Hauntingly atmospheric and heartbreaking in its depiction of shared trauma and the psychological effects of war. Traci Chee’s epic, fantasy reimagining of Akira Kurosawa’s Seven Samurai was a powerfully poignant and compelling read that I won’t be forgetting anytime soon. 

Firstly, I should probably mention that though it alternates between the POVs of all seven MCs and one antagonist, it is written in the second person. Which does take a bit of time to get used to (and might not be to everyone’s taste), but I personally really enjoyed and felt it gave us (the readers) the chance to fully immerse ourselves in the narrative, and feel a sense of kinship with our protagonists. 

Taken from their families at the age of five and forced into a gruelling training schedule that molds them into deadly, magic wielding (child) soldiers is utterly heartbreaking to explore—but their struggles from the abandonment once their abilities are no longer required is even more so. 

Delving into themes of loss, trauma, PTSD, identity, self reflection and the effects of colonialism; Chee’s masterful and emotionally wrought prose paints a stark and vivid picture of life after war and the struggles faced by soldiers who no longer have a purpose.

Amity, Leum, Kanver, Emara, Ket, Ben and Siddie were all soo phenomenally complex as characters, with flaws, motivations and backstories that made them feel incredibly real. The nuance and emotion brought a rawness and vulnerability that really resonated with me and will most definitely capture the hearts of a lot of other readers too. 

I grieved with these characters, laughed with them and felt every moment of loss, pain and uncertainty alongside them—which made for one of the most moving reading experiences I’ve ever had.

I don’t think my words can truly capture the importance that this story has right now, but I urge everyone who loves tales of endurance, resilience and hope to definitely check it out. Just be sure to check the TWs first. 

Also, a huge thank you to Harper360YA and InstaBookTours for the incredible finished copy.