Silviya

Slightly above 3 ⭐️ but not enough to be 3.5

The problem with high expectations is that it's not enough to simply enjoy something. You need to enjoy it as much as you anticipated. And let's face it, that's damn near impossible.

This book was one of my most anticipated new releases for 2023.

Did I enjoy reading it? Absolutely! There's a lot to like about it.
1. World building and atmosphere - I think this was the book's biggest asset. The author has crafted a very beautiful and cosy (if slightly gruesome) world.
2. Characters - The cast was colorful, sometimes literally (you'll see when you read Inara's pov chapters), interesting and likeable. I had a lot of fun following them around.
3. Quest - I loved the quest aspect of this story. It was nicely done with some good downtime and teamwork, with picturesque and interesting locations.

I really enjoyed reading this book and am looking forward to continuing with the series.

But there are a few things this book lacks.
1. Depth - There were many things in this book that felt unfinished. As though I was reading an abridged version of the story. From some of the vague world building and back story, to a few barely there plot lines and character motivations. Speaking of which...
2. Weak character motivation - Some of the characters had either weak, or undeveloped, or outright nonsensical motivation to be where they were or to be doing what they did.For example, the 3 old ladies' reason for going to Blenraden made no sense whatsoever. So you mean to tell me that 3 old women would risk a dangerous illegal journey, to go beg peaceful death from a bunch of unreliable gods that might be super hostile?? No good poisons in this vast magical world? Come on... Or Arren turning on the gods, specifically the ones that helped them. It made no sense to do this, considering he accepted their help initially. I'm not saying it's impossible for him to have done that, I'm saying it was not developed enough to be believable.
3. Continuity and grammar - this is not a big minus as there wasn't anything too egregious. Just a few grammatical errors and at least one instance where a character, in their thoughts, referred to a stranger by her name, before they knew it.
4. Writing style - the author seems to have a slight inclination towards opting for fancy sentences that walk the line of not making sense. Though, to be fair, considering this is her first published book, there is room to grow, just like with every author.

I honestly think this book would've benefited by being (maybe even more than) slightly longer. Though I do understand the appeal of a shorter fantasy book. So, I can't be mad.

All that being said, should you read this book? Yes! Because despite its shortcomings, it is interesting and a great first book for this author. It's also fun and I believe most people will enjoy it quite a bit.

What an amazing book this was!

If you ever wanted to read a classic fantasy book, which features all of your favorite tropes, but still manages to surprise you every time you think you've got it figured out, then this one is for you.

We have a vast intriguing world, a huge cast of characters, an amazing atmosphere, mystery, history, action, quests... And all of this is written in such a clever way! We have a beautiful and solid writing style, which left me feeling like I can trust this author to tell an enchanting story. Which he did.

The one thing you need to be prepared for is this: the book is SLOW! And while I enjoyed it and definitely think it's worth it, it might be an issue for the faster readers. The author takes his sweet sweet time to introduce this world and his many characters and stories, and doesn't shy away from putting scenes on page, just because they make the story cosier.

So, if you're planning to read this one, make sure that you're okay with not being hasty, then pick it up and enjoy the ride.

Is this book for children - absolutely not. But is it a great book - indeed it is.

We have an intricate plot, set in a world that is our own (except that it isn't), and carried out by some of the most intriguing and duplicitous characters, that will never leave you indifferent.

The book is full adventure and whimsy and lovely winter atmosphere and I read it within a day with no desire to stop at any point.

Highly recommend.

4 - 4.5 ⭐️

Another great entry in the series!

And this time, we had our guy play a rather interesting double game, which was so much fun to follow.
There were some masterfully done elements - like the setup, the action scenes, the little details about the location, the flashbacks, the pre-reveal of the twist... Many great things.
The thing I didn't like was the somewhat rushed ending. I wanted to know more about the villain and how he managed to survive these unsurvivable injuries and I wanted to see more of the fallout from the situation.

Nevertheless, reading this was a lovely experience - these books are long but quick to go through and I always feel like I want more after each one.

Can't wait to see what happens next!

The story was a little flatter than usual and a bit disjointed, but I did like the massive reveal at the end.
Looking forward to the next entry!