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A review by an_erratic_reader
Godsgrave by Jay Kristoff
adventurous
dark
emotional
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
INTRODUCTION
'Byss and Blood!
In Godsgrave, the second book in the Nevernight Chronicle series, Mia's quest for revenge leads her deeper into the world of assassins and the politics of the Republic of Itreya. She becomes embroiled in a deadly game of power and influence, where betrayal is common.
Mia enters the deadly gladiatorial games in Godsgrave, fighting not just for survival but to get closer to her ultimate target. The games are brutal, and Mia must use all her skills to stay alive. She will end up a totally different person, not because of the fighting.
Finally, as she navigates the treacherous waters of her life as an assassin, she uncovers more about her dark powers and the shadows that follow her. The lore of the world expands, revealing secrets that tie back to the larger narrative.
WHAT I LIKED
It's hard not to really like Mia, her daemons too, and the way she grows along the bloody vengeful path she walks.
Also, the larger narrative on her family background and her being a darkin get clearer but also more mysterious and engaging.
Finally, Kristoff Jay's signature writing style, combining sharp wit, elaborate world-building, plot twists and a cliff-hanger that left me dumbstruck. He is a real prodigy of the fantasy genre.
WHAT I DISLIKED
The way Dona Leona's arc wraps up is a bit anticlimactic, just like Mia's fight with the Unfallen (which I was hoping would be magnificent).
Also, I withhold any comments on how the book ends, as I need to see how it is explained in the third and final book.
WOULD I RECOMMEND IT?
'Byss and Blood, yes! Mia, Mr Kindly and Eclipse's banter, the fights, the footnotes (!), the world-building etc are all top-notch.
'Byss and Blood!
In Godsgrave, the second book in the Nevernight Chronicle series, Mia's quest for revenge leads her deeper into the world of assassins and the politics of the Republic of Itreya. She becomes embroiled in a deadly game of power and influence, where betrayal is common.
Mia enters the deadly gladiatorial games in Godsgrave, fighting not just for survival but to get closer to her ultimate target. The games are brutal, and Mia must use all her skills to stay alive. She will end up a totally different person, not because of the fighting.
Finally, as she navigates the treacherous waters of her life as an assassin, she uncovers more about her dark powers and the shadows that follow her. The lore of the world expands, revealing secrets that tie back to the larger narrative.
WHAT I LIKED
It's hard not to really like Mia, her daemons too, and the way she grows along the bloody vengeful path she walks.
Also, the larger narrative on her family background and her being a darkin get clearer but also more mysterious and engaging.
Finally, Kristoff Jay's signature writing style, combining sharp wit, elaborate world-building, plot twists and a cliff-hanger that left me dumbstruck. He is a real prodigy of the fantasy genre.
WHAT I DISLIKED
The way Dona Leona's arc wraps up is a bit anticlimactic, just like Mia's fight with the Unfallen (which I was hoping would be magnificent).
Also, I withhold any comments on how the book ends, as I need to see how it is explained in the third and final book.
WOULD I RECOMMEND IT?
'Byss and Blood, yes! Mia, Mr Kindly and Eclipse's banter, the fights, the footnotes (!), the world-building etc are all top-notch.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death and Injury/Injury detail