A series starter, this is supposed to be the beginning of a wide, intricate tapestry of stories that all take place in the same city in the same timeframe – but I think it’s a big ask to expect readers to wait a few books until it all comes together to spot the genius, when each individual book may not in itself be that ambitious or groundbreaking. Wie immer kraftvoll und fast poetisch geschrieben, Hauptcharaktäre glaubwürdig mit guter Entwicklung.

If you believe that this small moment would, or even could, affect such a place as Kithamar in the long term. I would like to thank Orbit for sending me a copy of Age of Ash to review, it has been a brilliant introduction to Abraham’s writing. As she uncovers more about her brother and his secrets, she inadvertenly peels back the layers of a conspiracy that threatens the entire city. I have frequently heard that Abraham’s prose is beautiful, and I can finally understand why he receives such praise. Abraham’s prose is alluring and wonderful, rich with beautiful descriptions and exquisite characterisations.

It is also a city where two thieves from the slums of Longhill become embroiled in a plot of dark magic and deadly political intrigue.

By the time I made it to the end of the book, I’d finally realized a couple things, and was able to understand just why I didn’t find this story particularly compelling. Desperate to find out who killed him and why, she finds herself playing a very dangerous game with people who know far more about the city than she does. Sammish was just very dear to me, I loved witnessing her development from a literal shadow to what she becomes. Also I don't think this book is super action packed/battle heavy but rather is more about the intrigue and mystery - I actually prefer this but I just wanted to raise it so you know what to expect! He has been nominated for the Hugo, Nebula, and World Fantasy awards, and won the International Horror Guild award.I didn’t realise until I finished the book that the series was going to be connected through the city rather than the individuals in the novel, but it does make the heightened focus on the setting make more sense. Originally a part of the same pick pocket crew as Alys, Sammish’s unrequited love for the main character is what draws her in to the conspiracies surrounding Darro’s death. The plot was also quite good, though I have to say that it meanders for a bit and sometimes it feels like you are just running around with characters. It’s one of those cases where if his writing and unique perspective of subtle, character-driven storytelling works for you, then this book is a grand slam. The story begins by weaving the subtle mystery surrounding the death of one of it’s rulers, and some of the history of this long-standing city, before focusing on one of its varied occupants.