Scan barcode
hawkguyscoffee's review
adventurous
challenging
emotional
reflective
medium-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? Yes
4.5
A book that tastes and feels like saltwater and algae. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and the paintings of characters, landscapes and magic it depicts. The story holds up well and the reveals aren't as obvious as you'd think, even if you can tell what's foreshadowing and what isn't, the surprise still hits you and still feels right. The length and pace feels right as well, making for a weird feeling where every time I looked at the page number I felt like the book was never ending, like I was moving through mud and yet, it was an enjoyable feeling. Every time I looked and the number was far lower than I expected, I felt refreshed and happy that there was still more waiting for me. The characters were also lovely and very determinate, and I loved to see their different feelings and the way each of them responded to the situations before them in different ways and how the author doesn't shy away from showing the ugly side of their emotions. The landscapes were beautifully detailed, as were the feelings and sensations. I do have my complaints, mostly centered around the way certain references felt somewhat forced or out of place I get it, I get it, there's a lot of Harry Potter in this, can we not mention it so much and sometimes the characters felt like walking therapists, knowing exactly how to approach a situation in a healthy way which I can somewhat understand as Isla and Tanis are supposed to be the level-headed ones but still. . However, it only really popped very few times in the book so it wasn't a deal breaker at all. Honestly, it was a thoroughly enjoyable experience and I do recommend it a lot
Content Warnings
Graphic: Gaslighting and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Transphobia
More...