Shai is a Forger, a foreigner who can flawlessly copy and re-create any item by rewriting its history with skillful magic. Condemned to death after trying to steal the emperor’s scepter, she is given one opportunity to save herself. Though her skill as a Forger is considered an abomination by her captors, Shai will attempt to create a new soul for the emperor, who is almost dead.
Probing deeply into his life, she discovers Emperor Ashravan’s truest nature—and the opportunity to exploit it. Her only possible ally is one who is truly loyal to the emperor, but councilor Gaotona must overcome his prejudices to understand that Shai’s forgery is as much artistry as it is deception.
Brimming with magic and political intrigue, this deftly woven fantasy delves into the essence of a living spirit.
3 Star Rating
My recommendation: Buy it in paperback or ebook version.
Recommended Age: 14+ (This is not a YA book, but for "smarter than the average" teens who like reading about new magic this should be ok).
A satisfying novella that builds a world of new magic and royal politics. Brandon Sanderson has a knack for coming up with unique ideas. The magic he creates for his books is always different from anything I've read by other fantasy authors. The book contains amazing explanations on how the magic works and what it does. It provides a way for the mind to understand and appreciate what is happening. Shai and Gaotona's relationship really blossoms in this book. The writing enables the reader to empathize with each character's annoyance, disappointments and finally mutual respect and acceptance. The story is rife with political intrigue and betrayals, but nothing so complex that you would find this book hard to follow. The most gratifying aspect of the novella is how you reflect on class/cultural differences and stereotypes. The Emperor's Soul is well worth reading.
Plot/Pace: Because this is a novella, it was a pretty fast read for me. Also, since the material was interesting, I read it quite quickly. There was nothing too spectacular about the actual plot of the book. But the world Brandon Sanderson built around the plot was, as usual for him, unique and refreshing. There were no surprises with how things resolved themselves by the end of the book. Most of Shai's future actions can be predicted based on the dialogue. I did love the irony of Gaotona's actions in the Epilogue though! Well played, Mr. Sanderson.
Imagery: The book is based on Shai's genius as a Forger and the descriptions of her creations are very vivid. The author also relates very well, the feelings and prejudices behind the various castes and the mysticism and belief around forging. No FTPng (Flipping Through Pages) for me in this book.
Romance: None
Action: The political turmoil in this book, played out primarily through intellect, not assassinations and battles. The "action of the mind" shows through in Shai's ability to read her adversaries and manipulate situations to her benefit. Cleverly written.
Characters: Shai is a complex character. She is jaded, suspicious, very clever and intelligent, selfish and yet driven to do her best. In contrast to Gaotona, who is, if not as intellectual as Shai, very wise, arrogant, prejudiced and old fashioned. It is his compassion that makes him a wonderful character to read about. Reading the development of Gaotona and Shai's relationship was a high point for me in the book. I wanted her to put him in his place. I waited for him to see her for the artist she is.
By using caste systems to define his characters, I couldn't help but think of real life prejudices while I read. Reflecting on the way we place groups of people into a specific box; expecting certain behaviors based on culture.
What Irked the Shiznit Out of Me: Nothing
What Blew Me Away: Nothing
A satisfying quick read. One I would recommend to friends who like Sanderson books and "new"(not yo mama's fairies, elves and dwarves) Fantasy.
If you like this book, what else might you like???
No comments:
Post a Comment