The Obelisk Gate

The Obelisk Gate is the second book in The Broken Earth series, continuing the story of Essun, Nassun and Alabaster. The world of The Broken Earth is one of post apocalyptic nature, with events called ‘fifth seasons' happening with a regularity that cause mass starvation and ecological disaster, driven by powerful geological effects (volcanoes and tectonics). I am a professional geologist by day, so seeing things I am familiar with drawn into a fantasy/sci-fi magic system is doubly intriguing.

Jemisin has such an infectious writing style, it is really hard not to be drawn into her world. It is almost conversational and always opens with an alluring dialogue with the reader. She makes extensive use of the the second person, YOU are Essun, a rarely used perspective that becomes all the more engaging because of it.

This is the middle book of a trilogy and the story is very much in that ‘middle book' phase where you can feel things being set up for the finale. That being said there is plenty of action and the story is engaging. You really do empathise with Essun and her motives.

I have the final book on my tbr, and will probably be reading it sooner rather than later. This epic trilogy is award winning for good reason. Easily one of the best written and most engaging series I have come across and fully deserving of all its accolades.