Silksinger by Laini Taylor review

Laini Taylor’s Dreamdark world is wonderfully realized.  In the first book, Blackbringer, the reader is introduced to Magpie Windwitch who becomes the Djinn King’s Champion and captures Blackbringer.  Now, in Silksinger, Maggie is set to wake up the remaining Djinn and the key to that is Whisper Silksinger.  Whisper is the last of her clan and holds the secret needed to protect the Djinn Azazel from the devils intent on his destruction.

Whisper must go alone, incognito, protecting her secrets and herself from unknown dangers, traveling farther than she has ever been, and accomplish her important mission in unfamiliar company and uncertain friends.  Along the way she will find unexpected allies and unlooked-for enemies.

Not only is this a story of an unsung hero off to complete a task of vast importance, but it is also a story of discovery.  Taylor offers the readers new characters to champion and new villains to revile.  And each of these new characters holds secrets that could turn upside-down some beliefs that have been widely held for a very long time.  The path to self-discovery for each of these characters is both touching and heartrending.

I found Whisper to be a new type of hero.  She has no idea of her own strength in mind and talent, but has the heart to go the distance no matter what.  Hirik is another unexpected hero, championing the underdog without thought of the cost to his own secrets.  These two strangers are about to change the world around them, and their own lives, forever.

I adore this fantasy world that Laini Taylor has created.  It is rich and full of life, with characters who are wonderful to follow around–cheering them on and shaking my fists at their detractors.  Taylor has a marvelous way with names, dialogue, and characterization, without shortchanging the action.  If you like your faeries tiny, full of energy and character; and you like to read about unsung heroes getting their due while the scoundrels reap theirs; stories packed full of action and intrigue, then this book is for you.  However, if you have yet to read Blackbringer, pick that one up first.  While you could read Silksinger on its own, it will be a much more fulfilling read if you read them in order.

Hardcover, Putnam, September 17, 2009

About amberdrake

I'm a 40 year old desk jockey who amuses herself with lots and lots of reading. My favorite things in books are dragons, steampunk, wizards, comedy, and lots of action!