the actual resolution for a brief blink-and-you-miss-it span of time.
All in all, I'm glad I picked up this book. I had accidentally stumbled across Bracken's blog a few months ago and discovered that she had published a book. I picked it up not expecting much one way or the other and wound up falling in love with all the fantasy and intrigue I found myself surrounded by. Definitely worth a read!
Show More
up. In fact, this is the first teen stand-alone to truly capture me in a way that no book has done since Cashore's debut novel Graceling was still out in hardback. It's also one of the best teen fantasy novels I've read. The novel grips you almost immediately. After being introduced to our main character, a girl named Sydelle who lives in the desert, the novel soon introduces North, a secretive wizard who takes Sydelle away from the only home she's ever known. At first, Sydelle feels nothing but anger toward North and wants to return to her disaster-ridden home. The two bicker throughout much of the story, ignoring the romantic tension steadily building between them.
We find out that there's something special about Sydelle. There's a reason that North chose her to accompany him on his journey to prevent a war in the kingdom. There's also something going on behind the scenes with North himself... The way Bracken layers the mystery is fresh and invigorating. It's fun to think about what may be going on and the answer fits perfectly within the novel.
My only real gripe with the novel is the fact that certain parts could have been fleshed out more. For example, Bracken has the same problem as Cashore when it comes to building romantic tension only to hover on the actual resolution for a brief blink-and-you-miss-it span of time.
All in all, I'm glad I picked up this book. I had accidentally stumbled across Bracken's blog a few months ago and discovered that she had published a book. I picked it up not expecting much one way or the other and wound up falling in love with all the fantasy and intrigue I found myself surrounded by. Definitely worth a read!
Show Less
LibraryThing member stephxsu
16-year-old Sydelle Mirabel’s secluded desert village in the mountains has not seen a drop of rain for ten years, until the day a young wizard enters the village. As his reward for bringing back the rain, the wizard, Wayland North, chooses Sydelle to accompany him on an important mission back to
At first, Sydelle has no idea why North chose her out of everything he could have, and his outlandish behavior constantly infuriates her. However, as they grow closer, Sydelle discovers more about North, magic, their country, and herself than she could ever imagine, and she must come to terms with the fact that she may hold the fate of their country in her own hands.
BRIGHTLY WOVEN is a rollicking good read that will appeal most to fans of Stephenie Meyer and Bree Despain’s straightforward writing styles. It provides hearty doses of adventure, magic, romance, and danger, and yet never fully comes together as it could’ve at a higher level.
Sydelle and North are an amusing pair to follow if you’re not too bothered by the generic flatness of their interactions. I like that Sydelle is not a weak girl: she’s more than willing to give the sometimes-irresponsible North what he deserves. Sydelle is hands down the strongest part of this novel, and I loved reading about her as she discovered what she is capable of.
However, I felt as if the other parts of the story did not connect as well as I would’ve liked it to. BRIGHTLY WOVEN is a mixture of so many fantastic things, but it was inadequately put together. I never felt any true fear of or anger towards the villainous wizard, Rueun Dorwan, nor was I able to fully invest myself in the outcome of the pre-war tensions. Sydelle and North were cute, but they didn’t make an indelible impression on me, and the supporting characters were sadly underdeveloped and one-dimensional.
As far as young adult fantasy goes, BRIGHTLY WOVEN shows itself to be the work of a young author. It’s no masterpiece, but all of its desirable elements will serve to recommend it to most readers, and most will be able to enjoy at least something about this book.
Show More
their country’s capital, a mission that can determine whether or not their country will go to war.At first, Sydelle has no idea why North chose her out of everything he could have, and his outlandish behavior constantly infuriates her. However, as they grow closer, Sydelle discovers more about North, magic, their country, and herself than she could ever imagine, and she must come to terms with the fact that she may hold the fate of their country in her own hands.
BRIGHTLY WOVEN is a rollicking good read that will appeal most to fans of Stephenie Meyer and Bree Despain’s straightforward writing styles. It provides hearty doses of adventure, magic, romance, and danger, and yet never fully comes together as it could’ve at a higher level.
Sydelle and North are an amusing pair to follow if you’re not too bothered by the generic flatness of their interactions. I like that Sydelle is not a weak girl: she’s more than willing to give the sometimes-irresponsible North what he deserves. Sydelle is hands down the strongest part of this novel, and I loved reading about her as she discovered what she is capable of.
However, I felt as if the other parts of the story did not connect as well as I would’ve liked it to. BRIGHTLY WOVEN is a mixture of so many fantastic things, but it was inadequately put together. I never felt any true fear of or anger towards the villainous wizard, Rueun Dorwan, nor was I able to fully invest myself in the outcome of the pre-war tensions. Sydelle and North were cute, but they didn’t make an indelible impression on me, and the supporting characters were sadly underdeveloped and one-dimensional.
As far as young adult fantasy goes, BRIGHTLY WOVEN shows itself to be the work of a young author. It’s no masterpiece, but all of its desirable elements will serve to recommend it to most readers, and most will be able to enjoy at least something about this book.
Show Less
LibraryThing member katiedoll
Every once and awhile, I read a book that completely takes over my mind. I think about it at night while I’m trying to sleep and I contemplate what’s going to happen next constantly as I go about my day. It basically manages to squeeze into every thought I have until I’m able to pick it back
The story has a wonderful balance of adventure, magic and self-discovery. I would’ve never imagined a young adult novel possible of holding all three with such addiction, but Alexandra has certainly done it.
The journey between the two main characters, Sydelle and North, was kept the main priority throughout the entire story. There was no floating away from the plot to sneak in bits of romance- the author managed to do that without straying. I also enjoyed the small yet cleverly created magical elements- such as the rover beetle, an insect that keeps track of somebody- that made the story so much more unique.
I was impressed with the characters as well. Instead of acting as a damsel in distress, Sydelle was a kick-ass heroin who was always thinking of ways to get back up after she was knocked down. North, though he doesn’t bathe enough, got some laughs and swoons out of me. I particularly enjoyed reading his intoxicated scenes. It was nice to have the occasionally humor with all the gasping and squealing I was doing.
Filled with beautifully written magic, battles, a stinky-yet-charming wizard and a well-plotted journey, Brightly Woven has officially managed to snag a spot on my all-time favorite list.
Show More
up again. Brightly Woven is a perfect example of said mind-control.The story has a wonderful balance of adventure, magic and self-discovery. I would’ve never imagined a young adult novel possible of holding all three with such addiction, but Alexandra has certainly done it.
The journey between the two main characters, Sydelle and North, was kept the main priority throughout the entire story. There was no floating away from the plot to sneak in bits of romance- the author managed to do that without straying. I also enjoyed the small yet cleverly created magical elements- such as the rover beetle, an insect that keeps track of somebody- that made the story so much more unique.
