The Cities of the Weft trilogy by Alex Pheby introduces readers to a mesmerizing world unlike many in contemporary fantasy. Set across an archipelago of cities, each ruled by powerful Masters or Mistresses, the series weaves political intrigue, magic, and personal ambition into a tapestry of dark wonder. What stands out is the vividness with which Pheby builds cultural disparities, supernatural threats, and a society threaded together by a mysterious force called the Weft.
In Mordew, Malarkoi, and Waterblack, the author utilizes a layered narrative structure that reflects the complexity of the world itself. The geography—cities rising from the margins, riverways, shifting boundaries, and hidden undercurrents—mirrors social hierarchies and power struggles. Characters are not merely shaped by personal motives but by the cities they live in: their histories, their masters, their myths. This depth of design gives the series both emotional gravitas and thematic richness.
For lovers of immersive fantasy, Cities of the Weft sets a high bar. It demonstrates how world-building can serve as more than backdrop—it becomes character. The trilogy shows that when every city, every master, and every myth is rendered with purpose and texture, the story gains authenticity and pulls readers into a realm that feels both strange and real. For those exploring new book worlds, this series is a compelling journey into a place you wouldn’t want to leave.
