kgbooklog

Joshua Palmatier, The Cracked Throne
Daw (2006) ISBN: 0-7564-0403-7
Score: 1

Second book about Varis (the series doesn't seem to have a name), in which she has to defend the city against evil invaders. It's nice that she stays true to her ignoble roots, but the other characters were a bit too simplistic for my tastes. And I didn't like how every bit of information she picks up turns out to be critically important. I'll probably read the next book to see how the ending of this one affects the structure of the government.

Next Book: Michelle Sagara, Cast in Shadow

Joshua Palmatier, The Skewed Throne
Daw (2006) ISBN: 0-7564-0331-6
Score: 2

Start of a high fantasy series about a young woman who survives by stealing food in the slums of a city ruled by a highly magical but insane woman. She attracts the attention of some people outside the slums, which makes her life very interesting, but not much better (worry about her next meal is replaced by lots of other worries). The magic system is quite original (and almost exclusively informative rather than active), and I like the fact that there aren't any hints (is this book at least) that the heroine is descended from anyone special (other than her having a rare magical talent).

Next Book: Tim Eldred, Grease Monkey