A review by n_asyikin_
The Obelisk Gate by N.K. Jemisin

challenging dark emotional medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I liked to take my time reading Jemisin's works, because her world was so rich, so complex, you found yourself captivated in an anthropological way.

Set in a dystopia where xenophobia (against orogenes) & ableism were rampant, the Broken Earth series explored morally questionable decisions people made, & were made to choose. The unequal interplay between sociopolitical standings were exacerbated by the power of nature, i.e. Father Earth, highlighting the greater injustices faced by the oppressed. 

If anything, I'm always in awe with how layered the structure to Jemisin's books were. She'd made you questioned who's the narrator, the linearity of the story timeline, the intent of her characters that left you feeling somewhat out-of-sort, but never to the point of confusion. Jemisin's style of writing would teased you & enlightened you in equal measures; it will leave you hooked.

The way Jemisin imbued the characters' complex internal world with the chaos of their reality was mindblowing. I found myself wondering how one could even begun to think of creating such a world. Truly, a brilliant read!

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