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A review by mikkareads
A Song of Wraiths and Ruin by Roseanne A. Brown
adventurous
emotional
inspiring
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? It's complicated
5.0
How do I love thee? Let me count the ways. The writing is lush and gorgeous, dripping vivid descriptions and a resonating atmosphere. With attention to detail and vibrant settings, the author transports the reader into a deeply original realm that draws inspiration from West African folklore.
The narrative sets a gripping pace, laced with suspense and unexpected twists. I found myself racing through its nearly 500 pages – yet also wanting to slow down to enjoy the storytelling.
And the characters? Oh, the synopsis does not do them justice. With every chapter, the two protagonists, Karina and Malik, reveal themselves as authentic, complex beings who defy clichés – and get drawn into a destiny that asks them to commit the ultimate betrayal. Thus, their growing attraction is bitter-sweet, as the reader cleary sees that the story is headed for heartbreak either way.
There are vengeful spirits, there is ancient magic, but beneath all that lie very real strifes and struggles. The novel tackles weighty themes, such as war, grief, injustice and prejudice, giving the story depth and resonance beyond the surface-level fantasy adventure.
Above all, I want to praise the mental health representation in this novel. Malik, a refugee from a war-stricken country, is suffering from debilitating anxiety and panic attacks. Never, ever does the author use this as a mere plot device, nor does she fall into the tired trope of the hero being 'cured' as part of their journey.
Instead, she paints a picture that rings very true – of his struggles, but also of his bravery and his worth, which is never diminished by him being portrayed as 'weak'.
The narrative sets a gripping pace, laced with suspense and unexpected twists. I found myself racing through its nearly 500 pages – yet also wanting to slow down to enjoy the storytelling.
And the characters? Oh, the synopsis does not do them justice. With every chapter, the two protagonists, Karina and Malik, reveal themselves as authentic, complex beings who defy clichés – and get drawn into a destiny that asks them to commit the ultimate betrayal. Thus, their growing attraction is bitter-sweet, as the reader cleary sees that the story is headed for heartbreak either way.
There are vengeful spirits, there is ancient magic, but beneath all that lie very real strifes and struggles. The novel tackles weighty themes, such as war, grief, injustice and prejudice, giving the story depth and resonance beyond the surface-level fantasy adventure.
Above all, I want to praise the mental health representation in this novel. Malik, a refugee from a war-stricken country, is suffering from debilitating anxiety and panic attacks. Never, ever does the author use this as a mere plot device, nor does she fall into the tired trope of the hero being 'cured' as part of their journey.
Instead, she paints a picture that rings very true – of his struggles, but also of his bravery and his worth, which is never diminished by him being portrayed as 'weak'.