Reviews with content warning for Death - Наследница журавля

This book actually have a promising start and an intriguing plot, but unfortunately, that excitement doesn't last. I initially enjoyed the mystery, but it gets overly complicated as it goes on. I'm not sure if I'm missing something, but it just didn't hold my interest. The delivery of plot twists was bad that it failed to surprise me.

As for the main character, Hesina, I found her the least appealing, and she pales in comparison to the other characters. Her character and strengths felt rather flat compared to the others. I didn't agree with her decisions, and I would have disliked the ending if not for the Epilogue.

One of the book's strengths is the world-building; the concept of the 'shoot' is fresh and interesting. About the audiobook narration, it was okay, although some parts sounded exaggerated, perhaps because of the dramatic writing.

In summary, I didn't enjoy the book mainly because the plot became too complicated, and the writing didn't deliver the twists effectively. However, I appreciated the world-building and the narration. Your enjoyment may vary depending on your preferences tho.

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talonsontypewriters's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? It's complicated
Loveable characters? No
Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

2.0

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laurenipsums's review against another edition

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adventurous dark tense medium-paced

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

4.0

Foreshadowing was overall good, but the actual ending felt abrupt and the epilogue felt disjointed. Is there a sequel? I hope so, since there's a lot of loose ends left to tie up.

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karalara's review against another edition

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adventurous 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? Yes

4.25

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shadow_wolf's review against another edition

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adventurous mysterious medium-paced

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

4.25

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fool_ofabook's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging dark emotional mysterious medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? No
Loveable characters? It's complicated
Diverse cast of characters? N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A

4.0

The writing was beautiful. I loved almost the entire thing UNTIL that horrible disgraceful end. I was so offended by the way the author revealed the secrets at the climax and how the real 'villain' (more like anti-hero?) was revealed in the f*cking epilogue. I physically cried, in utter heartache, at having believed in this book only for it to spit in my face.

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astoryofpages's review against another edition

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adventurous dark mysterious tense medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This is the first audiobook I listened to, and I liked it, although it was a bit complicated at first due to the format. I did this listening on Spotify, and I am delighted to have been able to discover this author. Descendant of the Crane is her first novel (if I'm not mistaken), and I think it's pretty successful! The plot is axed on politics, with lots of plot twists and stories of betrayals and alliances. Those who follow me know that I love these kinds of books, and Descendant of the Crane did not disappoint me on this point! It is also a gorgeous book in terms of worldbuilding. The story takes root in a universe that is inspired by imperial China. It addresses many themes, such as racism, justice or even the family. The way with words of the author is sumptuous. It was beautiful and calm to listen to!

The only point that could be negative is the characters, and more precisely Hesina. But it's pretty subjective. I really liked this image of a strong young woman who wants above all to rule her kingdom. But I gradually disconnected from her. And, in the end, I remained quite indifferent concerning her character, her decisions and what she was living. Admittedly the ending has an effect, but I ended up missing a little empathy for her. It was the same for Akira, who isn't, for me, extremely important to the story. I had more connections with Caiyan and Lilian. Lilian is full of life, and in a way, she reminded me of Genya Safin or Nina Zenik from the Grishaverse. Caiyan is more calculating, whereas Hesina is more empathetic. I had a little more trouble figuring out Sanjing. But I think he's still a great character, just as calculating as Caiyan but in a different way.

I really loved the relationship between the characters. I think that's a significant positive point too! And if some wonder if there is romance: yes, there is, but it is still very light. Besides, I haven't really noticed it. And I'm pretty happy because I find that there is no need to have some characters in a relationship, which changes from other YA books we are used to reading!

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