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Long Price Quartet #2
A Betrayal in Winter
Daniel Abraham delighted fantasy readers with his brilliant, original, and engaging first novel, A Shadow in Summer . Now he has produced an even more powerful sequel, a tragedy as darkly personal and violent as Shakespeare’s Macbeth .
As a boy, Otah Machi was exiled from his family, Machi’s ruling house. Decades later, he has witnessed and been part of world-changing events. Yet he has never returned to Machi. Now his father—the Khai, or ruler, of Machi—is dying and his eldest brother Biitrah has been assassinated, Otah realizes that he must return to Machi, for reasons not even he understands.
Tradition dictates that the sons of a dying Khai fall upon each other until only one remains to succeed his father. But something even worse is occurring in Machi. The Galts, an expansive empire, have allied with someone in Machi to bring down the ruling house. Otah is accused, the long-missing brother with an all-too-obvious motive for murder.
With the subtlety and wonderful storytelling skill of his first novel, Abraham has created a masterful drama filled with a unique magic, a suspenseful thriller of sexual betrayal, and Machiavellian politics.
As a boy, Otah Machi was exiled from his family, Machi’s ruling house. Decades later, he has witnessed and been part of world-changing events. Yet he has never returned to Machi. Now his father—the Khai, or ruler, of Machi—is dying and his eldest brother Biitrah has been assassinated, Otah realizes that he must return to Machi, for reasons not even he understands.
Tradition dictates that the sons of a dying Khai fall upon each other until only one remains to succeed his father. But something even worse is occurring in Machi. The Galts, an expansive empire, have allied with someone in Machi to bring down the ruling house. Otah is accused, the long-missing brother with an all-too-obvious motive for murder.
With the subtlety and wonderful storytelling skill of his first novel, Abraham has created a masterful drama filled with a unique magic, a suspenseful thriller of sexual betrayal, and Machiavellian politics.
366 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published August 21, 2007
218 people are currently reading
4112 people want to read
About the author
Daniel Abraham
262 books3,062 followersDaniel James Abraham, pen names M.L.N. Hanover and James S.A. Corey, is an American novelist, comic book writer, screenwriter, and television producer. He is best known as the author of
The Long Price Quartet
and
The Dagger and the Coin
fantasy series, and with Ty Franck, as the co-author of
The Expanse
series of science fiction novels, written under the joint pseudonym James S.A. Corey.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 472 reviews
November 4, 2018
(I read this in Shadow and Betrayal omnibus.)
This is, without a doubt, a sequel that surpassed its predecessor.
A Betrayal in Winter is the second book in The Long Price Quartet series by Daniel Abraham; I have to admit, this is a great book and also a wonderful installment for the series.
When I started this book, I was surprised by the huge time-gap in the storyline; it’s not often that I read a series that have its storyline fast forward by fourteen years right from the second book of the series. However, Abraham’s decision to fast forward the storyline this much has become one of the main reason why this book surpassed its predecessor, and at the same time also making the first book crucial for the spectacular characters development.
Most of the characterizations in the first book were great but out of all the characters in it, only Otah and Maati totally intrigued me; I felt quite detached with the rest of the characters. In this book, Otah and Maati became the only characters from the first book that returned as the main perspectives and I couldn’t be more pleased with this direction. Their character’s development was fantastic to read and all the other main POV’s were almost equally compelling; I was never bored reading through any of the perspectives storylines. One character, in particular, is probably one of the most lunatic female character’s I have ever read. However, the biggest praise I can give towards this book is how much better the plot in comparison to the first book.
The plot took place mostly in the city of Machi—Otah’s hometown—and it revolves highly around the Khai Machi’s throne succession. The title of the book already explained it, A Betrayal in Winter is filled with political machinations, manipulations, and somehow, love. All of these happened only because almost all the characters have been infused with Littlefinger’s (from A Song of Ice and Fire) DNA. The plot is poignant and yet destructive, showing just how dangerous love, promises, faith, and ambitions can be. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the story in this book; combined with Abraham’s beautiful prose and excellent world-building, this book became highly thrilling and immersive.
The only minor con I had on this book was that I feel like there should be more emphasis and explanation on the andat. The andat is technically the magic system in this series and in my opinion, there’s a lot of potential for it and it still hasn’t been fully explored yet.
A Betrayal in Winter is a worthy sequel that surpassed its predecessor in every way; this is only possible because of the foundation that the first book has laid for the series. I am now halfway through the series and I can safely say this is one of the most original high fantasy series I’ve ever read. I will binge read this series immediately and find out whether the next two books will be superior or not.
You can find this and the rest of my Adult Epic/High Fantasy & Sci-Fi reviews at BookNest
This is, without a doubt, a sequel that surpassed its predecessor.
A Betrayal in Winter is the second book in The Long Price Quartet series by Daniel Abraham; I have to admit, this is a great book and also a wonderful installment for the series.
When I started this book, I was surprised by the huge time-gap in the storyline; it’s not often that I read a series that have its storyline fast forward by fourteen years right from the second book of the series. However, Abraham’s decision to fast forward the storyline this much has become one of the main reason why this book surpassed its predecessor, and at the same time also making the first book crucial for the spectacular characters development.
Most of the characterizations in the first book were great but out of all the characters in it, only Otah and Maati totally intrigued me; I felt quite detached with the rest of the characters. In this book, Otah and Maati became the only characters from the first book that returned as the main perspectives and I couldn’t be more pleased with this direction. Their character’s development was fantastic to read and all the other main POV’s were almost equally compelling; I was never bored reading through any of the perspectives storylines. One character, in particular, is probably one of the most lunatic female character’s I have ever read. However, the biggest praise I can give towards this book is how much better the plot in comparison to the first book.
“Never assume you can survive the future because you've survived the past. Everyone thinks that, and they've all been wrong eventually.”
The plot took place mostly in the city of Machi—Otah’s hometown—and it revolves highly around the Khai Machi’s throne succession. The title of the book already explained it, A Betrayal in Winter is filled with political machinations, manipulations, and somehow, love. All of these happened only because almost all the characters have been infused with Littlefinger’s (from A Song of Ice and Fire) DNA. The plot is poignant and yet destructive, showing just how dangerous love, promises, faith, and ambitions can be. I thoroughly enjoyed reading the story in this book; combined with Abraham’s beautiful prose and excellent world-building, this book became highly thrilling and immersive.
“It doesn’t matter what you’ve done or seen. Every man’s a child until he’s a father. It’s the way the world’s made.”
