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readerette's review against another edition
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
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
4.0
I still find myself conflicted about David. He does not bring out good things in Stevie, and he does not make many good choices, even considering he's a teenager.
I'm having trouble following what's actually remaining to solve the case now, with the flashbacks and Stevie's doubts and the drama with some of the people she knows. I'll read the third book, but this whole story probably should have been a duology if not a standalone novel.
I'm having trouble following what's actually remaining to solve the case now, with the flashbacks and Stevie's doubts and the drama with some of the people she knows. I'll read the third book, but this whole story probably should have been a duology if not a standalone novel.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Death, Toxic relationship, and Violence
Minor: Injury/Injury detail, Pregnancy, Fire/Fire injury, Infidelity, Kidnapping, Mental illness, Alcoholism, Blood, and Cursing
emily_mh's review against another edition
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-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
4.25
This instalment was just as spooky and atmospheric as the first book; I was completely hooked and read it in a day. Also, I liked that Stevie was actually investigating this time around. However, this series didn’t need to be three books. The plot and mystery are spread pretty thin, especially the romance with David, where the conflict just feels contrived. I also predicted who Truly Devious was early on in the first book. A predictable solution to a mystery doesn’t necessarily mean docked stars, but it does if the solution feels meh or unsatisfying, which is sort of the case here. I really hope things pick up in the third book.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Death, Child death, and Confinement
Moderate: Alcoholism, Cursing, Gore, Kidnapping, Addiction, Fire/Fire injury, and Mental illness
Minor: Drug abuse, Excrement, Infidelity, Sexism, Sexual content, Violence, Xenophobia, Ableism, Animal death, Blood, Body horror, Injury/Injury detail, Suicide, Vomit, Gun violence, Misogyny, Murder, Physical abuse, Police brutality, Alcohol, Drug use, Panic attacks/disorders, Pregnancy, and Racism
Illness, bombs, discussion of global warming, HP reference, divorce
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