I was impressed with the characters as well. Instead of acting as a damsel in distress, Sydelle was a kick-ass heroin who was always thinking of ways to get back up after she was knocked down. North, though he doesn’t bathe enough, got some laughs and swoons out of me. I particularly enjoyed reading his intoxicated scenes. It was nice to have the occasionally humor with all the gasping and squealing I was doing.
Filled with beautifully written magic, battles, a stinky-yet-charming wizard and a well-plotted journey, Brightly Woven has officially managed to snag a spot on my all-time favorite list.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Manderiffic
When rain finally falls, in Alexandra Bracken's debut novel, Brightly Woven, sixteen year old Sydelle Mirabel finds herself sent away with the mysterious wizard, Wayland North. Thus begins a long and tiring journey both physically and mentally exhausting for Sydelle. They travel from city to city
Honestly I can say, that this is one of the best novels I have read so far this year. Alexandra Bracken has created an amazing and fascinating world in Brightly Woven. I love that she starts her readers out in a very small world and as Sydelle and North continue on their travels, their world grows and grows. Bracken skillfully introduces us to this world she's created and masterfully adds in characters and experiences along the way. She's taken a common concept of wizardry and fantasy and made it something completely new and exciting. Her ideas and concepts are refreshing and a nice break from the fluffy and predictable that I've been finding recently in this genre. I was fascinated by the depth and length that her setting possessed. She didn't just place her characters in one place and leave them there. They travel far and wide and ever place they go is new and exciting. She used the ideas of knights, villages, and kingdoms, but she made them something different and exhilarating. I completely without a doubt loved this novel and I sincerely hope that the story of Sydelle and North continues in the future. Alexandra Bracken has written a masterpiece that I expected from a writer on her fourth or fifth novel, not her first. She has amazing talent and is someone to I'll follow for years to come.
Originally posted in my blog Draw A Blank.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Egmont USA. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Show More
and meet person after person on their trip to save the kingdom. Sydelle soon learns that finding comfort in her weaving may mean something more to her as she realizes things are not what they seem with her traveling companion. What is Wayland North hiding and can Sydelle find it within herself to not only save him, but also the kingdom and people she loves? You definitely want to find out for yourself in Alexandra Bracken's new novel, Brightly Woven.Honestly I can say, that this is one of the best novels I have read so far this year. Alexandra Bracken has created an amazing and fascinating world in Brightly Woven. I love that she starts her readers out in a very small world and as Sydelle and North continue on their travels, their world grows and grows. Bracken skillfully introduces us to this world she's created and masterfully adds in characters and experiences along the way. She's taken a common concept of wizardry and fantasy and made it something completely new and exciting. Her ideas and concepts are refreshing and a nice break from the fluffy and predictable that I've been finding recently in this genre. I was fascinated by the depth and length that her setting possessed. She didn't just place her characters in one place and leave them there. They travel far and wide and ever place they go is new and exciting. She used the ideas of knights, villages, and kingdoms, but she made them something different and exhilarating. I completely without a doubt loved this novel and I sincerely hope that the story of Sydelle and North continues in the future. Alexandra Bracken has written a masterpiece that I expected from a writer on her fourth or fifth novel, not her first. She has amazing talent and is someone to I'll follow for years to come.
Originally posted in my blog Draw A Blank.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I received this book free from Egmont USA. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 : “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Show Less
LibraryThing member DarkFaerieTales
Quick & Dirty: A beautifully woven story with dangerous magic and deadly wizard duels.
Opening Sentence: The day the rains finally came was like any other, with blistering air coating the canyon in a heavy stillness.
The Review:
Brightly Woven is an entertaining and enchanting read. There’s no
Sydelle Mirabel is a gifted weaver living a simple life in her small village, Cliffton. Ravaged by a long drought, Cliffton struggles to survive. But there is far more at stake than Sydelle’s village. Political intrigue in the capital threatens to plunge the Kingdom of Palmarta into war with its neighbors. Events unfold that forces Sydelle to leave Cliffton accompanied by the rogue wizard, Wayland North. She’s furious with him for taking her away from her home and soon comes to realize that he isn’t what he seems.
I really enjoyed the understated love story that unfolds between Sydelle and North. Their relationship is given time to develop and as a result is very realistic. Sydelle grows throughout the book and will surprise readers with her bravery and willingness to sacrifice herself. She has a fiery spirit and speaks her mind. The somewhat irresponsible and arrogant North, is far more complex than he first appears. Despite her inexperience, Sydelle knows how to handle him. I loved North. I thought that his personal struggles were well developed and his history very complicated. He certainly lived up to my expectations with one exception – BATHING. I mean it’s imperative that a character actually takes a bath. That being said, with all of his quirkiness, secrecy, and the mystery of his past, he’s an honorable man. On a side note, I have a few minor issues with the villain in this story. He never really felt particularly evil. Selfish, unstable and annoying – absolutely. While the villain had a few tricks up his sleeve, I always had the feeling that he was more about playing games of cat and mouse than actually unleashing a torrent of hell. Sydelle’s and North’s antagonist is a little unworthy of such great heroes.
Overall, Brightly Woven is a great read, especially as it comes to us from a debut author. Ms. Bracken captures your attention from the start with this dangerous and adventurous story. The reader is introduced into a world that holds deadly magic, treachery, and wizard duels. Well developed characters, fantastic world building, action-packed fight scenes and political intrigue make for an exciting debut. You won’t want to miss this wonderfully written book.
Notable Scene:
There was something graceful about the way North pulled his cloaks up in wide, sweeping circles. If the pace of the fight picked up, he would have only a moment to grasp the colored fabric in this hand, or to wrench it up to shield his face. At first glance, it all seemed effortless.
FTC Advisory: Egmont USA provided me with an ARC of Brightly Woven. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review. In addition, I don’t receive affiliate fees for anything purchased via links from my site.
Opening Sentence: The day the rains finally came was like any other, with blistering air coating the canyon in a heavy stillness.
The Review:
Brightly Woven is an entertaining and enchanting read. There’s no
Show More
denying that Ms. Bracken is a talented writer. Her prose is simply beautiful. Ms. Bracken was successful in crafting a cast of deeply layered characters. These believable and dynamic characters breathe life into this wonderfully magical story. Ms. Bracken cleverly infuses a bit of humor, action, suspense, intrigue, and betrayal that will have readers racing to the finish.Sydelle Mirabel is a gifted weaver living a simple life in her small village, Cliffton. Ravaged by a long drought, Cliffton struggles to survive. But there is far more at stake than Sydelle’s village. Political intrigue in the capital threatens to plunge the Kingdom of Palmarta into war with its neighbors. Events unfold that forces Sydelle to leave Cliffton accompanied by the rogue wizard, Wayland North. She’s furious with him for taking her away from her home and soon comes to realize that he isn’t what he seems.
