A review by stefnevells
The Queen's Gambit by Walter Tevis

inspiring tense medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Plot
  • Strong character development? No
  • Loveable characters? No
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

3.0

I really want to be able to connect to these characters. I can logically understand the trauma and hardship and neurodivergencies that all make beth Harmon who she is. And I still don't feel any sense of connection to her. I find her pretty unlikeable, and the story offers so little by ways of character development when there's so much opportunity for it. The book well written, the chess scenes do a great job of conveying tension. But the characters are flat and I just couldn't find myself caring about them. 

Expand filter menu Content Warnings