A review by mythicalreadsreviewer
Warmaidens by Kelly Coon

adventurous dark emotional mysterious tense fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? No
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
• Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

"Warmaidens," the sequel to "Gravemaidens," takes us back to the fantasy world of Kammani and her companions, but this time with a narrative that struggles to match the emotional depth and coherence of its predecessor. Set in the backdrop of impending war and political turmoil, the book aims to deliver a dark, action-packed conclusion but falls short in execution.

The story resumes months after the events of the first book, with Kammani now a respected healer in the city-state of Manzazu. While this setup promises an intriguing continuation, the narrative quickly becomes a victim of its own pace. The rushed development robs the plot of the richness and detail that could have made it more compelling.

A significant disappointment is the transformation of Nanaea, whose character becomes almost unrecognizable from the first book. The loss of the complex and emotionally charged sister relationship, a cornerstone of "Gravemaidens," leaves a void in the story. This shift not only undermines the continuity of the characters but also detracts from the overall impact of the narrative.

The book misses several opportunities to deepen its thematic exploration, particularly in the portrayal of the female warriors and feminist themes. While these elements had the potential to add a powerful dimension to the story, their underdevelopment results in a narrative that feels lacking in depth and substance.

Dagan remains a highlight, his steadfastness providing some continuity and emotional grounding amidst the disjointed storytelling. However, Kammani's character arc is problematic, with decisions and actions that seem inconsistent with her established personality, further contributing to the book's disjointed feel.

In summary, "Warmaidens" struggles to live up to the expectations set by "Gravemaidens." While it attempts to conclude the duology on a high note, the lack of character depth, rushed pacing, and missed thematic opportunities result in a sequel that is ultimately unsatisfying. Fans of the first book may find some closure in this conclusion, but it may not be the gratifying end they hoped for.