4.18 AVERAGE

challenging dark sad tense medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Complicated
Loveable characters: No
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: Yes

Another tough one to read in the middle of 2025. What is frightening about this is the level of plausibility as similar things have happened before. 

Passages that really stood out for me: “But we lived as usual. Everyone dies, most of the time. Whatever is going on is as usual. Even this is as usual, now.”

“Better never means better for everyone, he says. It always means worse, for some.”

“Humanity is so adaptable, my mother would say. Truly amazing, what people can get used to, as long as there are a few compensations.”

The audiobook narrator had an interesting cadence that was somewhat sing-song with a sinister air. It took a bit to get used to at first but I rather liked it. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings
dark sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Plot
Strong character development: No
Loveable characters: Complicated
Diverse cast of characters: No
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

don’t let the bastards grind you down ;)

This was the most subtle dystopian novel I've ever read. There was nothing particularly unbelievable about it and, given the current state of our society, it seemed almost plausible.

Unlike with other dystopian novels, there was no turning point or major uprising. Ultimately, nothing changed, or was fixed. But there was potential, and I love that.

Intriguing concept, very big cliffhanger.
challenging dark sad medium-paced
Plot or Character Driven: Character
Strong character development: Yes
Loveable characters: Yes

Expand filter menu Content Warnings

Scary accurate
dark emotional sad tense fast-paced
Plot or Character Driven: A mix
Strong character development: Yes
Diverse cast of characters: N/A
Flaws of characters a main focus: No

the subject matter was so dark and gross, i found it hard to read through. makes good points though.
dark emotional sad tense fast-paced