Reviews tagging 'Grief'

Link by Link: An Anthology of Haunted Holidays by Pam Dunn, Leslie Rush, Elle Beaumont, M. Dalto, Lauren Emily Whalen, Jess Moore, Kristin Jacques, C. Vonzale Lewis, Candace Robinson

1 review

valentinaburbank's review against another edition

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dark emotional hopeful mysterious medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? No

4.0

It made me nervous when the introduction to the book started with the statement that the editor had never actually read A Christmas Carol.  This is a book full of stories based loosely on the themes of that classic tale, yet the editor seemed to feel they had “picked it up” through other media.  I have to admit, that started things out on a low note for me.  The lack of depth in understanding Dickens’  story does show a bit in terms of thematic interpretation.  The story on the page is far deeper than what you pick up plotwise from watching movies or TV shows. And Link by Link includes few examples of Dickens deeper concerns. 
     The stories are a mix, with different ages, voices, and themes. Some (particularly those about teens) focus more on romance while others lean closer to horror. I think every reader will find at least several stories that speak to them.  That is a strength for an anthology, but it also means readers will find a number of stories here that don’t tick all of their boxes.  The stories are so different in tone, theme, and style that readers are bound to end up reading some tales that don’t appeal at all.  
     I particularly appreciate the diversity of characters represented here and the creativity of the authors.  I always enjoy retellings and the writers each put a different spin on their contribution. 
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