879: The Olympian Affair
In this episode, I enjoyed this steampunk sequel, but even so, there were caveats…
Friends, friends, friends.
Welcome back to Teatime Reading where there are books in progress.
A few weeks ago, I read The Aeronaut’s Windlass. At the time, I mentioned how the slow pacing of the story made it a little challenging to connect with characters. This time around with the sequel The Olympian Affair, I felt that the pace was a little better, but the book lost something in the process.
Last time, I mentioned that I enjoyed the younger characters much more. That is to say, Gwen, Benedict, Bridget, Folly, and most of all Rowl.
The diplomatic nature of Predator’s mission this time around meant a slight sidelining of these younger characters. I will say, that all of my favorites had a lot to do in The Olympian Affair but the truth is that in the sequel, Grimm, along with new characters Bayard and Lady Abigail Hinton were much more featured.
If the first book was spies and investigations and intrigue, this book was much more about duels, politics, and negotiations. Oh, and the looming impending war ahead.
In many ways, I was equal parts entertained and frustrated with this book. I enjoyed the way the story progressed and Captain Grimm finally felt like a real character. The pacing was improved, and the story itself was compelling. Rowl took a major step back from a POV character to absurd comic relief. His relationship with Bridget continued to be a great feature of this book, but he was diminished somehow.
Gwen, Bridget, Benedict, and Folly each were good this time around, but their subplots had less… meaning.
The Olympian Affair was a good book, but also a slightly frustrating middle book. I certainly hope that there is a sequel planned, because the final act and the characters deserve more time to shine.
Until next time, keep your bookmarks close.
Peace, Love, Pages.
Note: As Always, Affiliate Links are here for your convenience at no cost to you. All reading was at my own expense.