Double Review- Tress of the Emerald Sea

Title: Tress of the Emerald Sea

Author: Brandon Sanderson

Page Count: 369

Series: Secret Projects/within Cosmere Universe

Publishing Date/Publisher: April 4, 2023/Gollancz

Format: Hardback

Review: 

This is easily in my top three books of all time. It was whimsical, delightful, and fun, and while the stakes for Tress were high, it was still a cozy fantasy. Hoid, the narrator, provided funny commentary while also dropping some profound wisdom throughout the story in a way that was surprising but welcomed.

The story is everything I could possibly want- pirates, sorcery, soulmates, and a very unique setting that I would love to live in, despite the dangers. I can’t get enough of this book and have read it three times in the past month (and am on another reread- it’s become a happy and safe place to escape to).

Reader: Kymberly

Rating: 5 stars

Review: 

Woooohooo back after a long hiatus (I had a baby!).

This was truly a delightful adventure. Fantasy books are rarely standalones, but this is a rare book that wraps up nicely without feeling too long or too short. Filled with quirky characters and infused with both humor and wisdom, this is a book that can appeal to nearly all ages. This is my first Sanderson book, so it was also my first foray into the Cosmere. Based on what I’ve read from other reviewers, there may be some characters, settings, or events of significance for fans of this author sprinkled throughout the story, but this did not hinder the reading experience for me in any way. The setting is particularly unusual and the oceans of spores felt more like characters than places. The spores are surprisingly integral to the storyline and drive the plot forward in unique and unexpected ways. I agree with Kym that although the characters are on a high stakes quest, the overall reading experience is very pleasant. I felt like I was learning and growing along with our well-intentioned and goodhearted heroine, Tress. Although I wouldn’t have minded a sequel, I am pleased with the way the story ended.

Reader: Bekah

Rating: 4 stars