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A review by writteninthestarwars
Talonsister by Jen Williams
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.25
There's nothing I love more than starting a new fantasy series. For better or for worse, first books are where a brand new world begins to take shape, creatures are formed and characters are brought to life. I'm happy to say that Talonsister very much falls into the 'better' category.
Following a soldier of the fearsome, ever-expanding Imperium, a young girl raised by griffins in the snowy north of the island of Brittletain, and an Imperium spy just trying to do his job without getting killed, this book explores the taught and unrelenting ties that bind people together. Even, and perhaps especially, with those who we would least expect.
Leven, Ynis and Kaeto are engrossing main characters (though the first two perhaps a bit more than the third) whose stories all offer different perspectives of this fantasy world. Jen Williams does an excellent job at creating characters who are flawed and difficult and incredibly human, and all while setting up the story for what's sure to be an explosive sequel.
While I enjoyed this book immensely, there were a few moments in the last quarter of the book where I found myself wanting more. This feels odd to say considering the book comes in at about 550 pages, but certain elements regarding relationships and internal emotions felt rushed during this part of the book. I'm hoping those are explored a bit more deeply and given a bit more space in the next one, though!
Many thanks to Titan Books for sending me an ARC for review!
Following a soldier of the fearsome, ever-expanding Imperium, a young girl raised by griffins in the snowy north of the island of Brittletain, and an Imperium spy just trying to do his job without getting killed, this book explores the taught and unrelenting ties that bind people together. Even, and perhaps especially, with those who we would least expect.
Leven, Ynis and Kaeto are engrossing main characters (though the first two perhaps a bit more than the third) whose stories all offer different perspectives of this fantasy world. Jen Williams does an excellent job at creating characters who are flawed and difficult and incredibly human, and all while setting up the story for what's sure to be an explosive sequel.
While I enjoyed this book immensely, there were a few moments in the last quarter of the book where I found myself wanting more. This feels odd to say considering the book comes in at about 550 pages, but certain elements regarding relationships and internal emotions felt rushed during this part of the book. I'm hoping those are explored a bit more deeply and given a bit more space in the next one, though!
Many thanks to Titan Books for sending me an ARC for review!