A review by greenbean_1
A Restless Truth by Freya Marske

adventurous mysterious medium-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? Yes
• Loveable characters? No
• Diverse cast of characters? No
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

2.5

I really didn't like either of the main characters. They were both pretty boring and not very relatable. The idea of never lying ever is so unrealistic and stupid, especially when these characters are in life threatening situations. Maybe if they had been placed under a truth spell or something that would make that skill useful would have been more interesting. I feel like a better character arc would have been her learning the lying is okay and sometimes necessary and that she isn't a bad person for lying. Its an excremely niave and unrealistic world view that is entirely based in her relationship with her mother, so when she stuck to her guns it felt like the narrative was validating her unwillingness to heal past her trauma instead of letting her grow and heal. This is not fun to read. I think the setting could have been used better as well. It never felt special or very interesting dispite being on a boat in the middle of the ocean in the early 20th century. Flash backs helped with the feeling of being stuck in the same few places and were honestly better than scenes in the present. This was a great oppotunity to explore the culture and unique activities of the time that wasn't used very effectivly. There were good moments like the climax with the antagonist or some character backstory. I also found Alan to be the most enjoyable character, which isn't great when he isn't there very often. Also, one character being a medium was fun and I enjoyed her dynamic with the ghosts on board. Overall it was fine but I have no desire to read the third book.