Book Review: Iron Tongue of Midnight (The Forge & Fracture Saga #3) by Brittany N. Williams
As a long-time fan of both historical fantasy and Shakespearean lore, I was immediately drawn to Iron Tongue of Midnight, the third installment in Brittany N. Williams’s enthralling Forge and Fracture series. The blend of fae and traditional African magic steeped in the rich backdrop of Elizabethan England spoke to my heart, and I couldn’t wait to dive into this latest chapter in Joan’s journey.
At its core, Iron Tongue of Midnight encapsulates a powerful theme of tradition versus self-discovery. Joan, our fierce and resilient protagonist, has already faced immense challenges in previous books, and here she stands at a critical crossroads in her life. As a disciple of Ogun, the Orisha of iron, the stakes have never been higher. The balance between humanity and the bloodthirsty fae has been shattered, leading Joan to believe she’s the only one who can restore the broken Pact. What I appreciated most is Joan’s struggle to forge her own identity amidst familial expectations and the weight of her lineage.
Brittany Williams’s writing style remains fluid and engaging; her care and detail in world-building are apparent. However, in this installment, I found myself yearning for more of the camaraderie that flourished in the acting troupe from the earlier books. The sense of community and joy shared among Joan, her twin brother, and her love interests brought warmth to the narrative, and this time, the exigencies of conflict overshadowed that bond. While the tension in the plot heightened the stakes dramatically, I missed those delightful moments of levity that provided depth to the characters’ relationships. The much-loved “dog” character was a delightful touch, infusing humor and warmth that punctuated darker passages.
One aspect that truly resonated with me was the representation of romance. Joan finds herself in a beautifully crafted poly triad, encompassing nuanced and genuine feelings for both her male and female love interests. Williams handles this complexity with maturity, ensuring that each relationship thrives in its own right rather than spiraling into the pitfalls of a love triangle. This representation adds a refreshing layer to Joan’s journey of understanding herself and her desires beyond the conventional molds often found in YA literature.
The conclusion of Iron Tongue of Midnight leaves readers with a sense of satisfaction and hope. Joan’s ability to reconcile her responsibilities with her quest for identity resonated with me deeply. It’s a poignant reminder of the beautiful struggle we all face in defining who we are amidst the expectations of tradition.
I wholeheartedly recommend Iron Tongue of Midnight, along with the entire Forge and Fracture trilogy, to anyone captivated by historical fantasy, particularly those who admire Shakespeare’s work or the magic of theater. This series not only reconnects us with historical figures and folklore but also encourages us to reflect on our paths and the roles we play in our own lives. The reading experience has left an imprint on my heart, making me eager to share Joan’s compelling journey with others who seek stories woven with authenticity and magic.
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