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A review by paper_aphid
A Darkness So Sweet by Emma Hamm
adventurous
dark
emotional
hopeful
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I really liked this book! I've been in a reading slump and this picked me up right out of it. The story was easy to follow and I really enjoyed the plot. Honestly I had no idea what was going to happen next and was anxious to finish the book! It kept me on my toes. I also like how mature this book read (not only the spice but just mature topics in general) but still had a really cute fantasy feel to it as well.
Okay, now the things I didnt quite like.. I feel like character development for the FMC could've been stronger. As well as the main relationship, as well. There was no drive for the relationship. like, what actually drew them together? they hated each other one moment but all of a sudden they like and respect each other? it made no sense. the only thing that connected them was proximity and a couple of deep conversations. I would've loved loved loved to see some real tension between them first. same with the FMC, I loved that her personality seemed more passive and kind, but at the same time she didnt really have any moments of growth and she gained bravery because "this is always who she wanted to be". I get where the author was going and I liked what she was putting down, but it just kind of fell flat imo. Same goes for the plot. There were a lot of cool plot points that just kind of went nowhere? or were resolved in like 4 paragraphs. it made things feel very unfinished and I wish the author explored those plot points more. Honestly, if the author fleshed everything out a bit more and split it into one or two more books (I know there's a sequel coming but for this book), she could've had a really epic fantasy on her hands.
Anyway! I did love the book! it held my attention and was anxious overall enjoyable story. I will be checking out the authors other stories :)
Okay, now the things I didnt quite like.. I feel like character development for the FMC could've been stronger. As well as the main relationship, as well. There was no drive for the relationship. like, what actually drew them together? they hated each other one moment but all of a sudden they like and respect each other? it made no sense. the only thing that connected them was proximity and a couple of deep conversations. I would've loved loved loved to see some real tension between them first. same with the FMC, I loved that her personality seemed more passive and kind, but at the same time she didnt really have any moments of growth and she gained bravery because "this is always who she wanted to be". I get where the author was going and I liked what she was putting down, but it just kind of fell flat imo. Same goes for the plot. There were a lot of cool plot points that just kind of went nowhere? or were resolved in like 4 paragraphs. it made things feel very unfinished and I wish the author explored those plot points more. Honestly, if the author fleshed everything out a bit more and split it into one or two more books (I know there's a sequel coming but for this book), she could've had a really epic fantasy on her hands.
Anyway! I did love the book! it held my attention and was anxious overall enjoyable story. I will be checking out the authors other stories :)
Content Warnings
Graphic: Sexual assault, Sexual content, Violence, Xenophobia, Kidnapping, War, Injury/Injury detail
Moderate: Sexism, Vomit, Trafficking
Minor: Rape, Sexual violence, Torture, Death of parent