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elisa_menz's review
emotional
mysterious
reflective
sad
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? It's complicated
4.5
Where do I even start?
First, and advice: you will grab this book, read the blurb, and think "This looks interesting." Then you start reading and you'll be mighty confused. Where is the time travel? Did it already happen and I missed it? Why does this college campus feel so... like a dream? Why is everyone (even the doggies!) so absolutely, appallingly cruel to Courtney?
I won't lie, the first third was slow-paced, baffling, and yet, utterly beautiful and heartwrenching. The plot sways back and forth between Courtney's present and... her past? Her dreams? Just don't fight it and enjoy the words.
Then the plot smacks you in the face with all the revelations, arcane powers, and parallel worlds, and suddenly everything makes sense! You have your answers and the loveliest heroines arise.
There's such a tangible dissonance whenever Courtney is in the "other" world. It felt so wrong but it was so masterfully written. It's a real pleasure to find books that elicit such a visceral response.
Do I recommend it? Absolutely, but read it with an open mind that sees beyond the page. You may be touched by some of the loneliness and pain in this book but, in the end, these girls' story is about courage, friendship, and love.
First, and advice: you will grab this book, read the blurb, and think "This looks interesting." Then you start reading and you'll be mighty confused. Where is the time travel? Did it already happen and I missed it? Why does this college campus feel so... like a dream? Why is everyone (even the doggies!) so absolutely, appallingly cruel to Courtney?
I won't lie, the first third was slow-paced, baffling, and yet, utterly beautiful and heartwrenching. The plot sways back and forth between Courtney's present and... her past? Her dreams? Just don't fight it and enjoy the words.
Then the plot smacks you in the face with all the revelations, arcane powers, and parallel worlds, and suddenly everything makes sense! You have your answers and the loveliest heroines arise.
There's such a tangible dissonance whenever Courtney is in the "other" world. It felt so wrong but it was so masterfully written. It's a real pleasure to find books that elicit such a visceral response.
Do I recommend it? Absolutely, but read it with an open mind that sees beyond the page. You may be touched by some of the loneliness and pain in this book but, in the end, these girls' story is about courage, friendship, and love.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Bullying, Child abuse, and Emotional abuse
renethiel's review
adventurous
emotional
hopeful
inspiring
mysterious
fast-paced
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
5.0
This book starts off great and only continues to get better as the plot moves forward. And by better, I mean, really frickin' awesome. The characters are utterly relatable and lovable. I think what I really enjoyed the most was the switch in dialects (20's vs 2000's). It really brought everyone to life and let me 'hear' their voices, especially Courtney. I can't count the number of times I snorted out loud over things she says. The plot gets you hooked right away, but also paints a beautiful picture of every location. Cassandra Yorke has a serious talent for world-building.
I pray to lesbian jesus that there's a book about Hazel Morrison one day.
I pray to lesbian jesus that there's a book about Hazel Morrison one day.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse and Cursing
Minor: Sexual assault
cassieyorke's review
adventurous
dark
emotional
inspiring
mysterious
fast-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? It's complicated
5.0
Like Django Wexler says, "Well, *I* obviously enjoyed it, or I wouldn't have written it. Hopefully other people will too." I really do enjoy reading it sometimes. I spent five years channeling a safe, cozy place, and sometimes it's nice to go back and visit when everything gets to be too much.
I do hope others will feel the same. :)
I do hope others will feel the same. :)
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child abuse, Cursing, Misogyny, Violence, Blood, and Medical trauma
Minor: Death, Domestic abuse, Drug use, Gore, Gun violence, Physical abuse, and Sexual assault
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