Torn

By: Rowenna Miller

Narrated by: Moira Quirk

A seamstress who stitches magic into clothing finds herself torn between loyalty to her brother and her secret love for a nobleman in this debut fantasy inspired by the French Revolution.

In a time of revolution, everyone must take a side.

Sophie, a dressmaker and charm caster, has lifted her family out of poverty with a hard-won reputation for beautiful ball gowns and discreetly embroideredspells. A commission from the royal family could secure her future -- and thrust her into a dangerous new world.

Revolution is brewing. As Sophie's brother, Kristos, rises to prominence in the growing anti-monarchist movement, it is only a matter of time before their fortunes collide.

When the unrest erupts into violence, she and Kristos are drawn into a deadly magical plot. Sophie is torn -- between her family and her future.

Critic reviews

"One of the best novels I've read this year! Torn is masterfully written -- full of fascinating politics and compelling characters in a vividly rendered, troubled city. Sophie is a believable, layered, and wonderful heroine; her journey from ordinary to extraordinary is a joy to read. I absolutely loved this book!"—Sarah Beth Durst

"Torn challenges readers to thoughtfully consider all sides of social change by humanizing each perspective. Readers interested in classic fantasy, feminism, adventure, and a bit of romance will enjoy this thought-provoking book."—Booklist

"Miller weaves a fresh, richly textured world full of magic-stitched ball gowns and revolutionary pamphlets. The vivid, complex setting and deeply human characters make for an absorbing read!"—Melissa Caruso

"A gorgeous weave of romantic fantasy and urgent politics."—Anna Smith Spark

"Miller places immigrant ambition and women's lives at the heart of her magical tale of politics and revolution. I was utterly enchanted by this unique, clever and subtly fierce fantasy."—Tasha Suri

"A delight, woven through with rich detail. Magic, sewing, and an achingly good romance -- what's not to love? A deeply satisfying read. I'm dying for the next one!"—Alexandra Rowland

"Miller deftly weaves a thrilling tale of revolution and turmoil in a complex fantasy world."—Cass Morris

"Real stakes combined with a clever, unique magic system."—B&N SciFi & Fantasy Blog

"Strong research, moral ambiguities, and an innovative magic system."—Kirkus

Highly recommend.... Fun, excitement, and magic all sewn into one amazing story.—The Speculative Herald

"Impossible to put down. I will be impatiently awaiting the sequel."—Books, Vertigo & Tea

"Positively enchanting.... I loved every page!"—Powder & Page

"[A] wonderful debut."—BookPage

"A joy to read.... Found myself swept away into the world and character."—Tenacious Reader

"I thoroughly enjoyed this story, especially the touch of magic added by the spell-casting through sewing.... The characters were well written, and the twist at the end is perfectly believable."—The Qwillery

"Deep, socially aware fantasy, plus a very cool magical system."—Deborah Ross

Fun read

This was a fun read that was easy to get caught up in, despite the fact that the female lead was a bit oblivious.

Great premise, somewhat disappointing execution

Loved the world setup and characters! Really brought down by weak antagonist, lack of ambition in engaging the themes of its plot... Still enjoyable and I will check out the second book to see what happens.

baffling

First of all, Moira Quirk does another excellent job with the narration. Without her I wouldn't have gotten over halfway through this book.

spoilers ahead

If you want a book about class struggle where the protagonist is from the lower class but wholeheartedly sides with the nobility, this is for you.
If you want a book where the upper class are literally flawless angels who do nothing wrong in the narration, this is for you.
If you want a protagonist who has worked hard to open her business despite it being almost impossible due to the upper class' iron hand control, and who sees a handsome duke once and goes all in on the upper class' side (with some hesitation, no real inner conflict), this is for you.
If you want a book where the major conflict is resolved while the narrator (protagonist) is sleeping, so we're only told about it after the fact, this is for you.
If you want a protagonist who literally does only two things that impact the entire conflict throughout the whole book, and both at the very end, this is for you.

She does nothing but hesitate and gush about her crush the entire book, and the outcome would likely have been identical without her.

This wasn't for me.

A tense political romance

I’ve become a fan of Moria Quirk, and she does not disappoint in this gripping political story. With a heavy dose of romance, and nod to current frustrations with disparity, this book made me feel that I was in another world.

Loved it!!!

I couldn't put the book down. I found the plot somewhat akin to a rich tapestry, full of color and design. Excellent storyline, and the Narrator was amazing!!! ❤️