Mystic and Rider

I absolutely love Sharon Shinn’s writing, both her luscious, sophisticated prose and the way she writes relationships between characters. She hits the perfect balance between well-planned, interesting plots, rich fantasy worlds, and the exact right amount of romantic subplot and character development.

This book—which follows a group of magic-wielding mystics and the reluctant, militaristic King’s Riders assigned to protect them as they travel the land, investigating a rise in anti-magic sentiment—is my favorite of her books, not least because it has some of the coziest found family dynamics and campfire friendships to be found outside of… show more.

I know! Another book with Rider in the title! But trust me, if you've been looking for something to scratch that Tortall itch, this will do it. The magic will feel familiar but not derivative, and the characters are just waiting to step off the page. Senneth's strength resonated with me. We've both been through a lot and had to find our own sense of belonging and purpose. If one of the reasons you love Tamora Pierce is her found family themes, you'll love this cast. This entire series is fantastic (I may even like some of the later books… show more.

Shinn is a master of crafting compelling, powerful female characters who battle the world around them while dealing with their own traumas. (Which I can relate to, all too well.) The magic system in this world is breathtaking, and the main character, Senneth, is one of my all-time favorite heroes. This book features her traveling with a band of misfits, one of whom she shares a romance with, and their relationship develops as they journey. Senneth’s bonds with the others in her group also deepen into a beautiful found family. Plus, there are lots of cozy campfire scenes! (The best… show more.