A review by onthesamepage
Kings of the Wyld by Nicholas Eames

adventurous funny slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.0

There's nothing wrong with this book. It just doesn't do anything particularly fresh or memorable.

I think the biggest issue is how easy and convenient everything feels. A large portion of this book is spent on the gang getting back together, and we're constantly told that the Wyld is so dangerous that it's almost suicidal to consider going there. For all that they are old and very worried about how they'll survive the journey, they don't seem to land in anything they can't handle. I don't even necessarily see that their age is hampering them. Not that the journey is super smooth, but I guess I was expecting more disasters? I felt like they got through it way too easy, and that was kind of the theme for the entire book for me: our heroes, conveniently, win against all odds, every single time. Nothing has consequences:
terminal illnesses without a cure miraculously get cured, limbs that get chopped off miraculously regrow, etc.


There are a few amusing moments, but I wouldn't say the book is over the top hilarious or anything. The moments that resonated most with me were the ones where Gabe was stepping up for his daughter. Some of those were really touching, and I liked getting to see him go all out to try and save her. 

The last 20% really picks up. Overall, an enjoyable read if you're looking for something a little less serious.
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