A review by once_upon_a_tome
The Ciphers of Muirwood by Jeff Wheeler

4.0

I love so much how Wheeler ties his series together, making them feel like one giant world but still able to be read as a separate series. I am definitely more partial to the Kingfountain series, but that may be because I read that one before any of Jeff Wheelers other works (I still have the Whispers of Mirrowen to start and finish). I have enjoyed them all but there's a constant pattern I think could be changed up a little (merely my observation though). All the series I have read by Wheeler the protag seems to NEED a love interest, even when the love interest isn't really a good person. I know, as time goes on, some of them develop as characters but they typically come off as very rude and undeserving of the character's love. I mean, forced into marriage? And then eventually falling for them? Sounds a little Stockholm Syndrome to me. I am hoping with the new Harbinger series, since the main characters are so young, that it might be more about being empowered by friends and your inner strength rather than constantly battling with a love interest, especially since I think like, at least in the case of this particular series (Covenant), the love interest doesn't add much to the story other than adding to Maia's feeling a helplessness. Perhaps I am just reading too much into it though! It is there and I accept it. Keep on writing Mr. Wheeler!