A review by steveatwaywords
The Fifth Season by N.K. Jemisin

adventurous dark inspiring reflective medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

Jemisin offers not only a fresh take on the genre fantasy formula; not only potent statements on diversity, tolerance, and captivity; not only environmental arguments backgrounded in historical and political theory--I was drawn in particular to her narrative voice, the sardonic attitude of distanced wisdom and casual tone. She relates the tale echoing the judgment of readers along the way, placing therefore the gravity of the storytelling not upon anything "epic" but upon the choices of her characters, the relationships they negotiate, and the understanding of an entire planet as a character in the drama. Moving straight on to the second volume....
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