This illustrated companion novel was a delightful surprise. Clever and magical, it seamlessly adds another layer to Cardan’s history, reveals another This illustrated companion novel was a delightful surprise. Clever and magical, it seamlessly adds another layer to Cardan’s history, reveals another facet of his relationship to Jude through connected stories....more
Everyone in this book is stupid. I am stupid for finishing it. I am twice stupid because I know I’ll read the 3rd. The series should never have extendEveryone in this book is stupid. I am stupid for finishing it. I am twice stupid because I know I’ll read the 3rd. The series should never have extended to a trilogy - no tangible plot, just manufactured drama and a flimsy non-ending....more
The things this novel/series does well (worldbuilding, magic system, history) can get lost in the frustration of a main character that repeats the samThe things this novel/series does well (worldbuilding, magic system, history) can get lost in the frustration of a main character that repeats the same mistakes every book. Rin is a monster and her descent into madness/quest for power knows no bounds -- it's fascinating to watch but painful to read....more
Quite possibly the book of the year for me. It is definitely not for everyone and I can easily see why some people will not connect. It’ll be a quick Quite possibly the book of the year for me. It is definitely not for everyone and I can easily see why some people will not connect. It’ll be a quick hard pass or a slow unfolding of pure excitement. Unique and memorable and fun for this history nerd and fantasy fan.
Ford makes no concessions for his readers. They're expected to know the real historical records being recreated/changed and the literature that ties into it. Pay attention to what is said, how it is said or you will miss a lot. Close reading and detail recall helps.
Clever, layered, and dense with allusions and double meanings -- it made me feel dumb and I loved it for that. This story engaged my entire brain. It ties Byzantine politics to Medici banking to the royal succession in England to Welsh independence movement -- with some vampires running around and magic on the side.
Recommended knowledge of: Shakespeare's English plays esp Richard III, Byzantine history, and a good grasp on the events/people of the War of the Roses.
There's so much unexplained subtext (historical, emotional, political) that it makes the world feel very real but it doesn't make the most accessible for all readers. It is well built enough to work without going in informed -- but Byzantium/the War of the Roses/Medicis are some of my favorite subjects to see in fiction. I also v much enjoy Billy Shakes so this hits the perfect spot of fantasy x history for me....more
Could this have been concluded in book 4? Probably. Was it still an excellent, stressful, emotional ending? Absolutely. A few qualms about how a few tCould this have been concluded in book 4? Probably. Was it still an excellent, stressful, emotional ending? Absolutely. A few qualms about how a few things end up but really, really good way to wrap up the Great Library series. I’ll miss it and these characters -- especially Khalila....more
Another happy surprise. Is it the best book ever? No. But it’s fun and clever and boasts just enough worldbuilding to skate by. The characters a3.75/5
Another happy surprise. Is it the best book ever? No. But it’s fun and clever and boasts just enough worldbuilding to skate by. The characters are fun, their dynamic is interesting without being melodramatic. I ship it & want more....more
A slow, unapologetic burn of anger, vengeance, and war. Harsh, unyielding fantasy loosely inspired by both the Song Dynasty and the rise of Mao ZedongA slow, unapologetic burn of anger, vengeance, and war. Harsh, unyielding fantasy loosely inspired by both the Song Dynasty and the rise of Mao Zedong. The last 75 pages elevates this from a 3.5 to a 4-star read....more
Jessie Leigh
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