Trust is the thread that binds us . . . and the rope that hangs us.
In Nadezra, peace is as tenuous as a single thread. The ruthless House Indestor has been destroyed, but darkness still weaves through the city’s filthy back alleys and jewel-bright gardens, seen by those who know where to look.
Derossi Vargo has always known. He has sacrificed more than anyone imagines to carve himself a position of power among the nobility, hiding a will of steel behind a velvet smile. He'll be damned if he lets anyone threaten what he's built.
Grey Serrado knows all too well. Bent under the yoke of too many burdens, he fights to protect the city’s most vulnerable. Sooner or later, that fight will demand more than he can give.
And Ren, daughter of no clan, knows best of all. Caught in a knot of lies, torn between her heritage and her aristocratic masquerade, she relies on her gift for reading pattern to survive. And it shows her the web of corruption that traps her city.
But all three have yet to discover just how far that web stretches. And in the end, it will take more than knives to cut themselves free...
MY THOUGHTS
The Liar's Knot picks up a couple of months after the dramatic events of The Mask of Mirrors. The Rook and the Black Rose succeeded in saving their city, rooting out the corruption of Mettore Indestor and the Cinquerat. Renata is now officially inscribed into House Traementis’s register, Vargo has risen to nobility, and finally, we uncover the identity of the Rook! However, peace in Nadežra is fleeting. Unchecked power and unsanctioned numinatria and eisar are wreaking havoc on unsuspecting citizens, leaving them vulnerable to its taint. Once again, Ren, Grey, Vargo, and their allies must set aside their differences to protect their city.
Just when I thought I had a handle on the intricacies of this world and its characters, authors Marie Brennan and Alyc Helms proved me utterly wrong. The duo continues to expand their already rich, multifaceted world, adding more layers to both the characters and the lore. I absolutely adore the chemistry and dynamic between the central trio; Ren, Grey, and Vargo. In this sequel, while the main trio remains front and center, Tess, Giuna, and Alsius (a.k.a. Master Peabody) are given more time to shine. Tess and Giuna, once timid and reserved in the first book, show tremendous growth, evolving into strong, capable women you don't want to mess with.
That said, Master Peabody completely stole the show every time he appeared. His humor and wit had me smiling and laughing throughout, and his scenes are a true highlight. I also appreciated learning more about Vargo and Alsius’s backstory and the bond they share. Honestly, I would love to read an entire book centered on a young Vargo’s rise from runner to Knot Boss to nobleman. Just putting that out there!
This series boasts some of the best characters and world-building I’ve encountered in a long time, and I read a lot. The sheer depth of key players, hierarchies, the city’s history and clans, gods and religion, the magic system, and more is staggering. Yet, at no point did I feel confused or overwhelmed. The authors weave astrology, astronomy, numerology, and tarot seamlessly into the story, creating a world that feels both intricate and alive.
I was completely immersed in this unique world and its complex characters, only to be constantly surprised by twists and turns I never saw coming. It’s rare to find a book that can genuinely keep a reader on their toes, and this series accomplishes it masterfully.
The Liar’s Knot is a phenomenal continuation of an amazing series. It’s just as fantastic as The Mask of Mirrors, and I can’t recommend this one-of-a-kind fantasy enough. If you enjoy hidden identities, political intrigue, morally gray characters, and exceptional world-building, this series deserves a top spot on your TBR. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
I can already tell this will be my 2025 top read and new favorite series!
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