A review by miak2
The Bone Shard Emperor by Andrea Stewart

adventurous emotional funny mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

 
I could feel the pull to be out on the open sea, away from the mess of politics, of trying to untangle the knots my father had wrought.


4.5 stars

This sequel had so much going for it but, unfortunately, a couple things that detracted from it as well.

To get those out of the way: Nisong, as the main antagonist, was The Worst. There's complex, morally gray villains. There's villains you love to hate. I just hated her - she had no redeeming qualities, and I really just did not enjoy reading her sections. Also, the Ragan storyline was fairly predictable, and he just felt like an annoyance. I could've done without his inclusion entirely.

HOWEVER, there's a ton that I enjoyed about this book too!

- Mephi (and now Thrana too) continue to deliver as quirky animal companions.

- Lin and Jovis' dynamics were SO INTERESTING. I usually hate miscommunication tropes, but both had very understandable reasons for keeping things from one another. They bickered a ton but also supported each other fiercely. I really enjoyed both of their arcs, both together and apart.

- I freaking adore Phalue and Ranami. Seeing how their relationship (now marriage!!) has evolved from the first book was really great, as well as the love and support they have for one another. Both of their personalities really shined in this book, and I'm excited to see where they go in the final one.

- I thought the politics were really well done. Now, granted, I'm a sucker for political books that don't have to do with OUR politics, but it was really fascinating to read how Lin navigated her relationships with the governors to earn favor and move along her plans. Plus, the discussion of how damaging rhetoric coming from those in power has the power to impact how relationships are navigated and to corrupt statuses. *ahem* yeah that one hits a little close to home.

Overall, a really enjoyable read, as expected. I saw several of the plot twists coming, but others definitely threw me for a loop. Very much looking forward to the final installment. 
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