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A review by anonymous_blobfish
Ace of Spades by Faridah Àbíké-Íyímídé
challenging
dark
emotional
hopeful
mysterious
tense
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? It's complicated
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated
5.0
I don’t even know where to start with this review because HOLY SHIT this was a phenomenal book…
I guess firstly, check the trigger warnings. This book is a lot for so many different reasons and may not be something you’re in the right place to read.
I always feel conflicted when it comes to reviewing something like Ace of Spades because I am not the voice that should be listened to in this space. But for what it’s worth I thought this was incredible. The detail, world building and characters were so realistic it felt almost more autobiographical than fiction. It was also really hard to read when I felt so powerless and privileged all at once.
I think the main thing I want to comment on is this: racism is a spectrum that all white people exist on. But how the hell are people questioning the authenticity of the institutionalised racism?? Get a fucking grip, open your eyes and educate yourself on how fucked up we - white people - have made this world. Also do your own research and stop relying on Black voices to educate you.
Rambling points aside, I would die for Chi and Von and I encourage everyone to read their stories and fall in love with their characters just as much as I have.
******Spoiler-ish below:
P.S. in case you need it there is a light at the end of the tunnel that is this story.
I guess firstly, check the trigger warnings. This book is a lot for so many different reasons and may not be something you’re in the right place to read.
I always feel conflicted when it comes to reviewing something like Ace of Spades because I am not the voice that should be listened to in this space. But for what it’s worth I thought this was incredible. The detail, world building and characters were so realistic it felt almost more autobiographical than fiction. It was also really hard to read when I felt so powerless and privileged all at once.
I think the main thing I want to comment on is this: racism is a spectrum that all white people exist on. But how the hell are people questioning the authenticity of the institutionalised racism?? Get a fucking grip, open your eyes and educate yourself on how fucked up we - white people - have made this world. Also do your own research and stop relying on Black voices to educate you.
Rambling points aside, I would die for Chi and Von and I encourage everyone to read their stories and fall in love with their characters just as much as I have.
******Spoiler-ish below:
P.S. in case you need it there is a light at the end of the tunnel that is this story.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Suicide attempt, Emotional abuse, Murder, Racism, Self harm, Sexism, Classism, Colonisation, Racial slurs, Stalking, Suicidal thoughts, Xenophobia, Addiction, Biphobia, Bullying, Car accident, Death, Death of parent, Drug use, Fire/Fire injury, Gaslighting, Grief, Hate crime, Panic attacks/disorders, and Police brutality