The Kingdom of Gods
| Company type | Novel |
|---|---|
| Industry | Fantasy literature |
| Founded | 2011 |
| Founder | N. K. Jemisin |
| Products | Fantasy novel |
The Kingdom of Gods is a fantasy novel authored by American writer N. K. Jemisin and published in 2011. It represents the concluding volume of her The Inheritance Trilogy.
Plot summary
Taking place roughly a century following the events of The Broken Kingdoms, The Kingdom of Gods follows Sieh, the mischievous godling associated with childhood, who undergoes an unforeseen transformation into a mortal during an encounter with the Arameri twins, Shahar and Deka. This incident causes partial destruction within Sky’s underpalace and compels Sieh to spend eight years recuperating in the human world.
When Sieh regains consciousness, he reconnects with Shahar, now the designated successor of the Arameri family. As a romantic relationship develops between them, Sieh experiences rapid aging, faces the challenges of adulthood, and delves into understanding his newfound mortality while probing a series of murders targeting members of the Arameri clan.
Characters
- Sieh – The playful godling embodying childhood, once held captive by the Arameri.
- Shahar Arameri – Heir to the leadership of the Arameri and Sieh’s romantic partner.
- Dekarta Arameri (Deka) – Shahar’s twin sibling, engaged in Scrivener studies at the Litaria.
- Hymn – A hesitant guide from Shadow city who assists Sieh.
- Itempas – One of The Three main deities; governs day, light, and order.
- Yeine – Another member of The Three; a resurrected deity overseeing life and death; serves as a maternal figure to Sieh.
- Nahadoth – Among The Three gods; represents night, darkness, and transformation.
- Ahad – Previously Nahadoth’s shell during captivity; currently a godling residing in Shadow.
- Glee Shoth – A demon linked to both Itempas and Ahad.
- Remath Arameri – The current head of the Arameri family.
Reception
Critics responded favorably to the book, highlighting its intricate themes and high-quality prose. Publishers Weekly commended Jemisin’s skillful storytelling and emphasized that "desperate longing" serves as a central motif throughout the trilogy.
| Year | Award | Result |
|---|---|---|
| 2011 | Nebula Award for Best Novel | Finalist |
| 2012 | Locus Award for Best Fantasy Novel | Finalist |