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3.97 AVERAGE


Right away I was drawn into this book, because it’s so unique, how it incorporates Native American mythology and culture, and how different clans have different magical powers. Roanhorse gives us unique and wonderful insight into Indigenous stories and beliefs.
But, while the world-building was interesting, I wasn't impressed with the plot.
Honestly, the plot is a bit of a mess. It starts as a mystery that lead our main character into various interesting places, which can be a good way to learn more about this world; but it felt like we were just jumping around from one thing to another, like a TV show.
This was entertaining, fast-paced but predictable.

This book has interesting world building and I especially like that much of it is based on Indigenous culture. A lot of dystopian/fantasy has a euro-centric, white slant to it and I am finding that I enjoy reading more diverse reads.

I liked Maggie as a character. She was frustrating, lost and unsure of herself. She has been told who she is by her mentor and believes it. When she meets Kai, he seems to throw what she thought for a loop. I liked that he challenged her. I also like the use of clan powers as the magic here. It was interesting to see different clan powers people can have.

I did find that the plot was sometimes wandering and that we get led off course of the main mission. I also thought that the final reveal was a little bit unexplained (fully), but I think that is to prepare for further books in the series.

Overall, this was a good and interesting read. I enjoyed the characters and world building and it kept me interested throughout.
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maddy_moose's review against another edition

DID NOT FINISH: 8%

Not in the mood at the moment, will definitely revisit later

AMAZING SPECTACULAR FABULOUSSSS.

Writing style was approachable, and the narration and pacing moved swimmingly! Characters were easy to get into and I WAS HOOOOKED OKAY.
I loved the lore, and Author introduced the Native/Dinetah mythology v naturally. Like I could understand and envision the magic and the monsters in their context.

I've been wanting to read more Native authors, and when I saw this recommended on display at my library, the cover got my curiosity cat!!

AND CAN YOU SAY CLIMAX?!?!?!! WHAT A MEETING!
Also I totally called the plot twist of
Spoiler the grudge match being her against Neizghani
BUT it didn't lessen the enjoyability AT ALL, I still ate that sht up!!! LMAO. Bc the way Author wrote the reveal and fight was still PLENTY exciting - I was yelling and jumping around my kitchen!

I wasn't expecting the climax-climax part 2 to ACTUALLY happen in the last 2 chapters, bc I figured Author was gonna save it for the next book, but HEY, boy oh boy did Author stuff a bunch of fireworks in the ending!

Maggie is a character I just wanna root for, and I hope she allows herself to heal and love in her journey, while still BEING A BADASS AYE. Her complicated emotions for Neizghani are very real and relatable, and so is her defense mechanism of shutting down to survive. When Ma'ii revealed some backstory at the end, I was flabbergasted at Maggie's lack/choice of reaction, but I forgave that since her action resolved it quickly (almost too quickly lol).

OFF I GO TO READ THE NEXT ONE!!!

What a romp! This was a high octane action flick disguised as a novel. Even better, it deals with the macabre which is a guilty pleasure of mine. Overall, a fantastic page-turner for those looking for adventure, monsters, and a killer female lead!

The biggest issue with the book is that it was done too soon. Really enjoyed this one and I’m only sad that the next one doesn’t come out until next year. The characters are all really interesting with Tah being a favorite. Even for such a small role he leaves a lasting impact.

Great world-building, a compelling main character, and an exciting plot that made it hard to put down. Looking forward to more in the series.

We read this book for book club.

At first I was intimidated by the heavy use of words I didn't recognize, but with time (and a handmade glossary) it got easier. The story started off darker than I was expecting, but I was able to adjust after a short while and I really liked the book.

It gave me very strong Shadowrun vibes, and as I've been playing Shadowrun for almost a decade now, I think that made it easier to fall into the world. I also got a lot of Percy Jackson vibes, if Percy was a Shadowrunner and was a lot less picky about killing monsters vs. humans.

Overall, I really liked this book and am looking forward to the sequel.

I knew I wanted to read this book when I first heard about it. And I was not disappointed in the least. I really wish I could fully express how much I loved this book, but I'm failing at the words. Maggie is the hero I didn't realize that I needed, and I hope that things turn out in the best way for her. She deserves to live.

Great speculative fiction. Maggie is a Shero for the ages. A little uneven in the pacing but a strong first book.