I really enjoyed the understated love story that unfolds between Sydelle and North. Their relationship is given time to develop and as a result is very realistic. Sydelle grows throughout the book and will surprise readers with her bravery and willingness to sacrifice herself. She has a fiery spirit and speaks her mind. The somewhat irresponsible and arrogant North, is far more complex than he first appears. Despite her inexperience, Sydelle knows how to handle him. I loved North. I thought that his personal struggles were well developed and his history very complicated. He certainly lived up to my expectations with one exception – BATHING. I mean it’s imperative that a character actually takes a bath. That being said, with all of his quirkiness, secrecy, and the mystery of his past, he’s an honorable man. On a side note, I have a few minor issues with the villain in this story. He never really felt particularly evil. Selfish, unstable and annoying – absolutely. While the villain had a few tricks up his sleeve, I always had the feeling that he was more about playing games of cat and mouse than actually unleashing a torrent of hell. Sydelle’s and North’s antagonist is a little unworthy of such great heroes.
Overall, Brightly Woven is a great read, especially as it comes to us from a debut author. Ms. Bracken captures your attention from the start with this dangerous and adventurous story. The reader is introduced into a world that holds deadly magic, treachery, and wizard duels. Well developed characters, fantastic world building, action-packed fight scenes and political intrigue make for an exciting debut. You won’t want to miss this wonderfully written book.
Notable Scene:
There was something graceful about the way North pulled his cloaks up in wide, sweeping circles. If the pace of the fight picked up, he would have only a moment to grasp the colored fabric in this hand, or to wrench it up to shield his face. At first glance, it all seemed effortless.
FTC Advisory: Egmont USA provided me with an ARC of Brightly Woven. No goody bags, sponsorships, “material connections,” or bribes were exchanged for my review. In addition, I don’t receive affiliate fees for anything purchased via links from my site.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Irisheyz77
Due to the amazing goodness of the folks over at EgmontUSA I was able to get an advance copy of Alexandra Bracken's Brightly Woven. This was one of the books on my must read list so you can imagine the happy dance I did when it came in the mail. You can also be sure that it wasn't long after
I wasn't able to pick up Brightly Woven again until bed time and then ended up staying up into the wee hours of the night because I couldn't put it down. There was just something about it that just kept me reading. I loved the world that Bracken has created. Without using a ton of descriptors that can weigh a story down she's created a rich and vibrant world that you can almost see out of the corner of your eye. I loved reading about Palmarta and am eager to learn more about it.
One thing that did grate a little was the ease in which certain events happened. Like in the beginning when North asked for Sydelle as his prize. There just seemed to be an utter lack of emotion on both sides and Sydelle accepted her fate with very little protest. Yes she had dreamed of leaving the village she lived in....but how likely is it for a girl to just say 'ok mom & dad you have traded me away and so I'll go with this strange man no problem.' And yes I know that Sydelle isn't a girl that I would run into on the street but it just didn't ring true to me. I also found Sydelle to be a bit too trusting and easy going. I think she should have asked more questions, been a bit more suspicious of those around her....to have been a bit more feisty. Overall though I did like her interactions with North and did believe in how their relationship developed as the story progressed.
Brightly Woven isn't a terribly complex story but it is one that sucks you in and that stays with you long after you turn the last page. Its the creation of a beautiful new world filled with magic and mystery and adventure. Brightly Woven is also a bit of a mystery and while the main plot is all tied up it does leave some lose threads dangling about. Just enough so that it leaves the reader wondering if there will be a sequel. To my knowledge nothing is currently planned but you can be sure that this reader has her fingers crossed that there will be one.
As originally posted on my blog Ticket to Anywhere
Show More
arrival that I was cracking this book open and diving into the story. Initially the story started off a bit slow and as I started it on a Sunday night I was able to put it down and go to sleep. So you can imagine my surprise when I found myself thinking about this story throughout the day and glancing longingly at my bag where my copy of the book was.I wasn't able to pick up Brightly Woven again until bed time and then ended up staying up into the wee hours of the night because I couldn't put it down. There was just something about it that just kept me reading. I loved the world that Bracken has created. Without using a ton of descriptors that can weigh a story down she's created a rich and vibrant world that you can almost see out of the corner of your eye. I loved reading about Palmarta and am eager to learn more about it.
One thing that did grate a little was the ease in which certain events happened. Like in the beginning when North asked for Sydelle as his prize. There just seemed to be an utter lack of emotion on both sides and Sydelle accepted her fate with very little protest. Yes she had dreamed of leaving the village she lived in....but how likely is it for a girl to just say 'ok mom & dad you have traded me away and so I'll go with this strange man no problem.' And yes I know that Sydelle isn't a girl that I would run into on the street but it just didn't ring true to me. I also found Sydelle to be a bit too trusting and easy going. I think she should have asked more questions, been a bit more suspicious of those around her....to have been a bit more feisty. Overall though I did like her interactions with North and did believe in how their relationship developed as the story progressed.
Brightly Woven isn't a terribly complex story but it is one that sucks you in and that stays with you long after you turn the last page. Its the creation of a beautiful new world filled with magic and mystery and adventure. Brightly Woven is also a bit of a mystery and while the main plot is all tied up it does leave some lose threads dangling about. Just enough so that it leaves the reader wondering if there will be a sequel. To my knowledge nothing is currently planned but you can be sure that this reader has her fingers crossed that there will be one.
As originally posted on my blog Ticket to Anywhere
Show Less
LibraryThing member kburgess1984
With a kingdom at stake, not to mention countless lives at risk, the pressure is without a doubt on for our main characters in Brightly Woven. Is that really too much responsibility for a talented weaver from a remote village and a mysterious wizard who could ask for anything, but only wants
As a debut YA novelist, Bracken amazed me with how easy she made it for me and I'm sure other readers to become immediately engrossed in the world she created in Brightly Woven. I felt like I was walking (and sometimes running) alongside Syd and North. Reality faded and was replaced by Bracken's world. Her visuals were captivating and her characters became very real, I had to constantly remind myself that this was in fact not reality in order to keep my anxiety to a minimum.
Sydelle is our heroine and although she carried the typical traits readers tend to desire in a female lead (strong, courageous, witty and independent), she was also at the same time very unique and refreshing in my opinion. She was constantly posing questions of those around her that I'm sure readers will find themselves seeking the answers to as well. When her ignorance for any given situation irritated her, readers will empathize with her because they will be sharing her feelings of frustration as well. She was beautiful, fiery and determined throughout the entire story. And her relationship with Wayland North had me turning page after page just to see how it progressed.
North has now become one of my favorite leading male characters of all time. This is not an easy category to obtain entry. Just like Syd, North possessed traits all readers love in a male lead (protective, mysterious, tall, dark and handsome lol) but at the same time was able to cut away from the normal pack of male leads thanks to Bracken's excellent descriptions and the ways she portrayed him throughout the novel. He was constantly struggling to do what had to be done, all the while leaving Syd and the readers wondering if he was trying to do what was right for the kingdom, for Syd or just for himself.
