A review by kaisermatthias
The Witness for the Dead by Katherine Addison

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

3.5

 I adored getting to spend more time with this character, and the story is well-built. Because the language and forms of address in this world are so specific, I kept tripping over half-remembering ways the words should be said, and what the various forms of address mean. Including the language information from Goblin Emperor would have been welcome, and is enough of a stumbling block that I cannot recommend picking this book up if you've not already read The Goblin Emperor.

This story also has a very significant use of the "bury your gays" trope, that doesn't feel terribly earned. The tragic backstory is always hinted at, never revealed, and the homophobia of the world at large is never really examined or explained. The 3.5 star rating is for Othala Celehar's largely delightful inner monologue, and the quality of interlacing mystery plots. If this world is revisited a third time, I hope more of the inherent prejudices are examined and challenged by the characters. 
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