A review by mary_soon_lee
Cast in Courtlight by Michelle Sagara

4.0

This is the second novel in the fantasy series The Chronicles of Elantra. I enjoyed it considerably. I continue to love the main character, Kaylin, along with several of the supporting cast. The book picks up shortly after book one's end, and, unusually, spends little time recapitulating or explaining events from the earlier book. I appreciated this choice very much, even though it might confuse a reader who began the series late.

Moving to this book's main story line: spoilers ahead....

Spoiler

I loved the character threads running through the narrative. The thread concerning Jade and Steffi from Kaylin and Severn's shared past was especially strong. The plight of the Barrani high lord, his heirs, and his consort was also very well done. But the less character-based scenes felt less satisfying: too drawn out, or too repetitive, or lacking clarity?

I read this book in less than tiptop form, so it's hard for me to sort out exactly what didn't fully work for me. Overall, though, I liked this very much and I shall proceed directly to book three.

Four out of five Barrani stars.

About my reviews: I try to review every book I read, including those that I don't end up enjoying. The reviews are not scholarly, but just indicate my reaction as a reader, reading being my addiction. I am miserly with 5-star reviews; 4 stars means I liked a book very much; 3 stars means I liked it; 2 stars means I didn't like it (though often the 2-star books are very popular with other readers and/or are by authors whose other work I've loved).