The main character annoyed me

It is a well written story, a nice world building and it is not like you have to force yourself to listen/read until the end. However, the whole patriotic theme pervading the story just is not my cup of tea, and I don’t like the message I heard out of this book.
The female main character annoyed me completely, not getting tired of defining herself and justifying her decisions by phrases like „I am the Cornaro heir“, „I am the daughter of Raverra“, „I am the loyal daughter of the Serene City“ or „I am the loyal daughter of the empire“ all through the story. In my opinion she is supporting an oppressive system, and even though she is trying to prevent it, she is ready to burn a whole city out of duty to the empire if commanded. The fact that she decides to „remain unattached for political purposes“, not even by force of her mother but her own choice, thereby again backing up the oppressing rules of monarchy, also wins her no favors from me. If you choose power, why not choose to fight for your love with that power as well?
I guess if you are a fan of books about political intrigues, this is the perfect book. But it’s just not for me.

1 Person fand das hilfreich

Wonderful book

Cleverly drafted story, colourful and believable characters and a lovely idea of magic. I went directly on with book number two!