srose72 's review for:

Isles of the Emberdark by Brandon Sanderson

5.0

emotional inspiring tense medium-paced

Plot or Character Driven: Character

Strong character development: Yes

Loveable characters: Yes

Diverse cast of characters: Yes

Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

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Where “Yumi and the Nightmare Painter” overwhelms the reader with Cosmere knowledge and language in such a way that can isolate one who isn’t already a part of the fan base, the same confusion from what’s presented in “Isles” directly supports the narrative and themes. An uninducted reader walks in step with Dusk with each piece of new information, seeking answers alongside him. At its core, “Isles” is a story about finding identity: recovering identity of self and preserving cultural identity. Dusk’s story emphatically declares that technological progress is not inherently good and can be tragically harmful if it comes at the sacrifice of culture. While multiple forces in the Cosmere seek to dominate Dusk and his people with knowledge, the pre-industrial traditions of the Eelakin become like David, toppling Goliath with a sling forged from the condescension of these “civilized” societies. Starling’s story is woven sometimes comedically between Dusk’s chapters as her bleeding-heart optimism comes in contrast to Dusk’s stoic pragmatism. Starling must learn to be a leader and her challenges towards that goal also contrasts the wider politics in the Cosmere, pointedly the imperial Malwish empire whose representatives serve as the main antagonists. As both main characters come into their respective understandings of themselves and their place among their people, we are both left hopeful for the Eelakin and the crew of the Dynamic and left longing to continue exploring and uncovering the mysteries of the emberdark.