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arielthebookgargoyle 's review for:
The Crystal Heir
by Brendan Noble
adventurous
challenging
tense
slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven:
Plot
Strong character development:
Yes
Loveable characters:
Yes
Diverse cast of characters:
Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus:
Yes
Writing the review for this particular book is difficult. The story was tense and infuriating at times. Extremely slow and enamored with its past for set up. Other times it was heartfelt and warm, jumped right to the action and stuck on point. It was inconsistent. There were parts I wished the story would just end because I was bored and knew the information already, and other parts I was enamored. Right in the action, discovering mystery and wanted the story to continue. I don't know what to do with it because of that.
I think if at the beginning, if the tale focused more on itself rather than romanticizing what had already happened, it would be an easier read. It is supposed to be a sequel with the assumption that the first story was already read. As much as book 1 details and that of the short story of the series were included, I think it has done quite the opposite and vyes more to be a standalone. Someone could totally just read this one and not be completely lost.
That said, omg that ending. It was epic. There were certain characters that I couldn't get enough of either. Like Wanusa of the Glassblades. She had some difficult choices that made her particular parts of the story very compelling. Kasia kept jumping into different realms trying to learn her portal powers. Her relationships are tested. Pulled between her past hurts and her furthering insanity. The dynamic between her flaws, her lack of experience, and realizing what is really important cemented her further as the lead character who is a draw into the story for me. More of the Bound Ones were revealed, including their intentions, which I was really into their goal. I won't say to not spoil, but it is a great counter to the protagonists and brings more into question the reason for everything's being.
The author is amazing connecting with his characters and where he takes them. He has a good grasp of what an expansive story should have. How to leave a little mystery, to then have a reveal that is wonderful, simply put. However, I feel needs to tighten the overall story to help it be a smoother read.
So take from that what you will. I would continue to read this series, but only when I knew I had time to properly invest.
I think if at the beginning, if the tale focused more on itself rather than romanticizing what had already happened, it would be an easier read. It is supposed to be a sequel with the assumption that the first story was already read. As much as book 1 details and that of the short story of the series were included, I think it has done quite the opposite and vyes more to be a standalone. Someone could totally just read this one and not be completely lost.
That said, omg that ending. It was epic. There were certain characters that I couldn't get enough of either. Like Wanusa of the Glassblades. She had some difficult choices that made her particular parts of the story very compelling. Kasia kept jumping into different realms trying to learn her portal powers. Her relationships are tested. Pulled between her past hurts and her furthering insanity. The dynamic between her flaws, her lack of experience, and realizing what is really important cemented her further as the lead character who is a draw into the story for me. More of the Bound Ones were revealed, including their intentions, which I was really into their goal. I won't say to not spoil, but it is a great counter to the protagonists and brings more into question the reason for everything's being.
The author is amazing connecting with his characters and where he takes them. He has a good grasp of what an expansive story should have. How to leave a little mystery, to then have a reveal that is wonderful, simply put. However, I feel needs to tighten the overall story to help it be a smoother read.
So take from that what you will. I would continue to read this series, but only when I knew I had time to properly invest.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Genocide, Self harm, Violence, Schizophrenia/Psychosis , War, Classism
Moderate: Death, Emotional abuse, Genocide, Mental illness, Panic attacks/disorders, Toxic relationship, Blood, Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Child abuse, Child death, Torture, Forced institutionalization, Vomit, Kidnapping, Grief, Murder, Schizophrenia/Psychosis , Fire/Fire injury, Injury/Injury detail, Pandemic/Epidemic