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A review by ngallion
Nyphron Rising by Michael J. Sullivan
3.0
I really, really want to like this series. There’s a lot going for it on paper that seems like it could be a winner. Political intrigue, a mysterious magic system, a lost heir, an enigmatic wizard, etc. It never feels, though, like it all comes together to be equal to the sun if it’s parts. Of the three books I’ve read in this series, this is certainly the best, but it still feels slight - like a middle grade book that desperately wants to be more. That’s not a bad thing, but it’s something that’s consistently underwhelming.
In this book, some interesting things happen, but the reason for characters moving from one place to another isn’t clearly developed or pressing enough to give the book a sense of direction or purpose. It’s explained, but it’s clearly just an excuse to move the characters so the story can happen. That’s how all books work, of course, but really good books do a better job of fleshing out story, character, and motives in such a way that travels and choices feel organic.
It’s certainly not bad. It’s almost worthy of four stars. It’s just too slight to feel excited about, which is why I’m only giving it three.
In this book, some interesting things happen, but the reason for characters moving from one place to another isn’t clearly developed or pressing enough to give the book a sense of direction or purpose. It’s explained, but it’s clearly just an excuse to move the characters so the story can happen. That’s how all books work, of course, but really good books do a better job of fleshing out story, character, and motives in such a way that travels and choices feel organic.
It’s certainly not bad. It’s almost worthy of four stars. It’s just too slight to feel excited about, which is why I’m only giving it three.