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3.83 AVERAGE
3.83 AVERAGE
This was my third time picking this up since I bought it back in 2022 and I just couldn't get into it. Finally did, and it was unfortunately extremely boring. It's a shame.
A fantastical fairy tale with Japanese cultural elements infused throughout. Could easily be a studio Ghibli project. But what I loved most about this story was the internal transformation of the main character. You see her grow strong, powerful and self-assured. She rescues others, she offers a new life to some, and ultimately returns to her village changed for the better. A true hero’s journey. Some time travel elements. Lots of folklore and spirits that had me wishing for a reference in the back.
Something about the story felt a bit disjointed… as if plot points didn’t flow naturally but we’re instead forced in. Like ‘Spirited Away’, you just have to go with it and you’ll enjoy the ride.
Something about the story felt a bit disjointed… as if plot points didn’t flow naturally but we’re instead forced in. Like ‘Spirited Away’, you just have to go with it and you’ll enjoy the ride.
adventurous
dark
lighthearted
mysterious
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:
Complicated
Probably 3.5, but mostly because it’s something between a fairy tale for kids and a YA novel. Lots of clear good and bad, some funny animal and spirit companions, and a young protagonist learning to overcome societal restrictions. The lore of the books is really well done.
This gorgeous Japanese inspired fantasy featured in my May Book Hooked Box.
God I love how the narrative twists and turns, and I'm such a big fan of every single character and how everyone has their own rules and codes and vices
adventurous
emotional
funny
hopeful
lighthearted
fast-paced
slow-paced
[3.5 stars] This was a romp. Very episodic and steeped in Japanese folklore, it's a good book for anyone who loved Inuyasha as a kid, and wants a book that captures the same mythical, macabre silliness. It reminded me of Gods of Jade and Shadow (which I loved) but with a bit less subtlety. The themes are delivered with a heavy hand, but the rest of the book is enough fun that I didn't mind.