Stormdancer by Jay Kristoff

Stormdancer (Lotus War, #1)

by Jay Kristoff

Griffins are supposed to be extinct. So when Yukiko and her warrior father are sent to capture one for the Shogun, they fear that their lives are over. Everyone knows what happens to those who fail him. But the mission proves less impossible and more deadly than anyone expects. Soon Yukiko finds herself stranded: a young woman alone in her country's last wilderness, with only a furious, crippled griffin for company. Alhough she can hear his thoughts, and saved his life, all she knows for certain is he'd rather see her dead than help her. Yet trapped together in the forest, Yukiko and Buruu form a surprising and powerful bond. Meanwhile, the country verges on collapse. A toxic fuel is choking the land, the machine-powered Lotus Guild is publicly burning those they deem Impure, and the Shogun cares for nothing but his own dominion. Authority has always made Yukiko uneasy, but her world changes when she meets Kin, a young man with secrets, and the rebel Kage cabal. She learns the horrifying extent of the Shogun's crimes, both against her country and her family.
Returning to the city, Yukiko and Buruu are determined to make the Shogun pay -- but what can one girl and a flightless griffin do against the might of an empire?

Reviewed by inlibrisveritas on

5 of 5 stars

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What happens when you give me a book with Japanese feudal culture, steampunk, and an awesome griffin? Well…I start fangirling all over the place and my boyfriend ends up knowing every aspect of the book without ever having to touch it. I was utterly addicted to this story and I hated that it had to end. I was blown away with how strong of a book this was, considering this is Kristoff’s debut.

The story feels completely unique thanks to it’s Japanese setting as well as the use of actual Japanese language. I love Japanese culture so this was absolutely perfect for me. It’s a wonderful alternate Feudal Era where there are still shoguns and samurai, but there is also a wonderful steampunk aspect though it’s far more grungy and poisonous than any other steampunk tech I’ve seen before. I found the use of the Japanese language to be an awesome addition and adds to the authentic feel, it helps to submerse you in their way of life. I will say that the language usage may be a problem for some, but Kristoff does a pretty good job of making sure you understand what it is before moving on and if there is something you still don’t quite get there is a glossary in the back. If awesome Japanese culture and steampunk isn’t enough then I’m positive the Yokai, demons and intrigue will be. The writing is so detailed that everything comes to life without much effort; I could see the city and the black polluted waters, and I could smell the oil and chi smoke. I loved the usage of the Red Lotus and how it’s affected everyone and how invested the entire country is on maintaining it’s growth.

The characters are just as wonderful as the setting and just as detailed. Yukiko is a strong young woman who can hold her own and possesses the ability to speak and connect with animals. It’s a fantastic gift that could get her killed, and so she spends a good deal of her life hiding it. Her past is revealed in a rather raw way and the way she grows into a true leader is admirable. Baruu is a type of Yokai named Arashitori or Thundertiger, which is basically a griffin with a bit more ‘umpf’ and a cool connection to thunderstorms. He is such a strong character and even though he doesn’t have very much to say he leaves an impression, and because of that he’s one of my favorite characters. The way he and Yukiko connect is both unique and rather touching, and I’m completely jealous that she gets to share thoughts with such an amazing creature. The Guild as a whole really freaked me out, mainly because of their metal suits and mindset regarding those with gifts. I could tell immediately that they were up to no good, and as I continued the feeling got worse until the proof was given and I ended up with chills.

Overall this is a book worth reading, and it’s definitely one of my favorites for the year. I’m so excited for everyone else to read it and I can’t wait for the next book.

I received this from Thomas Dunne Books and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

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Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 3 September, 2012: Finished reading
  • 3 September, 2012: Reviewed