Book Title: The Raven Tower
Author: Ann Leckie
Stars: 4 out 5

Spoilers Ahead!

I can’t remember who recommended The Raven Tower to me, as it was some months ago. Well, I finally borrowed the book from the library. I didn’t like it, but it was well written. Or perhaps it is best to say, I wasn’t in the mood for this particular story, but as I had borrowed it from the library, I felt compelled to read it. 

The Raven Tower is a novel by Ann Leckie. It is well written with a unique style, strong voice and complex characters. Unfortunately it is a story about Gods. And while Gods and their interactions with their worshipers (humans) is not the bottom of my list (that place is held for zombies), I am not a fan of these stories. 

It was a bit of a slog for me to get into the book. And then through the rest of the story. Sadly, my personal reaction is not a good reflection of the writing, which I thought was interesting. The book is written as though the main character (a god) is talking directly to one of the other characters in the story. I can’t think of another story that has employed this format (at least from what I have read). It was a really interesting way of setting up the tale. 

The story wove in and out of time as the god recalled earlier times and how those shaped its perspective on life, the world and the people of the region. All of this culminated in the ultimate destruction of a town and the tower that held our narrating god prisoner. 

The other really well done aspect of the story was the discussion around transgender. The “you” in this narrative, Eolo, is a soldier promoted to aid of the Lease’s Heir. The Lease is the king-like figure in this land and voice of the Raven god. The Lease’s Heir is the next in line to the seat of power. Eolo is the aide to the current heir. Born a farmer and in a female body, he leaves home to become a soldier. Eolo becomes a sort of friend and trusted companion to the Heir. Brought to the city and the Raven’s tower, Eolo helps the Heir to unwind the political maneuverings and truths about their god. 

How the author deals with Eolo and some of his insecurities is well done. There is a good mix of reactions of characters to those who are transgendered in this world. I think this sensitive topic was handled masterfully, with care and consideration. It was not preachy, but I think the message of understanding and compassion were at the front. It was definitely one of the best parts of the book. 

So, while I didn’t care for the god’s story (3 out of 5 stars), I did think The Raven Tower was well written. Its unique style and intelligent handling of complex societal issues was well done (5 out of 5 stars). Averaging the two numbers, perhaps unfairly, I would give this 4 out of 5 stars.