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allisonwonderlandreads's review against another edition
adventurous
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This feels like the book version of an escape room, under the wire to hunt down clues with the giddiness of a game afoot. It's just ~fun~ pure and simple. In this puzzle of a sequel, we follow the Hawthornes deeper into their (many, unnecessarily fancy) closets for creepier skeletons. We delve into a family history that is twisted and secretive with complicated repercussions in the present.
In terms of Avery's life, the unnecessary love triangle marches on. I was pleased with the resolution at the very end of the book where an actual choice is made. I'm not sure I was cheering for anyone in particular before, but I like what Avery decided. My only concern is that the series isn't over, and sometimes love triangles have the last laugh when I think they're over, so. Just hoping the current choice is endgame, and we can focus on different drama in the next one. In non-romantic news, best friend Max shows up instead of just being a voice over the phone, which is a vast improvement for everyone. I desperately needed someone to say "smash the patriarchy" in front of all the rich people.
In terms of the mystery, there's some light (private) jet-setting, which adds to the makeover montage moments to remind us that there is ridiculous wealth on the line. Like an alarming amount. Like I think Max has her work cut out for her with the smashing part. I didn't find most of the reveals particularly shocking as the mystery unfolds, but I was entertained at all times. Also, the sheer number of twists and turns made for an intriguing path for the characters even if you suspect what's coming at the end. This book was pure escapism for me, and I loved it.
In terms of Avery's life, the unnecessary love triangle marches on. I was pleased with the resolution at the very end of the book where an actual choice is made. I'm not sure I was cheering for anyone in particular before, but I like what Avery decided. My only concern is that the series isn't over, and sometimes love triangles have the last laugh when I think they're over, so. Just hoping the current choice is endgame, and we can focus on different drama in the next one. In non-romantic news, best friend Max shows up instead of just being a voice over the phone, which is a vast improvement for everyone. I desperately needed someone to say "smash the patriarchy" in front of all the rich people.
In terms of the mystery, there's some light (private) jet-setting, which adds to the makeover montage moments to remind us that there is ridiculous wealth on the line. Like an alarming amount. Like I think Max has her work cut out for her with the smashing part. I didn't find most of the reveals particularly shocking as the mystery unfolds, but I was entertained at all times. Also, the sheer number of twists and turns made for an intriguing path for the characters even if you suspect what's coming at the end. This book was pure escapism for me, and I loved it.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Classism, Emotional abuse, Addiction, and Death of parent
Minor: Kidnapping, Miscarriage, Bullying, Drug abuse, Gun violence, Infidelity, Suicide attempt, Violence, and Suicidal thoughts
eve_reads's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
Overall Thoughts:
⁕ The characters' jumps in logic when solving the main mystery of the book were WILDLY far-fetched when compared to The Inheritance Games. I get that the plot must move onward, but the randomness of the clues and their meanings made it hard to participate as the reader.
⁕ The second half of the book redeemed itself through its poignant examination of love and relationships. It gave me all the feels, truly!!
⁕ I love that Barnes gave secondary characters (Rebecca and Max especially) an inch more of the spotlight. More! I want more!
To read my full review, visit: https://evereads.online
For regular book-related content, follow my Instagram account: @eve_reads
⁕ The characters' jumps in logic when solving the main mystery of the book were WILDLY far-fetched when compared to The Inheritance Games. I get that the plot must move onward, but the randomness of the clues and their meanings made it hard to participate as the reader.
⁕ The second half of the book redeemed itself through its poignant examination of love and relationships. It gave me all the feels, truly!!
⁕ I love that Barnes gave secondary characters (Rebecca and Max especially) an inch more of the spotlight. More! I want more!
To read my full review, visit: https://evereads.online
For regular book-related content, follow my Instagram account: @eve_reads
Content Warnings
Moderate: Classism, Gun violence, Murder, Child death, Fire/Fire injury, Alcoholism, and Violence
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