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A review by _spirirbound_
Sword Catcher by Cassandra Clare
3.0
Actual rating; 3.5 *
Sword Catcher marks Cassandra Clare's successful venture into adult fantasy, departing from her well-known Young Adult Shadowhunter universe. I am a dedicated fan of Clare's previous works (especially her Infernal Devices triology!), and am super pleased that Sword Catcher provides insights into the transition to a darker, more mature writing style and themes.
Writing Style (3.5*)
I truly believe that Clare shoulder be commended for what I think is a successful foray into adult fantasy, incorporating darker themes such as heavy sexual elements, and a grittier atmosphere compared to her previous Young Adult works. I've found this darker style of writing super compelling and gripping, but I raise critique concerning what I like to call the "Tolkien effect" – excessive details, especially in topics like scenery and clothing, are deemed unnecessary and contribute to the book's considerable length (600+ pages!!). I feel like this is super unnecessary and doesn't add anything whatsoever to the book itself.
Plot (3*)
The plot was incredibly intriguing, however, frustrating as it truly kept unraveling until the very last page. I am a massive fan of the dual point of views in any books, and this work featuring Lin and Kel who branch from two completely different societal classes, adds a massive depth to the story. I want to drop an honourable mention to the mysterious Ragepicker King, I love a character who is nothing but whispers and mysteries and that was exactly what we got with his joint storyline including out two main characters.
However, I was extremely disappointed with how slow the plot unfolded. I was truly considering putting this book down to continue at a later date, or DNF - but I continued and am happy that I did. This is a massive warning, I truly didn't feel like there was any plot whatsoever until around page 200-250.
World Building (4*)
As always, Clare's world-building skills receive high praise from myself. The world of "Sword Catcher" is described through the eyes of Lin and Kel, offering perspectives on a society where magic has disappeared and another where royalty rules with secrets and authority. Clare has created an intricate world of magic and fantasy that show no similarities between her previous work, something that I was afraid may occur! How she has written Ashkar and their little remaining magic was completely different to a lot of other works of fantasy, as usually, characters with power and magic usually rule and conquer; this however is opposite. The Ashkar are seen as less, a shameful people who should be punished for crimes they didn't commit.
Characters (5*)
The characters, particularly Lin and Kel, receive high praise from myself. I absolutely adore them both and love that they were the two characters we get to see this world through. Lin, a healer, is appreciated for her relatability and dedication to her healing. She also has no issue whatsoever standing her ground to people in positions of power, such as the crown prince Conor and his awful friends.
Kel's loyalty and kindness know literally no bounds, much so that it is almost frustrating. He is the type to uphold his oath as Sword Catcher by any means, even if that results in him breaking several laws doing so. I believe he has the most development throughout the book, besides the prince he is willing to protect at all costs.
Conor was absolutely my main issue as I tend to despise royal brats who expect everything given to them on a silver platter without saying please. However, due to his development through this book I definitely eased up on him in the end.
Initial Response and Re-readability (3*)
While I liked this book, I didn't love this book, and I attribute that in part to the incredible slow start. If you're going to read this be prepared to wait a good chunk of pages to even start to unravel any type of plot or development of story.
Sword Catcher marks Cassandra Clare's successful venture into adult fantasy, departing from her well-known Young Adult Shadowhunter universe. I am a dedicated fan of Clare's previous works (especially her Infernal Devices triology!), and am super pleased that Sword Catcher provides insights into the transition to a darker, more mature writing style and themes.
Writing Style (3.5*)
I truly believe that Clare shoulder be commended for what I think is a successful foray into adult fantasy, incorporating darker themes such as heavy sexual elements, and a grittier atmosphere compared to her previous Young Adult works. I've found this darker style of writing super compelling and gripping, but I raise critique concerning what I like to call the "Tolkien effect" – excessive details, especially in topics like scenery and clothing, are deemed unnecessary and contribute to the book's considerable length (600+ pages!!). I feel like this is super unnecessary and doesn't add anything whatsoever to the book itself.
Plot (3*)
The plot was incredibly intriguing, however, frustrating as it truly kept unraveling until the very last page. I am a massive fan of the dual point of views in any books, and this work featuring Lin and Kel who branch from two completely different societal classes, adds a massive depth to the story. I want to drop an honourable mention to the mysterious Ragepicker King, I love a character who is nothing but whispers and mysteries and that was exactly what we got with his joint storyline including out two main characters.
However, I was extremely disappointed with how slow the plot unfolded. I was truly considering putting this book down to continue at a later date, or DNF - but I continued and am happy that I did. This is a massive warning, I truly didn't feel like there was any plot whatsoever until around page 200-250.
World Building (4*)
As always, Clare's world-building skills receive high praise from myself. The world of "Sword Catcher" is described through the eyes of Lin and Kel, offering perspectives on a society where magic has disappeared and another where royalty rules with secrets and authority. Clare has created an intricate world of magic and fantasy that show no similarities between her previous work, something that I was afraid may occur! How she has written Ashkar and their little remaining magic was completely different to a lot of other works of fantasy, as usually, characters with power and magic usually rule and conquer; this however is opposite. The Ashkar are seen as less, a shameful people who should be punished for crimes they didn't commit.
Characters (5*)
The characters, particularly Lin and Kel, receive high praise from myself. I absolutely adore them both and love that they were the two characters we get to see this world through. Lin, a healer, is appreciated for her relatability and dedication to her healing. She also has no issue whatsoever standing her ground to people in positions of power, such as the crown prince Conor and his awful friends.
Kel's loyalty and kindness know literally no bounds, much so that it is almost frustrating. He is the type to uphold his oath as Sword Catcher by any means, even if that results in him breaking several laws doing so. I believe he has the most development throughout the book, besides the prince he is willing to protect at all costs.
Conor was absolutely my main issue as I tend to despise royal brats who expect everything given to them on a silver platter without saying please. However, due to his development through this book I definitely eased up on him in the end.
Initial Response and Re-readability (3*)
While I liked this book, I didn't love this book, and I attribute that in part to the incredible slow start. If you're going to read this be prepared to wait a good chunk of pages to even start to unravel any type of plot or development of story.