Erin Arkin's Reviews > Gravemaidens

Gravemaidens is the first book in a duology by Kelly Coon and when I read this summary I knew I needed to check it out.

Kammani is the main character and things haven't been easy for her and her family lately. When she is cast out of their privileged life with her father and sister, her only real desire is to become an accomplished healer. Unfortunately when Alu's ruler becomes deathly ill, Kammani's little sister is chosen as one of the three sacred maidens who will accompany him into the afterlife. While this is considered a great honor, Kammani doesn't see it that way. In an effort to save her sister, Kammani decides she will go heal the ruler herself and what she finds is something so much more than their dying ruler.

I enjoyed the story but didn't connect with all of the characters. I thought the relationship between Kammani and her sister, Nanaea was challenging. Nanaea came across as ungrateful and a bit spoiled and while the end revealed a bit more around her motivations, I think I would have liked her more had I known sooner.

I also wanted more Dagan. I really liked him but he didn't have a big role. I also wanted Kammani to be less wishy washy about him and her feelings for him. Also, Iltani was a fantastic BFF for Kammani and she challenged and pushed Kammani in so many different ways.

Overall, I enjoyed this story and thought Coon did a good job with the pacing and the character development. Add this one to your TBR list if you're looking for a fantasy story that has a different feel.

Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the early copy in exchange for an honest review.