The only minor con I had on this book was that I feel like there should be more emphasis and explanation on the andat. The andat is technically the magic system in this series and in my opinion, there’s a lot of potential for it and it still hasn’t been fully explored yet.
A Betrayal in Winter is a worthy sequel that surpassed its predecessor in every way; this is only possible because of the foundation that the first book has laid for the series. I am now halfway through the series and I can safely say this is one of the most original high fantasy series I’ve ever read. I will binge read this series immediately and find out whether the next two books will be superior or not.
You can find this and the rest of my Adult Epic/High Fantasy & Sci-Fi reviews at BookNest
July 4, 2019
“Constant struggle is the price of power.”
A novel definitely worth your time and attention. A Betrayal in Winter turned out to be even more intelligent and interesting book than its predecessor. I must say that it really aggravates me how under-read and under-rated the whole series is (thanks Scott for advertising it!).
Mr Abraham created a truly fascinating world that really sets his novel stars apart from other books in the genre. The caste and gender division, khaien who have to kill in order to rule, poets and the very idea of the “animated” abstraction which is andat - all this is enough for A Betrayal in Winter to stand out above the average fantasy. And yet, there is also the story itself, with an enthralling intrigue. A Betrayal in Winter blends mystery with fantasy and the main marker of greatness is that even though we know the culprit from the start, the book still keeps the reader on the verge of sanity with its twists and turns, and developments that can end up both with whimper and with a bang and the multiple possibilities are open up until the very final moments of the novel.
Mr Abraham does so through his unique focus on the human element. Events and actions are never an end in themselves here. Mr Abraham does not forget about people, and by drawing out expressive psychological portraits he is able to show the exorbitant price that the protagonists must pay for their decisions and actions. Mr Abraham’s protagonists are torn by epic winds of passion. His ability to create in-depth, incredibly rich characterisations is one of the very best I have encountered.
This is a fast, though not an easy read. It is emotionally wrenching and the fact that there are court intrigues you need to follow carefully requires constant attention to detail. Having said this, knowledge of the previous book is not necessary. We see some acquaintances of old but since this instalment takes place 15 years after the events that transpired in Saraykeht and all the relevant bits and pieces are neatly summarised and/or delivered backhandedly via dialogues.
From the heights of summer, we are plunged into the depth of winter. The frozen khainate of Machi, a mining power of the world, is our theatre this time. The would-be poet of Saraykeht again assumes one of the leading roles. I was never a fan of Maati but after 15 years he is not the same person. Again Maati is paired with a poet-proper. The new poet, Cehmai, is (again!) a poor creature driven by his passions and to some extent being eroded by his own talent. His andat, somewhat reflecting Cehmai’s personality, is entirely different from the incomparable Seedless, and yet at the same time, both are mirror reflections of the same idea always pressing towards freedom of oblivion. Perhaps Stone-Made-Soft is less sinister and not as much sophisticated, but as relentless as only a continental drift can be.
“Does nothing bother you?” he asked the andat. “Being,” Stone-Made-Soft suggested.
Accidentally, the current Khai Machi happens to be Otah’s father. And when the future pretenders to the throne start dying, this rebellious scion of the house is the main suspect. I was waiting for Otah to win me over in this instalment, to finally man up. It vexed me so much that his initial reaction has always been to flee; flee and settle for less. In fact, he does so much running away, you’d think he is a rabbit. When the anticipated breakthrough finally happened I was truly cheering for him. However, for the greater part of the novel things were happening to Otah, rather than Otah was making the things happen.
“You can be the Khai Machi, or you can be the Khai Machi’s victim. I don’t see a third way.”
But for me the novel was absolutely hijacked by Idaan, the princess of Machi and Otah’s sister. I could entirely understand the thirst of her ambition, the helplessness in which her choices were rooted. When she wondered why the women “hadn’t set the palaces on fire” I have wondered the same thing with her (plus, how to blow the place to smithereens). When she set out on her path, I despaired but I could understand why she changes from merely ambitious to outright evil. Her devolution and disintegration, how she was internally dying and how much it cost her to cling to life; how she has gradually become an empty shell, unable to feel sorrow, regret or triumph, and the heartbreaking dynamics of her relation with her lover (“What I’ve become, I’ve become for you”) was masterfully written out. She made me cringe, and yet I felt so sorry for her at the same time.
Among other details worth mentioning there are the ever-present poses, sometimes empty forms of courtesy, and other times a language of communications transcending the shallowness of spoken word, and the mystery of an old library (library, right!) sporting one of the best written socially awkward librarians (whom I positively adore).
“My fault,” the librarian said. “I thought you had noticed me. You were scowling, after all.”
And again, I am admiring the writing style. I have tons of highlights! Especially that A Betrayal in Winter is by no means a reprise of the previous story or its slightly amended version. There is a continuation, but more importantly, there is continuous growth. Mr Abraham is not one of those writers that keep on writing one and the same book over and over again, and for this, he has my deepest respect.
___
Also in the series:
1. A Shadow in Summer ★★★★☆
3. An Autumn War ★★★★☆
4. The Price of Spring ★★★☆☆
A novel definitely worth your time and attention. A Betrayal in Winter turned out to be even more intelligent and interesting book than its predecessor. I must say that it really aggravates me how under-read and under-rated the whole series is (thanks Scott for advertising it!).
Mr Abraham created a truly fascinating world that really sets his novel stars apart from other books in the genre. The caste and gender division, khaien who have to kill in order to rule, poets and the very idea of the “animated” abstraction which is andat - all this is enough for A Betrayal in Winter to stand out above the average fantasy. And yet, there is also the story itself, with an enthralling intrigue. A Betrayal in Winter blends mystery with fantasy and the main marker of greatness is that even though we know the culprit from the start, the book still keeps the reader on the verge of sanity with its twists and turns, and developments that can end up both with whimper and with a bang and the multiple possibilities are open up until the very final moments of the novel.
Mr Abraham does so through his unique focus on the human element. Events and actions are never an end in themselves here. Mr Abraham does not forget about people, and by drawing out expressive psychological portraits he is able to show the exorbitant price that the protagonists must pay for their decisions and actions. Mr Abraham’s protagonists are torn by epic winds of passion. His ability to create in-depth, incredibly rich characterisations is one of the very best I have encountered.
This is a fast, though not an easy read. It is emotionally wrenching and the fact that there are court intrigues you need to follow carefully requires constant attention to detail. Having said this, knowledge of the previous book is not necessary. We see some acquaintances of old but since this instalment takes place 15 years after the events that transpired in Saraykeht and all the relevant bits and pieces are neatly summarised and/or delivered backhandedly via dialogues.
