Scan barcode
A review by hegeleen_kissel
The Sun and the Void by Gabriela Romero Lacruz
adventurous
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
4.0
The story of The Sun and the Void is set in a colourful and vibrant world. Romero-Lacruz really makes it come to life with vivid descriptions that make you feel like you're wandering in the lush landscapes of Venazia yourself. It is clear the world lies close the the author's heart because that love seeps through in every sentence. To immerse yourself even more in the world and the story as it develops, I'd recommend investing some time in consulting the glossary of terms as you start reading.
I enjoyed the story, though I found the middle part dragging on a tad too long and sometimes didn't know where the story was heading exactly. I saw some reviews mentioning they found the beginning too long and slow, but I thought that space was necessary to set the story and the relationships between the characters. For me personally, it could even have been a bit longer. I don't want to spoil anything, but I think Doña Laurel's goodness and its impact on Reina's life would have benefitted the motivation of the events that were to come.
I really admire how Romero-Lacruz succeeded in making me simultaneously root for and yell at almost every single character: they all had their flaws and redeemable qualities. The dynamics between the characters were very intruiguing and complex and I can't wait to see how their relationships develop in the future. I found the f/f romance wonderful - and even surprising but in the most pleasant of ways!
What I missed a little was a clear explanation of the magic system, but in the end - and with the help of the short overview at the end of the book - it became more or less clear to me. I absolutely loved the lore and mythology, though, and I was blown away by various plot twists and revelations that suddenly put previous events or conversations in a whole new light.
In short, a very powerful and admirable debut novel that is clearly written with a lot of passion. I eagerly look forward to the rest of the series and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who loves some mythology-heavy fantasy!
I enjoyed the story, though I found the middle part dragging on a tad too long and sometimes didn't know where the story was heading exactly. I saw some reviews mentioning they found the beginning too long and slow, but I thought that space was necessary to set the story and the relationships between the characters. For me personally, it could even have been a bit longer. I don't want to spoil anything, but I think Doña Laurel's goodness and its impact on Reina's life would have benefitted the motivation of the events that were to come.
I really admire how Romero-Lacruz succeeded in making me simultaneously root for and yell at almost every single character: they all had their flaws and redeemable qualities. The dynamics between the characters were very intruiguing and complex and I can't wait to see how their relationships develop in the future. I found the f/f romance wonderful - and even surprising but in the most pleasant of ways!
What I missed a little was a clear explanation of the magic system, but in the end - and with the help of the short overview at the end of the book - it became more or less clear to me. I absolutely loved the lore and mythology, though, and I was blown away by various plot twists and revelations that suddenly put previous events or conversations in a whole new light.
In short, a very powerful and admirable debut novel that is clearly written with a lot of passion. I eagerly look forward to the rest of the series and I'd highly recommend it to anyone who loves some mythology-heavy fantasy!