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A review by namizaela
The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book was the first I read by Katherine Addison, and it sparked my love for her writing. While the plot isn't especially gripping or complex, the strengths of this book lie in its lovable cast of characters and the core theme of kindness, loyalty, and connection.
Maia might be my favorite fantasy protagonist of all time. He starts out very shy, conflict-avoidant, and with low self-esteem, and the development he goes through in the book is fantastic. It was endearing to see Maia being taken aback by his newfound power and influence, but it was wonderful to see Maia finally realize that people actually like him for who he is, and not just his title. It was also amazing to see him gain agency and confidence throughout his rule.
The other characters complement Maia perfectly. Csevet was my favorite, it was heartwarming to see how much he cared about both his job and Maia himself. The nohecharei were also great protectors; the relationship between Maia, Cala, and Bechelar was one of my favorites.
However, I think what makes this book really stand out is its central thesis that wielding power with kindness and compassion will always be better than holding onto it. By the end of the book,Maia has so many people who are fiercely loyal to him. His epithet of The Bridge Builder supports this thesis and made me really emotional, because it describes who Maia is so well, and why his kind nature works out for him in the end.
I love this book and will probably reread it again. As a small aside, I'm interested how Addison went from writing the extremely dark and angsty Doctrine of Labyrinths series to writing this, since they're so different in tone and seem to send opposite messages.
Maia might be my favorite fantasy protagonist of all time. He starts out very shy, conflict-avoidant, and with low self-esteem, and the development he goes through in the book is fantastic. It was endearing to see Maia being taken aback by his newfound power and influence, but it was wonderful to see Maia finally realize that people actually like him for who he is, and not just his title. It was also amazing to see him gain agency and confidence throughout his rule.
The other characters complement Maia perfectly. Csevet was my favorite, it was heartwarming to see how much he cared about both his job and Maia himself. The nohecharei were also great protectors; the relationship between Maia, Cala, and Bechelar was one of my favorites.
However, I think what makes this book really stand out is its central thesis that wielding power with kindness and compassion will always be better than holding onto it. By the end of the book,
I love this book and will probably reread it again. As a small aside, I'm interested how Addison went from writing the extremely dark and angsty Doctrine of Labyrinths series to writing this, since they're so different in tone and seem to send opposite messages.