The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison

Book review of the Goblin Emperor

Author: Katherine Addison
Publisher: Tor Books
Genre: Fantasy, Political Fantasy
Year of Publication: 2014
Date of Publication: April 1, 2014
Pages: 448
ISBN-10: 076532699X
ISBN-13: 978-0765326997


Summary

The Goblin Emperor follows Maia, a half-goblin prince who unexpectedly ascends the throne after his father and brothers are killed. 

Navigating court intrigue, Maia must find his way as a ruler while dealing with prejudice and corruption.

Main Plot & Characters

The story centers on Maia’s rise to power in an elven court, where he confronts mistrust and complex political plots. 

Despite inexperience and isolation, he strives to bring integrity and compassion to his rule.

Key Themes of The Goblin Emperor

  • Isolation and Belonging: Maia’s journey explores the loneliness of power and his search for connection.
  • Integrity and Leadership: His moral compass shapes his approach to rulership, emphasizing ethical leadership.
  • Prejudice and Acceptance: The book highlights societal biases and Maia’s struggle for acceptance.
  • Resilience: Maia’s inner strength enables him to face adversity with grace.

Writing Style

Addison’s writing is descriptive and detailed.

Impact of The Goblin Emperor

The Goblin Emperor has earned acclaim for its focus on kindness and moral leadership, standing out within the fantasy genre. 

It has received several nominations including Nebula Awards (2014), Hugo (2015), and the World Fantasy Award for Best Novel (2015). It won the Locus Award in 2015.

Have you read this book already, or is it on your list? And if you’ve read it, which scene or chapter left the biggest impression on you, and why?

About Nathaniel Adebayo 137 Articles
Nathaniel is a Media Content Specialist at Verayea, where he specializes in curating content and gathering data for the company’s extensive book library. He is also dedicated to writing insightful reviews, offering thoughtful perspectives on a range of media. His work ensures that Verayea’s library is comprehensive, well-organized, and informative, providing valuable resources for its audience.

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