Reviews

The plot was twisty and the characters were interesting. While I felt a bit unsatisfied with some aspects of the story, I think the writing itself was strong. It’s probably the first time I read a novel with a clearly defined neurodivergent MC. Aster’s experience of the world is not treated as just a vague label. It is richly explored but also not infantilized, which I appreciated. I’m looking forward to reading more of Solomon’s work!

dqrklightning's review against another edition

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medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes

4.25

lizzycatslibrary's review against another edition

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4.0

This book really had me until the very end. I liked the characters. The story was interesting. It reminded me of the Hunger Games in a weird way. Really promising first book from this author. I was a little disappointed in the ending as I felt it was rather rushed. Looking forward to reading more from Rivers Solomon.

mirrorslament's review against another edition

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4.0

To be entirely frank, there were a lot of things I struggled with in this book. I couldn’t fully get into any of the characters’ headspace. I found scenes sometimes disjointed or disassociated. I was frustrated sometimes with choices characters made. But all of that is part of why I ended up completely incapable of putting this book down.

Trauma can do a lot to a person. Generational trauma even more. Solomon represented that well, to the point of discomfort. Each moment makes sense, even when it’s frustrating from a story standpoint— sometimes realistic responses don’t make for the most linear stories, sometimes trauma doesn’t make for the most likable personalities. But not every character has to be likable.

I struggle a bit to put into words how much I adored this book. When I think back on it, my mind tends to focus on how disconnected I felt, how it sometimes felt as though I were floating through the story in a haze. But in the final moments I, much like Aster, finally felt grounded.

If you’re thinking about picking this up, do so. If you have even a vague interest, beautiful writing and a compelling plot carry An Unkindness of Ghosts through the stars, to land right where it needs to be: among one of the best books I’ve read in the last five years.

coppercrane2's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging dark emotional sad tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Character
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.0

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