Ryan English’s A Land of Broken Roads is one of those rare fantasy gems that feels both classic and entirely its own. Set in a ruined world full of beauty, menace, and mystery, this story stands out thanks to its vivid writing, deeply human (and non-human) characters, and a truly heartfelt exploration of friendship and survival.
A Land of Broken Roads Review
At its core, it’s the tale of Dirt, a lost, memory-wiped boy far too small for the dangers around him, and Socks, the enormous, curious wolf pup who rescues him. Their bond is the beating heart of the novel. It’s not just a “boy and his dog” story (or more accurately, a wolf and his boy). Instead, it’s an unflinching, emotional journey of two young creatures trying to grow up in a world that wants them dead. The friendship is genuine, sometimes hilarious, and often achingly sweet without ever turning saccharine.
A Land of Broken Roads Socks and Dirt
What really makes this book shine is its worldbuilding. The ruined landscape of humanity’s decline is rich and immersive. There’s a sense of wonder in every ruined road and overgrown ruin, but also danger lurking behind every tree. The author strikes a masterful balance between lush description and tense action, letting you see this broken world while never dragging down the pace.
Characterisation is top-notch. Dirt is believably childlike: innocent, sincere, clever in his own determined way, but never unrealistically mature. Socks is equal parts deadly, proud, and hilarious in his growing loyalty and affection. Even the antagonists are well-realised, with motivations that make them more than faceless threats.
There’s also a great sense of progression here. Though, not in the overpowered “level-up” sense, but in the far more satisfying way of seeing both boy and wolf grow in skill, trust, and understanding. Their world is brutal. They get hurt. They make mistakes. Actions have consequences. But they learn, together.
Tonally, the book is a rollercoaster. It can be warm and funny one moment and then genuinely frightening or heartbreaking the next. That emotional range gives real weight to the stakes, without ever feeling grimdark or hopeless.
The writing itself is clean and polished, like something you’d expect from a traditionally published fantasy novel. Dialogue feels natural. Descriptions are evocative without being overwrought. And despite the scope of the world and the danger it contains, the focus remains on the personal, emotional connection at its centre.
If you’re looking for a fantasy adventure that balances wonder with menace, humour with heartbreak, and features one of the best human–animal bonds you’re likely to read, A Land of Broken Roads is absolutely worth your time. It’s a beautifully told story of survival, loyalty, and the stubborn hope that even in a dying world, friendship can still be enough to make you fight for another day. Highly recommended.
