A review by minervacerridwen
Escape by E.D.E. Bell
adventurous
mysterious
reflective
relaxing
tense
medium-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
The first book of Diamondsong, a story in ten parts, introduces the world of the Ja-lal, where violence is no longer part of society. The basic concept is interesting and the new vocabulary with which the book starts supports the strong worldbuilding. Almost immediately, the story proves that a lack of violence does not imply that a story won't have suspenseful action scenes.
In most speculative fiction, having made a big cultural mistake would be a recipe for disaster. I found it refreshing that Dime learned, went back and made it right.
The book doesn't feel like a finished story, but of course you know going in that there will be 9 more parts after. This is definitely an intriguing introduction and I'm very curious to read the next instalment!
Spoiler
Dime's stay with the Newts was my favourite part. I've always loved narratives where strange creatures turn out to be more caring than they were previously believed to be, and exploring their rich culture. The atmosphere of these scenes reminded me of the Edge Chronicles' Banderbears, a childhood favourite.In most speculative fiction, having made a big cultural mistake would be a recipe for disaster. I found it refreshing that Dime learned, went back and made it right.
The book doesn't feel like a finished story, but of course you know going in that there will be 9 more parts after. This is definitely an intriguing introduction and I'm very curious to read the next instalment!