Sky in the Deep (Sky and Sea, #1)

by Adrienne Young

[Quirky Cat]

Sky in the Deep is the first novel in a series of the same name. It's described as being part Wonder Woman and part Vikings...which is actually pretty accurate. The story follows Eelyn, an Aska warrior. Her life is turned upside down when she sees her dead brother on the battlefield once again – fighting for the other side.
This novel was such an emotional read, I can see why people have gushed about it so much. I regret how long it took my to get around to this one. I hope that anybody else waiting on it will reconsider, because it's worth it!


Warnings: There are slaves in this novel, though that name isn't used. Our main character is also at risk of being assaulted at a few times. She lives a tough life.
Sky in the Deep was a brilliant and emotional read. It explores the concept of otherness, unity, and self identity. And it was just so emotionally compelling. Eelyn's story will make you feel a mixture of emotions, from sadness to anger, and everything in between.
There were so many fantastic moments to this novel. The differences between the Aska and the Riki were fascinating. It was all cultural, of course, but it was impressive how distinct Adrienne Young was able to make them.
Eelyn was a fascinating character. She's stubborn and driven, and even conflicted at times. She's gone through so much, but she never gave up. I feel like many of us would not have survived what she did. I was rooting for her though. It was impossible to do anything else.
At first I was a bit worried about the romantic subplot in this novel, because well... Stockholm syndrome. But Young managed to make it feel natural and not at all creepy. An impressive feat, considering everything else that happens in this novel.
I loved watching Eelyn and Fiske – as well as his family – fight for the unification of their people. It's amazing what people can accomplish when there's more on the line. And what people are willing to do in order to survive.
Mostly I loved the exploration of what makes people different...and how much (or little) that it actually matters. This exploration had some of the most beautiful moments of this novel, which is saying something. It was so well done.
The next novel in the series is called The Girl the Sea Gave Back. But it looks like it's not going to follow the same characters. Which is fine by me – I feel like Eelyn had a chance to tell her story. Now it's time for somebody else to tell theirs.


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