From the heights of summer, we are plunged into the depth of winter. The frozen khainate of Machi, a mining power of the world, is our theatre this time. The would-be poet of Saraykeht again assumes one of the leading roles. I was never a fan of Maati but after 15 years he is not the same person. Again Maati is paired with a poet-proper. The new poet, Cehmai, is (again!) a poor creature driven by his passions and to some extent being eroded by his own talent. His andat, somewhat reflecting Cehmai’s personality, is entirely different from the incomparable Seedless, and yet at the same time, both are mirror reflections of the same idea always pressing towards freedom of oblivion. Perhaps Stone-Made-Soft is less sinister and not as much sophisticated, but as relentless as only a continental drift can be.
“Does nothing bother you?” he asked the andat. “Being,” Stone-Made-Soft suggested.
Accidentally, the current Khai Machi happens to be Otah’s father. And when the future pretenders to the throne start dying, this rebellious scion of the house is the main suspect. I was waiting for Otah to win me over in this instalment, to finally man up. It vexed me so much that his initial reaction has always been to flee; flee and settle for less. In fact, he does so much running away, you’d think he is a rabbit. When the anticipated breakthrough finally happened I was truly cheering for him. However, for the greater part of the novel things were happening to Otah, rather than Otah was making the things happen.
“You can be the Khai Machi, or you can be the Khai Machi’s victim. I don’t see a third way.”
But for me the novel was absolutely hijacked by Idaan, the princess of Machi and Otah’s sister. I could entirely understand the thirst of her ambition, the helplessness in which her choices were rooted. When she wondered why the women “hadn’t set the palaces on fire” I have wondered the same thing with her (plus, how to blow the place to smithereens). When she set out on her path, I despaired but I could understand why she changes from merely ambitious to outright evil. Her devolution and disintegration, how she was internally dying and how much it cost her to cling to life; how she has gradually become an empty shell, unable to feel sorrow, regret or triumph, and the heartbreaking dynamics of her relation with her lover (“What I’ve become, I’ve become for you”) was masterfully written out. She made me cringe, and yet I felt so sorry for her at the same time.
Among other details worth mentioning there are the ever-present poses, sometimes empty forms of courtesy, and other times a language of communications transcending the shallowness of spoken word, and the mystery of an old library (library, right!) sporting one of the best written socially awkward librarians (whom I positively adore).
“My fault,” the librarian said. “I thought you had noticed me. You were scowling, after all.”
And again, I am admiring the writing style. I have tons of highlights! Especially that A Betrayal in Winter is by no means a reprise of the previous story or its slightly amended version. There is a continuation, but more importantly, there is continuous growth. Mr Abraham is not one of those writers that keep on writing one and the same book over and over again, and for this, he has my deepest respect.
___
Also in the series:
1. A Shadow in Summer ★★★★☆
3. An Autumn War ★★★★☆
4. The Price of Spring ★★★☆☆
March 20, 2017
4.5 stars . Now THIS is more like it! To me, the first in the series was ok, but the characters didn't draw me in, despite the excellent world building. This one had it all! Betrayal and treachery, backstabbing and plotting, politicking. The world building is a cornerstone of Abraham's work; he gets the details right, right down to the linguistic tics. Excellent read. Skipped through this, as opposed to trudging through the first.
November 1, 2025
2025 reread: still a beautiful book in a beautiful series
Another sorrow-filled masterpiece.
My full review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uH04b...
Another sorrow-filled masterpiece.
My full review: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uH04b...
January 22, 2024
Somehow both these first 2 books have had a love triangle thing center stage and yet it hasn't been annoying at all. That's a neat trick.
Betrayal in Winter is a novel full of political scheming, and heart. It is one of the novels that manages to have deeply honourable characters who still are complex, conflicted and human, showing that you don't have to write bastards to write characters who feel human.
It also shows that you can write bastards who seem human, as it also has a fantastic antagonist point of view who a lot of people seem to actually like (?), like as a person? huh, but who I consider a fantastically written antagonist whose motives come from an extremely understandable place, but it is destroyed by ambition, ruthlessness, and frankly a lack of self-awareness, and unwillingness to consider their own responsibility in the outcome of events. They managed to be a somewhat tragic antagonist who I felt for as the reader, while also not liking them....like really at all.
In general, compared to Shadow in Summer the events of this book felt more important as I was reading them, and to me the characters stood out more. I thought while reading book 1 and continue to think that Abraham is extremely efficient at characterization, but book 1 for me didn't have stand out moments where while reading it I was blown away by the characters I was reading, and Betrayal in Winter did.
Also, the Andat, and how they interact with their poet is such a good idea.
8.8
Betrayal in Winter is a novel full of political scheming, and heart. It is one of the novels that manages to have deeply honourable characters who still are complex, conflicted and human, showing that you don't have to write bastards to write characters who feel human.
It also shows that you can write bastards who seem human, as it also has a fantastic antagonist point of view who a lot of people seem to actually like (?), like as a person? huh, but who I consider a fantastically written antagonist whose motives come from an extremely understandable place, but it is destroyed by ambition, ruthlessness, and frankly a lack of self-awareness, and unwillingness to consider their own responsibility in the outcome of events. They managed to be a somewhat tragic antagonist who I felt for as the reader, while also not liking them....like really at all.
In general, compared to Shadow in Summer the events of this book felt more important as I was reading them, and to me the characters stood out more. I thought while reading book 1 and continue to think that Abraham is extremely efficient at characterization, but book 1 for me didn't have stand out moments where while reading it I was blown away by the characters I was reading, and Betrayal in Winter did.
Also, the Andat, and how they interact with their poet is such a good idea.
8.8
February 10, 2017
As a sequel it did improve upon the first, including a fairly complicated plot for a kingdom's succession. Otah and his sister Idaan are easily the two main players here, and love plays the largest role as thememaster, which is rather surprising since neither character shows themselves to be particularly loving in general even if they are in particular.
This is far from a departure from the first novel in the series, carrying through as seamlessly as silk.
The magic again proves rather elusive, even if we have a rather interesting IDEA turned FORM playing relatively minor roles throughout. Honestly, I'd have loved to see more of him, but it wasn't to be.
On the other hand, if you want a novel full of intrigue, reluctant ascension, and heartbreaking betrayals, then you're in for a treat.
The novel is rich in worldbuilding and very close and personal with it's characters.
While I liked it better than the first in the series, I found myself not caring quite as much as I felt I ought to. Maybe I'm a sociopath. No one is extremely good or bad. There's a lot of grey area, and that's perfect if you want a complex tapestry without larger than life events.
