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4.14 AVERAGE
4.14 AVERAGE
Unfortunately I am on my bullshit, so I’d like to just say the following.
Seivarden be more obviously into Breq challenge (impossible)
Seivarden be more obviously into Breq challenge (impossible)
challenging
emotional
tense
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
*4.5 stars*
This trilogy is just really something special, and I love it a lot. I’m being stingy with the rating, but I just didn’t love it as much as the first one, hence not feeling like it gets a full 5 stars. Regardless, still a fantastic book in a fantastic series that does exactly what I want out of science fiction.
This trilogy is just really something special, and I love it a lot. I’m being stingy with the rating, but I just didn’t love it as much as the first one, hence not feeling like it gets a full 5 stars. Regardless, still a fantastic book in a fantastic series that does exactly what I want out of science fiction.
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-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:
Complicated
Really enjoyed this as a followup to Ancillary Justice. More of the worldbuilding I feel in love with and even more cups of tea than the previous instalment. Looking forward to finishing this trilogy!
Breq is my hero. Which i suppose means i am rather in love with ann leckie and her characters and her world and her writing. I have learned much from breq, who articulates so neatly lessons about justice and mercy and right and love in ways i use often when seeing my own world. Not surprisingly there were a good many management and leadership lessons in this book as well. I look forward to the third installment next!
adventurous
emotional
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
mysterious
reflective
tense
slow-paced
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Ann Leckie continues to demonstrate her skill in crafting space operas ... through the 'normal' folks. This sequel focuses on quieter, more localized tensions as it attempts to broaden the world around these characters. It is a distinct and unique take on telling a space opera and it... strangely sort of works? This is a story of small rebellions, systemic injustices, and the everyday struggles of those living under imperial rule. Somehow, despite this tighter lens, the narrative still manages to expand the universe in fascinating ways. I have no idea how Leckie DOES that!
That said, the book isn’t exactly ... thrilling. Action exists, but it’s often happening on the periphery, with far more attention paid to political maneuvering and moral contemplation. The final 10% of the book, though, delivers the kind of payoff Leckie excels at—it’s gripping, thought-provoking, and propulsive in a way that leaves you reaching for the next installment. Even if you haven't been particularly engaged throughout.
The biggest weakness for me was the reduced emphasis on the dynamic between Breq and Seivarden. Not only did this not REALLY focus on Breq, but their relationship was the emotional anchor of the first book. While Seivarden is still present elsewhere, the connection feels VERY diminished here. And while Breq remains a compelling character, I didn’t find myself as drawn to her. She seems to be sitting back and observing more than anything.
The overarching plot and themes are still strong and I appreciated the way past characters and events continue to ripple through this story. Breq’s reflections on her past actions and her ongoing attempts at atonement add layers of emotional and moral complexity.
I listened to the audiobook for this one, and while the narrator did an excellent job bringing the story to life, the complexity of Radchaai culture and names occasionally caused some confusion in keeping track of who was who and what was happening.
Ultimately, Ancillary Sword remains a strong continuation of the series, even if it didn’t quite capture me in the same way as Ancillary Justice. I’m absolutely continuing on to the third book and hoping to see more of the relationships and emotional depth that made the first entry so memorable.
That said, the book isn’t exactly ... thrilling. Action exists, but it’s often happening on the periphery, with far more attention paid to political maneuvering and moral contemplation. The final 10% of the book, though, delivers the kind of payoff Leckie excels at—it’s gripping, thought-provoking, and propulsive in a way that leaves you reaching for the next installment. Even if you haven't been particularly engaged throughout.
The biggest weakness for me was the reduced emphasis on the dynamic between Breq and Seivarden. Not only did this not REALLY focus on Breq, but their relationship was the emotional anchor of the first book. While Seivarden is still present elsewhere, the connection feels VERY diminished here. And while Breq remains a compelling character, I didn’t find myself as drawn to her. She seems to be sitting back and observing more than anything.
The overarching plot and themes are still strong and I appreciated the way past characters and events continue to ripple through this story. Breq’s reflections on her past actions and her ongoing attempts at atonement add layers of emotional and moral complexity.
I listened to the audiobook for this one, and while the narrator did an excellent job bringing the story to life, the complexity of Radchaai culture and names occasionally caused some confusion in keeping track of who was who and what was happening.
Ultimately, Ancillary Sword remains a strong continuation of the series, even if it didn’t quite capture me in the same way as Ancillary Justice. I’m absolutely continuing on to the third book and hoping to see more of the relationships and emotional depth that made the first entry so memorable.
Just as good as the first novel. Excellent book and expect it to feature quite highly in the best books of 2014 post at the end of the year.
The concept, ideas, and characters are wonderful and unique. But I pulled teeth to get 30% through and nothing is happening. I am not even sure what the real plot is in this second book.