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heather_boo's review against another edition
3.0
3.5 It’s 1937. Not only is China under attack by Japan forcing refugees to flee, China is also enduring dangerous internal political conflict. Given the title and the opening I thought the entire novel would be based on the adventure and the protection of a set of original special books entrusted to 123 faculty and students. It’s not a novel like Follow the River that really chronicles someone’s walk through the wilderness making you feel the pain of such a long arduous journey. The journey is glossed over for the most part and the books get to where they need to go, and that’s that. Really, this is a love story. And it’s a love story that poses interesting questions about free will. Shao has been followed through many reincarnations by an immortal star (Swallow) who was once his true love. He never recognizes her and chooses his own relationships. I felt Swallow’s character was too obsequious and robotic, even for a servant girl. There are some unanswered questions such as, why was Swallow inhibiting the relationship between Lian and Shao, when during previous lifetimes he was able to get married as he chose? Why were the heavens opening to collect immortals for the last time?
natashairene's review against another edition
4.0
I like historical fiction especially when it has a twist. I thought the fantasy portion of The Library of Legends would be more prevalent but it wasn't and I think it was better for it. It read more like a regular historical fiction novel than a fantasy one but it still told an interesting story that I enjoyed reading.
rongrong's review against another edition
mysterious
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Good for vacation and because I was interested in the premise. Characters did grow, some behaviors were contradictory and choices were confusing but such is the human experience. Glad Sparrow was able to make a choice.
pwrofguinness's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.5
kntaylor1216's review against another edition
4.0
Beautiful. I felt like I learned a lot about history but also about Chinese folklore. It was a lovely fantasy that didn’t feel to fantastic for me. Loved the characters and the legend that was playing out in real time.
bellelune_613's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
slow-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
3.75
just_one_more_chapter_ok's review against another edition
informative
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.0
manderzreadz's review against another edition
5.0
This was a five star book for me! So out of my comfort zone but a great story with fantasy elements thrown in! I absolutely loved it!