With non-stop action, breathtaking scenery, love triangles, mystery, a villain readers will want to strangle themselves and a story that will snatch readers from the comfort of reality and shoot them straight into a fantasy world unlike any other they've ever come across before, Bracken has created a fantastic piece of writing that readers will never want to put down.
I want more of Bracken's writing and more Brightly Woven please! Please please please let this become a series, or at the very LEAST a trilogy!
I gave Brightly Woven 5 shamrocks!
Show More
Sydelle? If you ask me, YEAH that is too much responsibility! But that's what Bracken put our main characters up against.As a debut YA novelist, Bracken amazed me with how easy she made it for me and I'm sure other readers to become immediately engrossed in the world she created in Brightly Woven. I felt like I was walking (and sometimes running) alongside Syd and North. Reality faded and was replaced by Bracken's world. Her visuals were captivating and her characters became very real, I had to constantly remind myself that this was in fact not reality in order to keep my anxiety to a minimum.
Sydelle is our heroine and although she carried the typical traits readers tend to desire in a female lead (strong, courageous, witty and independent), she was also at the same time very unique and refreshing in my opinion. She was constantly posing questions of those around her that I'm sure readers will find themselves seeking the answers to as well. When her ignorance for any given situation irritated her, readers will empathize with her because they will be sharing her feelings of frustration as well. She was beautiful, fiery and determined throughout the entire story. And her relationship with Wayland North had me turning page after page just to see how it progressed.
North has now become one of my favorite leading male characters of all time. This is not an easy category to obtain entry. Just like Syd, North possessed traits all readers love in a male lead (protective, mysterious, tall, dark and handsome lol) but at the same time was able to cut away from the normal pack of male leads thanks to Bracken's excellent descriptions and the ways she portrayed him throughout the novel. He was constantly struggling to do what had to be done, all the while leaving Syd and the readers wondering if he was trying to do what was right for the kingdom, for Syd or just for himself.
With non-stop action, breathtaking scenery, love triangles, mystery, a villain readers will want to strangle themselves and a story that will snatch readers from the comfort of reality and shoot them straight into a fantasy world unlike any other they've ever come across before, Bracken has created a fantastic piece of writing that readers will never want to put down.
I want more of Bracken's writing and more Brightly Woven please! Please please please let this become a series, or at the very LEAST a trilogy!
I gave Brightly Woven 5 shamrocks!
Show Less
LibraryThing member TiffanyAK
A nicely told story despite its weaknesses, it has its flaws but overall was a pretty good book. It especially picked up towards the end. Since it's such a fast read, it isn't a bad use of time, though if asked I probably wouldn't recommend it. There are too many far better titles out there. But,
Show More
still, it's decent enough that I did finish it and didn't consider it a waste of my time. Show Less
LibraryThing member C.Ibarra
Gratuitous fawning ahead! If that type of thing insults your senses you probably don’t want to read my review. You were warned ;)
This beautifully written book caused me to feel something that has only happened a few times during my reading adventures. As soon as I reached the last page I wanted
Brightly Woven is packed full of colorful characters, evil villains, and an amazing world for them to dwell in. Wayland North is a wizard, and the classic damaged hero. I spent half the time hating him, and the rest wanting to kiss him. Sydelle Mirabil, while naive, is also one of the most fearless female characters I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Neither were without faults at the beginning of the story. Even by the end they weren’t perfect, but both had changed for the better because of the trials they faced. The author handled the growth of both main characters so skillfully. It was gradual, seamless, and truly perfect. I was so engrossed in Sydelle and North's adventures, that I felt a pang of grief when I came to the final page. The ending has left me with the hope we may see a sequel. Ms. Bracken if you're listening, this reader would love more adventures with Sydelle and North.
This is a book that will satisfy even the most picky fantasy fan, and lovers of epic adventures. It is one of the rare books I know I'll want to read again and again. It now claims one of the coveted spots on my shelf of keepers.
This book does contain some violence, but otherwise I’d consider Brightly Woven family friendly.
This beautifully written book caused me to feel something that has only happened a few times during my reading adventures. As soon as I reached the last page I wanted
Show More
to flip to the beginning and start again. This book was that amazing! That is the number one symptom that I have fallen into book love ♥ Brightly Woven is packed full of colorful characters, evil villains, and an amazing world for them to dwell in. Wayland North is a wizard, and the classic damaged hero. I spent half the time hating him, and the rest wanting to kiss him. Sydelle Mirabil, while naive, is also one of the most fearless female characters I have ever had the pleasure of meeting. Neither were without faults at the beginning of the story. Even by the end they weren’t perfect, but both had changed for the better because of the trials they faced. The author handled the growth of both main characters so skillfully. It was gradual, seamless, and truly perfect. I was so engrossed in Sydelle and North's adventures, that I felt a pang of grief when I came to the final page. The ending has left me with the hope we may see a sequel. Ms. Bracken if you're listening, this reader would love more adventures with Sydelle and North.
This is a book that will satisfy even the most picky fantasy fan, and lovers of epic adventures. It is one of the rare books I know I'll want to read again and again. It now claims one of the coveted spots on my shelf of keepers.
This book does contain some violence, but otherwise I’d consider Brightly Woven family friendly.
Show Less
LibraryThing member BookSwarm
Final Grade: 94/A
354 pages
YA Fantasy
Available now
Review copy purchased
REVIEW: This is a beautifully-written book. With sparkling imagery, Alexandra Bracken creates a world filled with magic, danger, love, witches, and wizards. I'm absolutely amazed that Bracken is a first-time novelist; she has
Sydelle is an interesting character, so determined to escape her hum-drum life for the adventure of her realm's capital or, at least, some place better than where she is. When the wizard North shows up and offers to take her away from it all (after saving her town from drought), she leaps at the chance, never guessing North's ulterior motive. It's not just her talent at weaving North is interested in (No, it's not her as a girl, either. At least in the beginning.).
North is on a mission to stop a war and, as he and Sydelle race across the country, they battle a dark wizard from North's past, rogue magic and their feelings for one another. I love their interactions, though most of the time, I wanted to smack North over the head with a large stick and tell him to stop being such a jackwagon. Poor Sydelle, she's just trying to do her job as North's assistant, to look out for him, and he's just such a jerk. Plus, he doesn't tell her anything about anything so she has to try to figure it out for herself. But Sydelle doesn't take much of his crap and has no problem standing up for herself. She's no wimpy character.
The entire book is pretty fast-paced, but the end of the book is filled with so many twists and turns and surprises and action that my head was spinning by the time I read the last sentence. This is not to say that I wanted the story to be drawn out but it was a little overwhelming. Plus, I really wasn't expecting what happened, and I didn't figure out Sydelle's real secret until quite late (I knew something was off, that she was more something but I couldn't decide how she was more or what she was).
