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A review by awebofstories
The Lamplighters by Emma Stonex
dark
slow-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? No
- Diverse cast of characters? No
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
2.5
This is one of those books with so many pieces that I like, but they just didn't come together.
The premise of this story is fascinating, and I loved the atmosphere that Stonex created. However, jumping between two time periods hurt this story as I never felt I could become invested in either plotline. I also had trouble connecting the two different timelines together. Obviously, I could see how they fit, but they never felt like they were in the same universe.
As for the pacing, I felt this book spent too much time idling. There was always a promise of some development, but payoffs were few and far between. There just wasn't any earned suspense here.
I will give Stonex credit for her writing style, which was quite lovely. I'm willing to chalk this up to a book that just wasn't for me and give her another chance.
The premise of this story is fascinating, and I loved the atmosphere that Stonex created. However, jumping between two time periods hurt this story as I never felt I could become invested in either plotline. I also had trouble connecting the two different timelines together. Obviously, I could see how they fit, but they never felt like they were in the same universe.
As for the pacing, I felt this book spent too much time idling. There was always a promise of some development, but payoffs were few and far between. There just wasn't any earned suspense here.
I will give Stonex credit for her writing style, which was quite lovely. I'm willing to chalk this up to a book that just wasn't for me and give her another chance.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Child death and Murder