Fate’s Bane by C.L. Clark

TL;DR: Haunting and beautiful, this one will linger with you.
Source: NetGalley , Thank you so much to the publisher!

Plot: A simple story of two girls from opposite clans falling in love, with consequences.
Characters: The characters were lovely, nothing ground breaking but well done.
Setting: A swampy, ancient vibe that really carried the story well.
Fantasy/Romance: I was actually shocked how much I liked the romance and the fantasy was a very light touch.

Summary:

Warring clans. Burning hearts. Deadly fate.

The clans of the fens enjoy a tenuous peace, and it is all thanks to Agnir, ward and hostage. For as long as she can remember she has lived among the enemy, learning their ways, growing strong alongside their children. When a burgeoning love for the chieftain’s daughter lures them both to a hidden spring, a magic awakens in them that could bind the clans under one banner at last–or destroy any hope of peace. By working their intentions into leather, they can weave misfortune for their enemies… just like the Fate’s Bane that haunts the legends of the clans.

Ambitions grow in their fathers’ hearts, grudges threaten a return to violence, and greedy enemies wait outside the borders, seeking a foothold to claim the fens for themselves. And though their Makings may save their families, the legend that gave them this power always exacts its price.

Thoughts:

Fate’s Bane is a simple story of two girls, from opposite clans who fall in love. One girl is the ward, held in a forced peace, the other the daughter of the clan leader who holds her. They meet while young and slowly grow together. Not only that but the discover a magic spring that could deeply impact their lives.

This story is very simple, I can’t think of one big twist or change in this that blew my mind. But it has haunted and lingered in my brain for awhile now. I loved the tone and the voice on it. It felt swampy, and dense, but the reading experience flowed so well and so quickly. The girls were believable and were well drawn. Everything in it, though it was simple in it’s construction was so well done I can’t complain about anything.

The only thing I can say is I wish I had more. I clearly needed to dive into C.L. Clark’s backlist but I hope, hope, hope she does more with this world and setting. It could stand on it’s own, but truly this was so beautiful I’d love to have many more like it.