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A review by percys_panda_pillow_pet
Strange Folk by Alli Dyer
challenging
dark
mysterious
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
Firstly, a big thanks to Atria Books and NetGalley for allowing me access to this Advanced Reader Copy!
From the increasing trends of witchy wild women in adult fiction came Strange Folk by Alli Dyer. I really loved how different authors portray these whimsical stories of witchcraft and femininity. Dyer's Strange Folk in particular was pleasantly down to earth. I love how it took a more gritty, realistic look to this trend. The characters and their relationships and problems within the book are so compelling and real. Even with the added witchcraft and magic, you get a sense that these people could exist, if you go to their town. You'll see these people wandering around, with their protective bags and life hardships.
This book just has such a good mix of realism and fantasy. As well, I found it very well-written and clear to read. This is a well-rounded debut and I am excited to see what Dyer will do next.
As for critique, there isn't too much to say. Most of my feelings are about wanting more. More of the characters, more of the conflict, more of the world. I wished Meredith and Otis had more focus and characterization. Though Meredith is a narrator, the main character is mostly Lee. In the first half, there was plenty of Meredith's thoughts and perspective, but as the book went on, I felt like there was a loss of potential for her character. She often wants to fight Lee about her demands as a worried mother, but in the last quarter of the book, it feels like she sort of gave up. In this, I wanted her character to grow as much as some others did but didn't really get the chance.
For Otis, I get the feeling he wasn't meant to play a huge role, he's supposed to be a side character to support Lee. However, this was at odds with his actual character. He explicitly states in the book that he doesn't want to be beholden to Lee's feelings and whims. But that's exactly what he does for the most part. It's just a little disappointing to read. I feel like his characterization could've used some work.
Lastly, there were a few strong, emotional parts of the book that were told through summary when I think they should've been told through scenes to keep the reader connected to the characters and action. In particular, there was a summoning ritual in the latter half of the book that had so much summary I was left wanting for more. This would be a case, I suppose, of too much tell and not enough show. And that isn't necessarily a bad thing, it is just not what I think this part probably needed.
Overall, Strange Folk was a good book with room for improvement by the author. I really like how it stands out from recent trends and look forward to more. My critiques are going to be half based on my own experience and knowledge of writing and half based on opinion, so don't let it dissuade you too much if you found this book interesting! I did really enjoy reading it and I hope others will give it a chance!
From the increasing trends of witchy wild women in adult fiction came Strange Folk by Alli Dyer. I really loved how different authors portray these whimsical stories of witchcraft and femininity. Dyer's Strange Folk in particular was pleasantly down to earth. I love how it took a more gritty, realistic look to this trend. The characters and their relationships and problems within the book are so compelling and real. Even with the added witchcraft and magic, you get a sense that these people could exist, if you go to their town. You'll see these people wandering around, with their protective bags and life hardships.
This book just has such a good mix of realism and fantasy. As well, I found it very well-written and clear to read. This is a well-rounded debut and I am excited to see what Dyer will do next.
As for critique, there isn't too much to say. Most of my feelings are about wanting more. More of the characters, more of the conflict, more of the world. I wished Meredith and Otis had more focus and characterization. Though Meredith is a narrator, the main character is mostly Lee. In the first half, there was plenty of Meredith's thoughts and perspective, but as the book went on, I felt like there was a loss of potential for her character. She often wants to fight Lee about her demands as a worried mother, but in the last quarter of the book, it feels like she sort of gave up. In this, I wanted her character to grow as much as some others did but didn't really get the chance.
For Otis, I get the feeling he wasn't meant to play a huge role, he's supposed to be a side character to support Lee. However, this was at odds with his actual character. He explicitly states in the book that he doesn't want to be beholden to Lee's feelings and whims. But that's exactly what he does for the most part. It's just a little disappointing to read. I feel like his characterization could've used some work.
Lastly, there were a few strong, emotional parts of the book that were told through summary when I think they should've been told through scenes to keep the reader connected to the characters and action. In particular, there was a summoning ritual in the latter half of the book that had so much summary I was left wanting for more. This would be a case, I suppose, of too much tell and not enough show. And that isn't necessarily a bad thing, it is just not what I think this part probably needed.
Overall, Strange Folk was a good book with room for improvement by the author. I really like how it stands out from recent trends and look forward to more. My critiques are going to be half based on my own experience and knowledge of writing and half based on opinion, so don't let it dissuade you too much if you found this book interesting! I did really enjoy reading it and I hope others will give it a chance!
Content Warnings
Graphic: Addiction, Alcoholism, Child abuse, Death, Domestic abuse, Drug abuse, Drug use, Gore, and Alcohol
Moderate: Suicidal thoughts, Toxic relationship, Medical content, Grief, Death of parent, Murder, Pregnancy, and Injury/Injury detail
Minor: Adult/minor relationship, Vomit, and Colonisation