Plot: 5/5
Legacy of the Brightwash is a dark gaslamp fantasy which follows Tashué, a government employee who begins questioning who the laws are actually helping. Meanwhile, Stella is a “tainted” with a hidden past that is sure to cause no inconveniences whatsoever.
The plot is well written, and begins as an investigation into the death of a child (don’t eat while reading this part, fyi). The story transforms into a deep exploration of character and the coming to terms with working for a corrupt government. We see the story represented from several viewpoints and while at times it feels like the “main” plot doesn’t seem to be moving forward, the story sweeps us along with several other parts to keep investment long enough to see it all come together at the end!
Characters: 5/5
Oh gosh, I said in the plot we get a lot of character exploration, and this is where the book shines at its brightest! Krystle is magnificent at characters, and exploring their emotions. Tashué is one of my favorite characters of the year, and he’s just one of many brilliantly written characters. And she will smack you in the heart with the emotion she generates through her characters.
Worldbuilding: 5/5
I absolutely loved the worldbuilding for the Dominion. The magic system is intriguing and the only complaint I have is that I wanted more of it! But, that’s what sequels are for… I’m sure we’ll learn more, I’m just impatient. The world itself was built out well, and the many dynamics explored well enough to create a clear picture. I’m curious to see how it expands or deepens as the story continues.
Writing: 5/5
The writing is fantastic throughout. There were so many moments where I laughed from the great humor (I love you, Ishmael!), and there were moments where I surely almost cried. The range of emotion is incredible, and though the book is very chonky, I don’t feel like time is wasted at any point.
Enjoyability: 5/5
Yeah, it was okay…. I CAN’T KEEP A STRAIGHT FACE, THIS BOOK IS FANTASTIC! It has definitely soared to the top and contends with my other favorites of the year. I was so excited to delve into this and it really delivered. Now, I must return to yelling at Krystle about how that book ended…
OVERALL: 5/5 Cigarillos
Narration: 5/5
Brightwash is narrated by Felicity Munroe and Paul Woodson, and while it took a moment to get used to the switch between narrators (this is the first time I’ve listened to an audiobook with multiple narrators that wasn’t a full cast situation), they were both spectacular at their narration. They voice the characters uniquely, and it is easy to recognize them across the narrators. And the emotion! It was so well done! If you prefer audiobook, I highly recommend reading in this form!
Note: There is a short story in The Alchemy of Sorrow that follows Ishmael. If you loved his character and you love crying, I highly recommend checking this anthology out to learn more about him!
Links: Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Silverstones Books (Hardcover) | Goodreads