This book is a soft DNF. On a day when I couldn’t find an audiobook that fit this one did. This is an extremely long audiobook over 20 hours, and I did listen to approximately three. This story is about the offspring of a king, who has no chance of ever sitting on the throne and has been in isolation on the outskirts of the kingdom. They receive news that their father and all the older brothers have died which means they are now the monarch. All of that was very interesting and kept my attention. However, in listening to this audiobook the number of times they repeat the word “serenity” is annoying. I gather that this is a greeting both in welcoming and in leaving kind of like aloha, but it’s just odd. I can’t tell if this is a mistake, or purposeful. It is done so often it could almost become a drinking game. I was at the stage of the story when the main character is told they must take a wife to keep their nephews and younger siblings from killing them to take over the throne, that I stopped the audiobook and never went back. I was thoroughly enjoying this book, that I will probably read it in print because the story was good, but the narration was annoying. ( )

3-1/2 stars. I really liked this book, and would have given it four, but the last part of the book felt a little rushed, with a bunch of storylines wrapping up positively, when there were so many conflicts throughout the story. Overall an enjoyable read, and I'll definitely be getting the next one. ( )

A reread for my book club ;)

...and what a delightful one it was! The book hit me much harder emotionally than the first time – then I was busy following the plot, figuring out the world-building and the details (the names, the names!). This time, I was there for each emotional turmoil, each trauma, each unexpected kindness and moment of happiness.

One of my favourite tropes in books is characters that are out of their depth and must develop and grow with the challenge (is that because I love learning new things myself? ;) ). And don’t you just love Maia all at once? He has been neglected, unloved, abused since he was eight. He also has pride, dignity, curiosity, kindness, honour, the desire to do the right thing. It’s just so incredibly nice to follow Maia’ journey, watch how he treats other people, grows with each conversation, discovers things he is good at, builds relationships and friendships.

“… you must try living for ten years with a man who hates you and whom you hate, and see what is does to sharpen your wits.”

“But he did not forget, and told himself he would not forget, that it was possible for people to be kind without ulterior motive, that sometimes bargaining was not necessary.”

I also think that Csethiro Ceredin is awesome! Somehow, there was less of her in the book than I remembered. This is probably because she makes sure to steal every scene she is in. I would dearly love to have a novella with her POV – preferably involving a duel with somebody who’s been mean to Maia. (Pretty please?) Isn’t Csevet (who suddenly becomes the emperor’ secretary) Cliopher’s distant cousin, by the way? (I am thinking about The Hands of the Emperor, of course.) I am convinced that he is. His POV novella would not be unwelcome either (hint, hint, nudge, nudge).

It was interesting to read about Thara Celehar again, knowing what I know from “his” novels in the series. It was a strange mixture of heartbreak and delight.
“ ‘Mer Celehar’s notions of obedience are most individual,’ Maia said wryly.”

I am so reluctant to leave this universe now… It’s nice to know I can reread Thara Celehar’s books too :) ( )

The best kind of fantasy--there's a character with fears and hopes that resonate with all of us muggles. Terrific story telling. I'm hoping there will be a sequel because I don't want the bridge-building to stop. ( )

After an airship accident, an unloved exiled prince suddenly ascends to rule a fantasy empire. The protagonist isn't heroic or particularly good at anything and is way out of his depth as he gets dropped into the Imperial court. Yet I became invested with his story as he slowly makes friends and muddles through political decisions. He is not a very good courtier but he shows a lot of 'humanity' (if that word can be used to describe a half-goblin). The world setting was elaborately detailed and quite interesting and there were some very good scenes throughout the book. I liked it a lot. ( )