A review by mgmaliska
The Warrior Moon by K. Arsenault Rivera
5.0
best in the series of a favorite series
The full Ascendant series by K Arsenault Rivera beautifully balances unforgettable love with magic, mystery, social critique, and political intrigue. This lesbian feminist series leaves a lasting impact with unforgettable characters developed through an expertly written perspective-switching style. Spanning the silver steppes of the nomadic horse clans to the opulent palaces of the Empire's capitol, the characters navigate cultures while deconstructing histories wrongly told, acting for a better now, and building futures through will alone.
Shizuka and Shefali expressions of devotion, and commitment to each other and their peoples grow respect and love in the reader. Thank you, K, for writing such an honest and expansive world told from the perspective of out and proud queer womyn leaders. The characters feel so real I often try to channel Shefali's wisdom and Shizuka's determination; a testament to K. Arsenault Rivera in the ability to write such realistic, yet wholly otherworldy people.
Highly recommend this book, especially if you love any of the following:
- When Women Were Warriors by Catherine M. Wilson
- Princess of Dorsa (The Chronicles of Dorsa) by Eliza Andrews
- Clan of the Cave Bear (Earth Children Series) by Jean M. Auel
- Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
These books improve as they go, with number 3 being the best. I am THRILLED that the author has committed to Sixteen Swords, a prequel told by the mothers Burqila Alshara and Minami Shizuru.
THANK YOU, K Arsenault Rivera!
The world needs more queer stories.
The full Ascendant series by K Arsenault Rivera beautifully balances unforgettable love with magic, mystery, social critique, and political intrigue. This lesbian feminist series leaves a lasting impact with unforgettable characters developed through an expertly written perspective-switching style. Spanning the silver steppes of the nomadic horse clans to the opulent palaces of the Empire's capitol, the characters navigate cultures while deconstructing histories wrongly told, acting for a better now, and building futures through will alone.
Shizuka and Shefali expressions of devotion, and commitment to each other and their peoples grow respect and love in the reader. Thank you, K, for writing such an honest and expansive world told from the perspective of out and proud queer womyn leaders. The characters feel so real I often try to channel Shefali's wisdom and Shizuka's determination; a testament to K. Arsenault Rivera in the ability to write such realistic, yet wholly otherworldy people.
Highly recommend this book, especially if you love any of the following:
- When Women Were Warriors by Catherine M. Wilson
- Princess of Dorsa (The Chronicles of Dorsa) by Eliza Andrews
- Clan of the Cave Bear (Earth Children Series) by Jean M. Auel
- Priory of the Orange Tree by Samantha Shannon
These books improve as they go, with number 3 being the best. I am THRILLED that the author has committed to Sixteen Swords, a prequel told by the mothers Burqila Alshara and Minami Shizuru.
THANK YOU, K Arsenault Rivera!
The world needs more queer stories.