A review by bzliz
The King of Attolia by Megan Whalen Turner

adventurous medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This tale sees Eugenides gaining the backing of the soldiers of Attolia using the same type of cunning he employed in the first book against the Magus. As an audience, we are aware of his capabilities now and know that the people of the castle are vastly underestimating him. 

Much of the book is told through the eyes of Costis as he slowly gains respect and admiration for his new king. Gen walks a fine line as he manipulates people and toys with their fates. He frequently spares their lives to preserve his wife’s few genuine connections while cleverly undermining enemy barons and while the nation prepares for war against the Mede empire. 

I like this book more than the previous one because I delight in seeing someone be so clever. There were also less quick cuts to see what was happening in another part of the world, which annoy me in excess. There is a subplot laid that Sophos- Gen’s friend and heir to Sunis- is missing, but it is unresolved at the end of this book. I look forward to continuing the series. 
Expand filter menu Content Warnings