Angela's Reviews > A Time for Grief
A Time for Grief (Tales of the Apt, #2)
by
by
4 Stars
A Time of Grief is another companion novel to the Tales of the Apt Series by Adrian Tchaikovsky - which helps to build a bigger picture. This series is an epic sci-fi fantasy, with steampunk vibes, and political intrigue. It is set in a richly imagined world that feels both alien and yet still eerily familiar. Spanning more than ten books, this series is a testament to Mr. Tchaikovsky’s creativity and ability to weave complex tales with deeply human themes.
The world of Shadows of the Apt is populated by "Kinden", a human-like race (inspired by insects), each with unique traits and abilities. From the militaristic Ant-Kinden to the cunning Spider-Kinden, the diversity of these cultures is awesome. The tension between the "Apt" (technologically inclined) and "Inapt" (magically attuned) adds another layer of depth to the story, reflecting the broader themes of societal/cultural evolution. Mr. Tchaikovsky uses these differences to explore issues of identity, prejudice, and the clash between tradition and progress, making the series as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
The story itself is a sprawling epic, filled with large-scale battles, espionage, and personal struggles. Adrian Tchaikovsky excels at blending the grand with the intimate, ensuring that even amidst the chaos of war, the characters’ personal journey/s remain at the heart of the narrative. The protagonists are flawed, relatable, and yet grow and develop in meaningful ways over the course of the series, making the victories and losses all the more impactful.
One of the series’ standout features is its steampunk aesthetic/vibe. The contrast between the ancient magic and industrial technology created a unique and immersive setting.
Original. Thought-provoking. Epic.
Happy Reading…
A Time of Grief is another companion novel to the Tales of the Apt Series by Adrian Tchaikovsky - which helps to build a bigger picture. This series is an epic sci-fi fantasy, with steampunk vibes, and political intrigue. It is set in a richly imagined world that feels both alien and yet still eerily familiar. Spanning more than ten books, this series is a testament to Mr. Tchaikovsky’s creativity and ability to weave complex tales with deeply human themes.
The world of Shadows of the Apt is populated by "Kinden", a human-like race (inspired by insects), each with unique traits and abilities. From the militaristic Ant-Kinden to the cunning Spider-Kinden, the diversity of these cultures is awesome. The tension between the "Apt" (technologically inclined) and "Inapt" (magically attuned) adds another layer of depth to the story, reflecting the broader themes of societal/cultural evolution. Mr. Tchaikovsky uses these differences to explore issues of identity, prejudice, and the clash between tradition and progress, making the series as thought-provoking as it is entertaining.
The story itself is a sprawling epic, filled with large-scale battles, espionage, and personal struggles. Adrian Tchaikovsky excels at blending the grand with the intimate, ensuring that even amidst the chaos of war, the characters’ personal journey/s remain at the heart of the narrative. The protagonists are flawed, relatable, and yet grow and develop in meaningful ways over the course of the series, making the victories and losses all the more impactful.
One of the series’ standout features is its steampunk aesthetic/vibe. The contrast between the ancient magic and industrial technology created a unique and immersive setting.
Original. Thought-provoking. Epic.
Happy Reading…
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Reading Progress
August 22, 2025
– Shelved
August 23, 2025
–
Started Reading
August 23, 2025
–
Finished Reading