I'm looking forward to reading whatever magic Alexandra Bracken produces next! (I know she's writing and working hard but I couldn't find any word of an upcoming book in my Google search. Has anyone heard anything?)
354 pages
YA Fantasy
Available now
Review copy purchased
REVIEW: This is a beautifully-written book. With sparkling imagery, Alexandra Bracken creates a world filled with magic, danger, love, witches, and wizards. I'm absolutely amazed that Bracken is a first-time novelist; she has
Show More
such a way with words.Sydelle is an interesting character, so determined to escape her hum-drum life for the adventure of her realm's capital or, at least, some place better than where she is. When the wizard North shows up and offers to take her away from it all (after saving her town from drought), she leaps at the chance, never guessing North's ulterior motive. It's not just her talent at weaving North is interested in (No, it's not her as a girl, either. At least in the beginning.).
North is on a mission to stop a war and, as he and Sydelle race across the country, they battle a dark wizard from North's past, rogue magic and their feelings for one another. I love their interactions, though most of the time, I wanted to smack North over the head with a large stick and tell him to stop being such a jackwagon. Poor Sydelle, she's just trying to do her job as North's assistant, to look out for him, and he's just such a jerk. Plus, he doesn't tell her anything about anything so she has to try to figure it out for herself. But Sydelle doesn't take much of his crap and has no problem standing up for herself. She's no wimpy character.
The entire book is pretty fast-paced, but the end of the book is filled with so many twists and turns and surprises and action that my head was spinning by the time I read the last sentence. This is not to say that I wanted the story to be drawn out but it was a little overwhelming. Plus, I really wasn't expecting what happened, and I didn't figure out Sydelle's real secret until quite late (I knew something was off, that she was more something but I couldn't decide how she was more or what she was).
I'm looking forward to reading whatever magic Alexandra Bracken produces next! (I know she's writing and working hard but I couldn't find any word of an upcoming book in my Google search. Has anyone heard anything?)
Show Less
LibraryThing member readingdate
Brightly Woven is an enchanting fantasy YA novel. Sydelle is a girl living in a dry village with her life planned out for her. Suddenly the rains come and with them a magician named North. For his reward for delivering the rain, he only wants one thing: Sydelle. With North's motives unclear,
Show More
Sydelle reluctantly joins him on an adventure. North is working to try to stop the war between the kingdoms. Sydelle seems to have a little magic of her own. North is constantly battling other magicians that are drawn to Sydelle. Between the bickering and adventure, they begin to fall for each other.With a rich and entertaining cast of characters, Brightly Woven takes you on a ride of adventure and intrigue. Sydelle is a weaver and helps North by mending his cloaks, and learning to make the magical potions he needs. She is brave and spunky and likes to stay in the thick of the action. Recommended for those who enjoy YA fantasy, such as by Maria V. Snyder or Kristin Cashore. Looking forward to reading more by this author. Show Less
LibraryThing member emilove
My Thoughts:
I’ve been mulling over this review for weeks. It’s taken that long to compile my love for this story into a coherent review.
Brightly Woven starts quick, like a flash of lightning, and doesn’t let up till the end. I was constantly on the edge of my seat due to the suspense and
The characters, mainly Sydelle and North, really drive this story. Sydelle is as vibrant as the colors on her loom. She’s a strong heroine that doesn’t need a boy just to get by. North is dark and mysterious which makes him all the more swoon-worthy. The chemistry between Syd and North is so palpable, it is definitely it’s own magic. Both characters have strengths AND weaknesses. No one is perfect and that makes it easy to relate to the story, even though it’s high fantasy, set in a world so different from ours.
Alexandra’s writing is absolutely magical. By the first paragraph you are transported to a world where it feels like anything is possible. I feel like I’m repeating myself, but honestly I don’t know how else to describe this book and my love for it than with words like magical and vibrant. I cannot wait to read more from Alex. Brightly Woven is easily the most amazing book I’ve ever read.
The Verdict: Whenever I talk to others about this book, the first words out of my mouth are: “My favorite book of all time.”
I’ve been mulling over this review for weeks. It’s taken that long to compile my love for this story into a coherent review.
Brightly Woven starts quick, like a flash of lightning, and doesn’t let up till the end. I was constantly on the edge of my seat due to the suspense and
Show More
excitement throughout the story. How much did I love this book? Well, I read it in one night. I literally couldn’t put it down. I hit page 215 at 3 a.m. and started looking for a good place to put the book down. That sort of thing doesn’t exist in this book. There are so many twists and turns, there is absolutely no way to predict what will happen next. One minute I was laughing and the next I was getting teary-eyed.The characters, mainly Sydelle and North, really drive this story. Sydelle is as vibrant as the colors on her loom. She’s a strong heroine that doesn’t need a boy just to get by. North is dark and mysterious which makes him all the more swoon-worthy. The chemistry between Syd and North is so palpable, it is definitely it’s own magic. Both characters have strengths AND weaknesses. No one is perfect and that makes it easy to relate to the story, even though it’s high fantasy, set in a world so different from ours.
Alexandra’s writing is absolutely magical. By the first paragraph you are transported to a world where it feels like anything is possible. I feel like I’m repeating myself, but honestly I don’t know how else to describe this book and my love for it than with words like magical and vibrant. I cannot wait to read more from Alex. Brightly Woven is easily the most amazing book I’ve ever read.
The Verdict: Whenever I talk to others about this book, the first words out of my mouth are: “My favorite book of all time.”
Show Less
LibraryThing member booksandwine
To be honest, I wasn't very engaged with Brightly Woven at first. The story begins when this town on the outskirts of the kingdom receives it's first rainstorm after many years of drought. Turns out some bad stuff is about to happen. Our lovely heroine Sydelle finds herself caught in the middle of
The descriptions within Brightly Woven were great and really appealed to my fantasy sensibilities. For example, I could picture these cloaks Bracken described which this other character, Wayland North, used to conduct his magic. Speaking of magic, I loved the wizard system within this book. I am a sucker for wizards. Basically each wizard has a number rank, the lower a wizard's number, the more powerful the wizard. For magic they use talismans. There were duels peppered in here and there. There's an outcast group of wizards called hedge witches. I ate it up. The book varies from funny to serious seamlessly.
Wayland North, as I have mentioned above, is the male lead. He's sort of a DB* at first. However, I think we can all guess at why he is in there. For sexytime, of course. Anyways, there is a very slow chemistry between North and Sydelle, and I love that. I love that what is between them is gradual, it's not some weird inexplicable overnight attraction. There is tension, and you'll sit there and think "for the love of God just kiss already."
