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A review by mchesse
The Ember Blade by Chris Wooding
challenging
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
1.75
Alright, buckle up because I've got some thoughts now ive finished The Ember Blade. Honestly, I'm scratching my head at the glowing 5-star reviews online.
Let's talk length first. This thing is a beast, clocking in at a hefty 800 pages. But did it really need to be that long? Nope. There were tons of unnecessary descriptions and side stories that could've been trimmed down without losing any punch.
Now, let's chat about the main character, Aren. Dude's only 15, which felt a bit off to me. Some of his actions didn't quite match up with his age, you know? And his sudden change of heart from zero patriotism to full-on Osia supporter? Not buying it. And don't get me started on his friendship with Cade—it felt forced and unnatural, unlike the genuine bond between Gerric and Keel.
And hey, let's be real, this book isn't exactly breaking new ground. It's riddled with cliches and tropes that you can spot from a mile away. The whole "champion from Vika's dream" reveal? Predictable AF.
But it's not all doom and gloom. Grub's character arc? Loved it. Gerric and Vika's backstories? Fascinating stuff. And that twist with Aren's father's past? Unexpected and juicy.
Hands down, the best part for me was the journey through Skavengard. Gripping stuff.
Overall, this book could've used a serious trim, especially for a series starter. And sorry, but Aren just didn't do it for me.
Let's talk length first. This thing is a beast, clocking in at a hefty 800 pages. But did it really need to be that long? Nope. There were tons of unnecessary descriptions and side stories that could've been trimmed down without losing any punch.
Now, let's chat about the main character, Aren. Dude's only 15, which felt a bit off to me. Some of his actions didn't quite match up with his age, you know? And his sudden change of heart from zero patriotism to full-on Osia supporter? Not buying it. And don't get me started on his friendship with Cade—it felt forced and unnatural, unlike the genuine bond between Gerric and Keel.
And hey, let's be real, this book isn't exactly breaking new ground. It's riddled with cliches and tropes that you can spot from a mile away. The whole "champion from Vika's dream" reveal? Predictable AF.
But it's not all doom and gloom. Grub's character arc? Loved it. Gerric and Vika's backstories? Fascinating stuff. And that twist with Aren's father's past? Unexpected and juicy.
Hands down, the best part for me was the journey through Skavengard. Gripping stuff.
Overall, this book could've used a serious trim, especially for a series starter. And sorry, but Aren just didn't do it for me.