Reviews tagging 'Toxic relationship'

The Absinthe Underground by Jamie Pacton

1 review

jasper_is_atypical's review

Go to review page

  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.5

Honestly was very disappointing. For characters that were supposed to be smart, they did a lot of stupid shit (fair in some circumstances, slightly mind-boggling in others.) It felt like most of what they did was so the plot could go the way the author wanted it to and not because it made much sense. Felt cramped and not at all exciting like promised. Instead of rooting for the main romance I was rooting for Esme to leave Sybil and their frankly unhealthy relationship behind. She is obviously uncomfortable and unhappy, only going along because she cares about Sybil and feels an obligation to protect her. Now I don't really see this as a spoiler, but I'll hide it anyways...

The reason they need to do the job is because they are poor and behind on rent. The only reason they are behind is because Sybil, who came from a rich background, gets too bored at her jobs to keep them for long. Literally stated.


For this reason and for the way she treats Esme as a whole Sybil is extremely unlikable and comes off as snobbish and uncaring about others. She chases her own excitement at Esme's cost, which is made even more appalling by the fact that Esme took her in off the streets and is doing everything in her power to take care of her as a charity case. Just. No. 

I wanted this to be good so bad. The idea of a heist in fae with a sapphic romance sounds wonderful, but the execution left me wanting.

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
More...