This book was absolutely phenomenal and I have never been more grateful to win a book in Readers First because I can't say I think I'd have come across this utter delight otherwise.
Raybearer had one of the richest, developed and stunning worlds I've ever read. Ifueko's world building ability is beyond measure. She has created an incredibly nuanced and realistic world with rich histories and cultures.
Another absolute delight of the book was the plot. I was worried that, given the storyline of Tarisai getting Dayo's love, that the Children's Palace segment would involve a competition for romantic live. Instead it was one to form a council, it was one of platonic and familial love. The council was a beautiful and well crafted found family.
That's not to say that there was no romantic love though - Tarisai and Sanjeet's relationship went through a brilliant arc throughout the book that I adored. I also loved the hint towards Kirah and Woo In.
The plot progressed at the perfect pace, so may subplots were covered and told fully. The book moved along and never dragged.
It's also left so much room. Whilst it could, potentially, work alone. As I read it I knew a story about the Redemptor's would be captivating and a brilliant exploration of this new world. Now, with Tarisai's new treaty made, and her herself a Redemptor, I am keeping my fingers crossed for a sequel exploring her time in the underworld and, prior to that, the creation of her own council.
Just, overalll, every part of this book was a treat. The characters, the pacing, the plot, the storytelling, the worldbuilding, even the gorgeous cover. I eagerly look forward to any news of Ifueko writing another book, whether a sequel to Raybearer or not, because if its even half as good as this book, it will be one of the best books I've ever read.
Raybearer had one of the richest, developed and stunning worlds I've ever read. Ifueko's world building ability is beyond measure. She has created an incredibly nuanced and realistic world with rich histories and cultures.
Another absolute delight of the book was the plot. I was worried that, given the storyline of Tarisai getting Dayo's love, that the Children's Palace segment would involve a competition for romantic live. Instead it was one to form a council, it was one of platonic and familial love. The council was a beautiful and well crafted found family.
That's not to say that there was no romantic love though - Tarisai and Sanjeet's relationship went through a brilliant arc throughout the book that I adored. I also loved the hint towards Kirah and Woo In.
The plot progressed at the perfect pace, so may subplots were covered and told fully. The book moved along and never dragged.
It's also left so much room. Whilst it could, potentially, work alone. As I read it I knew a story about the Redemptor's would be captivating and a brilliant exploration of this new world. Now, with Tarisai's new treaty made, and her herself a Redemptor, I am keeping my fingers crossed for a sequel exploring her time in the underworld and, prior to that, the creation of her own council.
Just, overalll, every part of this book was a treat. The characters, the pacing, the plot, the storytelling, the worldbuilding, even the gorgeous cover. I eagerly look forward to any news of Ifueko writing another book, whether a sequel to Raybearer or not, because if its even half as good as this book, it will be one of the best books I've ever read.