With thanks to @The_WriteReads, @BBNYA_Official and @FolioSociety for a place on the Finalist Tour for the Book Bloggers’ Novel of the Year Award 2022 for #7 The Thirteenth Hour.
Synopsis
WHEN THE SAINTS FAIL, THE SINNERS STEP UP
Cruel gods rule the steam-powered city of Chime, demanding worship and tribute from their mortal subjects. Kayl lost her faith in them long ago, and now seeks to protect vulnerable and downtrodden mortals from their gods’ whims. But when Kayl discovers powers that she didn’t know she had—and destroys a mortal’s soul by accident—she becomes Chime’s most wanted.
Quen’s job was to pursue sinners, until the visions started. Haunted by foreboding images of his beloved city’s destruction, Quen hunts soul-sucking creatures made of aether who prey on its citizens—and Kayl is his number one target.
To ensure Chime’s future, Kayl and Quen must discover the truth of Kayl’s divine abilities before the gods take matters into their own hands.
For a city that bows to cruel gods, it’ll take godless heathens to save it.
Review
The world-building is stunning in its immensity; the rich detail and intricate prose paint a clear picture of the different domains, races, cultures and lore that exist and bring it all to life in the most immersive way. Chime is skilfully penned breathing life into the pages and bringing an intriguing mix of characters together as this exhilarating story of Gods, fate, chaos and power unravels. With unique steam-punk fantasy elements throughout this is a world that completely pulls the reader in and doesn’t let go!
I loved Kayl and Quen as individuals and the electric connection between them when they are together – they dazzle. Their distinct and complementary voices perfectly sweep us into the story eliciting an emotional connection as we follow their compelling journeys. Kayl is a strong force with a hidden power. Quen is known as the Dark Warden – he likes order and can manipulate time, and I loved his penchant for drinking tea! They are total opposites but have personalities that leap from the page and feel genuine.
Kayl dreams of a better world not dictated by the gods’ vicious reign – they hold absolute power which they ruthlessly abuse, and to speak against them is a sin punishable by death. Kayl forms part of the Godless – an underground operation fighting for the greater good of the people. The other Godless members enrich our reading experience, they have tragic pasts and are a great supporting cast giving us a fuller picture.
As mortals are disappearing Kayl and Quen’s paths are thrown on a dangerous collision course with far reaching effects. As they navigate working together I enjoyed their tense, sarcastic interactions and teasing back and forth. I loved following them in their search for the truth and into the unknown where things are not as they seem. We see the softer side of Kayl and as we get a more rounded view of Quen his vulnerable side and inner pain pour out. I was hooked and oh so invested!
The story puts social hierarchy, autonomy and morality into sharp focus. We see the severely flawed, self-serving system in place and the way power and greed corrupts. As they try to tackle these issues loyalties are tested, cosmic forces are in play and impossible choices are made which made for a gripping read.
The Thirteenth Hour is a book to be added to any fantasy fans’ TBR. I’m excited for the sequel to be back in this spectacular world with such terrific characters and to see where the story will take us next!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
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