A review by mariah_readssometimes
The First Stone (The First Dryad) by Teshelle Combs

adventurous emotional inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.5

Once again, a wonderfully built world and wonderfully complex characters were the name of the game. 
Sanaa is possibly one of the greatest characters I have ever read. She is the epitome of growth coming from a land like Rote, which was bland and boring and conforming and harsh and emotionless and just mute. Not to mention, women were just a means for creation and power.  Blegh.
Her shift after moving to Caram, which is very loud and colorful and flavorful and challenging and strong and equal. It just led to her ultimate power and badassery. 

I loved the relationship between Sanaa and Taeyo. The banter was perfect. The respect was perfect. They just really matched well. They pushed each other's boundaries but not in a way that made the other feel unloved. 

The additional characters. There are always so many, but Tess really makes sure you learn about and love each and every one. This is possibly one of my favorites of the First series. 

To continue on about the characters... literally, there's a frog named Mus that has a big part to Sanaa's story. A FROG.