Spoiler-free
I put off reading The Green Bone Saga for a long time because of the constant comparisons to The Godfather, The Sopranos, and several other macho mafia type media. These don't tend to do much for me, but I'm glad I went into this one with more of a fantasy mindset because I ended up enjoying every single page!
Side note - I read this on my Kobo and as I was reading the cover changed from the lackluster old cover (I'm sure you're familiar with) to this stunning new one. Kudos to the cover artist 'Thomas Walker' because this new cover art is much more appealing! Was such a pleasant surprise when the cover art suddenly switched. Anyway...
Every chapter something meaningful happens to progress a character or plot line in a clear and in an, oftentimes, drastic way. I loved all the characters of the No Peak Clan.
Especially, Anden, who is featured relatively little in this installment. I relished every snippet we had of him at the Academy. This is where we not only got insights into how jade warriors are formed for the No Peak Clan, but also into the social potical views regarding sexuality in this new world.
Hilo has a lot of heart, and struggles to deal with his emotions, oftentimes blowing out of proportion with regards to his family members. I'm not entirely sure where I stand with Hilo yet. I understand he has a lot of pressure on his shoulders, but his instability may become an issue.
Shae, to me was a much more balanced and calculated character, who I actually found myself relating to the most, in regards to the certain tough decisions she had to make. Particularly, how things would affect the family and how she was at a constant war with her own personal priorities.
Lan, the more ernest, level headed character of the family, was an excellent head to be inside, given his power and his need for tough decision making. Every decision has to go through Lan as the Pillar of the clan, but he handles everything in a calm and compossed way. Honestly, all of the characters offered a unique mindset and point of view.
The jade magic system was super interesting, and I like how it directly influenced the politics that are heavily implemented in both the Mountain and No Peak clans. I love how we also got a more grounded look on life, through the local restaurants and bars. The way that the clan dynamics directly influenced these businesses was really fascinating. Mr Une, you have my heart!
So many "woah wtf, did that really just happen?" moments which really made the book hard to put down. I really took my time with it and made sure to soak in every detail. I'm glad I did, as it all played out so vividly in my mind.
I will be immediately reading the sequel 'Jade War' because I can't leave this one hanging too long. I am invested in this family drama! I hope we get some perspectives from the Mountain Clan in the second book. But at the same time it is nice to only get one side of the story and fully focus on one family dynamics so I don't know what it wanted. I Guess I'll ust wait and see what Fonda Lee serves me. It's safe to say, I have full confidence in the direction of this series.
🌕🌕🌕🌕🌕 - 5 Stars
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