Review: Senlin Ascends (Books of Babel #1)

4 stars. Full disclosure: I'm pregnant, and reading - very tragically - has taken a huge hit. I persevered and made it through this fun fantasy, sooo slowly, and I'm hoping to continue on with the series as my energy (fingers crossed) returns for a bit. 

Quiet Thomas Senlin travels with his new wife Marya to the famous Tower of Babel, considered the pinnacle of civilization and the greatest marvel in the world, for their honeymoon, only to lose her almost immediately. Driven by desperation and disheveled by the chaotic reality of the Tower itself, Senlin begins a quest to find her, and - forgive me - finds himself along the way.

Even though it's clear from the beginning what type of hero's journey we're on, it was still extremely wonderful and satisfying to witness Senlin use his wits, and intellect, and sense of morality, to ascend the Tower. It's almost a little cheesy, in a charming way, how stubbornly he clings to his values and his desire to right wrongs. He's a great protagonist - lovable and imperfect and loyal. 

If it isn't clear, I highly recommend this book. It's inventive, entertaining, thoughtful, and interesting. I gave it 4 stars because I felt like something was missing - maybe around Marya, or her dynamic/relationship with Thomas - which will probably be improved in the next book(s)... the author did a great job of incorporating flashbacks and keeping her spirit present, but... did she also not seem a little too quirky/manic pixie/perfect? 

But there's so much to enjoy. Steampunk elements that aren't too cringe-y. Multiple worlds in one. A real sense of revelry and partying, which, as someone who can't drink right now, made me really miss it. Found family in that heartwarming D&D maybe-we-should-team-up sort of way. A beating heart at the center of it all. 

It just really is super fun and fantastic and a must-read for fantasy fans. I'm so excited to continue the journey.

Senlin Ascends on: Amazon | Bookshop.org | Goodreads