A review by readwithrheane
Vespertine by Margaret Rogerson

adventurous dark 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

4.5


• The first few chapters were already action packed and it helped me drawn to the story.

• The pacing was okay. It was fast in the beginning and was toned down a bit in the middle (just enough to not let you feel bored). But it picked up until the end.

• The twists??? I didn't know where it will lead me to but I was on edge all the time. Poor Leander. Our misunderstood King. 😔 But we will get to see more of him in the sequel so I'm excited.

“I’ll remind you,” it said finally. “Rather than expecting you to remember on your own. When you need to eat, when you’re sick or hurt, and whether it’s serious enough to seek help. But you have to promise that you’ll listen to me. Nun?”

I had been quiet, wondering whether having an evil spirit inhabiting my body might turn me into a halfway normal person. I turned my face toward the window, letting the sunlight sting my eyes. “Yes,” I answered. “I promise.”


• I really love the dynamic between the revenant and Artemisia. While Artemisia doesn't like talking and pretty much an introverted person with social anxiety and would rather be with the dead than be with the living, the revenant is the complete opposite.

The revenant loves to talk and doesn't like being around other things that are dead. And while it was known to be a powerful and feared fifth order spirit, most of the time it showed a side that probably its previous vessels hadn't been able to appreciate because they were taught not to listen to it. And I just can't help but fall in love with the revenant especially when it shows signs of concerns towards Artemisia. How it would remind her to eat, to rest, to sleep, and there was even a moment when it was trying to cheer her up by saying a sassy remark.

• The banters were definitely my favorite (and Artemisia is lowkey funny too. She had me laughing a few times).

“This is my human,” the revenant snarled through my mouth, and blazed into a torrent of silver flame.


• *wipes tears* I just really love the bond, trust, and friendship they formed.

• I also love the side characters especially Marguerite. Her character development was beautifully written, from being a bully to a friend/an ally. She was pretty consistent in helping Artemisia until the end. I hope to see more of her and Charles and Jean in the sequel.

• The reason why I gave this 4.5 stars was because the ending was anticlimactic. I expected a huge fight between the two powerful revenants and then *boom* Epilogue. 😂 Nevertheless, the ending still had me sobbing and overall, I still pretty much enjoyed this book. I cannot wait for the sequel!

• and oh! There wasn't any romance or any sexual tension throughout the book which is fine with me because I just feel like the last thing on Artemisia's list would be that (and it's totally okay for a YA book to not have any romance).

• BUT if there are any in the sequel, I think I know who it might be.
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