Of course, there are plenty of assassinations and at least a taste of mass-death, but I've been spoiled by fantasies rife with war or huge social upheavals.
A taste of what Galt has in store is not really enough, in my opinion, but perhaps it'll all become a huge reveal and a dire event in the future. We shall see.
This is far from a departure from the first novel in the series, carrying through as seamlessly as silk.
The magic again proves rather elusive, even if we have a rather interesting IDEA turned FORM playing relatively minor roles throughout. Honestly, I'd have loved to see more of him, but it wasn't to be.
On the other hand, if you want a novel full of intrigue, reluctant ascension, and heartbreaking betrayals, then you're in for a treat.
The novel is rich in worldbuilding and very close and personal with it's characters.
While I liked it better than the first in the series, I found myself not caring quite as much as I felt I ought to. Maybe I'm a sociopath. No one is extremely good or bad. There's a lot of grey area, and that's perfect if you want a complex tapestry without larger than life events.
Of course, there are plenty of assassinations and at least a taste of mass-death, but I've been spoiled by fantasies rife with war or huge social upheavals.
A taste of what Galt has in store is not really enough, in my opinion, but perhaps it'll all become a huge reveal and a dire event in the future. We shall see.
March 22, 2018
*** 4.44 ***
This is turning out to be a fantastic series! The writing has actually improved since the first book, while the plot and intricacies have stayed just as rich and intriguing. I am absolutely spellbound by the way body language is described here, always giving that extra layer of expression and understanding, making the players and the reader catch all the nuances intended by the creator.
"... “Never assume you can survive the future because you've survived the past. Everyone thinks that, and they've all been wrong eventually.”..."
Being the ruling family has its perks, but only as long as the question of succession is not at hand. Or if there is only one sun. G-d forbid there are several male siblings, because in the moment the succession becomes an issue, the males have to engage in a rampage of fratricide in order to have only one left, thus becoming the clear heir to the throne. Girls or sisters need not worry - they can marry and live with their families, but by being female they forfeit all claims to the throne and all ambitions for ruling. The wives and female relatives of the eliminated siblings can live with the wife's family, while male offspring are not meant to survive. Can you imagine the constant sorrow the parents of those children must endure all of their lives, since they know that at best, they will only have one of them continuing with their lives... I say, this is bad family planning, but who am I to say...:)
"... “Being doomed doesn’t take away from the dignity of the effort, though.”..."
The youngest son of the Machi Ruling House, Otah Machi, had been exiled from the family as a child and subsequently diapered among the masses. As his father, Khai Machi, is at the end of his life, and his brother Biitrah has been assassinated, Otah is send by the House he works for to gather information on the events in Machi. This puts him right in the hands of those who want to use his name as a pawn in the elimination of his family. The Empire of The Galts, who always aims to extend its boundaries, seems to have an interest of putting their own puppets on the throne, and might be behind the mysterious murders. Luckily, the Poet/Magician Maati, the old friend of Otah, is on the case and together with his young counterpart find out more about the facts, despite going through a lot of physical and emotional pain.
"... “It’s the problem in seeing too much of the world. In loving too much of it. You can only live in one place at a time. And eventually, you pick your spot, and the memories of all the others just become ghosts.”..."
Otah Machi is the catalyst of all that happens in this book, despite not being the main action hero. He has finally come home and is pressured into making a choice as to where he is going to stay. His sister and her betrothed Idaan and Adrah, are two characters so well written and so meticulously planned and executed, that the book is worth reading if only for their parts in it. You love them, you hate them, but overall, you understand them. The complexity of Idaan encompasses all the levels of emotion. Characters like her keep us, avid readers, coming back for more. We also have the Andat Stone-Made-Soft, who is also a very deceptively simple personality. I loved him and want more!!!
Overall, this series is totally worth the time to read! Neither too long nor too short, it is a perfect fix for those fans of more cerebral Fantasy, full of political machinations and intrigues. I will whole-heartedly recommend it :):):)!
Now I wish you all Happy Reading and may you always find what you Need in the pages of a Good Book!!!
This is turning out to be a fantastic series! The writing has actually improved since the first book, while the plot and intricacies have stayed just as rich and intriguing. I am absolutely spellbound by the way body language is described here, always giving that extra layer of expression and understanding, making the players and the reader catch all the nuances intended by the creator.
"... “Never assume you can survive the future because you've survived the past. Everyone thinks that, and they've all been wrong eventually.”..."
Being the ruling family has its perks, but only as long as the question of succession is not at hand. Or if there is only one sun. G-d forbid there are several male siblings, because in the moment the succession becomes an issue, the males have to engage in a rampage of fratricide in order to have only one left, thus becoming the clear heir to the throne. Girls or sisters need not worry - they can marry and live with their families, but by being female they forfeit all claims to the throne and all ambitions for ruling. The wives and female relatives of the eliminated siblings can live with the wife's family, while male offspring are not meant to survive. Can you imagine the constant sorrow the parents of those children must endure all of their lives, since they know that at best, they will only have one of them continuing with their lives... I say, this is bad family planning, but who am I to say...:)
"... “Being doomed doesn’t take away from the dignity of the effort, though.”..."
The youngest son of the Machi Ruling House, Otah Machi, had been exiled from the family as a child and subsequently diapered among the masses. As his father, Khai Machi, is at the end of his life, and his brother Biitrah has been assassinated, Otah is send by the House he works for to gather information on the events in Machi. This puts him right in the hands of those who want to use his name as a pawn in the elimination of his family. The Empire of The Galts, who always aims to extend its boundaries, seems to have an interest of putting their own puppets on the throne, and might be behind the mysterious murders. Luckily, the Poet/Magician Maati, the old friend of Otah, is on the case and together with his young counterpart find out more about the facts, despite going through a lot of physical and emotional pain.
"... “It’s the problem in seeing too much of the world. In loving too much of it. You can only live in one place at a time. And eventually, you pick your spot, and the memories of all the others just become ghosts.”..."
Otah Machi is the catalyst of all that happens in this book, despite not being the main action hero. He has finally come home and is pressured into making a choice as to where he is going to stay. His sister and her betrothed Idaan and Adrah, are two characters so well written and so meticulously planned and executed, that the book is worth reading if only for their parts in it. You love them, you hate them, but overall, you understand them. The complexity of Idaan encompasses all the levels of emotion. Characters like her keep us, avid readers, coming back for more. We also have the Andat Stone-Made-Soft, who is also a very deceptively simple personality. I loved him and want more!!!
