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ngaio's review against another edition
3.0
A deceptively simple story: a runaway with magical skills, aiding siblings to save themselves become a surprisingly complex story of identity, chosen family, and the sacrifices to be made.
laurenmitchell's review against another edition
5.0
Ruby Coral Carnelian kept me turning the pages until the very end. Engrossing, tightly written, where everything that happens happens for a reason, it's a novel I'd recommend for all ages. Del in particular is one of the most intriguing characters I've read about recently; Mary has a knack for writing memorable, colourful characters.
starlings's review
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
fast-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
Above all else, Ruby Coral Carnelian is a book that knows exactly how long it needs to be. It doesn't draw out the plot for longer than it needs to, nor does it leave the reader feeling unsatisfied or robbed of what could have been.
One of this book's great strengths is its world-building. It's delivered in tidbits here and there, and always in a way that flows well. There aren't any lengthy exposition dumps, and the closest things to them are still delivered in a way that fits with the story and with the characters.
Speaking of this book's characters, they are where Ruby Coral Carnelian shines the most. Each character feels vivid and alive - their motivations are clear, their voices are all distinct.
The plot flows very nicely from one moment to another, never feeling too slow or too fast. The ending is satisfying, and well-deserved for each of the main characters.
One of this book's great strengths is its world-building. It's delivered in tidbits here and there, and always in a way that flows well. There aren't any lengthy exposition dumps, and the closest things to them are still delivered in a way that fits with the story and with the characters.
Speaking of this book's characters, they are where Ruby Coral Carnelian shines the most. Each character feels vivid and alive - their motivations are clear, their voices are all distinct.
The plot flows very nicely from one moment to another, never feeling too slow or too fast. The ending is satisfying, and well-deserved for each of the main characters.
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