SFINCS submission Book Review

The Citadel at the End of the World

What can I say without giving too much away?

Well, for starters it is written rather episodically and while it is novella lengthed, this is much closer to a short story collection and should be read with that in mind. (Trust me, it affects how much you enjoy it.) We follow the central character, Adela and her story with in becoming a mage, the cost and risk associated with it. The inspiration of Mark Lawrence is written on the pages of the book. It is very reminiscent of Red Sister, which holds a special place in my heart.

What worked well: the setting was immersive and the prose assisted with it to an extent. you can physically see what the author wants you to see. The plit is fast paced for what it is, and is not excessively violent.

There are themes of religion, but not in a hammer in your face kind of way. Nor does it seem to be getting you to buy into a belief but to rather think about the forces that be, and the effect and costs associated with it. I do appreciate it when books go into the nitty gritty and push back against these larger forces that seem untouchable.

Things that didn't work for me so well:

The character dialogue was stilted in parts.

Characterization seemed rather bland to me for all. This was improved in some parts of the book, but it seemed like the characters were just sticks in the wind with little personality.

The prose altogether is more of a nitpick and for most I don't think would detract, for the reading experience, but there were some word and name repitiions which could have been fixed with different varied lengthed sentences.

If you’d like, you can read it Here.