A Review of Jordan Rivet's "The Spy in the Silver Palace"
I had heard positive comments about Rivet's novels before and was not disappointed! "Spy" sets off at a cracking pace that carries through the entire story. Tensions and mysteries are immediate. The description is precise down to the details, which makes the excitement of Mica, friends and family on the day of her graduation palpable. The setting and history of the Windfast Empire are quickly established through the socio-political dynamics between the lands and the desires of the top graduates to serve as the best spies in the Obsidian Kingdom.
Concepts unique to the universe of Windfast are well imagined and smoothly relayed. The powers of individual Mimics and their rarity is illustrated via scenes that fill out the world and move the story forward. The ability of Talents is clearly portrayed and steadily reinforced throughout the chapters. Their limits are logically delineated and the potent threat against them is grotesquely revealed.
People are hurt and horrors happen; Rivet's willingness to figuratively "kill her darlings" shows a sensitivity and commitment to the greater story she is telling. The premise of a spy academy is thrilling and Rivet has pulled it off with colourful flourishes and much creativity. Her characters are full-colour 3D; Mica and friends are all set out naturally and their dialogue is flowing and believable. As her relationships grow, I appreciate the twists and how people are not whom they seem to be; this seems especially fitting for a story about espionage and Mimics.
There are a few hitches, although this may only be true in the version I have been reading, which has not been copyedited. For example, right before their graduation ceremony takes place, when Mica praises Sapphire, she does not receive a response from her friend and immediately begins to look over their classmates. Princess Jessamyn seems to brush off her servants too casually every time and all the time, which grew annoying after a while - I do not think this works to her favour. Finally, I am not sure why the princess entertains people in her chambers. I'm not hinting that she is an easy woman, but it is unclear whether it is customary in Windfast or even in history for royalty to host in such a private space.
Also, I am not persuaded that the Obsidian empire is evil even when Mica is telling me it has been a threat to her homeland. It feels forced when it is first mentioned in the introductory chapters and seems unfounded despite later repetitions of its vileness. I am not sure whether this is intentional, as it has potential for twists in the plot, but on its own it does not convince me; why is Obsidian evil?
Despite these snags, I find "Spy" a very exciting tale and can't wait for more. From the beginning, I am immediately with Mica and admire her personality and loyalty. In her excitement, uncertainty and all that follows, I feel for her all the way and look forward to finding out what she will have to do next.
Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
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I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
