A review by aidareads
Tress of the Emerald Sea by Brandon Sanderson

adventurous funny inspiring lighthearted reflective tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

this was such a cozy fantasy! plus, with pirates and found family trope!! i loved the narration style (yes, hoid, you're a very charming storyteller), the easter eggs for other cosmere books and, of course, i loved tress. if you're looking for a cozy, standalone fantasy to read through really quickly, i think this is for you. also, i really appreciated how this, in spite of being more lighthearted, is still distinctly and authentically sanderson: even though it's cozy and funny, there are also instances of raw violence inflicted by means of a solid and interesting magic system. also, the illustrations all throughout the book were incredible and added so much to the story!! 
the only thing though, for me, is the sorceress. i think she had a lot of potential as a villain (especially considering all the different magic systems from other cosmere books she uses), but remained as a very flat, simple character, in contrast to others who were more human and complex. however, i think she still fulfilled her purpose in the story. but i hope she gets her own story and we get to know her more, because i'm very curious to see who she is, her purpose, her fears, where she comes from, and what makes her so important as a villain!
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