Faebound

by Saara El-Arifi • 2024 • 386 pages

3.55

22.5K ratings

Fantasy Romance Romantasy

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Plot Summary

Creation and Free Will

Three gods shape the world

In the beginning, the gods Asase, Ewia, and Bosome created humans, fae, and elves, respectively, each endowed with free will. This divine gift set the stage for inevitable conflict as these races began to shape their own destinies. The gods watched as their creations navigated a world filled with struggle and choice, laying the groundwork for the epic tale of power, love, and redemption that would unfold.

Yeeran's War-Torn Life

Yeeran's life is forged in war

Born amidst the chaos of battle, Yeeran's existence is defined by her role as a colonel in the Waning Army. Her promotion is a testament to her skill, but it also brings the burden of leadership and the constant threat of death. Her relationship with Salawa, who gifts her a powerful obeah drum, adds complexity to her life, intertwining her personal desires with her duty on the battlefield.

The Obeah Drum's Power

A magical drum changes everything

The obeah drum, a gift from Salawa, enhances Yeeran's abilities, making her a formidable force. This powerful artifact symbolizes both the deep bond between Yeeran and Salawa and the duality of her life as a warrior and lover. The drum becomes a pivotal element in Yeeran's journey, representing both a blessing and a burden as she navigates her new role.

Lettle's Defiant Stand

Lettle fights for Yeeran's freedom

Lettle, Yeeran's fiercely loyal sister, leads a protest against Yeeran's arrest, chaining herself to the palace gates. Her unwavering determination to save Yeeran highlights the deep bond between the sisters. Despite the soldiers' attempts to disperse the crowd, Lettle's resolve remains unbroken, showcasing her strength and the lengths she will go to protect her family.

Yeeran's Exile and Hunt

Yeeran's exile and the obeah pursuit

Banished from the Elven Lands, Yeeran embarks on a grueling journey to capture an obeah, a task that tests her skills and resolve. As she tracks the elusive creature, she reflects on her past and the choices that led her to this moment. The hunt represents both a path to redemption and a reminder of the life she left behind.

Fae's Hidden World

Fae capture Yeeran, revealing a hidden world

Yeeran's hunt leads to the shocking discovery that the fae, long thought extinct, are alive and thriving. Captured by the fae, she learns of their connection to the obeah and the consequences of her actions. This revelation challenges everything Yeeran knows, forcing her to confront the reality of her world and the myths she once believed.

Mosima's Secret Utopia

Mosima, a secret fae paradise

Yeeran is taken to Mosima, a hidden fae city beneath the earth, illuminated by a massive fraedia crystal. The city is a utopia, vibrant yet marred by the fae's resentment towards elves. Yeeran's presence is a reminder of the centuries of conflict between their races. As she navigates this new world, she must find a way to survive and protect those she loves.

Yeeran's Trial and Transformation

Yeeran faces trial and a new fate

Accused of murdering a fae prince, Yeeran stands trial before the fae queens. Her fate seems sealed until a miraculous event binds her to an obeah, granting her fae-like powers. Sentenced to five years of servitude, Yeeran's newfound abilities open a path to redemption, complicating her quest for freedom and tying her fate to the fae.

Lettle's Prophecy and Determination

Lettle's prophecy and determination to escape

Lettle grapples with a prophecy that foretells a tragic fate for her and Rayan. Despite the ominous prediction, she remains determined to find a way back to the Elven Lands. Her resolve is strengthened by her love for Yeeran and her desire to protect those she cares about, as the sisters plan their escape amidst looming challenges.

Furi's Grief and Leadership

Furi mourns, Yeeran seeks justice

After the queens' murder, Furi is consumed by grief, while Yeeran is determined to find the killer. Furi's new role as queen is overshadowed by loss, straining her relationship with Yeeran. Driven by duty and love, Yeeran promises to help find the murderer, hoping to earn her freedom. The tension between them is palpable as they navigate their complex feelings amidst the chaos.

Rayan's Royal Revelation

Rayan's lineage changes everything

During the coronation, Rayan is revealed to be of fae royal blood, shocking everyone. The Tree of Souls binds him as king, altering Mosima's power dynamics. This revelation forces Rayan to confront his identity and responsibilities, while Lettle grapples with the implications for their future, challenging their understanding of loyalty and belonging.

