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4.11 AVERAGE


It just wasn't for me. The plot was really slow and it seemed obvious where the story was going. Reading reviews before I dnf'd it, supported my theory. 


Builds slow but finishes strong

It builds slowly, introducing a large cast of characters which makes it a bit difficult to follow at the start. However, once you get to know the characters they become gradually more distinct and intriguing. Gwynne builds to a epic conclusion incorporating multiple story arcs and setting the stage for the rest of the series. I promise - the pace at the end is worth fighting through the beginning.
adventurous dark tense slow-paced
adventurous mysterious reflective tense fast-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: No
adventurous emotional tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes

There is something special about this book. 

John Gwynne does a fantastic job of world building, the first book in a series is always a tightrope to walk of building the larger series and giving enough backstory for the rest of the series while still keeping it interesting. 

The world is rich and detailed 

The stories a combination of subtle and bold the framework for the future is set. I am excited about the next book. 

Multiple POVs were confusing at first because it wasn't something I was accustomed to. I understand the reasoning for each POV later: we, as the reader, need to understand things that were happened away from the main characters, and the main characters wouldn't have been able to reveal this information. This novel was beautifully written with amazing world-building and charming characters with very thought out personalities. John Gwynne has an exceptional talent for writing villains as well as heroes. I hated all of the villains with equal passion that I loved all the heroes. Very happy I have the whole series to binge on my shelf!
medium-paced
Loveable characters: No
adventurous lighthearted mysterious fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes
adventurous dark emotional fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No
adventurous hopeful slow-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus: No