Setting: The Edge Chronicles is set in a fantastical (and truly morally grey) and perilous world known as the Edge, which is a vast, floating landmass filled with unique and bizarre creatures, strange landscapes, and a complex system of floating cities, forests, and settlements. Nothing really works the same as our own world, with gardens to grow floating rocks, physics defying sky ships, and all manner of unique races. Edge is divided into distinct regions, each with its own distinct culture and challenges. With elements of steam punk, pirate punk, and magi-tech.
Plot Archetype: ordinary individuals who become entangled in extraordinary events. .
Themes that I loved:
– bravery
– friendship
– environmentalism
– the consequences of one’s actions
– personal agency (no fate, or coincidence deus ex machina)
– the relationships between humans and nature
– the impact of industrialization on the environment
It also has some true ground up world building.
Illustrations: One of the standout features of the Edge Chronicles is the intricate and captivating illustrations by Chris Riddell. These illustrations bring the world to life and are an integral part of the reading experience.
Target Audience: The Edge Chronicles is generally categorized as a young adult or middle-grade series, but its intricate world-building, mature themes, and challenging vocabulary make it suitable for readers of all ages.
So, I’m looking for something that is past New Adult. I am in my 30s. I don’t mind reading YA or NA though if you have suggestions and the books have strong and nuanced characters.
Also I am a sucker for an underdog story.
Recommendations not to give me (Not that they’re not great I’ve just already read them)
– The “His Dark Materials” series by Philip Pullman
– The “Percy Jackson” series by Rick Riordan
– The “Septimus Heap” series by Angie Sage
– The “Artemis Fowl” series by Eoin Colfer
– The “Bartimaeus Sequence” by Jonathan Stroud:
– The “Mistborn” series by Brandon Sanderson
– Anything by Garth Nix, I’ve read em all basically
by DuineDeDanann
3 Comments
It’s YA, but have you read the Mortal Engines series by Philip Reeve?
I would also recommend The Goblin Emperor by Katherine Addison and Shades of Grey by Jasper Fforde.
I can’t help you much, but your description/clear love for the Edge chronicles has me intrigued. I’m in my mid 30s as well and never even heard of these books. Would you recommend a read at this stage in your life, or will this come down to being a bit too childish (I see them recommended for ages 8-12 on amazon).
If you are up for an adult book then Imajica by Clive Barker has a lot of crazy creatures and nuanced characters. It’s portal fantasy, so starts in our world and has a horror element to it.