The Battle for Mosima

A struggle for power and peace

The conflict between the fae and the Crescent tribe intensifies, with Rayan caught in the middle. As king, he must navigate the political landscape and work towards a peaceful resolution. Yeeran and Lettle's efforts to uncover the truth and broker peace are complicated by the ongoing war and the fae's internal power struggles, testing their loyalty and courage.

Characters

Yeeran

Warrior bound by duty and love

Yeeran is a colonel in the Waning Army, defined by her life on the battlefield and her relationship with Salawa. Her journey from soldier to exile tests her resolve and forces her to confront the myths of her world. Her bond with the obeah, Pila, grants her new powers and a chance at redemption, tying her fate to the fae and their hidden world.

Lettle

Fierce sister and determined protector

Lettle is Yeeran's younger sister, fiercely loyal and unyielding in her quest to save Yeeran. Her skills in divination and her connection to the Fates guide her actions, even as she grapples with a prophecy that threatens her future. Lettle's journey is one of self-discovery and resilience, navigating the complexities of love, loyalty, and destiny.

Salawa

Chieftain torn between love and duty

Salawa is the chieftain of the Waning tribe and Yeeran's lover. Her leadership is marked by a desire to end poverty and war, but her relationship with Yeeran complicates her decisions. Salawa's love for Yeeran is both a strength and a weakness, as she struggles to balance her personal desires with her responsibilities as a leader.

Rayan

Loyal soldier with a hidden past

Rayan is a captain in the Waning Army, driven by a desire for vengeance against the Crescent tribe. His loyalty to Yeeran and Lettle is unwavering, even as he grapples with his own past and the prophecy that threatens his future. Rayan's journey is one of redemption and self-discovery, as he learns to navigate the complexities of love and loyalty.

Furi

Grieving queen torn by duty

Furi is thrust into leadership after the queens' murder, grappling with her grief and the responsibilities of her new role. Her relationship with Yeeran is complicated by love and suspicion, as she navigates the political landscape and her own desires. Furi's loyalty to Mosima is tested by the alliance with the Crescent tribe, forcing her to confront her priorities.

Pila

Obeah bound to Yeeran

Pila is an obeah, bound to Yeeran through a miraculous event. Her bond with Yeeran grants her new powers and a connection to the fae. Pila's presence is both a source of strength and a reminder of the complexities of Yeeran's new life. Her journey is one of discovery and adaptation, as she learns to navigate the world alongside Yeeran.

Komi

Betrayer with hidden motives

Komi's true identity as the Two-Bladed Tyrant is revealed, exposing his role in the fae's alliance with the Crescent tribe. His betrayal shatters the trust within the group and forces the characters to confront the complexities of loyalty and power. Komi's actions are driven by a desire for peace, but his methods and alliances ultimately lead to his downfall.

Plot Devices

Obeah and Fae Connection

Obeah and fae are intertwined

The bond between obeah and fae is central to the story, revealing the hidden connection between the two races. This bond grants the fae their magic and ties their fate to the obeah. The revelation of this connection challenges the characters' understanding of their world and forces them to confront the consequences of their actions.

Prophecy and Free Will

Prophecy guides and challenges characters

Prophecy plays a significant role in the story, guiding the characters' actions and challenging their understanding of free will. Lettle's prophecy, in particular, looms over the characters, shaping their decisions and highlighting the tension between destiny and choice. The characters' journey is one of navigating the complexities of prophecy and free will, as they seek to shape their own destinies.

Hidden World of Mosima

Mosima, a secret fae city

Mosima is a hidden fae city, a utopia beneath the earth, illuminated by a massive fraedia crystal. The city's existence challenges the characters' understanding of their world and reveals the hidden history of the fae. Mosima serves as both a sanctuary and a prison, forcing the characters to navigate its complexities and uncover its secrets.

Analysis

Exploration of power, identity, and destiny

"Faebound" delves into themes of power, identity, and destiny, exploring the complex interplay between free will and prophecy. The characters' journeys are marked by self-discovery and the struggle to reconcile personal desires with duty and responsibility. The hidden world of Mosima and the intricate alliances between races highlight the complexities of power and the consequences of past actions. Through its rich narrative and dynamic characters, the book offers a compelling exploration of the human condition, challenging readers to consider the impact of their choices and the possibility of redemption and change.

