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jharmanevans's review
3.75
Like if cosy fantasy were actually satisfying. Enjoyed this, but somewhat underwhelmed... The treachery of the court could have felt as socially dangerous as we are told it is, and the climax seemed abrupt.
gillianw's review against another edition
5.0
4.5 stars
Absolutely marvellous! While I was more than a little intimidated by the umpteen page glossary of names at the beginning of this book, it turned out that knowing everything about everyone isn't necessary. You'll get to know the names of the main characters who are integral to the story, and even if you forget one, there are usually enough context clues in conversations to remind you of who's who.
Realistically though, it's the descriptions of the palace and the court where this book really shines and lures the reader in. It doesn't skimp on detail, but it doesn't overwhelm either. It helps that the main character is out of his depth as well, and the reader learns the ins and outs of court life and palace intrigue right along with him. Maia is a delightful character and his journey from being the abandoned, almost forgotten son of an Emperor to suddenly becoming the Emperor himself is a treat. I always say I don't like fantasy, but then a book like this comes along and immediately changes my mind.
This is not a romance novel, but it is an adventure and one that I highly recommend you take.
Absolutely marvellous! While I was more than a little intimidated by the umpteen page glossary of names at the beginning of this book, it turned out that knowing everything about everyone isn't necessary. You'll get to know the names of the main characters who are integral to the story, and even if you forget one, there are usually enough context clues in conversations to remind you of who's who.
Realistically though, it's the descriptions of the palace and the court where this book really shines and lures the reader in. It doesn't skimp on detail, but it doesn't overwhelm either. It helps that the main character is out of his depth as well, and the reader learns the ins and outs of court life and palace intrigue right along with him. Maia is a delightful character and his journey from being the abandoned, almost forgotten son of an Emperor to suddenly becoming the Emperor himself is a treat. I always say I don't like fantasy, but then a book like this comes along and immediately changes my mind.
This is not a romance novel, but it is an adventure and one that I highly recommend you take.
lazuli_73's review against another edition
emotional
relaxing
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
jenhurst's review against another edition
3.0
I was really excited for this fantasy of manners but overall, I found it rather disappointing. It was pretty average. I liked the use of airships though.
haskinsc's review against another edition
challenging
lighthearted
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death of parent and Suicide
basqueinthesun's review against another edition
challenging
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
3.0
emrbarber's review against another edition
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
zoecrainfields's review against another edition
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
ledzephlin's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
5.0
chocococo's review
relaxing
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
2.75
Fairly mid. Listened to the audiobook and all the names and titles got very confusing. Narrator did an excellent job though, really brought the characters to life. The plot is almost non existent. The political intrigue and mystery parts of the story fell flat for me. The stakes never feel all that high, tension gets resolved too quickly and the MC has very little agency. Things just kinda happen to him.
On the plus side, MC is quite relatable and likeable. The world is pretty interesting and I liked learning more about it.
All in all an ok read but nothing I would recommend others or reach for again.
On the plus side, MC is quite relatable and likeable. The world is pretty interesting and I liked learning more about it.
All in all an ok read but nothing I would recommend others or reach for again.