Crewel by Gennifer Albin
Synopsis:
For generations, Spinsters have been called by Arras’s Manipulation Services to work the looms and determine what people eat, where they live, how many children they have, and even when they die. Gifted with the rare ability to weave time with matter, Adelice is exactly what the Guild is looking for, and in Arras, being chosen as a Spinster is everything a girl could want. It means privilege, eternal beauty, and being something other than a secretary. It also means the power to embroider the very fabric of life. But once you become a Spinster, there is no turning back. Now caught in a web of lies and intrigue, Adelice must decide who to trust: her kind mentor, Enora; the handsome and mysterious valet Jost; or the charismatic Guild ambassador Cormac Patton. They each have secrets, but Adelice is about to unravel the deadliest one of all, a sinister truth that could destroy reality as she knows it.
Review:
Albin has created an incredibly inspired and unique fantasy world. In this dystopian tale, readers learn along with Adelice about the true ruling structure and details about Arras. Adelice is a strong, sympathetic character who puts others safety and well-being before her own. But this quality isn’t a good one to have in the cut-throat ranks of the Guild. Adelice also begins to form relationships with the few men in her life. The lowly valet Jost is soon her ally and a romantic interest as well as the mysterious Erik, forming a bit of a love triangle.
The plot was intense and suspenseful and made for a highly enjoyable read. Crewel is a beautiful and charming story, both captivating and imaginative. With plenty of mystery, drama, suspense, and just a bit of romance – this is an impressive debut and the first in a promising new trilogy. Fans of vibrant dystopian novels will definitely want to pick up this latest release.