A review by unintentionallyasymmetric
The Ruthless Lady's Guide to Wizardry by C.M. Waggoner

adventurous funny hopeful medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I loved this book! It is surprisingly soft, and full of pleasant surprises.  Several thoughts in no particular order or cohesiveness:
  1. When I started reading, I was immediately struck by the excellent use of voice both in the narration and dialogue.  C.M. Waggoner certainly reminds me of P.G. Wodehouse in the ability to conjure up a strong, distinctive voice for Delly.
  2. The story is completely centered on the stories and experiences of women - not just a female protagonist, but all of the significant characters are women. 
  3. The pacing is a little odd, and almost is like "video game time," where characters will establish a clear, time-sensitive goal (find and bring the murderer to justice) and then spend multiple days training and preparing. From the initial premise described in the blurb, the story goes in unexpected directions.
  4. This is one of the only pieces of media I've encountered where any characters are concerned about the long-term impacts of head trauma. 
  5. I felt like Waggoner successfully avoided using any cheap, predictable methods to create drama. I kept expecting certain obvious arguments between Delly and Winn as the tension between Delly's goals and guilt grew, but my expectations were subverted. The relationships between characters, particularly Delly and Ms. Dok, were complex and dynamic.
  6. I would die for Mrs. Totham, and Buttons made me laugh out loud more times than I can count.
  7. Birds are a big recurring motif. Dan suggested maybe they symbolize freedom?
  8. I would fancast Michelle Dockery as Abstentia

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