I think there's enough material with Brightly Woven, and enough left open -- although it has a clear resolution -- there's room for a sequel or companion novel. Bracken created interesting magic, and I wouldn't mind knowing more about weaving magic!
I also want to mention on the copy that I read, the back cover mentioned Robin McKinley -- I am firmly in the McKinley fan club. I want to say right now, I think this book will definitely appeal to Robin McKinley fans, especially because Sydelle kicks ass and is intelligent, much like McKinley's heroines. Also, similarly, the focus of the book wasn't the romance, but the conflict.
I am more than excited to see what Bracken will come out with next.
Show More
this maelstrom of events. I was eventually drawn completely into this novel, as I found Sydelle to be an enchanting character. The romance did not hurt either.The descriptions within Brightly Woven were great and really appealed to my fantasy sensibilities. For example, I could picture these cloaks Bracken described which this other character, Wayland North, used to conduct his magic. Speaking of magic, I loved the wizard system within this book. I am a sucker for wizards. Basically each wizard has a number rank, the lower a wizard's number, the more powerful the wizard. For magic they use talismans. There were duels peppered in here and there. There's an outcast group of wizards called hedge witches. I ate it up. The book varies from funny to serious seamlessly.
Wayland North, as I have mentioned above, is the male lead. He's sort of a DB* at first. However, I think we can all guess at why he is in there. For sexytime, of course. Anyways, there is a very slow chemistry between North and Sydelle, and I love that. I love that what is between them is gradual, it's not some weird inexplicable overnight attraction. There is tension, and you'll sit there and think "for the love of God just kiss already."
I think there's enough material with Brightly Woven, and enough left open -- although it has a clear resolution -- there's room for a sequel or companion novel. Bracken created interesting magic, and I wouldn't mind knowing more about weaving magic!
I also want to mention on the copy that I read, the back cover mentioned Robin McKinley -- I am firmly in the McKinley fan club. I want to say right now, I think this book will definitely appeal to Robin McKinley fans, especially because Sydelle kicks ass and is intelligent, much like McKinley's heroines. Also, similarly, the focus of the book wasn't the romance, but the conflict.
I am more than excited to see what Bracken will come out with next.
Show Less
LibraryThing member Jac8604
For a first novel from such a young author, Brightly Woven is a stellar debut. The world that Bracken built - with its elements of intrigue, religion and magic - was lovely. That said, it's not the best in YA fantasy. Although I was fascinated by the world that Bracken created, I was less than
Show More
enamored of the characters. I don't always need to love main characters, but I do need to connect with them in order to care about their journey and I wasn't able to do that as much as I would have liked here. I also thought that too many ideas and elements were introduced that weren't explored enough. Show Less
LibraryThing member ssalach21
Sometimes I don't like writing reviews for books I really like because I feel I can't do it justice. This is one of those time.
Brightly Woven an original, entertaining, action packed adventure that I didn't want to end. It is a spectacular piece of YA literature. The first half of the book was
I am not a spoilery reviewer so I won't go into detail about the book. I will mention that I loved the characters, even the bad ones. They were all very well written. I can also admit that North is now tied with Jace, from The Mortal Instruments Series, as my favorite male character. He is attractive, charming, caring, has a sense of humor, pretty much everything I love.
I'll leave this as it is. Just know that I LOVED this book. I want to read it again, right now. As soon as I finished it I brought it to my mom and said, "Here, you have to read this one next."
As far as the cover goes, I'm not its biggest fan. I will say that it is unique so it matches the book in that effect, but I also feel it doesn't do the book justice.
I recommend this to everyone. Go read it. Now.
Brightly Woven an original, entertaining, action packed adventure that I didn't want to end. It is a spectacular piece of YA literature. The first half of the book was
Show More
excellent and I enjoyed every bit of it. Around the half way point, the book got even better. The pace picked up(it wasn't slow before, just got a bit quicker) and my mind really started racing about all of the possibilities. Multiple times I found myself reading sentences and paragraphs ahead, and I had to slow down and go back so I didn't miss anything.I am not a spoilery reviewer so I won't go into detail about the book. I will mention that I loved the characters, even the bad ones. They were all very well written. I can also admit that North is now tied with Jace, from The Mortal Instruments Series, as my favorite male character. He is attractive, charming, caring, has a sense of humor, pretty much everything I love.
I'll leave this as it is. Just know that I LOVED this book. I want to read it again, right now. As soon as I finished it I brought it to my mom and said, "Here, you have to read this one next."
As far as the cover goes, I'm not its biggest fan. I will say that it is unique so it matches the book in that effect, but I also feel it doesn't do the book justice.
I recommend this to everyone. Go read it. Now.
Show Less
LibraryThing member gubry
I wasn't sure to expect from Brightly Woven from the reviews I've read. So, when I got the chance to read it, I didn't know what to expect. I didn't like it as much as I wanted to.
And particularly didn't enjoy the writing as much as I would like. Fantasy novels are much enjoyable, of course, when
I enjoyed the second half of the book MUCH more than the first half so that is. It's a reason why I gave it the rating that way.
The romance was okay. I liked North. There isn't a love triangle. Mainly because Sydelle already likes one certain person, but if the novel went differently- there would have been one. Even though the choice was obvious.
I'm not sure what I feel about Sydelle. I wasn't annoyed with her character(often occurs with me in some books), but I didn't love her either.
In the end, I think that Brightly Woven had much potential, but it however fell flat.
And particularly didn't enjoy the writing as much as I would like. Fantasy novels are much enjoyable, of course, when
Show More
the writing is good. The pacing of this novel was okay. Some times slow and other times fast. Didn't really bug me.I enjoyed the second half of the book MUCH more than the first half so that is. It's a reason why I gave it the rating that way.
The romance was okay. I liked North. There isn't a love triangle. Mainly because Sydelle already likes one certain person, but if the novel went differently- there would have been one. Even though the choice was obvious.
I'm not sure what I feel about Sydelle. I wasn't annoyed with her character(often occurs with me in some books), but I didn't love her either.
In the end, I think that Brightly Woven had much potential, but it however fell flat.
Show Less
LibraryThing member BookAddictDiary
Brightly Woven is a wonderful new YA fantasy from bright fiction newcomer Alexandra Bracken. I honestly didn't know what to expect when I picked it up -I knew that it was YA, but I admit that I was expecting something more attuned to romance or more in the vein of the popular YA paranormal genre.
Brightly Woven takes place in a vivid new world filled with rouge wizards, powerful magic and a mysterious land steeped in myth. Young Sydelle lives in the land's arid deserts, where she enjoys weaving. After ten years of drought, a strange wizard named North brings rain, but also whisks Sydelle away and enlists her as his apprentice. Sydelle finds that North is filled with secret intentions and that her own destiny is far more than she ever could have imagined.
