Reviews

Precious Catastrophe by Deirdre Sullivan

Only show reviews with written explanations

timelordash92's review

dark mysterious tense fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

I was so excited to receive and read this review copy as I was absolutely OBSESSED with the first of the series, Perfectly Preventable Deaths. Don't make the same mistake I did though, and make sure to reread the first if you're in need of a refresher! I had forgotten a lot of loose ends and plot points but not only that, I had forgotten the general tone of the novel - humorous and gory and magical.

There were times when I felt a bit jolted by the tone of the novel, especially when it came to the big villain reveal and everyone's reaction to it. I also thought the action got a bit confusing and difficult to visualize with the switching narrators. Hopefully this is tightened in the final print copy.

Unlike the first novel, Precious Catastrophe alternates perspectives between those of Madeline and Catlin. This was such a refreshing change, as the two twins are polar opposites. Sitting into each other's voices helped pace the novel while also keeping the reader intrigued - who is really right and what is really the truth?

A very interesting and mesmerisingly written novel as always from Deirdre Sullivan. While I didn't love this one as much as the first, which I hold very dear to my heart, I still want more Ballyfrann in my life. I wonder will there be a third???

diana_blackmoon's review against another edition

Go to review page

dark mysterious medium-paced

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

4.0

foggy_rosamund's review

Go to review page

4.0

A captivating sequel to Perfectly Preventable Deaths, this is a tightly-paced and dramatic story, full of horror and tension, which makes for a wonderful spooky read. When we left twins Madeline and Catlin, Madeline had become apprentice to the witch Mamó, to repay her for bringing back Catlin from death. The story picks up shortly after these events: Catlin is coping with her past relationship with murderer Lon, and finds solace in prayer. Though she's been brought up as a Catholic, this kind of devotion is new, and Madeline worries about her, especially when she begins sleepwalking. The forces acting against the sisters become more and more intense in this instalment, while Sullivan balances the horror and dread with great insight into the teenage frame of mind, as well as lots of witty banter, cutting-edge references, and chances for love and lust. Unlike many YA novels, this story never went in the directions I expected, and I loved how vividly drawn the central characters are. Like much Irish fiction today, particularly YA novels, this book looks at the influence of the Catholic church, and tries to grapple with the legacy of abuse and death, and Sullivan does so in a particularly subtle way. An excellent sequel that builds on the mystery and atmosphere established in Perfectly Preventable Deaths, and leaves room for more.

kipcraft's review

Go to review page

dark mysterious tense slow-paced

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

2.25

spoonofnutella_'s review against another edition

Go to review page

adventurous funny mysterious slow-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.0

I really enjoyed the first book, but this one just didn't do it for me. I found it very long and just didn't understand the plot AT ALL.

There was too much going on but it all felt very convuluted and unnecessary. I do really like the Irishisms and enjoy the characters, but this book was a let down.

earthtosarita's review

Go to review page

adventurous dark emotional mysterious reflective 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? Yes

4.0

Religion and magic. Need I say more.

saccalai's review

Go to review page

3.5

Bit of a slow burn, building up gradually, but it gets really gripping later.
I didn't understand the point of the chapter titles, they didn't seem to have any significance in the chapter.