The Obelisk Gate Summary
The Obelisk Gate, written by N.K. Jemisin, is the second book in the Hugo Award-winning Broken Earth Trilogy. This epic fantasy novel continues the story of Essun, a woman with the ability to manipulate the earth's geology, in a world where natural disasters are common and magic is feared and misunderstood.
The novel picks up where The Fifth Season left off, with Essun seeking refuge in a community of orogenes, people like her with the ability to control the earth's movements. She learns that the obelisks, mysterious structures that dot the land, are somehow connected to the ongoing environmental catastrophes. Meanwhile, her daughter Nassun is on her own journey, searching for her mother while grappling with her own emerging powers.
The Obelisk Gate is a complex and richly layered story that explores themes of power, oppression, and identity. The world-building is meticulous and immersive, with the author delving deeper into the history and mythology of the Broken Earth. The characters are compelling and multifaceted, with their own agendas and motivations that often clash with each other.
One of the strengths of The Obelisk Gate is its use of multiple perspectives, with the narrative shifting between Essun, Nassun, and other characters. This allows the reader to gain a fuller understanding of the world and the events unfolding within it.
Another notable aspect of the novel is Jemisin's masterful use of language. Her prose is lyrical and poetic, with vivid descriptions that bring the world and its inhabitants to life. The audiobook version, narrated by Robin Miles, does an excellent job of capturing the nuances of the characters' voices and infusing the story with emotion.
Overall, The Obelisk Gate is a stunning work of fantasy that builds upon the foundation laid by its predecessor. With its intricate world-building, nuanced characters, and elegant prose, it is a must-read for fans of the genre.
