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yourbookishbff's review against another edition
emotional
hopeful
reflective
sad
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.5
This is my favorite of The Turners so far! I was unsure of what to expect in Mark's story, as I never fully understood how seriously he took himself - or how seriously he wanted others to take him - during his scenes in Unveiled, and I was relieved to see that he was built out into an authentically complicated and flawed character who mostly would like everyone to just forget about him entirely (relatable). This explores some heavy purity culture themes - the meaning of abstention from sex, the burdens women carry after sex vs. men (particularly during this historical period, though it's not too far off today, unfortunately), the ways sexual "chastity" is weaponized against women, etc. Our female main character is a courtesan, and one of the few actual courtesans I've seen as the main character in a historical romance. Her personal, familial and sexual trauma is central to her character development, and Milan works through two separate conflicts in the second half, each critical to helping Jessica find a path back to herself. This is angsty, due to the external conflicts and character backstories, but know going in that these two are exceptionally good to each other, even when they royally eff it up. Milan always allows her characters to assume the best of each other, and these two were no exception.
If anything, I think this could have been more succinct, but the ending is perfect, and this was an enjoyable and compelling read all the way through.
If anything, I think this could have been more succinct, but the ending is perfect, and this was an enjoyable and compelling read all the way through.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Miscarriage, Classism, Sexual content, Misogyny, and Sexism
Moderate: Sexual harassment, Death of parent, and Death
Minor: Pregnancy
caitlinemccann's review
adventurous
emotional
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual content and Violence
Moderate: Classism, Emotional abuse, Grief, and Bullying
Minor: Blood and Abortion
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