Be warned that there are story spoilers ahead for those who haven't read yet.

- The Characters: Most of the characters are pretty fun, and well written, each with unique powers that I feel makes fights interesting. Rune working hard to become the next Khan, Midori overcoming the abuse Evan put her through, even Sahaela getting out of her dream and choosing to travel with the party.

However the caveat with this, is there are a number of weird character decisions and some aspects that could be elaborated on better, other reviewers have pointed it out so I will try not to drag my thoughts out: Midori being pregnant doesn't play much of a role until way later in the story despite it being very much mentioned/implied at the start.

Truth be told, I forgot she was pregnant for a bit due to how inconsequential it feels.

Perhaps Midori acknowledges it a bit more and hides it better because she wants to help, or when it's finally revealed, maybe cover a bit of how it may conflict with their current mission as it may be risky to send a pregnant woman with them on a dangerous mission.

Obviously it doesn't need to be a massive arc, but at the very least a little bit of dialogue considering this.

Most of the side characters outside of the main squad of Sahaela, Rune, and Midori feel more or less, there, I just didn't find myself caring for them that much.

Obligatory fuck Evan, one thing I will credit the writing for is a good job was done at making me want to hop through my monitor and punch him. He's written as woefully pathetic, and it's fun to hate him. Do wish I knew a bit more about him though, but that's for a sequel that I very much look forward to.

Sahaela falling out of faith as other reviewers have mentioned should be elaborated on.

- The Plot: The story itself is very good, the lore and world feel really fleshed out. The use of diversity feels relevant to the plot and themes, and ultimately elevates certain characters like Rune, or Sahaela.

I don't have any strong gripes against the plot itself, outside of the character writing flaws mentioned, but I will say that the prose itself feels easy to follow, and I never really felt confused or lost on what was going on.

If I had a favorite part, it was during the finale of the Battle of Nythe, when Midori finally struck back at Evan with her water magic. I went from 'hell yeah, get him!' to 'Oh fuck, she's out of control'.

Ultimately, These Fated Threads is an interesting and easy read that could do with a bit more fleshing out in the characters department. The plot is decent, and enjoyable. Its highs speak up far more than its lows.

I think I'd personally put them at a 4/5