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jlynandstories's review against another edition
adventurous
challenging
fast-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
4.0
_aoibheann_'s review against another edition
adventurous
funny
mysterious
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
4.0
asreadbykat's review against another edition
5.0
True Rating: 5/5 Stars
Content/Trigger Warnings: Descriptions of gore, Violence, Discussions of torture, References to sexual assault
My Thoughts
"You could not lift the curse on your own, but your courage illuminated the way for those who could."
I had so much fun reading this book. As a fan of Japanese anime, and someone who lives in Japan at the time of reading this, it was a blast to see all the creatures and lore that are familiar to me used to such a great effect. The entire time I was reading this novel, I was picturing an anime of it running through my mind.
Anime fans will definitely recognize several different actions, tropes, or scenes as inspired by animation. There's a particular scene involving a tanuki statue that had me almost cackling. Those same fans will also recognize the vaguely "monster of the week" setup through most of the book, and the slow gathering of the "Scooby gang" involved.
Despite these small hints at very prominent media styles in Japan, I firmly believe even those with no experience with anime can enjoy this book. The characters are all likeable, with strengths and weaknesses, virtues and flaws. The plot itself is set up spectacularly, leading us on a familiar path but taking different branches. I wasn't quite expecting a certain character's change in circumstance to come so soon, but it definitely left me eager for the next installment.
If you're looking for a fun, fantastical adventure story, this is definitely the one for you. It's a great palate cleanser from darker, more intricate novels.
Content/Trigger Warnings: Descriptions of gore, Violence, Discussions of torture, References to sexual assault
My Thoughts
"You could not lift the curse on your own, but your courage illuminated the way for those who could."
I had so much fun reading this book. As a fan of Japanese anime, and someone who lives in Japan at the time of reading this, it was a blast to see all the creatures and lore that are familiar to me used to such a great effect. The entire time I was reading this novel, I was picturing an anime of it running through my mind.
Anime fans will definitely recognize several different actions, tropes, or scenes as inspired by animation. There's a particular scene involving a tanuki statue that had me almost cackling. Those same fans will also recognize the vaguely "monster of the week" setup through most of the book, and the slow gathering of the "Scooby gang" involved.
Despite these small hints at very prominent media styles in Japan, I firmly believe even those with no experience with anime can enjoy this book. The characters are all likeable, with strengths and weaknesses, virtues and flaws. The plot itself is set up spectacularly, leading us on a familiar path but taking different branches. I wasn't quite expecting a certain character's change in circumstance to come so soon, but it definitely left me eager for the next installment.
If you're looking for a fun, fantastical adventure story, this is definitely the one for you. It's a great palate cleanser from darker, more intricate novels.
irisdagmar's review against another edition
4.0
Loved the audio version of this book - great readers and wonderful to hear the Japanese words pronounced correctly! Cliffhanger ending... can’t wait for the next one.
meganlatsch's review against another edition
3.0
3.25 had a very episodic style for the first two parts.
b4d3m's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
fast-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
nilla_beanie19's review against another edition
4.0
I enjoyed this read. I listened to the audiobook and thought it was done well. I think the author did a good job of bringing certain things full circle that I had honestly forgotten about until they came back into play. I’m excited to see where the next book goes.
leonieparamor's review against another edition
adventurous
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75