Scan barcode
A review by jazthegreat
Smolder by Michael R. Goodwin
dark
mysterious
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
Smolder is a punchy novella dealing with some intense themes. <Spoiler> Domestic abuse, child abuse, possible child sexual abuse, cheating spouses, impending homelessness, and alcoholism are all featured and for the most part fairly well handled. Goodwin does fall short a little with his portrayal of domestic abuse in some ways, seemingly implying that the female victim is somehow to blame for the abuse she is suffering. </Spoiler>
For me the horror peaked a little early. There is a scene with a doe about a quarter of the way into the book which left me deeply regretting my choice to read during my lunch break, and nothing after that left me as unsettled.
For me the horror peaked a little early. There is a scene with a doe about a quarter of the way into the book which left me deeply regretting my choice to read during my lunch break, and nothing after that left me as unsettled.