Review of The Map and the Territory by A.M. Tuomala
The Map and the Territory by A.M. Tuomala (Candlemark & Gleam, 2022) is a gorgeous secondary world fantasy novel, the first in a series, with lush worldbuilding and spectacular characters.
When a strange event destroys the city where Rukha, who also calls herself Fern after a custom of people not using their given names in times of strife, is visiting, she finds herself unable to get home. And when Eshu comes through a mirror into that same city, he’s in the same situation. The two form a tenuous alliance to try to get home–either one will do. But as they make their way to other cities, they realize that the problem is more widespread than they thought, and it’s even bigger cosmologically as well.
Even though the characters are dealing with a world-shattering problem, the focus on Rukha and Eshu is so tight that parts of this book feel almost cozy and intimate. Both characters, as well as the supporting cast, are wonderfully fleshed out. The worldbuilding, too, with layers of history and geology, magic and science, is similarly brilliant. If you enjoy fantasy that is epic in scope but with cozy moments, check out The Map and the Territory and its eventual sequels!
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