Last updated: February 1, 2025

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FAQ

Synopsis & Basic Details

What is Faebound about?

A world divided by gods : The story explores a world created by three gods, where humans, fae, and elves are given free will, leading to conflict and a long-standing war.
An exiled colonel's journey : It follows Yeeran, a skilled elven colonel, who is exiled and embarks on a quest that leads her to discover a hidden fae world and her own magical abilities.
A fight for freedom and truth : The narrative intertwines themes of love, loyalty, and the search for truth as Yeeran and her allies navigate political intrigue, personal betrayals, and the complexities of their world.

Why should I read Faebound?

Unique world-building : The novel presents a richly detailed world with its own mythology, cultures, and magical systems, offering a fresh take on fantasy.
Complex characters : The story features morally grey characters with compelling motivations, forcing readers to question their own perceptions of good and evil.
Intriguing plot twists : The narrative is full of unexpected turns and revelations, keeping readers engaged and invested in the characters' journeys.

What is the background of Faebound?

Mythological creation : The world is founded on the actions of three gods: Asase (earth), Ewia (sun), and Bosome (moon), who created humans, fae, and elves, respectively.
A history of conflict : The story is set against the backdrop of a long-standing war between the elven tribes, fueled by the desire for power and resources, particularly the valuable fraedia crystal.
Hidden fae society: The fae, once thought extinct, have created a hidden society in Mosima, a subterranean city powered by a massive fraedia crystal, adding a layer of mystery and intrigue.

What are the most memorable quotes in Faebound?

"War plays by no rules. There are only fighters and failures." : This quote, repeated by multiple characters, encapsulates the harsh reality of the world and the brutal choices they must make.
"You are the fire of my heart, and the beat of my drum. I am yours under moonlight. Until the rhythm sings no more." : This vow, shared between Yeeran and Salawa, highlights the depth of their love and the emotional stakes of their relationship.
"To rule with honour is to rule without mercy." : This motto of the Two-Bladed Tyrant reveals the corrupting nature of power and the dangers of unchecked authority.

What writing style, narrative choices, and literary techniques does Saara El-Arifi use?

Dual POV : The narrative alternates between Yeeran and Lettle's perspectives, providing a comprehensive view of the events and their emotional impact.
Rich sensory detail : El-Arifi uses vivid descriptions to bring the world to life, immersing readers in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Elven Lands and Mosima.
Foreshadowing and symbolism : The author employs subtle hints and recurring motifs to foreshadow future events and deepen the thematic resonance of the story.

Hidden Details & Subtle Connections

What are some minor details that add significant meaning?

The fraedia beads in Salawa's hair: These beads, a symbol of wealth and power, are made from a crystal that is the currency of the war, highlighting the cost of conflict and the value of resources.
The children scavenging for rings : This detail reveals the harsh realities of war and the lengths to which people go to survive, adding a layer of social commentary to the narrative.
The tapestry in the chieftain's throne room : The depiction of fae attacking humans and elves holding bloody swords foreshadows the complex relationships and conflicts between the races.

What are some subtle foreshadowing and callbacks?

Lettle's prophecy about Yeeran's roof: This early prophecy foreshadows Lettle's ability to see the future and the importance of her divinatory skills.
The faery ring in the forest : This detail foreshadows the presence of fae and the hidden world of Mosima, hinting at the magical elements that will become central to the plot.
The mention of the Two-Bladed Tyrant : This early reference foreshadows the reveal of Komi's true identity and the political machinations that drive the conflict.

What are some unexpected character connections?

Rayan's fae heritage: The revelation that Rayan is of fae royal blood adds a layer of complexity to his character and his role in the conflict, challenging his understanding of his own identity.
Sahar's connection to the Jani dynasty : The reveal that Sahar is Furi's father adds a layer of intrigue to his character and his role in the story, highlighting the hidden connections and secrets within Mosima.
Komi's true identity: The reveal that Komi is the Two-Bladed Tyrant is a shocking twist that recontextualizes his actions and motivations, highlighting the deceptive nature of power.

