Timewaster's Guide Archive

- I know you wanted to do something with living Gods; I've been interested in reading about them since Elantris. However, near the beginning where you first introduce Lightsong and the Returned, there needs to be something to make the reader feel like they're actual Gods, not just overly pampered nobles with magic powers. I didn't find myself quite convinced of their Divinity, even if they are intended to be more 'human' than most Gods.

I think once you get through the entire book, you will find that the description of the "gods" as just overly pampered nobles is intentional. I had your same thoughts as I read through the book. I think one of the best lines in the book on this subject is when Lightsong's priest says, "You are a God to me." (or something like that). That particular scene, in my opinion, nicely ties up the balance between pampered noble and divine being. I think you will find what you are looking for as you finish the entire story... trust me.

Overall, I thought it was an excellent book. I was hooked early on and if it became a series, would certainly read them all. I love the magic system, I think it is very unique. I liked that it was available to anyone... but at a price. For every Breath one person gains, someone else must have given it up. The "feeding" of the gods was a great way to make that point.

[SPOILER WARNING]

I would have liked more of an explanation in the end as to the God King's glossectomy (tongue removal... yes, I Googled it). Vasher briefly acknowledges the connection between himself and the God King's "injury" but there is still questions left unanswered that seemed important to this book but would probably not matter in a sequel. What happened to the previous God Kings? Did they really die saving others? The priests appear to be vindicated and yet still twisted somehow. Since they are mostly dead now, a sequel would probably not include any of this but I thought it critical to resolve in this story arc.

Also, considering the incredible twist of Vasher's true identity, I thought the final scene/epilogue was a bit over simplified. I thought the rising action and tension as the story came to a close was fantastic but the "Bonny and Clyde riding off into the sunset" closure didn't do justice to the severity of the situation.

I would have liked an explanation on how the God King, as a  Returned, was able to use his Breath without dying... but I think that could easily be revealed in additional books. So although that is a thread that may need closing, I can understand why it wouldn't happen in this first book.

Overall, I loved it and look forward to reading more of your work. Like many noobs here, I found you after the announcement that you would complete Robert Jordan's final WOT book. Warbreaker was a great introduction for me and I will begin reading the Mistborn series in a couple of weeks.

-E