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queenofstrays's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.0
violetturtledove's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.75
I think I had some expectations and apprehensions going into this book. The series so far seems to follow a certain pattern; a mortal taking on the role of an Incarnation, learning the various aspects of the job, and an eventual struggle with Satan. The stories don't occur chronologically (the 'Time' one is actually backwards) so there's not much of a feeling of progression towards the eventual 'show down'. Considering that there are five incarnations, and it was originally planned as a five book series, I can't help but wonder how it was meant to end.
However, in this book we do see a bit more of the overall plan, the backstoried and connections between some previously mentioned characters are explained in more detail so it's starting to feel more intricate.
As the books are set in a sort of alternate history with science and magic, it's hard to tell when some bits are set.. some elements of the start of this story seem particularly old fashioned, and it's a little confusing when considering the technology used in later parts.
I also feel like this author doesn't write the most nuanced female characters, so I wasn't sure what to expect from a female-led book, and the start did have me groaning a bit, but I realised that really none of the characters are especially complex in their personalities, there are a lot of stereotypes.
What he does do really well are the mechanics of the various fantasy concepts, and some parodying of tropes; these are fun and generally are making the series very readable for me. On the other hand, there's a scene in a dojo which just seemed like an excuse to show off his judo knowledge.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Rape, Sexism, Child death, and Misogyny
snd1101's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
2.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death
Minor: Rape
peramene's review against another edition
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Gah, this one hasn't aged very well. Unfortunately, the attitudes of the 80s are on full display here - tread carefully if you're sensitive to racism, sexism, etc.
That said, it's difficult not to love Niobe, who finally establishes the sort of family tree web that holds the series together. The ending is a little longer than it needed to be, but you'll find yourself missing Niobe when the book's done.
That said, it's difficult not to love Niobe, who finally establishes the sort of family tree web that holds the series together. The ending is a little longer than it needed to be, but you'll find yourself missing Niobe when the book's done.
carlylottsofbookz's review
4.0
Less confusing that the story of Chronos (time), I really enjoyed my first delve into the realm of a female Incarnation--and actually in this case 2 Incarnations.
This is the story of Fate--or at least a woman Niobe who becomes an Aspect of Fate in her life. The story about Death may still be more interesting to me, but this was a great one! :)
This is the story of Fate--or at least a woman Niobe who becomes an Aspect of Fate in her life. The story about Death may still be more interesting to me, but this was a great one! :)
ladynik's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
beetree's review against another edition
4.0
Probably my second favourite of the series so far (after On A Pale Horse). This book provided a lot of "oh, now I get it" moments since most of the Incarnations are related, and Niobe is basically at the center of it all. It was fourth one I read because it was tougher to find in the library.
charlibirb's review against another edition
4.0
Really fun read, although the sexism is dated... Overall, great world.
jaredrlopatin's review against another edition
5.0
Easily one of my favorites within the series. Wonderful characters with a fascinating tale.
jeremiah042's review against another edition
lighthearted
2.0
Well. They wasn’t very good. Took a lot longer to finish than the other two. Worry it’s an issue of Anthony writing with female protagonist.