Overall, this series is totally worth the time to read! Neither too long nor too short, it is a perfect fix for those fans of more cerebral Fantasy, full of political machinations and intrigues. I will whole-heartedly recommend it :):):)!
Now I wish you all Happy Reading and may you always find what you Need in the pages of a Good Book!!!
July 14, 2025
You know it's a great book when the biggest flaw you can think about it is that it was too short. This second installment of The Long Price Quartet features a time jump of 13-14 years with the two main characters Otah and Maati in very different circumstances than we left them. Abraham did a masterful job at advancing the story's timeline without clunky exposition drops, while still maintaining a great continuity of character for these two protagonists, boys in the first book and now men.
The characterization of this book was one of its strengths. The characters are all imbued with a great deal of realism, presented with a high degree of nuance. This realism causes you to have great empathy for biggest villain in this story that unfolded like a politically charged murder mystery, while also seeing the flaws of the characters for whom you root for throughout. These characters feel like people and not just protagonists, antagonists, or any other labels one may give them.
Alas, it was too short, however! I feel the book-as much as I loved it-could actually have benefited from leaning more into the political and personal intrigues longer to add even more tension to the storyline. But as I thought with the first installment, it's refreshing to read such a strong fantasy novel at around 300 pages.
The characterization of this book was one of its strengths. The characters are all imbued with a great deal of realism, presented with a high degree of nuance. This realism causes you to have great empathy for biggest villain in this story that unfolded like a politically charged murder mystery, while also seeing the flaws of the characters for whom you root for throughout. These characters feel like people and not just protagonists, antagonists, or any other labels one may give them.
Alas, it was too short, however! I feel the book-as much as I loved it-could actually have benefited from leaning more into the political and personal intrigues longer to add even more tension to the storyline. But as I thought with the first installment, it's refreshing to read such a strong fantasy novel at around 300 pages.
April 21, 2017
A lot of people seem to find this series slow but much like book one that wasn't the case for me. DA's characters are so multifaceted, flawed and intriguing, IE real people. Again like book one I thought I had it all figured out and was pleasantly surprised that I was completely wrong.
If you like a series with a strong Eastern influence, strong world and character development, scheming and intrigue this is a series for you. If you want fast paces battle scenes and lightening bolts flying back and forth it probably isn't.
Looking forward to books 3 & 4.
If you like a series with a strong Eastern influence, strong world and character development, scheming and intrigue this is a series for you. If you want fast paces battle scenes and lightening bolts flying back and forth it probably isn't.
Looking forward to books 3 & 4.
June 21, 2015
Executive Summary: Another solid entry in this series, though maybe not quite as enjoyable as the first book.
Audio book: Much as the first book, the narration is fine, but not spectacular. Fewer annoying voices than the first book at least.
Full Review
This books starts with a time jump, which I always find tricky. The passage of time can have an important impact on a story. Characters mature, events are put in perspective, plans put into motion. In short: things change.
I'm not always a fan of big time jumps, but Mr. Abraham seems to do a good job of it. We're initially not privy to what the characters have been up to for the last 8 years or so. We discover these things over the course of the book without ever having flashback scenes. That makes me think the time jump was justified.
I found things maybe a little bit slower in this novel than the first one. It took a bit of time for Mr. Abraham to get the pieces in place to finally get the ball rolling, but I never found myself uninterested.
Very few authors can write a sort of everyday life kind of story without boring me. Robin Hobb is incredibly good at this. I think Mr. Abraham is as well. That said, it's the kind of story that can easily turn people away. Once again there is very little magic or action. Almost no fighting at all.
Everything is politically based. There are hints of a possible war on the horizon, but no armies are being mustered yet. I'm hopeful that based on where things stand at the end of this novel, should make for some pretty interesting developments in the next one.
The characters are once again examples of shades of grey. Most are dealing with internal conflicts raging over what course of action they should take. The world he built in the first novel wasn't really expanded much here, but it was refined a little. We get to see the politics and violence of a succession in more detail.
Overall I think anyone who enjoyed the first book, will enjoy this as well. While anyone who found the first book lacking, won't likely find this book any better.
I had the third book all downloaded and ready to go, but unexpectedly got distracted by another book. I will be coming back to this series very soon though.
Audio book: Much as the first book, the narration is fine, but not spectacular. Fewer annoying voices than the first book at least.
Full Review
This books starts with a time jump, which I always find tricky. The passage of time can have an important impact on a story. Characters mature, events are put in perspective, plans put into motion. In short: things change.
I'm not always a fan of big time jumps, but Mr. Abraham seems to do a good job of it. We're initially not privy to what the characters have been up to for the last 8 years or so. We discover these things over the course of the book without ever having flashback scenes. That makes me think the time jump was justified.
I found things maybe a little bit slower in this novel than the first one. It took a bit of time for Mr. Abraham to get the pieces in place to finally get the ball rolling, but I never found myself uninterested.
Very few authors can write a sort of everyday life kind of story without boring me. Robin Hobb is incredibly good at this. I think Mr. Abraham is as well. That said, it's the kind of story that can easily turn people away. Once again there is very little magic or action. Almost no fighting at all.
Everything is politically based. There are hints of a possible war on the horizon, but no armies are being mustered yet. I'm hopeful that based on where things stand at the end of this novel, should make for some pretty interesting developments in the next one.
The characters are once again examples of shades of grey. Most are dealing with internal conflicts raging over what course of action they should take. The world he built in the first novel wasn't really expanded much here, but it was refined a little. We get to see the politics and violence of a succession in more detail.
Overall I think anyone who enjoyed the first book, will enjoy this as well. While anyone who found the first book lacking, won't likely find this book any better.
I had the third book all downloaded and ready to go, but unexpectedly got distracted by another book. I will be coming back to this series very soon though.
June 1, 2015
It's light on world building. No magic system to speak of. Violence is sparse. But Daniel Abraham's solid story telling and even pacing kept me engaged with the book. It helps that it's not so long as well. There's not a lot of meat, but there's no fluff either.
The story picks up from the first book some 12 years later - I think, it's not explicitly stated unless I missed it. We pick up with two of the main characters from book one ie Otah/Itani and Maati - both failed poets in there own way.
The action moves to Machi - Otah's city -yeah, the one where his father is the Khai and where Otah is not supposed to be able to be Khai because he was supposed to take the brand - which he never did. And in a culture where the sons kill each other to determine who will succeed there father, Machi is a dangerous place for Otah when the current Khai is dying.
