Vez's Reviews > Earthflown

(Updated as of February 6th 2024)

I had the pleasure of reading the eARC of Frances Wren's debut novel, Earthflown. I've anticipated this release since 2021 and I am NOT disappointed.

At the novel's forefront, there's a delicious blend of romance, sci-fi, and fantasy. A casual inclusion of LGBTQIA+ identities with flawed, yet compassionate, relationships - that rarely venture into classic romance tropes - dominates the narrative.

Few multiple perspective novels have kept me as engaged as this one.

Wren doesn't force the reader to wait for ages until the perspectives join - they collide quickly and forcefully. Unreliable narrators keep you hemming and hawing at each turn of the story, with character flaws that are all in some way detestable. Despite occasionally wanting to shake some sense into each character, I didn't want to put the book down.

The magical realism of aptees (people with so-called aptitudes, akin to magic) and their connection to the world's use of eugenics is intriguing and disturbing. This novel brings a whole new meaning to the phrase "there's something in the water." Just what is going on with London's water supply and how is the Arden family connected to it all?

With extraordinary imagery, Wren expertly weaves a world wrought with classism, political intrigue, and unrest. Between tense situations and misunderstandings, there are moments of levity and gentle silly love. A beautiful mix of dark and light.

At the end of the novel we're left wondering:
What would you do for love?
and
How much of it is justified?