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pandasbookclub's review against another edition
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
3.75
robynlynae's review against another edition
4.0
I really enjoyed this book. The plot was really unique to me and it passed my 'escape test'. It gave me so many of the things I delight in: libraries, academia, and secret places. I thought the structure of this book with it's different POVs was really effective and interesting. I was at time frustrated by the characters, but that made them feel genuine.
Even in a book where you can create and actually travel to fake places on maps, the ending where Nell's mother is actually alive felt a little forced and unrealistic. Suspension of belief can only take me so far. But that was really my only criticism.
Even in a book where you can create and actually travel to fake places on maps, the ending where Nell's mother is actually alive felt a little forced and unrealistic. Suspension of belief can only take me so far. But that was really my only criticism.
pupupuddlecat's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
katiewiewski's review against another edition
adventurous
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.0
mistressvulca's review against another edition
5.0
It seems like most peoples problems with this book is both their misconception of what a “Fantasy” is and not being able to suspend their disbelief, which go hand in hand!
Fantasy isn’t JUST fairies, magic, creatures, etc - it’s a different world. If that’s the kind of fantasy you want then certainly this book isn’t for you BUT that’s not just what fantasy means.
Sure, there are some plot holes but not everything has to be perfect to be enjoyable. I predicted the “Big Bad” in the first two chapters but that didn’t stop me from fully enjoying the unraveling of the mystery! I love maps and that definitely played a big role in me enjoying it but also, when I see “Fantasy” I don’t go in expecting what some people seem to be.
Don’t take the book too seriously, let it take you for the ride, and enjoy!
Fantasy isn’t JUST fairies, magic, creatures, etc - it’s a different world. If that’s the kind of fantasy you want then certainly this book isn’t for you BUT that’s not just what fantasy means.
Sure, there are some plot holes but not everything has to be perfect to be enjoyable. I predicted the “Big Bad” in the first two chapters but that didn’t stop me from fully enjoying the unraveling of the mystery! I love maps and that definitely played a big role in me enjoying it but also, when I see “Fantasy” I don’t go in expecting what some people seem to be.
Don’t take the book too seriously, let it take you for the ride, and enjoy!
pointnorth's review against another edition
adventurous
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
sugarlife's review against another edition
slow-paced
- Strong character development? No
1.0
Content Warnings
Moderate: Fire/Fire injury and Death of parent
sboselovic's review against another edition
I’ve had this book for years and have tried reading it numerous times. Each time, I just find it too slow and boring.
odysseysan's review against another edition
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