A review by kaywhiteley
In the Watchful City by S. Qiouyi Lu

adventurous challenging dark emotional reflective 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? It's complicated

5.0

This is definitely one of my new favorite books and S. Qiōuyì Lù is one of my new favorite authors. This is genuinely the most unique way of storytelling I have ever experienced and I am rather obsessed with how it is written. Each story was distinctive and both disturbed me and filled me with wonder. 

I also think the author handles difficult topics perfectly for my taste. Ae does not shy away from anything, but also describes challenging ideas, like suicide, with nuance and creativity. The different messages are clear without being too overt or preachy. 

Everything about this fantasy world felt familiar and yet so, so strange. I want more, yet I am also satisfied with the level of world-building and the paths, stories, and histories left unexplored and mysterious. 
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