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plumpaperbacks's review against another edition
adventurous
emotional
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? No
4.5
As soon as I found out this book was sapphic, it went on my TBR. As soon as I started reading it, I was intrigued. Every time I put it down, I wanted to pick it up again. Rutkoski has improved significantly since writing the Winner’s Curse trilogy, in my opinion.
I loved Nirrim and Sid right away. The latter gave me Nikolai vibes, as both characters have an effortlessly confident and flirtatious façade they only let those they trust and love see past. Though I’m not nearly as in love with the Grishaverse as I was a few years ago, I still love Nikolai, and I love Sid even more.
The girls’ interactions had me smiling as soon as they met, and I loved seeing their relationship develop. I felt their affection deep in my soul, and I was so happy every time they had a moment that brought them closer. The yearning, the tenderness…. be still my gay heart!!! Every single time I read a book featuring a sapphic couple, I get immensely happy, and by the time I finish the book I’ve got a massive crush on at least one of the girls. This time, it’s Sid. Holy wow. Girl thoughts. Head lesbian. 😍
I felt so bad for Nirrim, and how the two people she was closest to were so abusive and manipulative. Seeing her come out of her shell, learn about the world, and become her own person was so satisfying. I want to give her the biggest hug, honestly.
The world Rutkoski created was unique and well-written. Readers are purposefully left in the dark for most of the book, slowly learning more alongside Nirrim, getting answers that also bring more questions. Despite this, I wasn’t confused or frustrated by what I didn’t know; I was intrigued by the possibilities and curious to see how she would tie everything together. In the end, there were multiple things revealed that I in no way saw coming. While not the most mind-blowing twists I’ve come across, they were still surprising, and set the stage nicely for the sequel.
Speaking of the sequel, I’m anticipating pain. Between the current state of Nirrim and Sid’s relationship and the events of the epilogue, I’m concerned. Very concerned. Also, the second book’s title makes sense now, and although I’m looking forward to said book, I just have a bad feeling. Like, I’m excited, but there’s a feeling of dread in the pit of my stomach, because I’m desperately hoping for good things but expecting bad things.
I wouldn’t call this a new favorite, but it’s certainly a story I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend. Fingers crossed I can read the next book sooner rather than later!!
Representation
I loved Nirrim and Sid right away. The latter gave me Nikolai vibes, as both characters have an effortlessly confident and flirtatious façade they only let those they trust and love see past. Though I’m not nearly as in love with the Grishaverse as I was a few years ago, I still love Nikolai, and I love Sid even more.
The girls’ interactions had me smiling as soon as they met, and I loved seeing their relationship develop. I felt their affection deep in my soul, and I was so happy every time they had a moment that brought them closer. The yearning, the tenderness…. be still my gay heart!!! Every single time I read a book featuring a sapphic couple, I get immensely happy, and by the time I finish the book I’ve got a massive crush on at least one of the girls. This time, it’s Sid. Holy wow. Girl thoughts. Head lesbian. 😍
I felt so bad for Nirrim, and how the two people she was closest to were so abusive and manipulative. Seeing her come out of her shell, learn about the world, and become her own person was so satisfying. I want to give her the biggest hug, honestly.
The world Rutkoski created was unique and well-written. Readers are purposefully left in the dark for most of the book, slowly learning more alongside Nirrim, getting answers that also bring more questions. Despite this, I wasn’t confused or frustrated by what I didn’t know; I was intrigued by the possibilities and curious to see how she would tie everything together. In the end, there were multiple things revealed that I in no way saw coming. While not the most mind-blowing twists I’ve come across, they were still surprising, and set the stage nicely for the sequel.
Speaking of the sequel, I’m anticipating pain. Between the current state of Nirrim and Sid’s relationship and the events of the epilogue, I’m concerned. Very concerned. Also, the second book’s title makes sense now, and although I’m looking forward to said book, I just have a bad feeling. Like, I’m excited, but there’s a feeling of dread in the pit of my stomach, because I’m desperately hoping for good things but expecting bad things.
I wouldn’t call this a new favorite, but it’s certainly a story I thoroughly enjoyed and would highly recommend. Fingers crossed I can read the next book sooner rather than later!!
Representation
- sapphic protagonist of color
- biracial lesbian love interest
- sapphic romance (f/f)
Content Warnings
Graphic: Blood, Death, and Homophobia
Moderate: Physical abuse, Emotional abuse, and Gaslighting
Minor: Terminal illness, Child abuse, and Child death
Those tagged minor are mentioned throughout the story but occurred prior to it.
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