A review by sai_g
Strange the Dreamer by Laini Taylor

adventurous dark funny hopeful mysterious sad medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? A mix
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

5.0

I loved it.

Usually, flowery/whimsical writing goes over my head and ruins the book for me. But this book gave the flowery vibes without the flowery words. I am officially a fan of Laini Taylor after reading both her most popular fantasy series. I will forever be envious of her writing style.

The book starts with such a tragically beautiful chapter that it sets the vibes right there. The plot is beautiful, the characters(especially Lazlo) are very well written and the descriptions are also so beautiful. I always power through books like a mad woman, but I took it slow this time lest I miss any of the beautiful descriptions. Lazlo is the sweetest character EVER. Name a male character more sweeter than him. I dare you. That aside, Sarai is also a beautifully written character. They were so well written and lovable that you would be happy for them, angry for them and sad for them(*sighs*).It was all so good.

The flaws of this book that people usually mention, some of them being- insta love, repetitive descriptions, predictable plot, etc- would usually irk me but they did not. I could look past the instant nature of the relationship because the characters were so sweet individually and to each other that it was wholesome to read. Flowery writing in general(repetitive or not) as I said before, ruins books for me. But that was the case when the writing is about the places, landscapes etc. When it's about people and their feelings, I am a sucker for it. As for the predictable plot, sweet characters and beautiful writing make up for it. And I think foreshadowing(albeit more directly)is the correct description to be used here.


I was so furious at Thyon that I had to stop reading multiple times in those chapters(you know which chapters if you've read the book).
I understand where Minya is coming from but still find it hard to sympathize with her. Now that Lazlo has to do as Minya says, I'm a bit hesitant/wary to read the sequel. I want what's best for everyone to happen, and I highly doubt Minya wants that. 
 

Overall, a beautiful book. Definitely added to my favorites. 
PS: I notice that I used the word "beautiful" a hundred times in this review. Trust me. It IS beautiful.