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emily_mh's review against another edition
adventurous
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? Yes
4.5
This was gay! So gay!! I loved the gay!!! The solid, loving relationship between Bee and Cass, two middle-aged sapphics, was my particular favourite. But honestly everywhere you turn there are gorgeous queer characters.
This instalment truly development the premise of the first book into a series. By that I mean, the first instalment could have potentially stood alone given its scope, but this one opened up said scope and did it well. The cast of characters expanded, more details were given on the political system (specifically, the way classism and sexism interplay), and I got a real sense of where the series might be heading.
The MC Pan also underwent development. She threw herself into learning how to be a knight, both in physical training and her social role. The SCs also got their chance to shine: Bea and Cass were contemplating what they wanted their future to look like, and how to approach rebellion. Scottie was figuring out what her role could and should be, while Kate was learning how to engage in softness and trust others. Having such well-rounded characters was a huge help in bringing this story to life.
I really appreciated that this volume took the time to confront the issues in Cass and Bea’s initial plan to topple the patriarchy. For example, it discusses the saviourism inherent in rescuing princesses who do not ask for it. In doing so the story raises the question of what is the best way to get rid of an oppressive system, and I’m super keen to see how the series will continue to address this.
Finally, the art was wonderful. I loved how much green was used in the colour palette, and how Templer played around with perspective. There were some truly gorgeous full- and two-page panel spreads as a result.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Misogyny, Sexism, Classism, and Violence
Minor: Death, Injury/Injury detail, Drug use, Medical content, Ableism, Vomit, Cursing, Colonisation, Physical abuse, Murder, and Blood
Minor: gambling
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