Though seemingly cliche, Bracken injects the plot with a freshness that made it easy to float from page to page. Naturally, this was helped by the fact that she is an absolutely fabulous writer -the words just seem to flow easily across the page, the characters are drawn effortlessly and the mythology and plot are well-woven. I guess my only tiny criticism is the fact that it's a little slow getting to the action and revealing the secrets, but becomes explosive near the end, and feels a little too simple, almost like a short story.
Great for fans of Robin McKinley, Tamora Pierce or Kristin Cashore.
Show More
Thankfully, I was pleasantly surprised.Brightly Woven takes place in a vivid new world filled with rouge wizards, powerful magic and a mysterious land steeped in myth. Young Sydelle lives in the land's arid deserts, where she enjoys weaving. After ten years of drought, a strange wizard named North brings rain, but also whisks Sydelle away and enlists her as his apprentice. Sydelle finds that North is filled with secret intentions and that her own destiny is far more than she ever could have imagined.
Though seemingly cliche, Bracken injects the plot with a freshness that made it easy to float from page to page. Naturally, this was helped by the fact that she is an absolutely fabulous writer -the words just seem to flow easily across the page, the characters are drawn effortlessly and the mythology and plot are well-woven. I guess my only tiny criticism is the fact that it's a little slow getting to the action and revealing the secrets, but becomes explosive near the end, and feels a little too simple, almost like a short story.
Great for fans of Robin McKinley, Tamora Pierce or Kristin Cashore.
Show Less
LibraryThing member titania86
Sydelle is a young girl who lives in a mountain village that has had a drought for seven years straight. Life isn't the best there, but it's all she's ever known. When the king of Palmarta dies, suspicion is cast on a nearby kingdom and war is ignited. As enemy soldiers invade her village, a wizard
The first couple of chapters of Brightly Woven are a little slow and I expected to be very bored by the middle. I wasn't prepared for the wonderful and fast paced adventure that followed. The twist and turns of this story sometimes came out of nowhere and always kept me guessing. There is something for everyone in this book: adventure, curses, evil magicians, political intrigue, mystery, and a dash of romance. The real strength lies in the characters. Sydelle is no shrinking violet. She is smart, capable, and very confidant. Although she was travelling very reluctantly, much of the time she took charge because Wayland had no idea where he was going. I respected her so much more than a lot of YA heroines. She also has a vulnerable, naive side that made her truly believable and I think many readers can relate to her despite the book's setting and time period being so remote from our own. Wayland is also an interesting character. I didn't expect to like him at all because he entered the story while demanding ownership of Sydelle. I think it takes a great writer to make me like a character that has done something unforgivable like that. As much as I didn't want to, I did end up liking him. He has his own dark secret that he tries to wash away with alcohol or simply ignore despite it's definite permanence. Deep inside, he is a good person who really cares about Sydelle.
My only complaint about this novel is that the pacing of the ending was a little off and there was one particular aspect that seemed a little too convenient to be true. Other than that, Brightly Woven proved to be a very good young adult fantasy with a breathtakingly beautiful book cover. I would recommend this to people looking for a great fantastical adventure.
Show More
named Wayland North passes through and ends their 7 year drought. Her father, the village elder, offers him a gift in gratitude. He unexpectedly chooses Sydelle and they are forced to comply. Now, she has to guide him to the new ruler of Palmarta because he has information that the king was assassinated by a third party, a dangerous and evil wizard, trying to incite war on purpose. As much as Sydelle hates her situation, she knows she must help to save the many lives that the war would claim. However, Wayland is hiding a dark and devastating secret of his own. Can Sydelle work through her anger for the greater good? Will they avoid this dark wizard and the opposing army to deliver the lifesaving information?The first couple of chapters of Brightly Woven are a little slow and I expected to be very bored by the middle. I wasn't prepared for the wonderful and fast paced adventure that followed. The twist and turns of this story sometimes came out of nowhere and always kept me guessing. There is something for everyone in this book: adventure, curses, evil magicians, political intrigue, mystery, and a dash of romance. The real strength lies in the characters. Sydelle is no shrinking violet. She is smart, capable, and very confidant. Although she was travelling very reluctantly, much of the time she took charge because Wayland had no idea where he was going. I respected her so much more than a lot of YA heroines. She also has a vulnerable, naive side that made her truly believable and I think many readers can relate to her despite the book's setting and time period being so remote from our own. Wayland is also an interesting character. I didn't expect to like him at all because he entered the story while demanding ownership of Sydelle. I think it takes a great writer to make me like a character that has done something unforgivable like that. As much as I didn't want to, I did end up liking him. He has his own dark secret that he tries to wash away with alcohol or simply ignore despite it's definite permanence. Deep inside, he is a good person who really cares about Sydelle.
My only complaint about this novel is that the pacing of the ending was a little off and there was one particular aspect that seemed a little too convenient to be true. Other than that, Brightly Woven proved to be a very good young adult fantasy with a breathtakingly beautiful book cover. I would recommend this to people looking for a great fantastical adventure.
Show Less
LibraryThing member sithereandread
BRIGHTLY WOVEN, by Alexandra Bracken, was an epic fantasy tale that will weave its way into your heart from the first page. The new world that Bracken created was intricate and imaginative. And the characters that lived there were genuine especially in their magical abilities. Bracken definitely
I really loved this book. The story was unlike anything I have ever read and my imagination was stretched to this wonderful and dangerous world that Bracken illustrated. Her specific concept of magic in this world was unparalleled. Sydelle was extremely special and a joy to read. The way weaving took over her soul was breath-taking. And I liked how she was intelligent and always asked questions. Sometimes her independence turned into stubbornness, but she had the perfect amount of sass and finesse to keep me drawn into the story.
The relationship between Sydelle and North was dynamic. Forced together by magical circumstances, these two gained each other's trust and love gradually. Bracken put these two characters into dangerous situations which amplified their bond. They were both selfless and would do anything to protect the other. These two make a memorable pair.
The magic itself was its own character. I liked how there were many different types of magic that each wizard could perform. I liked the rules that were created for magic. It was very thoughtful that wizards had to be ranked, trained, etc. to perform magic. This created a interesting dynamic in creating the good versus evil in the story.
This book definitely stands out. The world that Bracken created was stunning and once of a kind. I hope there is a sequel in the future!
Show More
did her homework and made this world believable in every aspect.I really loved this book. The story was unlike anything I have ever read and my imagination was stretched to this wonderful and dangerous world that Bracken illustrated. Her specific concept of magic in this world was unparalleled. Sydelle was extremely special and a joy to read. The way weaving took over her soul was breath-taking. And I liked how she was intelligent and always asked questions. Sometimes her independence turned into stubbornness, but she had the perfect amount of sass and finesse to keep me drawn into the story.
The relationship between Sydelle and North was dynamic. Forced together by magical circumstances, these two gained each other's trust and love gradually. Bracken put these two characters into dangerous situations which amplified their bond. They were both selfless and would do anything to protect the other. These two make a memorable pair.
