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renaereads93 's review for:
Oleander: A Great Expectations Reimagining
by Scarlett Drake
Oleander is an epic story that is hard to put into words. Jude and Caspian go on a long journey where hearts break, misunderstandings run amok and devastation surrounds both characters. I loved how emotional this story was, going on this ride with Jude and Caspian. Their story is beautiful, and heartbreaking, while showing how soul mates may have impossible timing but to never lose hope.
Jude and Caspian are total opposites in personality and overall demeanor. Jude is warm, loving, friendly, and sunshine-personified, while Caspian is prickly, curt, complicated and outwardly cold. Together they go on an intense journey from a pseudo-friendship to enemies to a beautifully rewarding second chance.
Another wonderful aspect of this story is its lyrical prose. I loved how throughout reading I felt like I was reading a classic story, which perfectly fits with this story being a Great Expectations retelling. Caspian speaks eloquently and bluntly, while Jude is much softer and approachable. I thought it was an excellent choice to have the story only through Jude's POV. Jude is a wonderful narrator and seeing this world through his eyes is perfect and keeps a shroud of mystery as to the many truths of the situation.
Caspian is a complicated character. Throughout this story alongside Jude, I was frustrated, angry, and devastated at his choices, but his reveal, without any games or hidden meanings, is so rewarding and amplifies the story.
Overall I loved this story. It was challenging to go through all the pain and suffering, but so worth it for their eventual HEA, which is hard-won and beautifully executed.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***
Jude and Caspian are total opposites in personality and overall demeanor. Jude is warm, loving, friendly, and sunshine-personified, while Caspian is prickly, curt, complicated and outwardly cold. Together they go on an intense journey from a pseudo-friendship to enemies to a beautifully rewarding second chance.
Another wonderful aspect of this story is its lyrical prose. I loved how throughout reading I felt like I was reading a classic story, which perfectly fits with this story being a Great Expectations retelling. Caspian speaks eloquently and bluntly, while Jude is much softer and approachable. I thought it was an excellent choice to have the story only through Jude's POV. Jude is a wonderful narrator and seeing this world through his eyes is perfect and keeps a shroud of mystery as to the many truths of the situation.
Caspian is a complicated character. Throughout this story alongside Jude, I was frustrated, angry, and devastated at his choices, but his reveal, without any games or hidden meanings, is so rewarding and amplifies the story.
Overall I loved this story. It was challenging to go through all the pain and suffering, but so worth it for their eventual HEA, which is hard-won and beautifully executed.
*** I reviewed a complimentary copy of this story.***