We get a closer look at the relationship between poets and andats through the eyes of the young poet in Machi and the andat "Stone made Soft." What's is an andat named "Stone made Soft" good for you ask? No, not breaking your enemy's stones - He get's used for mining. But if your enemies get out of hand he can also bury them by levelling their mountains. I guess I was wrong - he can break your stones.
I like the idea of playing stones (Chess?) as part of the andat's binding, where the poet has to keep playing and beating the andat to reinforce the binding.
As good as the first book
3.75 stars
The story picks up from the first book some 12 years later - I think, it's not explicitly stated unless I missed it. We pick up with two of the main characters from book one ie Otah/Itani and Maati - both failed poets in there own way.
The action moves to Machi - Otah's city -yeah, the one where his father is the Khai and where Otah is not supposed to be able to be Khai because he was supposed to take the brand - which he never did. And in a culture where the sons kill each other to determine who will succeed there father, Machi is a dangerous place for Otah when the current Khai is dying.
We get a closer look at the relationship between poets and andats through the eyes of the young poet in Machi and the andat "Stone made Soft." What's is an andat named "Stone made Soft" good for you ask? No, not breaking your enemy's stones - He get's used for mining. But if your enemies get out of hand he can also bury them by levelling their mountains. I guess I was wrong - he can break your stones.
I like the idea of playing stones (Chess?) as part of the andat's binding, where the poet has to keep playing and beating the andat to reinforce the binding.
As good as the first book
3.75 stars
January 1, 2022
I will save my full thoughts for the live show, and just say that I am continuing to enjoy my time with this series. Abraham is a meticulous plotter with exquisite prose and he makes you fall for his characters within a relatively short time (compared to most epic fantasy). This one fell just shy of the first volume for me, but left me eager to continue on and experience the unfolding of this masterfully crafted story.
July 18, 2022
My review on my YouTube channel: https://youtu.be/-B8oEZk6gxU
4.75. Those last couple of chapters were masterfully crafted. Loved the way everything came together. Full review to come soon.
4.75. Those last couple of chapters were masterfully crafted. Loved the way everything came together. Full review to come soon.
July 30, 2021
no hesitation amazing
March 25, 2018
I finally finished this last night. I hadn't picked up the book in about a week and I had to make myself power read the last 50% of it. The writing is good so no problems there and it's not a question of pacing for me. I'm just finding that I don't really care about these characters. In the first book I felt for poor Heshai and I really liked Amat and was invested in her story. In this book absolutely everyone could've died and I wouldn't have cared. Otah and Maati from the first book are back but everyone else is new. I just didn't care. Hopefully the next book will give me at least one character to care about.
May 14, 2022
Going to be that person and say, I don't know why this doesn't have at least 4 stars, it is so good! Idaan is relatable and I am empathetic towards her arc. The world Abraham created is so interesting and unique.
January 6, 2015
(Long Price Quartet #2)
A sequel to ‘A Shadow in Summer,’ set in the same location and a few years after the events of the previous book, but it also works as a contained story.
The Khai of Sarakheyt is ailing. Tradition demands that the next ruler of the city will be the last son of the current Khai left alive – it is the duty of brothers to kill each other to ensure an uncomplicated succession. However, one of the Khai’s sons has never had any interest in ruling. He’s left the city and has been living under an assumed name, pursuing a quiet life with an innkeeper, whom he loves, and making a living as a combination bike courier and spy. It’s the gathering-information part of the job that’s becomes a problem, because when one of his brothers is reported poisoned, he’s assigned to go find out what’s happening. Otah Machi would rather be as far as possible from these events – but he’d also rather not blow his cover by refusing the job for no logical reason.
Unfortunately for him, his cover is blown when he runs into an old friend (or maybe an enemy), Maati, one of the “poets” who sustain the economy (and the land’s defense) through the elemental golems called ‘andat’ that they summon into being through words. Maati is also interested in keeping informed on what’s going on, as politics is essential to the poets.
To his further dismay, Otah’s carefully maintained low profile is working against him, as public opinion has focused on his mysterious disappearance. No one will believe that Otah is not secretly plotting.
The reader, however, knows the identity of the real plotter from the outset: Otah’s sister Idaan. No one in this patriarchal world expects a woman would be involved in politics, but Idaan is brilliant, ambitious, and believes that she has her lover (whose name she expects to rule in), and the situation, under her thumb.
The story proceeds as a combination of court intrigue and murder mystery; with a rich setting and complex characters controlled by and fighting against their pasts, their ‘proper’ place in society, tradition, and their own emotions. Very well done.
A sequel to ‘A Shadow in Summer,’ set in the same location and a few years after the events of the previous book, but it also works as a contained story.
The Khai of Sarakheyt is ailing. Tradition demands that the next ruler of the city will be the last son of the current Khai left alive – it is the duty of brothers to kill each other to ensure an uncomplicated succession. However, one of the Khai’s sons has never had any interest in ruling. He’s left the city and has been living under an assumed name, pursuing a quiet life with an innkeeper, whom he loves, and making a living as a combination bike courier and spy. It’s the gathering-information part of the job that’s becomes a problem, because when one of his brothers is reported poisoned, he’s assigned to go find out what’s happening. Otah Machi would rather be as far as possible from these events – but he’d also rather not blow his cover by refusing the job for no logical reason.
Unfortunately for him, his cover is blown when he runs into an old friend (or maybe an enemy), Maati, one of the “poets” who sustain the economy (and the land’s defense) through the elemental golems called ‘andat’ that they summon into being through words. Maati is also interested in keeping informed on what’s going on, as politics is essential to the poets.
To his further dismay, Otah’s carefully maintained low profile is working against him, as public opinion has focused on his mysterious disappearance. No one will believe that Otah is not secretly plotting.
The reader, however, knows the identity of the real plotter from the outset: Otah’s sister Idaan. No one in this patriarchal world expects a woman would be involved in politics, but Idaan is brilliant, ambitious, and believes that she has her lover (whose name she expects to rule in), and the situation, under her thumb.
The story proceeds as a combination of court intrigue and murder mystery; with a rich setting and complex characters controlled by and fighting against their pasts, their ‘proper’ place in society, tradition, and their own emotions. Very well done.
April 5, 2011
...and the real show begins.
This book starts about 10 years later. The character who turned out to be the main guy in the first book is now a courier, wavering towards leaving his trade. For a woman, of course. But his past ruins that plan and he ends up having to return to his first home that he hadn't seen since he was a child.
