Book Review: Engines of Reason (Elder Race 2) by Adrian Tchaikovsky

 To start off with, the customary plot: 

 Visit a world where sorcery intertwines with science by multiple Hugo nominee Adrian Tchaikovsky in this highly-anticipated sequel to his hugely popular Elder Race.

On a planet where stories govern identity, where science and magic are a merely point of view, a fallen princess, a reluctant wizard, and a precocious child must unravel the past to shape the future.

Betrayal, ancient myths, and the clash of worlds converge in this spellbinding tale of courage, friendship, and self-discovery.

A profound exploration of identity, memory, and discovery from one of science fiction’s most compelling voices.

 

My Review:  

I got an eARC from Netgalley. This will be my third attempt at reading something by this author. I did read Elder Race. 

I'm not sure I'm feeling this book or not. I have noticed that it's not quite holding my attention. I will finish it, as it's a very short book. 

The story moved, but not entirely quick. Things did get figured out by the end. 

We have a few new characters in this book. Each one important to the story and how it ends. 

The story picked up pace at the 70% mark. It held my attention a lot more. I actually enjoyed the last 30% more than what I did the rest of the book. I'm guessing that the slower pace was not my thing. 

The ending was a bit of a surprise that I did not expect to happen. Was it a satisfying ending? Yes. The way this story was, the ending was good. 

Does it leave room for another book? Yes, but if there isn't that's fine too. 

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. Why? Only because it didn't hold my attention for most of the book.