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meurk's review
dark
informative
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
legsbian's review
adventurous
challenging
dark
emotional
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
happywedge's review against another edition
5.0
Great characters! Insights about capitalism, racism, sexism, etc. 4?
merleperleee's review against another edition
dark
sad
tense
slow-paced
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
damn
laurakershaw's review against another edition
3.0
This book has me conflicted. I loved the clear workmanship Kuang put into the understanding of translation and language and I found myself learning a lot and thinking more on the philosophy of language (which was cool since I’ve been reading more translated texts recently). I also think it brings up good points about imperialism, colonialism, and exploitation. However, I think the pacing was off. It was about 100 pages too long to make the same points and needed more of an editors keen eye (especially with the ending). For parts of it I was absolutely rapt and other parts I wasn’t interested at all which isn’t typical when I’m reading.
It’s really more 3.5/5 but I can’t in good conscience upgrade it because it just feels too clunky to be up there with other four star books.
It’s really more 3.5/5 but I can’t in good conscience upgrade it because it just feels too clunky to be up there with other four star books.
cocovert's review
challenging
dark
informative
reflective
medium-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
5.0
charlie678's review against another edition
dark
emotional
informative
inspiring
reflective
sad
medium-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
4.75
ow that ending
Graphic: Blood, Suicide, Suicidal thoughts, Racism, and Colonisation
Moderate: Racial slurs, Death of parent, Violence, and Child abuse
Minor: Torture and Gun violence
nateshep18's review
adventurous
dark
informative
reflective
sad
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.0
jcampbell's review against another edition
dark
tense
slow-paced
4.25
Brilliant! I’m not a massive fantasy fan but this one felt so rooted and related to real life. The story is so intricate and foreshadowed excellently throughout, you are captivated and desperate to see what happens next.
The build up andthen brilliant spectacular conclusion and revolution that leaves such an uncertain future feels so poignant and relevant. The weaving of translation and meaning throughout is excellent.
The build up and