A review by thalassa_reading
The Harbors of the Sun by Martha Wells

adventurous emotional funny hopeful inspiring fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? Yes
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

The book starts where part 4 left off, in the middle of a fast-paced plot where some of our Raksura chase down kidnappers who have stolen some of their own, and the others try to unite the Raksura against an existential threat to many races. There's a lot happening but as always Martha Wells focuses as much on the characters, their motivations and relationships and on community as she does on plot and action. It's so beautiful how our special Raksura court treat prejudice: They use others' prejudice against Raksura to their own advantage or ignore it and help others despite being seen as animals. And I loved how they judge the half-Fell queen and her court only by their actions, not by what they are. It was so beautiful to see that young queen grow into herself and go from naive and confused to a personality with understanding and agency.
So many amazing characters and stories!