The Serpent Sea

Martha Wells

Raksura Series - Book 2

With the Indigo Cloud court having defeated the Fell, and moved back to their mountain tree in the forest, everything seems to be good. Until they find the tree is dying, having had its seed stolen. So Moon and Jade and a few warriors follow the trail of the thieves to the Serpent Sea. Here they encounter a minor mage who is using the seed to keep his solitary power over his floating city. A nice continuation of the saga, expanding the characterization and relationships of both individuals an the community. 

4 stars (out of 4)

The Cloud Roads

Martha Wells

Raksura Series - Book 1

The first in a five volume series referred to as the Raksura Series. The Raksura are a race of shapeshifters, including the Arbora (who shift between human and bird-like, but without wings) and the Aeriat (human and full birds). The Aeriat are warriors and sterile, except for the queen and her consort. Moon is one of these Aeriat, and a constort. The odd piece is that Moon has lived on his own his entire life, mostly in human form trying to fit in. He doesn't know what he his, or if he is the only one. Until he is found by another consort and brought into a tribe (flock?) of his own kind. Only to find that he might be the catalyst for change that could save the tribe from The Fell (a related, but evil species of shape shifters). 

This is a fabulous world. I love the characters and culture, Wells continues to dominate this fantasy genre.

4 stars (out of 4)