Shattered Illusions

This originally appeared at The Irresponsible Reader as part of a quick takes post to catch up.
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I love this world, this take on fantasy in a modern setting—I think I might keep reading these just to spend time in this world even if Jackson's stories weren't that great. Thankfully, I don't have to make that call, because Jackson can tell a compelling story.

I don't appreciate the way that many (most?) of the characters treat our protagonist, Katayl. They treat her with the kind of care usually reserved for glass on the verge of shattering, they only tell her as much of the truth as they want—all the while, wanting the benefit of her intelligence, abilities, and magic. It feels condescending and manipulative. And for that to be the way those closest to her to treat her? I can't stomach it. There's a decent contingent of characters that do treat her with respect, will tell her as much of the truth about things as they can, and allow her the agency anyone else would enjoy, and I trust those numbers will grow. I'm sure there's a decent reason the others treat her like an unstable suitcase bomb, but it rankles me to see it.

The blossoming friendship/partnership between Katayl and Silver is great, and I'm really enjoying it. I found this look into her past quite intriguing. And the end of the book? There's really a lot to unpack there, and I can't wait to see what the fallout from it all.