The Story Peddler

Title: The Story Peddler (The Weaver Trilogy, Book One)

Pages: 336

Summary:

Selling stories is a deadly business.

Tanwen doesn’t just tell stories–she weaves them into crystallized sculptures that sell for more than a few bits. But the only way to escape the control of her cruel mentor and claw her way from poverty is to set her sights on something grander: becoming Royal Storyteller to the king.

During her final story peddling tour, a tale of treason spills from her hands, threatening the king himself. Tanwen goes from peddler to prey as the king’s guard hunts her down…and they’re not known for their mercy. As Tanwen flees for her life, she unearths long-buried secrets and discovers she’s not the only outlaw in the empire. There’s a rebel group of weavers…and they’re after her too.

Positive Elements:

Braith shows uncommon mercy and kindness to the lowlier subjects in her father’s kingdom; Tanwen, when told her comrades’ histories, does not judge them for it; secondary characters are determined to protect Tanwen, doing everything they can to rescue her.

Cons:

There are two usages of “blasted”; characters drink wine; it is mentioned that a secondary character has a mistress.

Violence:

Tanwen and a little girl get slapped around; characters are at and get hit by arrows; some of Tanwen’s stories mention individuals getting killed; a captain is ordered to be beheaded; guards are killed; it is mentioned that soldiers are ambushed and slaughtered; a secondary character is wounded during a fight scene.

Spiritual Content:

It is mentioned several times that goddesses are believed in and subsequently worshiped. Tanwen learns about the Creator, who is prayed to by a secondary character.

Other:

Braith is kissed twice, and Tanwen is kissed once.

Rating:

4.5 Stars

Conclusion:

The Story Peddler is a fun, engaging read. Franklin does excellent in world building, and I immediately wished for Book Two to be out so I could read more. Reading from first person (Tanwen’s) POV made it even better. I can’t wait for the next book in The Weaver Trilogy!