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A review by pocketsknight
The Luminous Dead by Caitlin Starling
challenging
dark
mysterious
tense
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? It's complicated
- Diverse cast of characters? N/A
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.75
I liked this well enough, but I was expecting to adore it. So comparatively, I am still disappointed.
On paper, this has everything I love: ruthless women who are also the main characters, a lot of focus on a deep but antagonistic relationship, a creepy atmosphere...
But for some reason it never clicked. Despite the ordeals Gyre had to go through, I never truly did get attached to her. Or to Em.
Now, this isn't a criticism to the author's writing abilities: I simply believe her writing style may not agree with me all the way. That's fine. It happens. It's a shame that this happened to an author who has such compeling ideas.
I will keep an eye on what she writes in the future. I won't read everything, but if one of her books seem compelling enough I will try again.
On paper, this has everything I love: ruthless women who are also the main characters, a lot of focus on a deep but antagonistic relationship, a creepy atmosphere...
But for some reason it never clicked. Despite the ordeals Gyre had to go through, I never truly did get attached to her. Or to Em.
Now, this isn't a criticism to the author's writing abilities: I simply believe her writing style may not agree with me all the way. That's fine. It happens. It's a shame that this happened to an author who has such compeling ideas.
I will keep an eye on what she writes in the future. I won't read everything, but if one of her books seem compelling enough I will try again.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Schizophrenia/Psychosis and Suicidal thoughts
Moderate: Panic attacks/disorders, Medical trauma, and Body horror