Take a photo of a barcode or cover
A review by magic_multicolored_miracle
An Inheritance of Magic by Benedict Jacka
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.75
I was surprised to learn that Benedict Jacka was not a new writer, and that this was written after he had already had success with another series.
This book is a mess. And only partly because the protagonist Stephen's life is mess too. The worldbuilding, while interesting, often comes across as dense and leaves chapters bogged down. Occasionally it also goes into tangents on science/logistics or philosophy that do become plot relevant but are far deeper than they need to be. Meanwhile the action and Stephen's thoughts read like an itinerary where he thinks or says something will happen and then it immediately does, with little buildup or tension, which also creates a sense of repetitiveness.
That said, the plot threads are enough to keep you hanging on and routing for relatable Stephen and loyal Hobbes, even though you know they're underdogs (undercats?) that are vastly outclassed by their opponents.
I probably won't continue the series when the next book comes out, but if you like a deeply built magic system and a fish out of water and just trying to live his life, this might be for you.
This book is a mess. And only partly because the protagonist Stephen's life is mess too. The worldbuilding, while interesting, often comes across as dense and leaves chapters bogged down. Occasionally it also goes into tangents on science/logistics or philosophy that do become plot relevant but are far deeper than they need to be. Meanwhile the action and Stephen's thoughts read like an itinerary where he thinks or says something will happen and then it immediately does, with little buildup or tension, which also creates a sense of repetitiveness.
That said, the plot threads are enough to keep you hanging on and routing for relatable Stephen and loyal Hobbes, even though you know they're underdogs (undercats?) that are vastly outclassed by their opponents.
I probably won't continue the series when the next book comes out, but if you like a deeply built magic system and a fish out of water and just trying to live his life, this might be for you.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Animal cruelty, Violence, Kidnapping, Abandonment, Injury/Injury detail, Classism
Moderate: Eating disorder, Gun violence, Stalking, Gaslighting, Alcohol