Who are the most significant supporting characters?

Golan : As a Lightless fae, he provides a unique perspective on Mosima society and serves as a guide for Lettle, offering insights into fae culture and magic.
Hosta : As a young fae soldier, Hosta represents the ingrained prejudices and hatreds that fuel the conflict, highlighting the challenges of achieving peace and understanding.
Jay : As a healer and Furi's former lover, Jay provides a glimpse into the complexities of fae relationships and the personal costs of war, adding depth to the world-building.

Psychological, Emotional, & Relational Analysis

What are some unspoken motivations of the characters?

Yeeran's desire for purpose: Beyond her duty as a soldier, Yeeran seeks a sense of purpose and belonging, which she finds in her love for Salawa and her desire to protect her people.
Lettle's need for validation: Lettle's fierce loyalty to Yeeran stems from a deep-seated need for validation and recognition, as she struggles to find her own path in a world that values strength and power.
Furi's internal conflict: Furi's actions are driven by a complex mix of grief, duty, and a desire for power, as she struggles to reconcile her personal feelings with her responsibilities as a leader.

What psychological complexities do the characters exhibit?

Yeeran's internal struggle: Yeeran grapples with the weight of her past actions and the burden of leadership, questioning her own morality and the true cost of war.
Lettle's self-doubt: Despite her fierce loyalty and determination, Lettle struggles with self-doubt and a fear of being abandoned, stemming from her childhood experiences.
Rayan's conflicting loyalties: Rayan is torn between his desire for vengeance and his loyalty to his friends, highlighting the psychological toll of war and the complexities of identity.

What are the major emotional turning points?

Yeeran's exile: This event forces Yeeran to confront her past and embark on a journey of self-discovery, challenging her understanding of her own identity and purpose.
The queens' murder : This event shatters the fragile peace in Mosima and forces the characters to confront the consequences of their actions, highlighting the fragility of power and the inevitability of change.
Rayan's royal revelation: This event forces Rayan to confront his past and his destiny, challenging his understanding of his own identity and his place in the world.

How do relationship dynamics evolve?

Yeeran and Salawa's bond: Their relationship evolves from a passionate love affair to a complex bond of loyalty and shared purpose, highlighting the challenges of balancing personal desires with duty.
Yeeran and Lettle's sisterhood: Their relationship is tested by their differing views on the war and their individual paths, but their bond remains unbreakable, highlighting the power of family and loyalty.
Yeeran and Furi's complex connection: Their relationship evolves from animosity to a complex mix of desire, respect, and suspicion, highlighting the challenges of navigating love and power in a world of conflict.

Interpretation & Debate

Which parts of the story remain ambiguous or open-ended?

The true nature of the gods : The gods' motivations and their role in the world remain ambiguous, leaving readers to question the nature of divine intervention and the origins of free will.
The future of Mosima: The ending leaves the future of Mosima uncertain, with the new rulers facing the challenges of a changing world and the threat of war.
The extent of human magic : The nature and power of human magic remain largely unexplored, leaving readers to wonder about the potential of this lost art and its impact on the future.

What are some debatable, controversial scenes or moments in Faebound?

Yeeran's decision to join the Waning Army: This decision is a point of contention between her and her father, highlighting the moral complexities of war and the different perspectives on duty and loyalty.
Salawa's use of child soldiers: This policy is a source of conflict between Salawa and Yeeran, raising questions about the ethics of war and the exploitation of vulnerable populations.
Furi's actions as queen: Furi's decisions as queen are often morally ambiguous, forcing readers to question her motivations and the true nature of power.

Faebound Ending Explained: How It Ends & What It Means

Rayan's ascension as king: Rayan's unexpected rise to power as the king of Mosima challenges the established order and sets the stage for a new era of leadership, but also highlights the burden of destiny.
The alliance with Crescent : The revelation of the fae's alliance with the Crescent tribe adds a layer of complexity to the conflict, forcing the characters to confront the consequences of their actions and the challenges of achieving peace.
Yeeran's departure and uncertain future: Yeeran's decision to leave Mosima and return to the Elven Lands leaves her future uncertain, highlighting the ongoing struggle for freedom and the complexities of love and loyalty.