Crier's War straight up reminded me of why I take chances on fantasy. While I had been striking out lately, this book sucked me in from the very start. So let us discuss all the things that made this one a huge win for me!
What I Loved:
- • First, the premise is so unique and fresh! It's almost a mix of sci-fi and fantasy, which is a win in itself. My biggest qualm with fantasy books lately has been that they all seem to have been done before. Not so here! It still has all those basic elements that make us love fantasy, but every aspect has a new spin. Instead of just royalty, it's Automae versus human, but it lacks none of the best parts of royals versus commoners.
- • It's incredibly thought provoking. Because okay, humans are the "lesser" species here. It's inarguable that the Automae have a physical advantage. They're clearly not using it for good, but then it makes you question if humans use it for good now. Granted, we're not dealing with any other sentient species, but what if we were? I love when a book bends your mind with the "what-ifs"!
- • I fell in love with the characters. All of them, tbh. Sure Ayla and Crier are awesome but I even grew to care about a lot of the secondary characters! Especially those in Ayla's life. She may have been a mere human, but the people around her made it worth it in my opinion.
- • The romance is very ship-worthy. It's both a forbidden romance, and enemies-to-lovers, what more could we ask for? The chemistry between the women is completely apparent, and loving them both as individuals made me even more excited to see them come together romantically. I mean, I want them to be happy, my babies!
- • The story sucked me in, from start to finish. When I was done, I was mad only that I couldn't read more! Like do I actually have to wait a year for the sequel? That doesn't seem fair!
Bottom Line: Look, you need this in your life. Great characters, great story, great premise... it lacks literally nothing.