Review by Booklist Review
Vylari, an idyllic place with no war nor knowledge of hate, is protected by a magical barrier that keeps outsiders out and helps to preserve the Vylarian way of life. Mariyah and Lem grew up in Vylari, fell in love, and are engaged to be married when the story starts. Lem is a gifted musician, whose skill has made him extremely popular; but he is not what he seems. A stranger from across the barrier appears with a message for Lem: an evil person is coming to get him and will destroy his home in the process. This person will be drawn to Lem, so Lem quickly decides that the best way to save his country and the people he loves is to cross the barrier. He does not think that anyone will follow him, but he underestimates his fiancé. This meandering fantasy tale with magic, music, and a looming evil starts a new series that fans of Patrick Rothfuss' The Name of the Wind (2007) will enjoy.--Emily Whitmore Copyright 2019 Booklist
From Booklist, Copyright (c) American Library Association. Used with permission.
Review by Publisher's Weekly Review
Anderson (The Vale) opens The Sorcerer's Song epic fantasy series with an ambitious, enjoyable tale. A dark prophecy announcing the return of an ancient evil spurs Mariyah, the daughter of a winemaking family, and her betrothed, Lem, a handsome, gifted young musician, to leave their magically protected home of Vylari and embark on a dangerous quest to protect their world. Though they are separated, both succeed in reaching Lamoria, a land riven by fundamentalist religious sects. There, Lem trains as a professional assassin while Mariyah learns magic in the employ of the powerful Lady Camdon. Surprising twists keep Anderson's dual plot structure from becoming formulaic, but the central struggles between good and evil magic and trust in others vs. self-reliance occasionally feel stale and heavy-handed. Anderson's leisurely pace and careful worldbuilding leave plenty to be explored in further installments. This solid first foray into the land of Lamoria offers enough intrigue to entice readers back. Agent: Laurie McLean, Fuse Literary (Jan.)
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Review by Library Journal Review
Mariyah, a famous winemaker, and Lem, a gifted musician, are betrothed, and live happily in Vylari, a land magically severed from the outside world. But when a stranger enters for the first time in centuries, a dark prophecy separates them and exiles them in foreign lands, where they must navigate among strange people, bewildering customs, and dangerous political/religious conflicts to learn magic and fight the evil Balkar. This lengthy tale is filled with twists and turns, likable characters, and rich worldbuilding. Natural pacing provides an equal mix of colorful descriptions, character development, and exciting action scenes. VERDICT Anderson's ("Godling Chronicles") first foray into traditional publishing is an engaging journey recommended for all readers of fantasy, both YA and adult.--Susan Echols, Troy Univ. Lib., Troy, AL
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