Selina Fenech has been one of my favourite artists since childhood. I have to admit that I began reading the book without too high expectations, as I had no idea what sort of writing capabilities she has. However, I am happy to say that Memory's Wake was a delight to read. The language used was elaborate but simple- it got the message across.
Some characters were given great depth in this book - the first of a trilogy- and I specifically commend the way we get to know the character Roen throughout the book. Memory's dialogue was easily recognizable compared to the others. There was a lot of action throughout the novel and we slowly learn more about Memory as the plot line proceeds.
On the downside, there were lots of moments where I was confused. There seems to be mentions of a lot of events or things that we are unaware of, and while Selina will probably explain more about them in later books, it did make me feel slightly uneasy. Notable examples are characters like Yvainne and Mina (the fae), as well as Will. Some parts of characters' histories are also confusing, such as the snippets of Memory's past that we get and the clash between Alward's and Thayl's versions of Loredanna's death. While I understand that some mystery will create suspense, it does feel like the way things were left off made me confused in a frustrated way. I wasn't sure if things had been mentioned before and I was simply missing them, or if I would be getting more information later in the series.
All in all, I recommend this book to any fantasy-lovers. Selina Fenech paints a wonderful story- not only literally with her many gorgeous paintings throughout the book- but with words as well. I can't wait for Hope's Reign!
