The Gods Below

The worlds that Andrea Stewart make are so full and rich and fun to dive into, even if they tend to be happening after a world changing event and much upheaval (like her Drowning Empire trilogy which is also a treat to read). The points of view from Hakara to Rasha, Sheuan, and Mull for present times where the Restoration is well on its way to the past with Nioanen after the Shattering when the Restoration is just getting started. The past bits flow well and as you go further in the book, you can see the connections. Plus the gods' history with the destruction of Numinar (trees that are a source of magic and life for the gods, and the humans who used it to destroy the world with their excess) and trying to figure out what Kluehnn's plan for the world (which despite his promises, I know it is not going to help the humans, or altered, just further his own power). This book does a great job of setting the stage, getting to know the characters, how they end up meeting and maybe finding comfort and love despite the harshness of the world, including the restored lands with all its hidden dangers (and some out in plain sight like the dzahalobo who are crazy scary!). I do love Rasha's bits and Sheuan's views the best, one fighting through trials to become a godkiller, and the other trying to save her clan from being destroyed though Hakara has fun bits, especially when she learns to use the god gems, always in search for her sister and willing to do anything to further that search and reunion though both sisters are much changed. Mull's got more interesting when they went deep enough to pass into the second aeroclime and I really want to know the truth of the expedition that went and made the bargain! Guess I will have to wait for the second book though. Still, it was a great read and kept me hooked the whole time in this interesting yet dangerous world.