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kaivalry's review against another edition
mysterious
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Plot
- Strong character development? No
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
3.0
The story and mystery was fantastic, as were many of the characters, but the writing as a whole was problematic. The full first half of the book reads like it's trying to be noir in space, but it's written from the love-interest's POV instead of the detective. I think it took almost a third of the book before it passed Bechdel, and there was a lot of weirdness over how Hana referenced or noticed her body. Also, wtf, why was rape necessary to the story? Just a weird catalyst that didn't seem to do anything except make Barrens want to be around her; could've just as easily been a robbery or death of a loved one or something. Just odd. And the lascivious gay bestie/assistant? Great character without that stereotype. Just lots of unnecessary choices.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Rape
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