Scan barcode
A review by talknerdybookblog
The Justice of Kings by Richard Swan
adventurous
dark
emotional
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
1.5
Representation: Side character uses a wheelchair
My biggest issue with this book was Helena's (the protagonist's) characterization. Her backstory informs the reader that she grew up during unrest as her country resisted colonialism, was subsequently orphaned and survived on the streets by herself. And yet, in the present - only two years since living on the streets hand-to-mouth - she complains about the quality of her life with Sir Konrad (who directly reports to the <i>Emperor</i>) as they're always on the move, staying as guests to the most high-ranking officials in the towns/cities they visit, <i>and</i> has temper tantrums about being mentored to become a Justice herself. It made no sense.
Furthermore, the book is set during a time when it was not uncommon for a woman Helena's age (19) to have been married for 3 years. Yet, Helena behaves like a teenager from the 21st century, frequently pouting, scowling, and being contrary just for the sake of it. Her characterization in the present would've made way more sense if she came from privilege and had never known hard work before.
I was also disappointed with the author's choices regarding Helena's romance. Not only is it the most ridiculous case of insta-love (I find insta-love can be forgivable if there's actual chemistry), but Helena quickly comes to the decision that she'll give up the opportunity to become a Justice (perhaps the most powerful job) herself to become the wife of this random boy she's just met. FML.
While the function of the Justice was fleshed out very well - the author's grasp on law definitely shined through - the book also suffered from a distinct lack of chemistry between the main group of characters. I honestly didn't care for a single character, and while we were told everyone cared about each other, their actions said otherwise.
Despite finishing the book, I think this would've (and should've) been a DNF. However, I had a reading challenge to complete this month, so I stuck it out.
Mature Themes:
• Sex (not explicit)
• Swearing
• Alcohol consumption
Possible Triggers: Yes
• Colonialism
• Hints at an eventual sexual relationship between Helena and Sir Konrad Vonvalt despite the book characterizing their relationship at the beginning as a pseudo-adoptive father/daughter (she's 19, and he's ~38 in this book)
• Sexism
• Ableist language (unchallenged)
- Brain death of a supporting character subsequently described in ableist terms
• Religious fundamentalism
• Immolation
• Necromancy
• Knife/Sword violence
• Attempted murder
• Murder
• Death by hanging (described)
• Abduction and captivity
• Amputation (described)
• Religious persecution
Ending:HFN in that the conspiracy was revealed, the murder mystery solved, and the group is on their way to Sova, the Imperial capital. However, there's a mild cliffhanger since the big bad villain (the priest) gets away.
My biggest issue with this book was Helena's (the protagonist's) characterization. Her backstory informs the reader that she grew up during unrest as her country resisted colonialism, was subsequently orphaned and survived on the streets by herself. And yet, in the present - only two years since living on the streets hand-to-mouth - she complains about the quality of her life with Sir Konrad (who directly reports to the <i>Emperor</i>) as they're always on the move, staying as guests to the most high-ranking officials in the towns/cities they visit, <i>and</i> has temper tantrums about being mentored to become a Justice herself. It made no sense.
Furthermore, the book is set during a time when it was not uncommon for a woman Helena's age (19) to have been married for 3 years. Yet, Helena behaves like a teenager from the 21st century, frequently pouting, scowling, and being contrary just for the sake of it. Her characterization in the present would've made way more sense if she came from privilege and had never known hard work before.
I was also disappointed with the author's choices regarding Helena's romance. Not only is it the most ridiculous case of insta-love (I find insta-love can be forgivable if there's actual chemistry), but Helena quickly comes to the decision that she'll give up the opportunity to become a Justice (perhaps the most powerful job) herself to become the wife of this random boy she's just met. FML.
While the function of the Justice was fleshed out very well - the author's grasp on law definitely shined through - the book also suffered from a distinct lack of chemistry between the main group of characters. I honestly didn't care for a single character, and while we were told everyone cared about each other, their actions said otherwise.
Despite finishing the book, I think this would've (and should've) been a DNF. However, I had a reading challenge to complete this month, so I stuck it out.
Mature Themes:
• Sex (not explicit)
• Swearing
• Alcohol consumption
Possible Triggers: Yes
• Colonialism
• Hints at an eventual sexual relationship between Helena and Sir Konrad Vonvalt despite the book characterizing their relationship at the beginning as a pseudo-adoptive father/daughter (she's 19, and he's ~38 in this book)
• Sexism
• Ableist language (unchallenged)
- Brain death of a supporting character subsequently described in ableist terms
• Religious fundamentalism
• Immolation
• Necromancy
• Knife/Sword violence
• Attempted murder
• Murder
• Death by hanging (described)
• Abduction and captivity
• Amputation (described)
• Religious persecution
Ending: