A review by cavernism
Cackle by Rachel Harrison

dark lighthearted medium-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? It's complicated
  • Diverse cast of characters? No
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

2.75

This book made me realize writing style is a big sticking point for me. The writing in this was simplistic in an annoying way ("___", I say. "______," she said, for all dialogue). I also found this messaging to be very white girl feminist and pretty didactic. I love a story where a character finds agency and self-worth, but not when the authors bangs your head with a brick to show off The Point. In general, the concept of "show, don't tell" doesn't come up much in this writing. 

There were parts I enjoyed (Ralph! His little hat! Be still my heart!), there were character moments that really worked for me, and the cozy setting of a small New England town was appealing. 
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