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A review by stephdaydreams
Violet Made of Thorns by Gina Chen
4.0
What a fantastic, immersive journey this one was!
I was captivated from start to finish-- leaving the work longing for its concluding sequel. Intrigued as to what is to come.
Violet is a dynamic protagonist. I didn't always like her, but perhaps I wasn't suppose to. She isn't looking to be liked, she's a character who is looking to survive, and will make the choices she thinks protects her best. No, I may not have always liked her, but I was always compelled by her. I loved her, in fact. I was entranced by her character and rooted for her even when I wished she picked differently at times. Her choices aren't always pretty, but they added nuance to her character.
I felt similarly towards Cyrus. He was probably easier to like, but his communication skills were less than desirable. Yet I loved him as I did Violet-- and my heart was always racing for him, not (just) in swoon, but in fear if he would survive this tale. Whether that fear is realized or not, you'll have to read and find out.
I think the only personal hiccup found was the whiplash in the back-and-forth of our protagonist's inner feelings. A major choice is made in the narrative's climax, but I felt it rang hollow as the choice didn't feel quite earned. Perhaps I didn't realize the depth of the feeling Violet felt that led her to that choice, and while it sets up the the sequel, in this book I just had trouble understanding it.
But it didn't divert my overall enjoyment.
This book is terrifically written, it's engaging, enthralling, and left me itching for more. I'll absolutely be sticking around for the sequel. Nervously, but excitedly awaiting the next part in Violet's journey.
Thank you NetGalley and Delacorte Press for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I was captivated from start to finish-- leaving the work longing for its concluding sequel. Intrigued as to what is to come.
Violet is a dynamic protagonist. I didn't always like her, but perhaps I wasn't suppose to. She isn't looking to be liked, she's a character who is looking to survive, and will make the choices she thinks protects her best. No, I may not have always liked her, but I was always compelled by her. I loved her, in fact. I was entranced by her character and rooted for her even when I wished she picked differently at times. Her choices aren't always pretty, but they added nuance to her character.
I felt similarly towards Cyrus. He was probably easier to like, but his communication skills were less than desirable. Yet I loved him as I did Violet-- and my heart was always racing for him, not (just) in swoon, but in fear if he would survive this tale. Whether that fear is realized or not, you'll have to read and find out.
I think the only personal hiccup found was the whiplash in the back-and-forth of our protagonist's inner feelings. A major choice is made in the narrative's climax, but I felt it rang hollow as the choice didn't feel quite earned. Perhaps I didn't realize the depth of the feeling Violet felt that led her to that choice, and while it sets up the the sequel, in this book I just had trouble understanding it.
But it didn't divert my overall enjoyment.
This book is terrifically written, it's engaging, enthralling, and left me itching for more. I'll absolutely be sticking around for the sequel. Nervously, but excitedly awaiting the next part in Violet's journey.
Thank you NetGalley and Delacorte Press for providing me an arc in exchange for an honest review.