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A review by cozy_reading_times
First, Become Ashes by K.M. Szpara
3.0
3.5*
This was an interesting book but not as good as Szpara's debut novel Docile.
The concept was especially fascinating because, as a fantasy novel, one truly couldn't know whether the "magic" in the book was all just made up or held some kernel of truth. It's an exploration of pain and enduration - an obsession so deep that the psyche can't accept the truths that deny it.
The execution wasn't ideal though. At times the story dragged a little and the whole plot line of the geek enabling the protagonist simply because he wanted magic to be real, wasn't deep enough explored/discussed to justify its presence. There were also several times one had to suspend one's disbelief to still enjoy the story - which then led to the whole story seeming less serious (which seemed inappropriate due to the dark topics of the book).
There were several emotional moments and I like how the author always explored very messy themes and doesn't shy away from controversial topics. But as I said, I think Docile had a better execution and was better structured. Plus, the multi-pov story line led to a more shallow exploration of each one's personality. Docile did a better job here, too.
This was an interesting book but not as good as Szpara's debut novel Docile.
The concept was especially fascinating because, as a fantasy novel, one truly couldn't know whether the "magic" in the book was all just made up or held some kernel of truth. It's an exploration of pain and enduration - an obsession so deep that the psyche can't accept the truths that deny it.
The execution wasn't ideal though. At times the story dragged a little and the whole plot line of the geek enabling the protagonist simply because he wanted magic to be real, wasn't deep enough explored/discussed to justify its presence. There were also several times one had to suspend one's disbelief to still enjoy the story - which then led to the whole story seeming less serious (which seemed inappropriate due to the dark topics of the book).
There were several emotional moments and I like how the author always explored very messy themes and doesn't shy away from controversial topics. But as I said, I think Docile had a better execution and was better structured. Plus, the multi-pov story line led to a more shallow exploration of each one's personality. Docile did a better job here, too.