Final Rating:
Date of Completion: 12/07/2024
Published by: Little, Brown Audio
ISBN: B01LBFD7TI
‘The Obelisk Gate’ brilliantly expands on the foundation set in The Fifth Season, but I did not find it as gripping.
Similar read: Dragon Rider by Taran Matharu
Cover:
This gothic stone design is pretty ambiguous but hints at an important element of the story.
Writing:
The lush writing style quickly drew me back into the brutal world that brilliantly explores themes like oppression and inequality. The worldbuilding is also impressively expanded in this sequel, delving deeper into the post-apocalyptic conditions, fascinating magic system and history of the Stillness. However, the constant information dumps and repetition of concepts gradually dampened some of my interest.
being useful to others is not the same thing as being equal.
Storyline:
The character-driven story follows Essun and her daughter Nassun as they discover more about their powers and navigate a post-apocalyptic world that dehumanises them. Although there are some great twists and reveals, the extensive worldbuilding and little action made most of the story painfully slow. Still, I am excited to see how the final book in the trilogy brings everything together.
Main character(s):
Essun’s character was not as captivating in this story, as she seemed unmotivated and passive for a good portion of it. It was only towards the end that the fierceness I had previously loved in her won me over again. In contrast, Nassun’s struggles and growth made her character impressively well-developed and compelling. I also loved how the complex mother-daughter relationship between Essun and Nassun provides a powerful commentary on preparing children for a tough world.
Relationships chisel the final shape of one’s being.
Secondary characters:
Just as I wanted, this sequel gives Alabaster, Hoa, and Schaffa slightly more depth. However, I still struggled to connect with these characters as their motives and roles remained mysterious. I was also disappointed to find that Tonkee’s character takes a back seat in this sequel. The remaining mix of old and new secondary characters helped drive the story but failed to make a strong impression on me.
Narration & Audio:
Robin Miles’ narration was fantastic and just as immersive as the previous audiobook. His natural inflexions and slight character voices really enriched the listening experience.
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