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A review by deerlybeloved
The Bone Spindle by Leslie Vedder
adventurous
inspiring
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? It's complicated
- Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes
3.5
I quite enjoyed The Bone Spindle! Yet another retelling of the sleeping beauty, I knew that it'd be a bit different given that they'd switched the narrative, and now Briar Rose was an awkward teenage boy. Still, I didn't realize how loveable I'd find that change- Having Briar as a character was delightful, and he, Fi, and Shane compliment each other wonderfully.
The first half of the book, I'll admit, while I enjoyed the story, it wasn't hooking and reeling me in. I took breaks that lasted a few days, and came back easy-peasy, because while the character development was delightful, I felt like it did just add a lot to go through in a few places. The last half, though, oh, I was reeled in for sure, listening all day two days straight to finish it.
I must say, as well, I enjoyed Shane's character a lot! The lack of in-world homophobia and misogyny made the experience of reading this book a very safe one.
The first half of the book, I'll admit, while I enjoyed the story, it wasn't hooking and reeling me in. I took breaks that lasted a few days, and came back easy-peasy, because while the character development was delightful, I felt like it did just add a lot to go through in a few places. The last half, though, oh, I was reeled in for sure, listening all day two days straight to finish it.
I must say, as well, I enjoyed Shane's character a lot! The lack of in-world homophobia and misogyny made the experience of reading this book a very safe one.
Content Warnings
Moderate: Emotional abuse
Part of Fi's character development does involve themes of what I would consider an abusive relationship. I recognized it very quickly as such, and had to take a few breaks because of it. Spoilers ahead.
It is revealed that Fi was cursed by her ex-boyfriend, whom demanded she marry him, and when she said no, he cursed her so that she could never return home or see her family unless she married him and lived with him under his control. It is VERY much like real life emotional manipulation and abuse, and the ex is portrayed as incredibly self-centered and emotionally cruel, trying to force Fi to dress in ways he likes that trigger and upset her 'or else', calling her pet names that trigger her, etc.