Book Beginnings: The Unspoken Name by AK Larkwood

For Book Beginnings, Rose City Reader invites us to share the first sentence (or so) of the book you are reading, along with your initial thoughts about the sentence, impressions of the book, or anything else the opener inspires.

For Friday 56, Freda's Voice asks you to turn to Page 56 in your book or 56% on your e-reader and pick a sentence.

I am currently reading The Unspoken Name by A.K. Larkwood (gifted copy).

In the deep wilds on the north, there is a Shrine cut into the mountainside. The forest covers these hills like a shroud. This is a quiet country, the the Shrine of the Unspoken One is quieter still. Birds and insects keep away from the place.

First thing first, I was sent a free review copy of The Unspoken Name by AK Larkwood. I requested it from the publisher then did a wee dance when it was accepted. Because I am excited to read this book. The past nine months I have been going through a massive fantasy kick and I love it.

It wasn't until I started writing this post that I actually looked at the finished cover. And isn't it gorgeous? I love all of the little details, yet how simply and striking it is at first glance.

These first lines are something, aren't they? I love that the atmosphere and mystery is already building. There is something so sinister and I am intrigued.

She had begun to feel so clever and knowledgeable lately, getting good at swordplay and conjugations, but she had managed to miss this completely. She buried her face in one of the couch cushions to hide her blush.

This is from page 56 in my review copy, so likely won't match up with ebooks and finished copies!

I like this bit. I like it when characters reveal their embarrassment, and start to look more at their own humility. It's a big bit of development for the character and I like how it's coming through.

I am very much enjoying The Unspoken Name and I'm excited to see where it goes. This is a looooong book so this is not far in at all.

What are you reading this week?