A review by joareads
Threads That Bind by Kika Hatzopoulou

adventurous funny mysterious reflective tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Threads that Bind is a fun, adventurous story set in a world where the descendants of gods have their powers. Io and her two sisters are descendants of the Fates where one weaves, one draws, and one cuts the threads that bind people to others, places and objects.

In the city of Alante which has climbed high to avoid the floods that befall it, a string of murders brings Io and her fate-thread together - her soulmate. Using her private investigator skills and Edei's status and knowledge as the right hand to the Mob Queen, they must work together to determine who is behind the murders.

There is so much going on in this story! A city half-submerged in floods after a climate catastrophe, descendants of gods with their powers and all the different types, a strained relationship between Io and her sisters, a murder mystery to solve, a soulmate that Io tries desperately to ignore... It's packed full of adventure, explores sisterly relationships and keeps you guessing as Io and Edei set out to solve the mystery of why people in their city are being murdered.

The concept of the threads that form between people and other things which can be manipulated or even cut was so interesting to read about! It's very descriptive and the Quilt where threads can be seen and followed was fascinating - I loved the magic system in this story.

Io is a great protagonist; she's clever and daring, feels deeply and cares for others despite living in a city which hasn't really cared about her. She uses her abilities to help others but ends up entangled in one of the murders in Alante which sets her on a path of finally meeting her fate-thread who is also a wonderful character. Edei was sweet and loyal and I enjoyed how their relationship developed throughout the book. All of the characters were well thought up, each with their own distinctive personality.

Despite there being a lot to take in at the beginning, it's done well through engaging writing and a mysterious plot, the fantastic characters keeping you easily entertained.

Inspired by the Greek Gods but coming from a different angle, it's imaginative and thoroughly enjoyable with a lot to like.