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buttondragon's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
2.0
I read this on a whim because it was available on audiobook and it was marked as LGBT and Gothic literature, both things i very much like. Personally, I don’t think it really fits either category. Really enjoyed the start of this book, but oh boy it dragged. Somewhere around the 30% mark I started noticing really repetitive descriptions and dialogue. The main character is… a bit annoying to be honest. Refuses help, wants to protect everyone else, even if accepting help would make things easier for everyone. Lots of passing mentions of side characters sexualities being queer, buuuut our main romance is still the usual guy and girl. Very little world building is done, and what there is doesn’t always track chapter to chapter. I’m sure some people will really enjoy this book, and I’d say go for it. Do keep in mind there is a LOT of (TW: Self Harm) cutting of the arms and wrists mentioned as means of handling an evil lake. Threw me for a loop a bit.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Self harm
Moderate: Suicide attempt, Emotional abuse, and Physical abuse
rosie_reads_7's review
Very pretty writing, just felt disconnected from the characters and I’ve read this sort of story before in a way that suited me better.
kvnzie's review against another edition
4.0
this story was beautiful, atmospheric & perfect for fall! not to mention the owl crate exclusive bonus chapter made me love Rowan even more than i already did.
glowbunny's review against another edition
1.75
The premise had potential but the heroine was so annoying and pathetic.
cjfray's review against another edition
dark
emotional
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
4.5
laura_cs's review against another edition
4.0
A lush gothic fantasy romance set alongside a mysterious lake, with elements of Beauty and the Beast, and a fascinatingly unique magic and religious system.
elaichipod's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Diverse cast of characters? No
3.25
I didn't really find this book to be engaging or memorable. It wasn't awful, but I see almost no reason why I should read the 2nd book.