Book Review: Godkiller by Anne Keene
When I first stumbled upon Godkiller by Anne Keene, I was immediately drawn in by the tantalizing blend of gods, monsters, and a fierce protagonist. The promise of an epic fantasy adventure, along with the praise from sources like Entertainment Weekly and The Washington Post, made it impossible for me to resist. After turning the final page, I can confidently say this book is as enchanting as it is thrilling—a stunning debut that sets up a captivating trilogy.
At its heart, Godkiller is more than just a tale about slaying deities; it explores revenge, sacrifice, and the complexities of morality in a world where gods have fallen from grace. Kissen, our fierce heroine, is a godkiller by profession, one fueled by the trauma of witnessing her family’s demise at the hands of a fire god. Her character arc is compelling, revealing a depth that often contradicts her brutal profession. You can’t help but root for her as she embarks on an unexpected mission to save a young noble girl whose soul is tethered to a tiny god of white lies. This unique bond complicates Kissen’s life in intriguing ways, challenging her perceptions of good, evil, and the light and dark within herself.
The secondary characters, particularly the disillusioned knight who joins Kissen on her quest, add layers of nuance to the journey. Their interactions are filled with wit and vulnerability, creating a camaraderie that feels genuine. Keene excels at establishing rich relationships that drive the narrative forward, making the reader invested not just in the outcome but in the characters themselves.
Keene’s writing style is both lyrical and visceral, striking a balance that enhances the fantastical elements while keeping the reader grounded. The pacing is brisk, with action sequences that are exhilarating yet easy to follow—something I greatly appreciated, especially in high-stakes moments. As Charlie Jane Anders noted, the action is both fun and intelligible, making it accessible to even those who may not typically delve into epic fantasy.
There are moments in Godkiller that stayed with me long after I closed the book. Keene captures the essence of her world beautifully, and I found myself particularly taken by her insightful observations on the nature of gods and human desires. As I read, I couldn’t shake the feeling that this story has the power to resonate with those who have experienced loss and are grappling with their own form of reckoning—something Samantha Shannon aptly highlighted as an "extraordinary journey."
This book is undoubtedly for fans of high-stakes fantasy—think The Witcher meets Gideon the Ninth. If you enjoy intricate world-building with a healthy dose of action and heart, Godkiller will captivate you. It’s a tale that challenges you to consider the complexities of sacrifice and the moral gray areas that lie between right and wrong.
Ultimately, Godkiller left me feeling exhilarated and contemplative, as if I had stepped through a portal to a world of magic and monsters that will linger in my mind. With its rich narrative and complex characters, I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone looking for an epic adventure that doesn’t shy away from exploring the darker sides of its fantasy realm. Anne Keene is an author to watch, and I can’t wait to see where she takes us next.