The Goblin Emperor

The Goblin Emperor - Katherine Addison

Maia is fourth in line for the throne and when his father, the Emperor, and his three older brothers are killed in an airship explosion, he becomes the Emperor. Because he has grown up in exile from the royal court, he is ill prepared for this task. This book is about his maturing and learning about life in court, his family whom he never knew, and about friendship. The first two thirds of the book describe the "world" and introduce the many characters. World is in quotes because the palace is the world of this story. Palace etiquette, protocol and fashion are described in great detail - very great detail, to the point where the book becomes boring. The last third of the book is very good, if the reader makes it that far. Less time is spent on courtly manners and more on Maia's character. The cause of the airship explosion is discovered, revealing more about the world outside the palace. For those readers debating about whether to finish this book, grit your teeth and stick with it. The ending is not surprising, but it is satisfying.