Books, Boots and Bakeries

Every so often, a book or series comes along that isn’t just a story—it’s a part of you. For me, Book two of the Lumatere Chronicles, Froi of the Exiles by Melina Marchetta is that book. It’s the longest in the Lumatere Chronicles, and it holds my heart in a way few stories ever have.

This series has become my safety blanket, one I return to when the world feels overwhelming. This time, I read all three books in three days, letting the intricate tapestry of Marchetta’s writing pull me in once again. But Froi of the Exiles…this one is special.

For context, this was my travel book between Melbourne and Canberra, as I am moving from Sydney and to Canberra over the last few weeks—which made Froi a fitting companion for the in-between spaces of journeys. It was also my first time reading it on a Kindle, and while I missed the tactile feel of the pages, the story was as vivid and gripping as ever.

Marchetta doesn’t shy away from complexity, and Froi’s journey is a testament to that. His growth from a seemingly irredeemable character in Finnikin of the Rock to someone capable of deep love, loyalty, and sacrifice is nothing short of masterful. And then there’s Quintana—a character so fierce, broken, and beautifully resilient that she feels like a force of nature. Together, they make this book an emotional powerhouse.

What sets Froi of the Exiles apart isn’t just its epic scope or the rich, interwoven narratives—it’s the raw, unfiltered humanity of it all. Froi and Quintana’s story is messy, heartbreaking, and ultimately hopeful. It’s a reminder that love isn’t about perfection; it’s about showing up, flaws and all.

Whether you’re revisiting the Lumatere Chronicles or discovering them for the first time, Froi of the Exiles is a book that demands to be felt as much as read. It’s a journey of redemption, survival, and the messy, beautiful truth of what it means to be human. If you haven’t yet met Froi and Quintana, now is the time. Trust me—you’ll never forget them.