Review of Fevered Star by Rebecca Roanhorse: A Journey at Breakneck Speed
As I opened the pages of Fevered Star, the highly anticipated sequel in Rebecca Roanhorse’s Between Earth and Sky series, I felt a familiar thrill intertwine with a pinch of apprehension. The tension from Black Sun still lingered, having left readers at the precipice of a monumental shift in the world of Tova. We step into Fevered Star, where the atmosphere crackles with a feverish energy, perfectly encapsulated by the term "unnaturally excited"—the essence of this book.
Roanhorse crafts a tapestry where gods, mortals, and destinies collide amidst the tumult of a society in disarray. The City of Tova’s new status quo is riddled with uncertainty as Serapio grapples with the implications of being the vessel for the Crow God. Meanwhile, Okoa, his sister, and Narampa navigate their respective roles, each feeling the weight of the immense changes unfolding. I found myself ensnared by the vibrant tapestry of characters, yet, unlike its predecessor, this book felt relentless in its pacing, sometimes leaving little room to breathe.
One of my main gripes is that the frenzied plot left me yearning for more character development and deeper explorations of the captivating lore Roanhorse introduced. I adore the intricate world-building, from the enigmatic Water Striders to the cultural nuances of the Teek; they enrich the narrative. However, its breakneck speed often eclipsed these beautiful details. It felt like being on a train rushing through breathtaking landscapes with my camera in hand, but alas, unable to focus on a single snapshot.
I was particularly disappointed by how Serapio and Xiala evolved in this installment. The delicate layers that made Serapio so compelling felt stripped away, leaving him adrift in the currents of prophecy. Meanwhile, Xiala, whose fierce spirit I cherished in Black Sun, seemed ensnared in the machinations of others, losing the agency I hoped she would wield. It felt disheartening to witness such a dynamic character recede into passivity.
On a brighter note, Iktan stole my heart. This character, with their sharp wit and undeniable allure, provided the perfect counterbalance to the chaos around them. I found myself eagerly awaiting their appearances, reminding me that there is always a spark in the flames of turmoil. Lord Balan also continued to intrigue me, showcasing that he plays a deeper game while others grapple with immediate threats.
Despite my criticisms, Fevered Star isn’t without its merits. The ambiguity and tension of its climax set the stage beautifully for the next installment. I’m left with questions about how the Age of the Crow will shape the lives of our characters and the essence of the world. As I close this book, I’m filled with hope for Book Three; I yearn for those poignant moments, the intimacy between characters, and the lore that made the series so rich.
In conclusion, I recommend Fevered Star to fans of epic fantasy who thrive on the relentless pulse of a rapidly unfolding narrative. Those who appreciate Roanhorse’s deft world-building and character arcs will find value in her latest offering—even if the pace might leave them a tad dizzy. For me, this book was an exhilarating ride, albeit one that left me longing for a deeper dive into the beautiful chaos of Tova. Let’s hope the next chapter brings back the moments that remind us why we fell in love with these characters in the first place.
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