A review by deedireads
A Psalm of Storms and Silence by Roseanne A. Brown

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

4.25

All my reviews live at https://deedispeaking.com/reads/.

I read A Song of Wraiths and Ruin back when it first came out, and afterward I knew I’d be reading the sequel. I’m happy to report that Psalm is a great duology conclusion! It’s a bit slower paced than the first one (at least for the first half or so), but that’s in service of deeper character work that I ultimately appreciated. The end, though, had me flipping pages like mad — and what a strong, compassionate ending it was.

There’s so much to love here. Imaginative worldbuilding, a compelling plot, and characters I’d probably take a bullet for. But to me, the most noteworthy thing about this duology is Roseanne Brown’s exploration of mental illness through the lens of a fantasy story. Anxiety, panic attacks, and asserting control over your own mind are all presented in both conventional and metaphorical ways. This second book also includes a heartbreaking but deeply empathetic portrayal of emotional abuse.

I’m so glad I read these books! If you’re looking for a quick escape into a compelling fantasy duology, definitely pick them up.


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