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A review by annettewolf
Children of Ruin by Adrian Tchaikovsky
adventurous
dark
hopeful
mysterious
reflective
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.75
This book had me hesitating to turn off the light at night. I wasn't expecting horror, but the tension was definitely there. And it was there because I cared so much about the characters. When there's an antagonist (or outright villain), and you know it's there, but the characters don't, it makes me really nervous. There were some slight gore elements as well that fit into the horror genre, and honestly the antagonist is weirder and more complex than any I've read in a very, very long time. Maybe ever.
I thought that Children of Time was good, because it kept me thinking about the characters and themes well after I was finished reading it. I didn't think it would be possible, but Children of Ruin is better. The characters are a little less individually important to me, but the culmination of all of them, the way they interact with each other and with the world(s) around them, was just so compelling. Which, again, had me terrified for them when they were in danger.
I can't say much about this sequel without giving things away, and going into it without knowing is probably better, anyway. You'll see humans and you'll see Portiids. Beyond that, you'll have to find out for yourself.
I highly recommend this book to all science fiction fans, especially if they enjoy evolution themes, space exploration, and being a little bit terrified while engrossed in the story.
I thought that Children of Time was good, because it kept me thinking about the characters and themes well after I was finished reading it. I didn't think it would be possible, but Children of Ruin is better. The characters are a little less individually important to me, but the culmination of all of them, the way they interact with each other and with the world(s) around them, was just so compelling. Which, again, had me terrified for them when they were in danger.
I can't say much about this sequel without giving things away, and going into it without knowing is probably better, anyway. You'll see humans and you'll see Portiids. Beyond that, you'll have to find out for yourself.
I highly recommend this book to all science fiction fans, especially if they enjoy evolution themes, space exploration, and being a little bit terrified while engrossed in the story.
Content Warnings
Minor: Gore