A review by theespressoedition
The Atlas Paradox by Olivie Blake

dark reflective tense slow-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? It's complicated
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

It's difficult for me to know where to begin when it comes to this book.

There is so much that took place over the course of 400 pages and to be honest, it's a bit overwhelming. While I struggled a little bit with getting through The Atlas Six due to the slower pacing and the somewhat confusing narrative, I really struggled through this sequel. Not because I wasn't enjoying it (I enjoyed it thoroughly), but because the pacing felt even slower and the plot felt even more confusing.

Normally, I don't feel like an unintelligent human, but these books make me feel like I'm back in high school, attempting to learn a new subject I know nothing about. They're filled with such intelligent and creative writing that my brain breaks a little bit while reading.

That being said, I did really love the story. Since Libby is my favorite character, I really enjoyed how she was such a huge part of the plot. I personally felt as though she was a massive part of the plot in the first book, but it was elevated in this sequel. She was so necessary for the plot to actually take place the way it did.

This installment definitely felt heavy on the character development versus the world-building. It gave us an insider perspective on what was happening in everyones' heads (mostly thanks to Parisa). I'm honestly just fascinated by the way each of these characters operates. They're so dysfunctional and chaotic and yet somehow such geniuses. It's mindblowing.

Mostly, I just look forward to finding out what happens next. These books leave me on the edge of my seat.

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