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arthur_of_camelot's review
4.0
4.5 stars
This was a shorter read than I expected, and I really wish I could do half stars because it doesn't deserve to lose a full star just for that, but I also want to keep my 5 star ratings for knock out books.
Otherwise though, this was a good little story! I don't think my rating would change if I had gone into it expecting a novella, because it runs through the murder mystery SO fast that I think I still would have been a little disappointed. The MC's voice is great though, and the side characters are also cool given that the book wraps up so quickly. I definitely still recommend it as a good half hour / hour read!
This was a shorter read than I expected, and I really wish I could do half stars because it doesn't deserve to lose a full star just for that, but I also want to keep my 5 star ratings for knock out books.
Otherwise though, this was a good little story! I don't think my rating would change if I had gone into it expecting a novella, because it runs through the murder mystery SO fast that I think I still would have been a little disappointed. The MC's voice is great though, and the side characters are also cool given that the book wraps up so quickly. I definitely still recommend it as a good half hour / hour read!
adapted_batteries's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
fast-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
A fun read! I only wish there was more to the story.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Violence
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders
Minor: Trafficking and Transphobia
hexthebookworm's review against another edition
3.0
First the positives. I love that this is a YA novella about a trans guy. I have only read trans girl stories for young people so this is a nice change. Similarly but to a lesser extent, I like that the sport of choice is boxing. Boxing is generally not written about in and of itself and there are a lot of great storytelling opportunities available with it, some of which McAdam takes advantage of. I also like the complex feelings on display about Jason's living situation. Group homes are better than nothing but that doesn't mean they always feel like home.
Now for my one concern. I really wish this was fleshed out more into a full length novel. I really wanted to see the bonds between the teens developed out more and I would have even liked Jason's relationship with X developed out a bit to make the twist at the end feel more like a betrayal.
Now for my one concern. I really wish this was fleshed out more into a full length novel. I really wanted to see the bonds between the teens developed out more and I would have even liked Jason's relationship with X developed out a bit to make the twist at the end feel more like a betrayal.
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