City of Blades is
the sequel to Robert Jackson Bennett’s
City of Stairs, and while I did not read the first book in this series, it did
not keep me from enjoying this well-crafted novel.
The plot has a brisk pace and number of twists, whose groundwork
is well-laid and yet still feels surprising. One of the best qualities of this
book is the character development. In particular, Turyin is a fascinating
general. Scarred by battle, she learns to accept her past while atoning for it
by preventing an apocalypse. Also, Signe and Sigrud grow through struggle as their relationship
is redeemed.
Like many fantasy novels, City of Blades has philosophical
overtones. Notably, the novel deals with issues such as the nature of war and
the afterlife. In some instances, I found the characters’ musings prosaic; other
times I found them short-sighted and wished I could engage the characters in
discussion. But this isn’t necessarily a flaw, more a compliment since I cared
enough to want to do so.
My final thought is on the
world-building in the novel. Mr. Bennett has built a world with hints of India
and Hinduism while at the same time crafting a unique place. However, as
interesting as Voortyashtan and the City of Blades are, I didn’t quite connect
with them. However, in spite of this, I would give the novel four stars because
even though I didn’t connect with the world, I had to keep reading and find out
what happened to Turyin and Signe.
N.B. Because this novel deals with
the evils of war and though it does so in a restrained manner, it is not a
fantasy for children.
I received this book for Blogging
for Book in exchange for a review.
Today, I'm at the blog But What Are They Eating?, discussing the role food plays in the Screwing Up Time novels. Click here to check it out!
