Review: Yumi and the Nightmare Painter

Yumi and the Nightmare Painter by Brandon Sanderson
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

This is a 5-star review. He earned every drop of it.

Two star-crossed lovers. Separated by space? Time? Who knows. Yet joined by spirits in an attempt to free themselves. What has the spirits in chains? Read the story.

Yumi and Painter are in conflict with one another when they meet. He must abide by the social structures of her world. Structures that make no sense to him. She is terrified every time Painter violates her cultural protocols.

She then finds herself in his world where there aren't as many cultural protocols. And she slowly learns that Painter has made many mistakes in his life and hurt his friends. He does his best to hide the truth about himself for as long as possible.

Eventually, they discover the ability to see beyond the superficial and appreciate one another's perspective. Their strengths end up covering for each other's weaknesses in ways that ultimately make them better.

And there are spirits to be freed. So there is a mystery that needs to be unraveled. A mystery that impacts both of their worlds once it is fully revealed.

The narrative takes place in an obviously Japanese-inspired setting. Painter's world is akin to a neon-lit modern Japanese city while Yumi's world is more traditional and rural. The process of and inspiration for creating art is at the forefront of the tale.

Just go read the book. It is worth the time. There are moments of great humor as well as great sorrow. There is sympathy for those who are perceived as being least worthy of it. The ending is so well-earned.

This will be on my nomination list for the Hugo Awards in 2024

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