You need to sign in or sign up before continuing.
Take a photo of a barcode or cover
insouciantmediator 's review for:
Scythe & Sparrow
by Brynne Weaver
dark
emotional
funny
fast-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:
Complicated
Scythe and Sparrows" by Brynne Weaver is the concluding installment in the "Ruinous Love" trilogy. As with all of Weaver's works, it includes content warnings, many of which are provided at the beginning of the book. Additionally, I have compiled my own list of potential triggers based on my reading experience, including themes such as abusive relationships, substance use, amputation, animal abuse (noting that, within the story, the animal's well-being is ultimately ensured), anxiety, assault, attempted murder, injury, death and mortality, graphic violence, misogyny, murder, profanity, and explicit sexual content.
I personally appreciated Weaver's prior work, "Butcher and Blackbird," which first drew me in, whereas "Leather and Lark" did not quite meet my expectations. "Scythe and Sparrows," however, successfully addresses the gaps left by its predecessor, offering heartfelt storytelling alongside compelling characters whom readers can genuinely care for. The narrative is less centered on elaborate violence, which is a departure from Weaver's typical thematic elements, although the tension remains palpable.
I was especially engaged with the developing relationship between the main characters. Notably, this story begins with a friends-with-benefits dynamic, which I found quite intriguing. The interconnectedness of the characters' stories within the same timeline—as it overlaps with "Butcher and Blackbird" and "Leather and Larkin"—adds depth to the narrative structure. The circus setting, which aligns with Rose's profession, was a delightful element that enriched the story.
I found Rose to be a compelling protagonist; her genuine love and desire for friendship are evident throughout her actions. She may very well be my favorite among Weaver's characters. Her character development was particularly enjoyable to follow.
Lastly, the book playfully explores the question of what happens when a doctor and a serial killer develop a relationship, an intriguing concept that adds a unique twist to the story.
I would recommend this book to friends and family aged 18 and older, as we are certainly in for an engaging reading experience.
I personally appreciated Weaver's prior work, "Butcher and Blackbird," which first drew me in, whereas "Leather and Lark" did not quite meet my expectations. "Scythe and Sparrows," however, successfully addresses the gaps left by its predecessor, offering heartfelt storytelling alongside compelling characters whom readers can genuinely care for. The narrative is less centered on elaborate violence, which is a departure from Weaver's typical thematic elements, although the tension remains palpable.
I was especially engaged with the developing relationship between the main characters. Notably, this story begins with a friends-with-benefits dynamic, which I found quite intriguing. The interconnectedness of the characters' stories within the same timeline—as it overlaps with "Butcher and Blackbird" and "Leather and Larkin"—adds depth to the narrative structure. The circus setting, which aligns with Rose's profession, was a delightful element that enriched the story.
I found Rose to be a compelling protagonist; her genuine love and desire for friendship are evident throughout her actions. She may very well be my favorite among Weaver's characters. Her character development was particularly enjoyable to follow.
Lastly, the book playfully explores the question of what happens when a doctor and a serial killer develop a relationship, an intriguing concept that adds a unique twist to the story.
I would recommend this book to friends and family aged 18 and older, as we are certainly in for an engaging reading experience.