The Obelisk Gate by N. K. Jemisin impresses with its rich world-building, complex characters, and intricate plot, earning critical acclaim for its imaginative scope and emotional depth. Some readers, however, find the pacing uneven and the narrative occasionally convoluted. Overall, it's a strong follow-up in Jemisin's Broken Earth series, balancing ambition with nuanced storytelling.

A reader who would enjoy The Obelisk Gate by N. K. Jemisin likely appreciates intricate world-building, nuanced characters, and societal critique within the fantasy genre. Fans of George R. R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire series or Octavia Butler's Parable of the Sower will find similar depth and engagement.

The Obelisk Gate picks up where The Fifth Season ended, continuing the story of Essun as she arrives in the underground comm of Castrima, reunites with Alabaster, and grapples with the chaos of an apocalyptic Season. The narrative also explores her daughter Nassun's journey with her father, Jija, and her complex relationship with the Guardian Schaffa, as they travel to Found Moon to seek a "cure" for her orogeny.

Dark / Mysterious / Unnerving / Fantastical / Challenging

- The Obelisk Gate is the second book in N. K. Jemisin's critically acclaimed Broken Earth trilogy, which made history as the first series to have each of its volumes win the Hugo Award for Best Novel.
- In writing the Broken Earth trilogy, including The Obelisk Gate, N. K. Jemisin drew inspiration from geological and seismological phenomena, incorporating realistic details of plate tectonics and climate change.
- The dedication of The Obelisk Gate serves as both witty and a bold statement, as N. K. Jemisin dedicates the book "To those who have no choice but to prepare their children for the battlefield."

**Essun**  
The primary protagonist and a Fulcrum-trained orogene, Essun has faced significant hardship and trauma, shaping her into a cautious and resilient survivor. Throughout the novel, she continues to be central to the unfolding events even as she grapples with her past and her role in the present.

**Nassun**  
Essun's daughter and the secondary protagonist, Nassun is a young orogene with significant power who has endured her own share of challenges. Her journey offers a complex perspective on her relationships and the world around her.

**Schaffa**  
A former Guardian whose story deepens in this novel, Schaffa grapples with his past actions and the consequences of his survival. His interactions with Nassun introduce questions about his motivations and capacity for change.

**Ykka**  
The headwoman of Castrima, Ykka is a strong, pragmatic leader managing a community of both humans and orogenes. Her leadership style and openness to collaboration present challenges and opportunities for Essun.

**Jija**  
Essun's husband and father to Nassun and Uche, Jija harbors a deep-seated hostility towards orogenes. His actions initiate major events in the series, revealing complex family dynamics and personal conflicts.

**Alabaster**  
An incredibly powerful orogene and former partner of Essun, Alabaster is largely bedridden due to his condition but remains influential. He provides critical information and training, guiding Essun as she navigates new revelations.

**Hoa**  
A stone eater and the narrative voice of the series, Hoa is deeply tied to Essun and possesses considerable power. His mysterious background unfolds as he supports and protects Essun throughout the story.

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