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bookishlucy's review against another edition
- 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
I felt like the parts actually taking place during the competition were really short though. I wish they lasted a little longer than usually just a chapter.
I also think the reason Emmy left Thistle Grove was a bit weak. Especially because she left for 9 years and never even visited. Not even for birthdays or holidays.
I still enjoyed the relationship between Talia and Emmy. And I really liked the friendship between Linden and Emmy.
I did have patches of the book where I had trouble visualizing the story but I'll still be checking out the next book in the series!
Moderate: Toxic relationship and Alcohol
Minor: Infidelity and Sexual content
liamliayaum's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
4.5
Emmy Harlow, the main character, is torn between her new non-magical life in Chicago and the implications of magical life in Thistle Grove. She does waffle about this issue for a good portion of the book.
There is some diversity in the main characters but they are mostly white, abled, and Millennials.
I have to appreciate any book that has romance but doesn't give much emphasis to sexual content so if you're looking for spice, this book isn't it. But, if you're like me, and like romance for all the other bits, this might be perfect for you!
Lastly, knowing there are more books in this series, I seriously hope that Talia, Rowan, Linden, and even the eff-boy Gareth get their own spotlight. I especially loved Linden and would love more time with her!
Minor: Sexual content
roboroo's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Graphic: Toxic relationship and Sexual content
drnsh's review against another edition
- 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
Graphic: Sexual content
janae's review
- 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
Moderate: Sexual content
raptorq's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
Graphic: Alcohol
Moderate: Sexual content
Minor: Infidelity
anka_al's review against another edition
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
3.75
Minor: Sexual content
theverycraftyvegan's review against another edition
- 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
5.0
All the different relationships between the characters was lovely and angering at the same time. Some people were good and kind, others were complicated, and some were just the worst and I loved to hate them!
I can’t wait to continue with this series!
Moderate: Injury/Injury detail, Alcohol, Infidelity, Sexual content, Gaslighting, Cursing, and Toxic relationship
leah08855's review against another edition
- 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
4.5
Moderate: Sexual content
cecetomas's review against another edition
- 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
I liked the character dynamics a lot- they were complex and evolved well without being too intense or heavy, especially between Emmy and Linden. Seeing platonic friendship be just as, if not more, important than romantic relationships is really valuable and something that I don't think gets enough attention.
Garrett being an important part of Emmy's backstory but not a main character or part of her growth made me really happy. Given that the book is a sapphic story, I liked that her story didn't hinge on a man.
The writing felt a little juvenile and I wish there was more intricate imagery but generally I would recommend as a fun festive read.
Moderate: Sexual content, Alcohol, and Infidelity