The magic itself was its own character. I liked how there were many different types of magic that each wizard could perform. I liked the rules that were created for magic. It was very thoughtful that wizards had to be ranked, trained, etc. to perform magic. This created a interesting dynamic in creating the good versus evil in the story.
This book definitely stands out. The world that Bracken created was stunning and once of a kind. I hope there is a sequel in the future!
Show Less
LibraryThing member bonbonsandreveries
Wow! This was one exciting adventure. Sydelle lives in a poor small village where there is currently a drought. It hasn't rained in 7 years. One day a wizard, North Wayland, comes and makes it rain. At his request Sydelle's father gives her to North for this service. Both begin their journey to
Sydelle is 16 yr. old weaver who has the ability to repair magical talismans. I really respected her strength and determination. She also has a habit of attracting the worst sort of trouble. However, North doesn't mind rescuing her and playing the part of hero. I just loved North. He reminded me of Howl from Howl's Moving Castle (the movie). On the outside he is strong, stubborn, very good looking, and optimistic. On the inside, he is cursed and tortured. Both North and Sydelle are very selfless characters. Their willingness to do anything to save their country, even sacrifice their lives, was touching.
Magic is a large part of this book. However, the relationship between Sydelle and North forces the reader to look beyond all the magic, war, and secrets and watch as two people see the good and importance in the other. Both characters have always felt insignificant and do their best to fight that feeling. That doesn't mean the feeling goes away. Their love and kindness for each other removes their insecurities making them all the more powerful and useful.
Behind this love story, there is a journey involving a war. The upcoming war is based on rumor, and therefore does not need to be fought, especially since it is a false rumor. Alexandra Bracken handles the issue of a reason-less war with care. The threat of many lives lost hangs over the characters giving them a very real consequence if they fail. It gave the story a sense of urgency.
Alexandra Bracken built a beautiful and very original world. The countries had their own religions, myths, legends, etc. She established guilds, abundant resources for the regions as income, and different terrains. It was all very engaging. I would love to jump back into the world, even though Bracken currently has no plans to write a sequel. I adored this book. The writing flowed easily and Bracken's word choice and phrasing made Sydelle's voice clear and relatable to the reader. Brightly Woven is an enthralling adventure that will leave you eager for more.
Show More
warn the queen about the upcoming war and who truly poisoned and killed the King. Clearly upset at being forced from her home, Sydelle tries to ignore him, but actually ends up yelling at him quite a lot. North ignores her yelling, especially when he's drunk. After several messy encounters with other wizards, Sydelle finds it difficult to be mad at him. Her hatred turns to compassion. Sydelle is 16 yr. old weaver who has the ability to repair magical talismans. I really respected her strength and determination. She also has a habit of attracting the worst sort of trouble. However, North doesn't mind rescuing her and playing the part of hero. I just loved North. He reminded me of Howl from Howl's Moving Castle (the movie). On the outside he is strong, stubborn, very good looking, and optimistic. On the inside, he is cursed and tortured. Both North and Sydelle are very selfless characters. Their willingness to do anything to save their country, even sacrifice their lives, was touching.
Magic is a large part of this book. However, the relationship between Sydelle and North forces the reader to look beyond all the magic, war, and secrets and watch as two people see the good and importance in the other. Both characters have always felt insignificant and do their best to fight that feeling. That doesn't mean the feeling goes away. Their love and kindness for each other removes their insecurities making them all the more powerful and useful.
Behind this love story, there is a journey involving a war. The upcoming war is based on rumor, and therefore does not need to be fought, especially since it is a false rumor. Alexandra Bracken handles the issue of a reason-less war with care. The threat of many lives lost hangs over the characters giving them a very real consequence if they fail. It gave the story a sense of urgency.
Alexandra Bracken built a beautiful and very original world. The countries had their own religions, myths, legends, etc. She established guilds, abundant resources for the regions as income, and different terrains. It was all very engaging. I would love to jump back into the world, even though Bracken currently has no plans to write a sequel. I adored this book. The writing flowed easily and Bracken's word choice and phrasing made Sydelle's voice clear and relatable to the reader. Brightly Woven is an enthralling adventure that will leave you eager for more.
Show Less
LibraryThing member rebecca191
Growing up in Cliffton, a small village plagued by a years-long drought that began when she was a small child, Sydelle always longed to leave and see the world out there. A talented weaver, she had hoped to someday travel to the city and make a living with her craft. And one day when she is
From the start, Sydelle deeply resents North. He took her from her home, for reasons she cannot fully understand, and she cannot stand his arrogance. And she soon begins to suspect that North has a terrible secret that he is hiding from her. Throughout the journey Sydelle grows closer to North, and discovers some startling truths about him, about her own mysterious powers, and about the role she must play in determining the fate of her kingdom.
Brightly Woven was just an *amazing* book. It is hard for me to put into words how much I loved everything about it. I loved the characters, they were so realistic and flawed and human, I loved the setting, the story, everything. The romance between Sydelle and North was so romantic and touching and believable, I loved how their relationship developed slowly and realistically rather than being love at first sight. If you love young adult fantasy, I highly recommend reading this book. I really hope there is a sequel - I would love to read more about these characters and their world.
Show More
sixteen, everything changes and Sydelle gets her chance to leave Cliffton - but not in the way in which she had hoped for. Wayland North, a young wizard, finally brings rain to the village, and is offered anything he asks for in return. He chooses Sydelle, because she has the ability to fix his magical cloaks, and so he needs her aid on a long journey to the capital city to warn of a neighboring country’s invasion.From the start, Sydelle deeply resents North. He took her from her home, for reasons she cannot fully understand, and she cannot stand his arrogance. And she soon begins to suspect that North has a terrible secret that he is hiding from her. Throughout the journey Sydelle grows closer to North, and discovers some startling truths about him, about her own mysterious powers, and about the role she must play in determining the fate of her kingdom.
Brightly Woven was just an *amazing* book. It is hard for me to put into words how much I loved everything about it. I loved the characters, they were so realistic and flawed and human, I loved the setting, the story, everything. The romance between Sydelle and North was so romantic and touching and believable, I loved how their relationship developed slowly and realistically rather than being love at first sight. If you love young adult fantasy, I highly recommend reading this book. I really hope there is a sequel - I would love to read more about these characters and their world.
Show Less
Language
Original language
English
Original publication date
2010-05-23
Physical description
368 p.; 5.99 inches
ISBN
9781606840382
Local notes
When Wayland North brings rain to a region that's been dry for more than 10 years, he's promised anything he'd like as a reward. He chooses the village elder's daughter, 16-year-old Sydelle Mirabel, a skilled weaver with an unusual knack for repairing his magical cloak.
Ex-library.
Ex-library.