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A review by alibrareads
The Hidden Palace by Helene Wecker
adventurous
emotional
reflective
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
Considering I gave the first book 3 stars, I’m pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed this sequel! I might just be more inclined to enjoy books like this now compared to when I first read the Golem and the Jinni in 2019, but the writing and storytelling in this one just held my interest in a way that book one didn’t always.
It was very slice of life in ways and there were many scenes that didn’t necessarily feel like they went anywhere in particular, but it’s all about these little moments that build up to turning points in these people’s lives, and they all eventually come together and intertwine in a satisfying and magical way. There were many POVs, which kept things feeling a little more like they were moving forward, and honestly I was interested in every single person’s storyline. They all have their own flaws and secrets, people are missing information and making assumptions, and it makes for compelling tension throughout the book.
The world and conflicts feel very real and sympathetic even though the most pivotal characters are not human. The writing was very smooth, and this was just really well-written! These books are great for people who love historical fiction with a bit of light fantasy elements while still feeling very grounded in reality. The author is in the midst of writing a third book in the series, which I will definitely read!
It was very slice of life in ways and there were many scenes that didn’t necessarily feel like they went anywhere in particular, but it’s all about these little moments that build up to turning points in these people’s lives, and they all eventually come together and intertwine in a satisfying and magical way. There were many POVs, which kept things feeling a little more like they were moving forward, and honestly I was interested in every single person’s storyline. They all have their own flaws and secrets, people are missing information and making assumptions, and it makes for compelling tension throughout the book.
The world and conflicts feel very real and sympathetic even though the most pivotal characters are not human. The writing was very smooth, and this was just really well-written! These books are great for people who love historical fiction with a bit of light fantasy elements while still feeling very grounded in reality. The author is in the midst of writing a third book in the series, which I will definitely read!