The Killing Moon by N.K. Jemisin
The first book of the Dreamblood Duology by NYT bestselling and three-time Hugo-Award winning author N. K. Jemisin.
The city burned beneath the Dreaming Moon. In the ancient city-state of Gujaareh, peace is the only law. Upon its rooftops and amongst the shadows of its cobbled streets wait the Gatherers – the keepers of this peace. Priests of the dream-goddess, their duty is to harvest the magic of the sleeping mind and use it to heal, soothe . . . and kill those judged corrupt. But when a conspiracy blooms within Gujaareh’s great temple, Ehiru – the most famous of the city’s Gatherers – must question everything he knows.
By Mike
I’ve been seeking out fantasy rooted in non-Western cultures, and this one came highly recommended by a deliciously critical friend; my high expectations were met as the author envelops you in an atmosphere thick with emotion.
The ancient Egypt-themed world is refreshingly steeped in magic that comes from dreams, memories and the soul. The author avoids getting too psychological and keeps the many characters’ musings simple and intimate.
Themes of trauma, religious dogma and the different forms love can take make for a deeply intuitive story, which might only be a little subverted by the development of a somewhat cliché prevent-the-word’s-end plot. But nothing changes the fact that this one holds profound sensibilities with multilayered characters who are established soberly with spare, understated language.
This is how I like fantasy best: dreamscapes that breathe humility, emotional intelligence and mystical thrills.
