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

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

5.0

Wow. So amazing. I’m a slow reader, and I read this in under 48 hours. I’ve never not put a book down to do something else before. The narrative voice(s) are amazing, the worldbuilding has me hooked and the intricate layer of mysteries and questions makes this as much a mystery-thriller as it is a fantasy novel. Some people have an issue with one POV being in second person, but it’s done very well, it helps keep the narrative chronology clear and it adds an extra layer of intrigue to the book.

Honestly, this wouldn’t have been the kind of plot I expected to become enthralled by. I’m simple, and like basic happy ever afters. And this is dark, incredibly so. But, you are as gently eased into the level of darkness as is possible, in my opinion, and this dark stuff is what makes you connect so strongly with the story. The characters aren’t naturally loveable, due to their demeanours and actions, but I don’t think they are supposed to be. You see their faults, but connect so strongly with them and understand why they’re there. 

I couldn’t recommend the book more highly 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings