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book review || Winter’s Orbit by Everina Maxwell
video review || Pretty Lost Pretty Quickly -- 24 Hour Readathon || My Best Friends Pick My TBR
my god, these boys made me mushy.
Outside of Star Wars, sci-fi is not my usual jam, but this was so freaking good. I was shocked to learn that this book, with intricate world-building, a delicate political situation, and a murder mystery that had me suspicious of everyone, (except you Jainan. I never thought it was you, bby), is A DEBUT?
But really, what had me so swooning was the beautiful slow-burn romance between two boys whose pasts are affecting their new marriage. The character work was impeccable. Jainan seems cold and non-responsive but analyzes every word and movement, while Kiem is a former party child/still sort of hot mess who is trying to keep from being exiled (again). There’s so much depth to the both of them that I could talk about, but I don’t want to possibly dampen any emotions around these reveals.
Their marriage starts in the midst of a sensitive time for the empire, but trouble follows them around like no tomorrow.
Gender is also handled in a very clever way throughout the story, but also different depending on the culture, yet inclusive nonetheless.
I’ve pitched this as Red White and Royal Blue meets Star Wars, which I still stand by, but the plot is definitely heavier on the political and mystery side. But you want slow burn that comes from misunderstandings, thus leading the two characters to slowly bond and get to know one another in a careful way to ensure that they don’t overstep, even though all they both want to do is overstep? This right here.
Also, hurt/comfort, only one bed, happy go lucky meets reserved and stoic couple.
4.5 / 5 stars
