Swordcrossed by Freya Marske

Queer Fantasy Romance with a Sharp Edge

In a world where swords clash and hearts entwine, Freya Marske’s “Swordcrossed” emerges as a dazzling addition to the queer fantasy romance genre. With the finesse of a master fencer, Marske weaves a tale that’s as intricate as the patterns on a finely woven bolt of cloth and as captivating as the flash of steel in sunlight.

This standalone novel, set in a richly imagined world reminiscent of a fantasy-tinged Regency era, proves that Marske’s talent for blending romance, magic, and intrigue—showcased in her previous works like “A Marvellous Light”—is as sharp as ever. But don’t be fooled; “Swordcrossed” stands on its own two feet, ready to parry and thrust its way into your heart.

The Plot: A Tapestry of Deception and Desire

A Merchant’s Plight and a Conman’s Flight

Mattinesh Jay, our dutiful and desperately responsible protagonist, is a man with the weight of his family’s failing wool business on his broad shoulders. In a world where business and swordplay intertwine, Matti needs a best man who can defend his impending arranged marriage from sword challenges. Enter Luca Piere, a charming rogue with a talent for deception and a knack for getting under Matti’s skin—in more ways than one.

Luca, fleeing his own past and trying to reinvent himself, sees Matti as an easy mark. But as the two are drawn into a web of sabotage and intrigue threatening Jay House, their initial antagonism evolves into something far more complex and heated.

Love, Lies, and Linen

As the wedding day approaches, Marski ratchets up the tension on multiple fronts:

1. The mystery of who’s trying to ruin Jay House
2. The growing attraction between Matti and Luca
3. The looming threat of Luca’s true identity being revealed
4. The impending arranged marriage and its potential to save or doom Jay House

Each thread is expertly woven together, creating a narrative tapestry that’s both beautiful and thrilling to unravel.

Characters: Flawed, Fabulous, and Utterly Human

Matti: The Weight of Responsibility

Matti Jay is a character you can’t help but root for. He’s drowning in duty, desperately trying to keep his family’s business afloat while sacrificing his own happiness. His journey from a man resigned to a loveless marriage to someone willing to fight for what he truly wants is both heartbreaking and inspiring.

Luca: The Charming Chaos Agent

Oh, Luca. With his copper hair and quick wit, he’s the perfect foil to Matti’s stoicism. Luca’s struggle with his own identity—heir to a powerful House vs. the freedom of reinvention—adds depth to what could have been a simple “rogue with a heart of gold” trope.

Supporting Cast: No Flat Characters Here

From Matti’s fierce sister Maya to the ruthless Lysbette Martens, every character in “Swordcrossed” by Freya Marske feels fully realized. Even those who appear briefly leave a lasting impression, testament to Marske’s skill at character development.

World-Building: A Fabric Woven with Care

Marske’s fantasy world is a delight to explore. The intricate details of the wool trade, the political machinations of the various Houses, and the integration of swordplay into everyday life create a setting that feels both familiar and fresh.

The Magic of the Mundane

While there’s no overt magic system, the way Marske imbues everyday objects and practices with a sense of the mystical is enchanting. The patron gods of each trade guild, the rituals surrounding marriages and business deals—all add a layer of wonder to the world.

A Queer-Normative Society

One of the most refreshing aspects of “Swordcrossed” is its casual queerness. Same-sex relationships are treated as unremarkable, allowing the focus to remain on the characters and their struggles rather than societal acceptance.

The Romance: En Garde, My Heart!

Let’s not beat around the bush—the romance in “Swordcrossed” by Freya Marske is hot. Marske crafts a slow-burn relationship between Matti and Luca that smolders from their first encounter and builds to an inferno by the end.

Sword Lessons and Stolen Moments

The tension between Matti and Luca during their sword lessons is palpable. Each parry and thrust becomes a metaphor for their growing attraction, and the way they dance around their feelings is both frustrating and delicious.

Vulnerability as Strength

What makes the romance truly shine is how Marske uses it to reveal the characters’ vulnerabilities. As Matti and Luca lower their guards (both literal and metaphorical), we see the tender hearts beneath their tough exteriors.

Themes: Identity, Duty, and the Courage to Choose

“Swordcrossed” isn’t just a romp – it grapples with some weighty themes:

• The struggle between duty and personal happiness
• The masks we wear and the cost of maintaining them
• The courage it takes to be vulnerable and authentic
• The power of chosen family vs. blood ties

Marske explores these ideas with a deft touch, never allowing them to overshadow the romance and adventure at the heart of the story.

Writing Style: En Pointe and En Garde

Marske’s prose is a joy to read. She balances witty dialogue, lush descriptions, and heart-pounding action with the grace of a master fencer. Her ability to switch between laugh-out-loud humor and gut-wrenching emotion keeps the reader engaged from start to finish.

A Master of Metaphor

The way Marske weaves textile metaphors throughout the book is particularly clever. The language of weaving and wool becomes a rich tapestry of its own, adding depth to both the world-building and the characters’ emotional journeys.

Critique: A Few Loose Threads

While “Swordcrossed” by Freya Marske is a fantastic read, it’s not without its flaws:

• The pacing in the middle section can drag a bit as Matti and Luca dance around their feelings
• Some readers might find the business intrigue aspects less engaging than the romance
• The resolution of the main conflict feels a tad rushed compared to the build-up

However, these are minor quibbles in an otherwise stellar novel.

Conclusion: A Cut Above the Rest

“Swordcrossed” is a triumph of queer fantasy romance. Marske has crafted a world you’ll want to lose yourself in, populated by characters you’ll fall in love with. It’s a story about the courage it takes to be true to yourself, wrapped in a thrilling package of swordplay, secrets, and sizzling romance.

Whether you’re a fan of fantasy, romance, or just damn good storytelling, “Swordcrossed” is a must-read. It’ll make you laugh, make you swoon, and maybe even make you want to take up fencing.

So grab a copy, curl up with a cozy blanket (preferably made of the finest wool), and prepare to be thoroughly charmed. Just be warned—you might find yourself fencing with your umbrella by the time you’re done!

“Swordcrossed” cuts deep and true, leaving a mark on your heart long after the final page.