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A review by wouterk
A Shadow in Summer by Daniel Abraham
4.0
This book was a great read! Abrahams creates a very original world of intriguing politics, intricate relationships and very original magic. A story full with subtlety and complexity, while very easy to follow and read.
I cannot say to much about the story as I will not give spoilers. If you do not want spoilers don't read the summary of the book, here on Goodreads. I think it already gives so much away that you are able to connect yourself in the first chapters.
So the only thing I will say is that this story is set in Saraykeht, a powerful city where a Khai rules. The Khai maintain their power by their poets who control magical creations called Andat. They are mystical, complex. As we follow the perspectives of different key players in Saraykeht (from laborer, to merchant, to poet) an intriguing consipracy unfolds.
Some people call this book a slow read or claim that nothing happens. I would say a lot happens, but the tail very much focuses also on building up the characters and their relationships. Abrahams describes political conflicts and moral dilemma's in the world and weaves them through the relationships that the different characters engage in. The characters and relationships are written with very impressive depth and realism. And still I would say that the plot has a very satisfying ending that ties into it all.
If you're looking for an action-packed, next Red Rising, kind of book, you will not find it here. But if you enjoy fresh worlds, character building, politics and interpersonal dynamics, while also discovering nuggets around a conspiracy - or at least one of these - then this is a book for you.
I cannot say to much about the story as I will not give spoilers. If you do not want spoilers don't read the summary of the book, here on Goodreads. I think it already gives so much away that you are able to connect yourself in the first chapters.
So the only thing I will say is that this story is set in Saraykeht, a powerful city where a Khai rules. The Khai maintain their power by their poets who control magical creations called Andat. They are mystical, complex. As we follow the perspectives of different key players in Saraykeht (from laborer, to merchant, to poet) an intriguing consipracy unfolds.
Some people call this book a slow read or claim that nothing happens. I would say a lot happens, but the tail very much focuses also on building up the characters and their relationships. Abrahams describes political conflicts and moral dilemma's in the world and weaves them through the relationships that the different characters engage in. The characters and relationships are written with very impressive depth and realism. And still I would say that the plot has a very satisfying ending that ties into it all.
If you're looking for an action-packed, next Red Rising, kind of book, you will not find it here. But if you enjoy fresh worlds, character building, politics and interpersonal dynamics, while also discovering nuggets around a conspiracy - or at least one of these - then this is a book for you.