Exploring the Layers of Humanity in Vox Machina: Stories Untold
As a long-time fan of Critical Role and its beloved characters, the release of Vox Machina: Stories Untold by Marisha Ray felt like discovering a treasure trove of intimate revelations just waiting to be unpacked. This collection of short stories, told from the perspective of NPCs in the Vox Machina campaign, beckoned me in with its promise to expand the rich lore I’ve come to adore. Diving in, I found a delightful mix of solid storytelling and a few standout gems that left me pondering their deeper meanings.
From Under Golden Boughs is a poignant introduction to Exandria, offering a unique character study of the Sun Tree. The beauty lies in its quiet observation of time and duty. I felt a profound connection to this ancient being, witnessing its heartache as the Briarwoods arrived. It’s these quiet moments that remind us of the weight of history and the pain of watching the world evolve. An excellent entry point into the book, it sets the stage for what’s to follow.
Then comes The Exploits of Kaylie, a true highlight at five stars. Kaylie’s story reveals a character caught between admiration and resentment for her father, Scanlan. I was captivated by the tension in her quest to forge her own musical identity, showcasing how familial bonds can both inspire and alienate. Marisha does an excellent job of weaving lighthearted moments with emotional depth, encouraging readers to reflect on their own relationships.
The narrative took a dip with stories like Liar, which felt ambivalent as it explored Raishan’s motivations. While I appreciate a well-written piece, I couldn’t shake the feeling that some character arcs could have benefited from more context. However, this was quickly overshadowed by The Edge of Glory, possibly my favorite tale of the entire collection. Told from the perspective of Grog’s cursed sword, Craven Edge, I found myself laughing and empathizing at the same time. Who knew a cursed sword could serve as a vessel for such humor and tragedy?
Unevenness in storytelling is often a quality of anthologies, and Bend the Knee was a stark example for me. It was well-crafted yet drenched in gore—an artistic choice that didn’t resonate but showcased the raw power of writing when pushed to its limits. The Tides also left me wanting; the back-and-forth timelines felt disorienting in audio format, disrupting what could have been an engaging narrative about Kima and Allura.
Yet, there were gems like Shaun, which provided a heartwarming glimpse into Gilmore’s character as he navigates love and loss. This story was not only tender but beautifully showcased the duality of his persona—an outwardly confident character struggling internally, evoking my empathy as a reader.
As I turned the last page, I felt grateful for the opportunity to explore these characters in new lights. Vox Machina: Stories Untold is a solid collection that invites fans and newcomers alike into the intricacies of Exandria through beautifully diverse lenses.
For anyone who loves character-driven tales, or is simply a fan of the Critical Role universe, this book is a must-read. It reminded me of the importance of stories that allow us to see the world from different perspectives, challenging our understanding of heroism, relationships, and identity. Overall, my reading experience was one of reflection and joy, affirming that even the peripheral characters hold stories worth telling. If you’re looking for a book that balances humor with heart, look no further.
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