A review by hello_ned
Soul of the Sword by Julie Kagawa

adventurous tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

I definitely liked this book less than the first one, but I was stuck rating it between a 3.5 and a 3.75.

Dislikes
- this book was much much slower paced than the last one. Only 3 major things happened during this book, which contrasts starkly to the multidunious plot of SOTF.
- the first plot of 
the group being taken to Lady Hanshou
seemed quite... pointless? It didn't change the trajectory of the story at all as they continued with their original plan. Perhaps you got more context of the politics within the world? But that could have been done in a different way. It was a very enjoyable description, though, especially when Kagawa describes
Lady Hanshou looking like a mirage of a beautiful woman, interjected with flashes of her true, writhingly old self.
The story did fall to the "middle book syndrome" we often see in trilogies. Although it feels like a good ending point for the middle story, it also feels a little underwhelming. It sets up for the third book well, but it lacks the spark it should.
- I dislike that the answer to how Yumeko must save Tatsumi comes in the form of a dream, and though her powers grow steadily, she never practices how she will use that never-before-mentioned skill. It seems to come easily to her. I can compare it to how Harry Potter must practise shielding his mind to Voldemort / being able to enter others' minds. We can see how long and difficult Harry must practise. But here, it comes too quickly.
- one
major-ish character dies during this story, but it isn't that hard-hitting. I didn't get feel any connection to him, and you could tell he was bound to die from the beginning.


Loves
- I loved the development of the characters' relationships.
I don't care what anyone says, I love Okame and Daisuke. Their relationship came slowly, and quite naturally. It isn't out of place at all-- gay people exist.
I do have concerns, as it is often we see that female authors only write gay male relationships in a fetishist tone- it hasn't reached that yet.
- The resolution of the battle between Hakaimono's and Tatsumi's souls wasn't what I expected. I haven't read many fantasy books, or much of a fan of japanese media, so maybe it was predictable to some, but not for me. I'm excited to see where it takes us. 
- I do think there was considerable growth with Yumeko, she is a lot less immature and care-free than the previous book, but not a total reform. Plenty of space to grow in the last book.
- The fighting was a LOT more graphic, especially with Hakaimono's POV. A lot of blood and gore. There were a couple death scenes where my mouth was agape. It was very shocking, but enjoyable to read. 
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