A review by starlings
Ruby Coral Carnelian by Mary Borsellino

adventurous emotional hopeful mysterious fast-paced
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

Above all else, Ruby Coral Carnelian is a book that knows exactly how long it needs to be. It doesn't draw out the plot for longer than it needs to, nor does it leave the reader feeling unsatisfied or robbed of what could have been.

One of this book's great strengths is its world-building. It's delivered in tidbits here and there, and always in a way that flows well. There aren't any lengthy exposition dumps, and the closest things to them are still delivered in a way that fits with the story and with the characters.

Speaking of this book's characters, they are where Ruby Coral Carnelian shines the most. Each character feels vivid and alive - their motivations are clear, their voices are all distinct.

The plot flows very nicely from one moment to another, never feeling too slow or too fast. The ending is satisfying, and well-deserved for each of the main characters.