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A review by annad318
Dark Age by Pierce Brown
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
funny
hopeful
mysterious
sad
tense
slow-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
4.5
This novel started strong, and I was coming off "Morning Star" with a lot of momentum. I didn't pause after finishing a book in this series; I just jumped into the next. I was thrilled to see a Virginia point of view. There was a lot of buzz around "Dune 2" when I started reading, and everyone was in love with Rebecca Ferguson. For me, Virginia was like my Rebecca - alluring and compelling in a mystical way. However, I reached a point where I was getting tired of the slow plot progression because this book is intense and lengthy. Although I always appreciated it, I craved something more snappy, witty, and quick. So, I stopped and read something else. Eventually, I returned with renewed energy and was thrilled to be back in this little universe.
Random Notes/Standout Moments:
I was disappointed to find that the relationships between Darrow, Virginia, and Pax were not as close as I had hoped. There's a strong sense of distrust between Darrow and Virginia, which hurts, but plays out well. The ending showed great promise with Pax who comes to understand his father (thank you Ephraim). It tugged at the heart strings to hear Darrow share that he continues to fight in this war just so he can see the day when he can live a simple life, and make breakfast for his family. This mundane dream, compared to the lethal killer he must be, made for a deflating but powerful confession.
Pax holds a special place in my heart. As Virginia says, 'Pax is neither stupid nor helpless...he would scheme a way to help me as much as he could. I wonder if Pax realizes yet that I raised him to be as much an ally as a son, and if he understands my guilt over that.' Pax's character was a favorite of mine, and I can't wait to see what's in store for him.
This book is filled with Darrow's musings on the cause and consequences of his actions and the “necessity” and dangers of war. These moments serve as an essential build-up to the battle scenes, which I must say were insane! I'd argue that they were some of the best; everyone was an absolute animal, and I was locked in every time.
Pax holds a special place in my heart. As Virginia says, 'Pax is neither stupid nor helpless...he would scheme a way to help me as much as he could. I wonder if Pax realizes yet that I raised him to be as much an ally as a son, and if he understands my guilt over that.' Pax's character was a favorite of mine, and I can't wait to see what's in store for him.
This book is filled with Darrow's musings on the cause and consequences of his actions and the “necessity” and dangers of war. These moments serve as an essential build-up to the battle scenes, which I must say were insane! I'd argue that they were some of the best; everyone was an absolute animal, and I was locked in every time.
I loved all the characters in this book, so some deaths were incredibly heartbreaking. Before, I felt detached and could accept that characters had to die, but these were tough to see! Especially when not everyone died heroically--OUCH. My sweet, sweet boy Alexander. I was also sad to read how much Darrow missed Sevro (that man loves him), but his team of Alexander, Thraxa, and Rhonna was so fun to watch. I loved their dynamic.
Lots of humorous moments where PB infused some graphic or uncouth humor, but I found it appropriate. I appreciate a bit of comedic relief and it adds a good shock value.
I loved it overall. However, with how many enemies and villains have amassed, this is going to be a huge mess. 😭