book review--Way of Shadows by Brent Weeks

[pennie_dreadful]

 

This is going to be a loaded review.  I've checked Amazon and Goodreads and it looks like, once again, I will be the dissenting opnion.

It has an interesting premise.  But the characters just aren't there; the dialogue is awkward, and I found myself totally unable to visualize the action sequences. 

I did not understand the motivations of any of the characters.  None of them.  We aren't really in their heads at all, and for me good characterization is the most important element of a story.  I can forgive a weak plot, or a lack or overabundance of detail, if the characters are real and compelling.  These guys just aren't. 

Which is sad because it's obvious Weeks put a lot of time and effort into the world he created, but doesn't really explain it's mechanics very well.  I couldn't keep strait all the different magic artifacts and historical figures, and I was also very confused about the different types of mages and magic. 

I would say don't waste time and money on this, but everyone else seemed to enjoy it, and anyway hell, I always end up finishing these things hoping they get better. 

 

Cross posted to epicfantasy .