4.5 Stars
Needlework is the story of a band named Needlework. The main characters are two members, Melly and Hakim, from two very different worlds. Melly is a destitute young woman living day to day while Hakim is a child of privilege. After Hakim sees Melly play in a tavern, he hires her for Needlework, and soon they are off on the traveling Olive Branch festival.
If this doesn't seem like much of a plot, then know that this description barely scratches the surface of Needlework. In avoidance of spoilers, I'll simply say that the story is much bigger than what its blurb describes. It inhabits a well-developed fantasy world with magic and a great deal of political intrigue, as well as frank tales of human suffering.
I'll also say that there were a couple of times I had to put it down because I was angry at the villain. It's always a good sign when you find yourself emotionally invested in a book to that degree.
The worst thing I can say about Needlework is that the story was a little sluggish in the early stages. Once it got moving, it more than rewarded my patience.
The book comes with trigger warnings. It is never exploitive or sensationalistic. It deals frankly and honestly with matters including rape and chronic pain.
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Reviews with images
This book has EVERYTHING!
This book had everything a book should be: Lovable, relatable characters, gripping plot, and an exquisite, fulfilling ending.Bekah gave this story her all, that much is evident. She poured her heart and soul into the characters—particularly Hakim—and I love when an author does that. The themes in Needlework are raw...they're real...and it is refreshing as a reader to feel like we can be heard—that we have a voice.Trauma.Chronic illness.Heartbreak.Broken family values.Outstanding character development.It's all there, in this beautiful book that I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy and music and amazing friendships. Did I mention she WROTE SONGS for this?? Cause she did. I'm in awe of Bekah's talent and SO thankful for the indie authors I've met who are thriving in their art.You don't want to miss this incredible story!!
Top reviews from the United States
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Reviewed in the United States on January 15, 2023
Reviewed in the United States on September 14, 2022
Reviewed in the United States on April 9, 2022
This book had everything a book should be: Lovable, relatable characters, gripping plot, and an exquisite, fulfilling ending.
Bekah gave this story her all, that much is evident. She poured her heart and soul into the characters—particularly Hakim—and I love when an author does that. The themes in Needlework are raw...they're real...and it is refreshing as a reader to feel like we can be heard—that we have a voice.
Trauma.
Chronic illness.
Heartbreak.
Broken family values.
Outstanding character development.
It's all there, in this beautiful book that I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy and music and amazing friendships. Did I mention she WROTE SONGS for this?? Cause she did. I'm in awe of Bekah's talent and SO thankful for the indie authors I've met who are thriving in their art.
You don't want to miss this incredible story!!
Bekah gave this story her all, that much is evident. She poured her heart and soul into the characters—particularly Hakim—and I love when an author does that. The themes in Needlework are raw...they're real...and it is refreshing as a reader to feel like we can be heard—that we have a voice.
Trauma.
Chronic illness.
Heartbreak.
Broken family values.
Outstanding character development.
It's all there, in this beautiful book that I highly recommend to anyone who enjoys fantasy and music and amazing friendships. Did I mention she WROTE SONGS for this?? Cause she did. I'm in awe of Bekah's talent and SO thankful for the indie authors I've met who are thriving in their art.
You don't want to miss this incredible story!!
Images in this review
Reviewed in the United States on July 9, 2021
Top reviews from other countries
Carrie
Unusually layered YA fantasy
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on June 30, 2021Helen Grimmett
An enjoyable YA fantasy, with plenty of action, twist and turns.
Reviewed in the United Kingdom on August 10, 2021