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A review by _snarkysharky
Fathomfolk by Eliza Chan
Did not finish book.
1.0
"Fathomfolk" is a fantasy novel set in the Asian-inspired, semi-submerged city of Tiankawi. Throughout the story, we follow the perspectives of various women. Right from the start, it's clear that the narrative will explore themes of racism, albeit within a fantasy setting, focusing on the conflict between Fathomfolk and humans.
I really wanted to enjoy this book due to my Asian heritage, and I'm always supportive of Asian authors. However, I found the story to be lacking.
The main characters didn't capture my interest, and some aspects of the plot didn't seem logical.
Nami comes across as juvenile and insufferable, often acting impulsively without thought. Mira's hot-headedness made it hard for me to believe that she managed to ascend the ranks without adeptly handling the politics of Tiankawi. Cordelia was the most intriguing character, yet the "revelation" about her lacked any mystery for me.
The world-building fell short. I would have preferred a deeper exploration of a single type of water-dwelling creature rather than a mix of many different ones taken from folklore and haphazardly combined to create a community. It's no surprise they find it hard to rise up.
The rationale behind the Fathomfolk agreeing to keep a dragon egg hostage as a peace gesture also remains unclear to me. Like it’s a living thing, and an egg of a “rare” creature to boot. Why in the world would they agree?
Overall, I think the book needs more detailed world-building, as well as better development of its characters and creatures. I don't plan on reading the next books in the series.
I really wanted to enjoy this book due to my Asian heritage, and I'm always supportive of Asian authors. However, I found the story to be lacking.
The main characters didn't capture my interest, and some aspects of the plot didn't seem logical.
Nami comes across as juvenile and insufferable, often acting impulsively without thought. Mira's hot-headedness made it hard for me to believe that she managed to ascend the ranks without adeptly handling the politics of Tiankawi. Cordelia was the most intriguing character, yet the "revelation" about her lacked any mystery for me.
The world-building fell short. I would have preferred a deeper exploration of a single type of water-dwelling creature rather than a mix of many different ones taken from folklore and haphazardly combined to create a community. It's no surprise they find it hard to rise up.
The rationale behind the Fathomfolk agreeing to keep a dragon egg hostage as a peace gesture also remains unclear to me. Like it’s a living thing, and an egg of a “rare” creature to boot. Why in the world would they agree?
Overall, I think the book needs more detailed world-building, as well as better development of its characters and creatures. I don't plan on reading the next books in the series.