Each of the Summer Cities has a ruler who holds the throne on the blood of his brothers. Each ruler is expected to take many wives and have many babies. The females become bargaining chips, the younger boys are sent away to poet school where they will either become poets or be branded upon leaving the school and with that mark no longer be considered a viable candidate for the throne, and the eldest 3 males will eventually fight until only 1 is left to inherit the city.
The ruler of the northernmost city is dying. His sons start dying. Too easy to spoiler this one! I guess it's revealed long before the end of the book, so .
Another love triange, mehmoomuh (that means "whatever"). My favorite character, Sinja, comes in the 2nd half. I love his one-liner.
The same plot feeler is discovered in this one, from the same source, and then....
This book starts about 10 years later. The character who turned out to be the main guy in the first book is now a courier, wavering towards leaving his trade. For a woman, of course. But his past ruins that plan and he ends up having to return to his first home that he hadn't seen since he was a child.
Each of the Summer Cities has a ruler who holds the throne on the blood of his brothers. Each ruler is expected to take many wives and have many babies. The females become bargaining chips, the younger boys are sent away to poet school where they will either become poets or be branded upon leaving the school and with that mark no longer be considered a viable candidate for the throne, and the eldest 3 males will eventually fight until only 1 is left to inherit the city.
The ruler of the northernmost city is dying. His sons start dying. Too easy to spoiler this one! I guess it's revealed long before the end of the book, so .
Another love triange, mehmoomuh (that means "whatever"). My favorite character, Sinja, comes in the 2nd half. I love his one-liner.
The same plot feeler is discovered in this one, from the same source, and then....
December 28, 2015
4.5 stars.
And I rounded down? Well, it was closer to 4 than 5, but still more than a run of the mill 4. So there we are.
Despite a similar rating, I found this book to be much more enjoyable than the first in the series. Where Abraham was getting his footing in A Shadow in Summer, his voice was firmly established and comfortable here. His unique portrayal of body language had characters using poses to substitute for excessive words (like I wish I could have done with that sentence). In the first book, this was intriguing but I remember it become a bit overdone, tiresome by the end. Here, the poses were executed perfectly and had the exact effect needed.
Abraham had some great intrigue going on with this novel, and though it reached a satisfying conclusion, he set the stage for further books. Which I'm pleased to say are available now for me to continue with.
And I rounded down? Well, it was closer to 4 than 5, but still more than a run of the mill 4. So there we are.
Despite a similar rating, I found this book to be much more enjoyable than the first in the series. Where Abraham was getting his footing in A Shadow in Summer, his voice was firmly established and comfortable here. His unique portrayal of body language had characters using poses to substitute for excessive words (like I wish I could have done with that sentence). In the first book, this was intriguing but I remember it become a bit overdone, tiresome by the end. Here, the poses were executed perfectly and had the exact effect needed.
Abraham had some great intrigue going on with this novel, and though it reached a satisfying conclusion, he set the stage for further books. Which I'm pleased to say are available now for me to continue with.
August 5, 2023
2nd read - just as good if not better than the first time around
4.5 ⭐️
Video discussion with Overly Average Ben - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oflI...
4.5 ⭐️
Video discussion with Overly Average Ben - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9oflI...
December 23, 2025
I had some real trouble getting invested in this particular plot and the new POVs after really settling into book 1's setting and cast and being so hooked to the extremely engaging situation and interesting relationship dynamics at play.
This one was more like a Shakespearean family tragedy, and those aren't really my jam (especially when it feels so predictable). I can totally see why this one would knock it out of the park for others, and even grumpy old me got taken in by the end, as I read the last big chunk in one sitting and definitely had some emotional reaction to the climactic events and resolution and loved where it ended.
I've started bk 3 and can already feel my investment in the new situation being way higher than it ever was in bk 2, so I'm hopeful Betrayal in Winter was just a brief little stumbling block of a bridge book to set up a second half of the series that can blow me away.
This one was more like a Shakespearean family tragedy, and those aren't really my jam (especially when it feels so predictable). I can totally see why this one would knock it out of the park for others, and even grumpy old me got taken in by the end, as I read the last big chunk in one sitting and definitely had some emotional reaction to the climactic events and resolution and loved where it ended.
I've started bk 3 and can already feel my investment in the new situation being way higher than it ever was in bk 2, so I'm hopeful Betrayal in Winter was just a brief little stumbling block of a bridge book to set up a second half of the series that can blow me away.
September 19, 2019
Now that I am in the right mindset for this series, I appreciated this quite a bit more then the first. This was a very heavy political thriller plot, you could say. It paid off because it was so so good. I do feel like the ending left me a little cheated, or I wasn't paying attention very well. I just wanted more from the ending. This fantasy world is still so unique and I want to learn everything there is to learn. I am also really enjoying the fact that each novel so far has a self contained story. Especially since this book has such a drastic time jump I was a little stunned to say the least. But even though these stories can stand alone, they play off of the other book just a tad, so it is still beneficial to read all of them they way your supposed to.
January 7, 2024
I don't know why, but I expected a more direct sequel, even if in world years have passed between books. There is a new city, a new conflict and Otah and Maati are the only recurring characters. Still, the consequences of their relationship and their actions in book one are at the center of A Betrayal in Winter.
I think this is just as good as A Shadow in Summer, but I was even more invested and felt closer to the amazing characters, especially the ones I already knew. Add to it that I just love court intruige in fantasy.
Abraham keeps delivering unique character- driven books and I can't wait to continue the series.
I think this is just as good as A Shadow in Summer, but I was even more invested and felt closer to the amazing characters, especially the ones I already knew. Add to it that I just love court intruige in fantasy.
Abraham keeps delivering unique character- driven books and I can't wait to continue the series.
February 19, 2025
The pacing of a quartet can be hard to master, yet this was a strong second book!
Utilising sensible time jumps, introducing new characters and places, the plot is moved along to keep your attention and to develop the characters well.
At long last, after years of waiting, one of the men who might one day be Khai Machi had made his move. The city waited for the drama to unfold.
Maati is considered an embarrassment and sent to find out whether Otah had anything to do with his brothers’ deaths.
Otah has taken on a new identity as a courier but is drawn to his father’s city and becomes embroiled in other people’s plotting he wants no part of.
Idaan is the daughter of the Khai and is considered lesser, not a threat, a pawn for marriage than anything worth power. She has learnt to be cutting, ironic, cruel; hidden behind her paints and a nice smile.
‘Ah, and if I do this thing, you’ll be shamed. Because I have breasts and you’ve a prick, I’m supposed to muzzle myself and be glad. Is that it? Well I won’t. You hear me? I will not be controlled, I will not be owned, and I will not step back from anything to protect your petty pride. It’s gone too far for that, brother. If a woman shrinks meekly back into the shadows, then you be the woman. See how it feels to you!’
