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katmarhan's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
emotional
funny
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.25
6.75/10
We find mostly new characters and a time jump of 25+ years in this second book of the Bronze Canticles trilogy; neither poses a problem in terms of the story but little is explained about what what has happened in the intervening years.
Strengths: The whole concept of the overlaying of three worlds occupying the same space, connected by the Dream and the Deep Magic/Sharajentei/Techomancy (human/fae/goblin forms of magic). None of the mystics who wield these powers really understand them but are learning to use them, not always wisely or for the greater good of all. A diverse cast of characters within each of the worlds. A complex plot laced with ambition, regret, secrets, fears, hopes, loyalty, and love. Some unique plot devices (the fae’s bubble beneath the sea, for example) and plot twists. Three climaxes (one per world).
Weakness: Over-reliance on some stereotypes/tropes. Characters who refuse to talk to each other when a bit of communication would certainly not only make sense but be realistically more likely to happen than not (looking at you, Caelith and Eryn, Caelith and Jorgan, really—Caelith and anyone!!). Not quite enough explanation ofhow/why Ekteia manipulated characters in all 3 worlds, unless it was just to create chaos and war . And if Ekteia and Hrea are 2 of the gods depicted in the statues in Calsandria, who is the 3rd statue? It is confusing who is depicted in the fresco as well.
Hoping book 3 ties up all the threads in a satisfying way.
We find mostly new characters and a time jump of 25+ years in this second book of the Bronze Canticles trilogy; neither poses a problem in terms of the story but little is explained about what what has happened in the intervening years.
Strengths: The whole concept of the overlaying of three worlds occupying the same space, connected by the Dream and the Deep Magic/Sharajentei/Techomancy (human/fae/goblin forms of magic). None of the mystics who wield these powers really understand them but are learning to use them, not always wisely or for the greater good of all. A diverse cast of characters within each of the worlds. A complex plot laced with ambition, regret, secrets, fears, hopes, loyalty, and love. Some unique plot devices (the fae’s bubble beneath the sea, for example) and plot twists. Three climaxes (one per world).
Weakness: Over-reliance on some stereotypes/tropes. Characters who refuse to talk to each other when a bit of communication would certainly not only make sense but be realistically more likely to happen than not (looking at you, Caelith and Eryn, Caelith and Jorgan, really—Caelith and anyone!!). Not quite enough explanation of
Hoping book 3 ties up all the threads in a satisfying way.
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