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thekissballad's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
4.25
Contrary to negative reviews I've seen, I believe this is a good first book for a series. I give it 4.25 stars.
The Night Raven is recommended for readers in grades 5-9, ages 10-14. I suggest those recommendations be taken seriously because it is a bit darker at times than is typically found in middle grade books. [See content warnings.]
I liked Mika and watching her grow and learn. She's had a hard life, but she cares so much for other people and I find that admirable considering the time period and all the hard times that everyone is going through. She's clever, and while that does get her into trouble at times, it also helps her.
Back to those hard times, those are where a lot of the darker elements lie. But you have to remember that the people are struggling, if not outright poor, and doing all they can to survive a harsh winter in 1880. I don't believe all of the detail was entirely necessary, especially considering this is intended for middle grade readers, but they certainly help you visualize the times and the struggles.
I do look forward to reading the rest of the series whenever they are translated. If you're into mysteries and don't mind darker elements, then I recommend reading The Night Raven. However, if you're a parent, I suggest reading this beforehand to determine whether or not your child can handle those darker moments.
The Night Raven is recommended for readers in grades 5-9, ages 10-14. I suggest those recommendations be taken seriously because it is a bit darker at times than is typically found in middle grade books. [See content warnings.]
I liked Mika and watching her grow and learn. She's had a hard life, but she cares so much for other people and I find that admirable considering the time period and all the hard times that everyone is going through. She's clever, and while that does get her into trouble at times, it also helps her.
Back to those hard times, those are where a lot of the darker elements lie. But you have to remember that the people are struggling, if not outright poor, and doing all they can to survive a harsh winter in 1880. I don't believe all of the detail was entirely necessary, especially considering this is intended for middle grade readers, but they certainly help you visualize the times and the struggles.
I do look forward to reading the rest of the series whenever they are translated. If you're into mysteries and don't mind darker elements, then I recommend reading The Night Raven. However, if you're a parent, I suggest reading this beforehand to determine whether or not your child can handle those darker moments.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Vomit, Child abuse, Injury/Injury detail, Death, Alcohol, Alcoholism, Blood, Murder, and Violence
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