Author: Tessa Gratton
Genre: Political Fantasy, Erotica (queer-forward), Adult,
Publisher: Orbit Books
Format: Ebook (NetGalley Copy)
TW: murder, racism against a minority group, imprisonment, death penalty, colonialism
The Mercy Makers is a book you have to devote time to. It's a luxuriating read, packed with politics and meditations on the nature of empire and what one will do to break or uphold a system 'for the greater good.' The characters are as layered as the language, but sometimes that language occludes connection.
First, the plot. Iriset is the daughter of The Black Cat, an underground smuggler, murderer and general ne'er do well. She is also, Iriset, is Silk, a genius Designer, a person who can manipulate the fundamental forces of her world by basically making intricate diagrams and applying them to people. However, in her society, human alteration is forbidden, and she as Silk skirts the line. Until, that is her father gets captured and sentenced to death. Iriset, in keeping her identity secret has gotten a golden opportunity to infiltrate the palace as a handmaiden to the consort of the Hungry God, one half of the ruling government of her kingdom, to save her father.
The language is my favourite part of this book. Certain metaphors have stayed in my head since I completed it, even if it takes me a second to decipher them. However it is very florid language, so be warned. The language lends itself to the political intrigue as well, covering it like wrapping paper, with double meanings. But even the language can be exposition-y, but still a delight to read.
The magic system, likened to building a structure benefits from the language. I also love the magic system; it’s incredibly unique.
The characters however suffer. Iriset has a competent arc, however, the language holds her apart. The consort and her brother are even further from the reader. I wonder if this was intentional as they are like gods. I commend the author if so.
On that note, I appreciate that queerness can exist in this setting but still is restricted by the convictions of the empire. I liked that there seemed to be consideration of multiple axises of oppression as well.
This book is not a romantasy. It is a political queer fantasy with erotic elements. There is a lot of sex, and Iriset relishes in it with both binary genders allowed in the empire. As an Ace person who leans towards women, my eyes glazed over the PIV scenes but even they were well written.
It seems that if this book clicks with you, you will love it. It clicked with me and I can’t wait to see the next one.
Thanks to NetGalley and Orbit for the ebook!
Final Rating: 4 stars
Drink Paring: Osmanthus oolong while gazing at the moon
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