Who Would Like This Book:
If you love intricate world-building and complex, morally gray characters, Fevered Star is a must-read. Rebecca Roanhorse crafts a stunning fantasy realm inspired by Pre-Columbian American cultures, filled with magic, political intrigue, and powerful mythology. The book features strong LGBTQIA representation, layered character arcs, and vivid settings - perfect for fans of immersive epic fantasies or anyone looking for a fresh take outside the usual European-inspired tropes. The story shines brightest in how it develops its characters, letting readers experience their struggles with destiny, power, and identity.
Who May Not Like This Book:
If you crave fast-paced, action-packed storytelling throughout, you may find this book's more introspective approach a bit slow. The narrative unfolds through multiple perspectives and nuanced politics which, while richly rewarding for some, can feel sprawling or diffuse for those used to tighter, hero-vs-villain arcs. Some readers have noted that the plot’s complexity and the subtlety of character development might make it tough to jump in if you don’t remember the details of the previous book. This installment is very much a bridge in the series.
About:
"Fevered Star" by Rebecca Roanhorse is a richly imagined fantasy novel that continues the story of the characters Serapio, Naranpa, and Xiala in the world of Meridian. The book intricately weaves together elements of different pre-Columbian American cultures, portraying a world of alliances, war, magic, political intrigue, and complex relationships. Roanhorse's writing style brings to life characters who are complex and gray, struggling with inner conflicts while navigating their divine or magical powers alongside their human identities.
The story unfolds in the aftermath of the events in the previous book, "Black Sun," with the characters facing new challenges and embarking on journeys that test their limits. As the threat of war looms over the once peaceful world, the characters must find their places and purposes in a darkened city, while new perspectives are offered on previously sidelined characters, adding depth to the narrative and keeping the readers engaged in the unfolding events.
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Sensitive Topics/Content Warnings
The book has medium content warnings including themes of power struggles, war, and personal loss.
Has Romance?
The book contains a medium level of romance, with romantic tensions and complex relationships woven into the narrative.
From The Publisher:
USA TODAY Bestseller
Return to The Meridian with New York Times bestselling author Rebecca Roanhorse's sequel to the most critically hailed epic fantasy of 2020 Black Sun -finalist for the Hugo, Nebula, Lambda, and Locus awards.
There are no tides more treacherous than those of the heart. -Teek saying
The great city of Tova is shattered. The sun is held within the smothering grip of the Crow God's eclipse, but a comet that marks the death of a ruler and heralds the rise of a new order is imminent.
The Meridian: a land where magic has been codified and the worship of gods suppressed. How do you live when legends come to life, and the faith you had is rewarded?
As sea captain Xiala is swept up in the chaos and currents of change, she finds an unexpected ally in the former Priest of Knives. For the Clan of Matriarchs of Tova, tense alliances form as far-flung enemies gather and the war in the heavens is reflected upon the earth.
And for Serapio and Naranpa, both now living avatars, the struggle for free will and personhood in the face of destiny rages. How will Serapio stay human when he is steeped in prophecy and surrounded by those who desire only his power? Is there a future for Naranpa in a transformed Tova without her total destruction?
Welcome back to the fantasy series of the decade in Fevered Star -book two of Between Earth and Sky from one of the "Indigenous novelists reshaping North American science fiction, horror, and fantasy" ( The New York Times ) and the "epic voice of our continent and time" (Ken Liu, award-winning author of The Grace of Kings ).
Ratings (19)
Incredible (3) | |
Loved It (10) | |
Liked It (5) | |
It Was OK (1) |
Reader Stats (37):
Read It (20) | |
Currently Reading (1) | |
Want To Read (13) | |
Not Interested (3) |
4 comment(s)
This one was more of a typical fantasy plot than the first and narrative was spread across more characters. Would have liked Narampa, Xiala, & Serapio's individualism to be challenged by their respective cultures more.
The world building expanded, more backstory
It's rare enough that I give the second book 5 stars but even more rare that I loved the audiobook on the second when I struggled with the audiobook on the first. But this one had me hooked. It was so emersive and I just wanted more. The characters where so well told and I never lost my interest in the plot.
3.5*
This was still good, but it definitely had a second book feel to it. I'm looking forward to the next book!
What can you read after
Fevered Star?
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