Review: The River She Became

The River She Became
Series: River & Salt #1

Author: Emily Varga

Wednesday Books, 2026

ISBN: 9781250878694 (hardcover)
9781035045075 (eBook)
9781035045082 (audio book)

$31.00 CAD (hardcover)
$16.99 CAD (eBook)
Audio book can be accessed through Audible or Spotify membership

416 pages

Ages: 13-18 years old

Yaseema’s world is dying. The Empire has conquered her country and is draining magic from her land. As a scholar, she helps her oppressors find ancient fae relics, but by night, she uses her research to reclaim the artifacts and restore magic. Yaseema’s world is turned upside down when she is forced to cross the River separating her realm from the Fae’s. There, surrounded by monsters and treacherous creatures, Yaseema learns that everything is not as it seems. She must decide where her loyalties lie, and what is worth saving.

The River She Became is the first installment in a new young adult fantasy series set in a world inspired by South Asian culture. Though a bit over-written, the author’s prose is fit for the suggested age range and is rich in descriptions. The story explores themes of oppression and imperialism, all while taking into account the complexities of and interconnectedness of allyship. Readers will follow Yaseema through important character growth as she attempts to save her world and the Fae’s from similarly oppressive colonial powers. This book is recommended for teens looking for an immersive, well-paced, and plot-driven story with memorable characters and romance.