A review by atlastheninth
Shoestring Theory by Mariana Costa

funny lighthearted fast-paced

• Plot- or character-driven? A mix
• Strong character development? It's complicated
• Loveable characters? It's complicated
• Diverse cast of characters? Yes
• Flaws of characters a main focus? No

3.5

Thank you to NetGalley and Angry Robot for providing me with an eARC in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed here are my own. 

 

This was a silly little book. I did enjoy my time with it but I have some complaints.

 

Shoestring Theory is easy to read and rather fast paced so you definitely don't get bored. 

While it does touch on some in theory darker topics (suicide, invasion, murder etc) it was written in a very light hearted way with jokes and quirky dialogue so I couldn't take those that seriously. So I don't mind it being marketed as cozy (the comp to L&L however is not good). 

 

The world-building is fine for a fantasy lite, that is you get the gist but for me it could have been a bit more in depth. 

The characters are also fine, likeable but also a bit underdeveloped. Especially everyone who isn't Cyril.

Now the plot I did enjoy but I did see it coming and that for the sole reason that vibe that Cyril isn't the most intelligent person and I therefore did not believe him. Which I really don't think was intended.

 

As others pointed out the ending, especially Cyril and Eurfates reuniting, felt very rushed, to the point where the "and they lived happily ever after" felt a bit forced. Cute, but I would have liked more hurt.