We have characters who have loved, betrayed, grown up being reunited admit a charged climate full of suspicions and secrets.
We see the power grabbing of the city and still the Galts are in the background trying to be puppet masters.
Bookstagram
Utilising sensible time jumps, introducing new characters and places, the plot is moved along to keep your attention and to develop the characters well.
At long last, after years of waiting, one of the men who might one day be Khai Machi had made his move. The city waited for the drama to unfold.
Maati is considered an embarrassment and sent to find out whether Otah had anything to do with his brothers’ deaths.
Otah has taken on a new identity as a courier but is drawn to his father’s city and becomes embroiled in other people’s plotting he wants no part of.
Idaan is the daughter of the Khai and is considered lesser, not a threat, a pawn for marriage than anything worth power. She has learnt to be cutting, ironic, cruel; hidden behind her paints and a nice smile.
‘Ah, and if I do this thing, you’ll be shamed. Because I have breasts and you’ve a prick, I’m supposed to muzzle myself and be glad. Is that it? Well I won’t. You hear me? I will not be controlled, I will not be owned, and I will not step back from anything to protect your petty pride. It’s gone too far for that, brother. If a woman shrinks meekly back into the shadows, then you be the woman. See how it feels to you!’
We have characters who have loved, betrayed, grown up being reunited admit a charged climate full of suspicions and secrets.
We see the power grabbing of the city and still the Galts are in the background trying to be puppet masters.
Bookstagram
July 7, 2021
Review to come ! That was awesome
November 26, 2016
A Betrayal in Winter by Daniel Abraham is the second book in the Long Price Quartet. It takes place about 14 or 15 years after the events in the first book, a Shadow in Summer. 2 of the perspectives are from characters that appear in the first book: Maati, the almost-poet and Otah Machi. Otah is the youngest son of the Khai Machi, the ruler of a city in the north. Even though Otah hasn't been in the city in years, the bloody battle for succession has begun and he is the primary suspect.
We follow the mystery of who is killing the successors to the Khai Machi. It's not really a mystery though because we know who it is from the beginning. The interesting part is the look into our new characters we meet in this book. Idaan Machi is Otah's sister and Cehmai is the poet stationed in Machi who has control over the andat Stone-Made-Soft.
I enjoy these books so much because they are so refreshing and unique. The world is flushed out without us having to travel across the world going on adventures. The magic is different than anything I've ever seen before. This one was a little more dramatic in scale than the first one and I hope they continue to get more epic as the series goes on.
5/5 stars. Already started the third book.
We follow the mystery of who is killing the successors to the Khai Machi. It's not really a mystery though because we know who it is from the beginning. The interesting part is the look into our new characters we meet in this book. Idaan Machi is Otah's sister and Cehmai is the poet stationed in Machi who has control over the andat Stone-Made-Soft.
I enjoy these books so much because they are so refreshing and unique. The world is flushed out without us having to travel across the world going on adventures. The magic is different than anything I've ever seen before. This one was a little more dramatic in scale than the first one and I hope they continue to get more epic as the series goes on.
5/5 stars. Already started the third book.
July 7, 2023
When I started this second installment, I was expecting it to somehow disappoint after the five star experience of A Shadow in Summer. But this book continues to build on the deep perspectives of our familiar characters, adding in several new perspectives that expand the slowly changing world that Otah and Maati are attempting to navigate.
The tone of this book stayed consistent with the first, despite the change in environment and story focus. The culture of Otah's homeland comes to vibrant life through a deadly scheme, and once again, we find ourselves gripped in the very center.
I absolutely loved Otah, Maati, and Kiyan in this story. Cehmai was a dynamic new perspective, and the court of the Machi was filled with characters that added to the authentic world Abraham has created in this series.
I absolutely cannot wait to continue.
The tone of this book stayed consistent with the first, despite the change in environment and story focus. The culture of Otah's homeland comes to vibrant life through a deadly scheme, and once again, we find ourselves gripped in the very center.
I absolutely loved Otah, Maati, and Kiyan in this story. Cehmai was a dynamic new perspective, and the court of the Machi was filled with characters that added to the authentic world Abraham has created in this series.
I absolutely cannot wait to continue.
March 11, 2018
Notable improvement from the first book. The plot is tighter, the characters are more intriguing, and court politics is always a fun read.
Highlights:
- The relationship between Chemai the poet and his andat.
- Tunnels beneath the city
- The grumpy librarian
Can't wait to see which characters I will meet in the next book.
Highlights:
- The relationship between Chemai the poet and his andat.
- Tunnels beneath the city
- The grumpy librarian
Can't wait to see which characters I will meet in the next book.
July 19, 2023
"Ayo, sexism"
"Indeed"
"Indeed"
August 9, 2025
CHARACTERS
🔲 mary-sue party
🔲 mostly 2D
🔲 great main cast, forgettable side characters
🔲 well-written
✅ complex and fascinating
🔲 hard to believe they are fictional
PLOT
🔲 you've already heard this exact story a thousand times
🔲 nothing memorable
🔲 gripping
✅ exceptional
🔲 mind=blown
WORLDBUILDING
🔲 takes place in our world
🔲 incoherent
🔲 OK
🔲 nicely detailed
✅ meticulous
🔲 even the last tree in the forest has its own story
ATMOSPHERE
🔲 nonexistent
🔲 fine
🔲 immersive
✅ you forget you are reading a book
PACING
🔲 dragging
🔲 inconsistent
🔲 picks up with time
🔲 page-turner
✅ impossible to put down
This series is quickly becoming a new favourite.
🔲 mary-sue party
🔲 mostly 2D
🔲 great main cast, forgettable side characters
🔲 well-written
✅ complex and fascinating
🔲 hard to believe they are fictional
PLOT
🔲 you've already heard this exact story a thousand times
🔲 nothing memorable
🔲 gripping
✅ exceptional
🔲 mind=blown
WORLDBUILDING
🔲 takes place in our world
🔲 incoherent
🔲 OK
🔲 nicely detailed
✅ meticulous
🔲 even the last tree in the forest has its own story
ATMOSPHERE
🔲 nonexistent
🔲 fine
🔲 immersive
✅ you forget you are reading a book
PACING
🔲 dragging
🔲 inconsistent
🔲 picks up with time
🔲 page-turner
✅ impossible to put down
This series is quickly becoming a new favourite.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 472 reviews