Uprooted by Naomi Novik

Title: Uprooted

Release Date: May 19, 2015

Publisher: Del Rey

Pages: 435

Received: Bought

Star Rating: ★ ★ ★ ★ ☆

Agnieszka loves her valley home, her quiet village, the forests and the bright shining river. But the corrupted Wood stands on the border, full of malevolent power, and its shadow lies over her life. Her people rely on the cold, driven wizard known only as the Dragon to keep its powers at bay. But he demands a terrible price for his help: one young woman handed over to serve him for ten years, a fate almost as terrible as falling to the Wood. The next choosing is fast approaching, and Agnieszka is afraid. She knows— everyone knows—that the Dragon will take Kasia: beautiful, graceful, brave Kasia, all the things Agnieszka isn’t, and her dearest friend in the world. And there is no way to save her. But Agnieszka fears the wrong things. For when the Dragon comes, it is not Kasia he will choose.[goodreads]

My Thoughts

This was my first fantasy-esque novel in a loong time. I believe this is a good kick start to a fantasy high! The premise was captivating, just like the beginning chapters! The world building was long, but it was worth reading the characters walk through the world.

I went into Uprooted not knowing much, and I highly suggest it. The only things I would've liked to known was that Dragon, not a real dragon, but just a name. And the main character is Aneiszka. The writer develops the story in a detailed fashion to allow the reader to soak in the high staked world.


I was reminded of SO many other tales, while reading this one. Like for example Beauty and the Beast! More of the setting and landscape. And Shadow and Bone, for its dark, fantasy elements. But all in all, Uprooted was on its own stage. The blow in the beginning wasn't has hard hitting throughout the novel, but I still enjoyed it. There's so much potential not for this series, but for the world! I'm so excited to tell this tale. Enjoy.