A review by spinebenderbooks
A Conspiracy of Kings by Megan Whalen Turner

adventurous challenging emotional hopeful sad tense medium-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? Yes

5.0

This is a fantastic coming of age story. Sophos' journey in this story takes him from a sheltered, unassertive boy to a man, one who is self-assured and capable of making difficult choices.
What I appreciate about Sophos' character is that even while his experiences of slavery, violence and betrayal have led him to become a man who can rule over others, he doesn't lose his kind nature. He cherishes his friendships and struggles to navigate the changes that his position as king brings to those relationships. He always looks for another option besides violence and takes no pleasure in violence when it is the only option left to him. It is this very kindness and faith in those he trusts that sees him triumph in the end and win his throne, though it is not without cost.

This book also continues to set up the confrontation with the Medes that is surely coming and furthers our insight into the politics at play. The union of Attolia, Eddis and Sounis under Eugenides will likely put a spoke in the wheels of the Medes' colonial aspirations.
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