Final Rating:
Date of Completion: 06/05/2026
‘Ghosts of Hāikimi‘ gives an impressive start to the series, with its compelling main character and a fascinating world.
Cover:
Writing:
Storyline:
Main character(s):
Secondary characters:
Despite its unhurried pacing and occasional repetition, the atmospheric writing and complex main character kept me engaged throughout. Hāikimi is a both fierce and compassionate character, making him easy to root for. His personal struggles and flaws also drive meaningful character growth, deepening his character. It’s just a shame that the secondary characters aren’t given nearly the same level of depth.
Captivating layers of worldbuilding, such as a unique lunar cycle, wartime politics, religion, and foresight-based magic, create a harsh yet creative setting that stands out as another highlight. The action scenes are also well executed, growing increasingly brutal and intense as the story unfolds. On top of this, the thoughtful exploration of themes like persecution, PTSD, and the realities of war adds to the story’s impact.
Quotes:
Discussion Questions (Contains spoilers!):
Q: Do you have any similar book recommendations?
If you want another slow-burning, character-focused fantasy set in a harsh world, you should check out The Fifth Season by N. K. Jemisin. It also explores similar themes of persecution and parental love. Godkiller by Hannah Kaner is a second recommendation that has characters travelling through a world shaped by war and religion. One of the main characters also shares Hāikimi’s fierce and caring nature.
Q: Were you surprised by Myö’s betrayal?
Yes, it hit like a gut punch. Hāikimi’s concern for Myö before the betrayal effectively builds tension, making it both shocking and, in hindsight, almost inevitable. It was even more painful to see that Myö’s reason for betraying Hāikimi went unfulfilled, making it pointless.
Q: What colour are your eyes?
Mine are a dark brown.
Q: What were your first impressions of Hāikimi, and did they change as the story progressed?
Q: How well do you think the story explores Hāikimi’s struggles with PTSD and addiction?
Q: What’s the biggest sacrifice you’ve made for someone else?
Q: Do you think you would last long as a fugitive, or would you get caught pretty quickly?
Q: How would you describe Hāikimi’s relationship with his wife, Eliyä, and how it evolves?
Q: Which parts of the worldbuilding left the strongest impression on you, and how did they contribute to the story’s atmosphere and themes?
Q: What do you think about how the book handled complex themes like war, religious extremism, and persecution? Did it bring anything new to the table, or did it feel like a rework of ideas you’ve seen in other stories?
Q: What’s the worst physical pain you’ve ever experienced?
Q: What did you think of the pacing and action in the story?
Do you agree or disagree with anything mentioned above? Let us know in the comments below.
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