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4.16 AVERAGE
4.16 AVERAGE
This is a wonderful, traditional political intrigue story set in a fantasy steampunk universe. Normally, I wouldn't think simple set dressing would make such a difference, but the author does a wonderful job of making the world feel alive with small, subtle things. Honestly, had it not had this setting I probably would have never been interested.
The story, however, isnt so far removed from our own society as you might think, taking on issues such as racist, sexism, duty, obligation, and those one might expect from a political intrigue novel.
The main character isnt very complex or competent but very likable. Hes just a boy who loves his mama and wants to do the best he can for the most people he can. It's an old-school sort of protagonist that felt surprisingly refreshing.
You may notice from the onset that the language is very flowery and the author opts for a thesaurus instead of immersion when describing places and people. Normally, when authors do this they are merely stroking their own ego but, for the most part, this is written very effectively and competently and was enjoyable.
Now, why do I say "for the most part?" The names. My god, the names. It is painfully obvious that the author invented their own conlang and they wanted everyone to know, but the names are neigh impossible to pronounce and they're thrown around so frequently that even if they were replaced with names such as "Bob," "Fred," or "George," I still wouldn't have been able to keep them straight. They are not only a detriment to the reader. Indeed, they are a detriment to the book as a whole unless, of course, you're angling for an award.
Now, I say that, yet still think the book deserves all five stars. I'm am very eager to make flashcards then reread it.
The story, however, isnt so far removed from our own society as you might think, taking on issues such as racist, sexism, duty, obligation, and those one might expect from a political intrigue novel.
The main character isnt very complex or competent but very likable. Hes just a boy who loves his mama and wants to do the best he can for the most people he can. It's an old-school sort of protagonist that felt surprisingly refreshing.
You may notice from the onset that the language is very flowery and the author opts for a thesaurus instead of immersion when describing places and people. Normally, when authors do this they are merely stroking their own ego but, for the most part, this is written very effectively and competently and was enjoyable.
Now, why do I say "for the most part?" The names. My god, the names. It is painfully obvious that the author invented their own conlang and they wanted everyone to know, but the names are neigh impossible to pronounce and they're thrown around so frequently that even if they were replaced with names such as "Bob," "Fred," or "George," I still wouldn't have been able to keep them straight. They are not only a detriment to the reader. Indeed, they are a detriment to the book as a whole unless, of course, you're angling for an award.
Now, I say that, yet still think the book deserves all five stars. I'm am very eager to make flashcards then reread it.
slow-paced
DNFing at 28%, this is so long and really boring, I hate it
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Complicated
A sweet tale about a likable guy just doing his best to rule an empire
challenging
reflective
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
relaxing
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Character
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
adventurous
dark
reflective
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
lighthearted
relaxing
medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
A mix
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
No
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
slow-paced