For some reason I find it a lot more uncomfortable when the characters are running away with limited food supplies than when they are in battle. Maybe because the former takes place over a longer period of time? After the previous novel where they were running search patterns over a large area, I didn’t really like how first they had to escape the sinking ship, then had to flee the Inca, in what seemed like quick succession. It felt like there wasn’t much respite especially when you throw in being abandoned on an island by the French.
However there were still a lot of good moments in this book. A lot revolving around Iskierka and Granby. I mean damn, Granby finally putting his foot down with Iskierka’s behaviour! Shame he had to lose an arm first though… Also poor Granby being forced to come out due to Iskierka’s machinations. I was kinda surprised at Laurence’s lack of reaction. I suppose being ‘churchy’ doesn’t extend to religious opinions on sexuality. On the same topic, interesting candid conversation between Laurence and Emily and his relationship with her mother 😂 Also, I had not come across the term ‘invert’ for homosexuality. Unlike the previous term ‘increasing’ which I immediately connected to pregnancy given the context (Harcourt), this one I wasn’t certain of (I wasn’t sure if it might mean asexual instead, but I wonder if that was even a known thing back then).
Once again, nice to see more different dragon priorities, in this case quite an obsession with having a ‘crew’/community of humans. Although the beneficial outcome from Iskierka kidnapping the poor villager for information was a bit obvious, I forgive it as it led to a interesting gladiator style dragon fight. I did find it hilarious how Churki attached herself to Hammond.
I was also surprised at Mrs Pemberton’s continued presence, yet little engagement in the story. I respect her mental toughness and her commitment to her role. I wonder if she will continue to be part of the cast moving forward.
I was so happy to see Ferris return. I didn’t realise how dire his circumstances had become 🙁 But I’m glad he doesn’t seem to hold things against Laurence. I feel a bit bad for Forthing. I hope he can grow into his role and into a person that Laurence can rely on for his own sake. The mutiny on the island was interesting, at first I too didn’t quite realise why the aviators were protecting the captains and not letting them fight at all.
The loss of Riley was really sad. After all his hard work getting them safely through the storm only to get done in by his incompetent crew. In a way, it was a result of his association with Laurence (being put as captain of the Allegiance instead of a better ship) which made it even sadder. I’m so glad that after all the hectic events of the book, they finished off with what was essentially a tribute to him.
Categories: Book Reviews
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